Founded in 1897, Western Gailes Golf Club is located on the same famous stretch of coastline as Prestwick, Turnberry and Glasgow Gailes, to name but a few. Recognised domestically as one of the finest and truest links golf courses in Scotland, if it were not for some of its more famous neighbours, Western Gailes would be renowned across the globe as a must-play venue. As it is, many seasoned golfers will tell you it is the best and with its reputation growing all the time, Western Gailes looks sure to get the recognition it deserves.
Since its inception, Western Gailes was always destined to host great events and since Harry Vardon won the first major contest here in 1903, the course has played host to many major events, such as the Curtis Cup, Scottish PGA Championships and Scottish Amateur Championships. Also, a frequently used venue for British Open Final Qualifying, Western Gailes is generally accepted as a difficult course. Positioned between the railway lines and the sea, its narrow fairways demand accurate tee shots and with so many greens tucked away in little hollows or dells, the course presents an excellent test of skill, patience and concentration.
As true a links course as one could imagine, Western Gailes presents an abundance of undulating dune ridges, heather and gorse, which will test the most accomplished golfer. And when the wind blows, the course is tougher still, becoming somewhat of an endurance test. Having just two par 5's and three short holes has no negative impact and every hole is a thrill to play. Though there are no weak holes, the long par five, 6th hole, playing from an elevated dune ridge to a partially hidden green, does stand out. Your drive on this hole, named after Lappock Rock, located just offshore, should ideally be positioned on the right side of a sloping fairway. This will leave a demanding second, which could with luck reach the green, given a well-struck shot right of the target.
When Western Gailes was celebrating its 50th anniversary, Sam McKinlay, a renowned commentator on the game, wrote an appreciation of the club as follows: "Western Gailes occupies a place in the affections of Scottish golfers that cannot be explained solely on the grounds of its undoubted quality or superb situation. Indeed its claim to renown cannot be limited to Scotland. In other parts of these islands and in the United States, the very mention of Western Gailes has brought a far-off look into the eyes of the listener, who has invariably remarked - "Ah, Western Gailes!" Western Gailes represents to the true golfer, to the connoisseur of the game, something approaching the ideal in golf". Sam's words remain true to this day!
ONLINE GOLF TRAVEL RATING
Frequent host to Final Qualifying for the Open Championship, Western Gailes, probably more so than any of the so-called "lesser-known" courses deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as the likes of Turnberry and Troon.
Situated just off the main A78 route, approximately two miles south of Irvine and 30 miles southwest of Glasgow City.
NEARBY RESTAURANTS:
Braidwoods, Drumastle Mill Cottage, Dalry KA24 4LN
Tel: + 44 1294 833544. Email: keithbraidwood@btconnect.com.
Situated north of Irvine, this unfussy restaurant is housed in 200-year-old whitewashed former millers' cottages. The menu is simple, while open fires add to the intimate ambience.
Lochgreen House, Monktonhill Road, Southwood, Troon KA10 7EN
Tel: + 44 1292 313343. Email: lochgreen@costley-hotels.co.uk.
The service tends to be formal but the overall atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. With flair in evidence throughout, cooking is in a classic vein, while the dishes can be quite elaborate.
Parkstone Hotel, Esplanade, Prestwick KA9 1QN
Tel: + 44 1292 477286. Email: info@parkstonehotel.co.uk.
The kitchen's enthusiasm and commitment to quality local ingredients is much in evidence.
The lamb is tender, while the warm banana pancakes with toffee sauce is a must.
Fouters Bistro, 2A Academy Street, Ayr KA7 1HS.
Tel: + 44 1292 261391. Email: qualityfood@fouters.co.uk.
Freshly caught fish along with meat and game from the hills and pastures of Scotland are the essential ingredients of the distinctive cuisine of this excellent basement restaurant.
Founded in 1897, Western Gailes Golf Club is located on the same famous stretch of coastline as Prestwick, Turnberry and Glasgow Gailes, to name but a few. Recognised domestically as one of the finest and truest links golf courses in Scotland, if it were not for some of its more famous neighbours, Western Gailes would be renowned across the globe as a must-play venue. As it is, many seasoned golfers will tell you it is the best and with its reputation growing all the time, Western Gailes looks sure to get the recognition it deserves.
