Dundonald Links: Golf Course Review, Tee Times and Key Info

Dundonald Links Key Information

Dundonald Links Golf Course

The modern Dundonald Links golf course on the exposed Ayrshire coast has all the components to challenge every facet of a golfer's game. Immediately surrounded by the excellent Top 100 Golf Courses UK & Ireland and Next 100 courses at Western Gailes and Kilmarnock Barassie, it is in prime Open Championship and historic links territory and manages to stand up with its neighbours as one of the best golf courses in Scotland due to the variety and challenge on offer. I was very impressed when I finally got to play it a few years ago.

Originally known as Southern Gailes, golf here actually dates back to 1911. However, the land was claimed as a military camp during WWII, following which it lay dormant for decades. It was bought in 2003 by Loch Lomond whose members wanted a playable winter escape from their immaculate parkland course.

Kyle Phillips, designer of The Grove, was taken on board to complete what has since matured into a superb and challenging links with a decidedly contemporary feel. At many links courses, I feel the strength of the design and golfing examination is in the whole rather than in individual holes. Here, it is in both. There are many memorable holes such as the testing par-3 6th where anything short or left may find the burn, and the par-4 13th which hugs the railway line and where there is another ditch waiting short of the two-tiered green.

Phillips has a reputation for stylish and strategic bunkering, and this is a feature from start to finish. As with all links golf, the direction and strength of the wind will have a substantial influence on your game here. It certainly did on mine!

With so many feature holes throughout the course, picking a stand-out is tricky but the closing hole is a peach. Depending on the wind, some may be able to reach this lovely, sweeping par 5 in two. There is a burn that sneaks its way in from the left and then clasps the right side of the green, and it makes for a thrilling climax.

The new clubhouse and on-site accommodation have raised the game here to an entirely new level and make this a brilliant place to stay and play.

What The Top 100 Panel Said

Jamie Hudson

The high standard of maintenance and the excellent facilities, including the lodges and restaurant, contribute to a memorable golfing trip. Despite some repetitiveness in the course design, Dundonald Links remains a solid choice for golfers looking to enjoy a round in a beautiful setting with top-notch amenities.

Jason Eaton

I really liked this course and yes I would play it again if I had the opportunity… but it could be far better but for the reliance on visitors which impacted the condition.

Dundonald Links Location

Dundonald Links Scorecard

Best Courses Near To Dundonald Links

WESTERN GAILES

Western Gailes is an extremely strong links with plenty of interesting design features that is positioned inside the Top 50. It is one of those courses that everyone seems to enjoy, and has more than enough character to delight and test the most discerning golfer.

GAILES LINKS

With the members of Glasgow Golf Club seeking a winter, seaside alternative, Gailes Links was opened in 1892. It was redesigned in 1912 by Willie Park Junior and is a classic and subtle links that has been used for many important events.

Best Places To Stay Near Dundonald Links

Dundonald Links - Book now via Booking.com

The newly-opened on site hotel is receiving rave reviews and is the ideal place to stay when visiting this golfing hotspot.

The Gailes Hotel & Spa - Book now via Booking.com

This modern accommodation with contemporary restaurant is only a 10-minute drive from Prestwick Airport. The Coast Restaurant provides a relaxed setting to enjoy a wide range of dishes created with the finest locally sourced ingredients.

Dundonald Links Gallery

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Historical Top 100 Rankings UK&I

• 2025/25 - 100
• 2023/24 - 99 New Entry

Frequently Asked Questions