ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
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Course Report
Prestwick hosted the very first Open Championship in 1860 and went on to host 24 more – more than any other club except St Andrews.
About
Prestwick Golf Club, founded in 1851 by Old Tom Morris, is the birthplace of The Open Championship. This legendary links course boasts deep revetted bunkers, rippling fairways, and classic blind shots, offering a truly authentic Scottish golf experience. Its storied history and unique design captivate golfers from around the world.
Caddie Tip
Favour the right side on blind tee shots and avoid the deep revetted bunkers; they are true hazards. The firm, fast fairways demand a running approach, especially in wind. Trust your caddie’s local knowledge for aiming points and hidden dunes—playing conservatively on unfamiliar holes can save valuable strokes.
The Main Challenge
The greatest challenge comes from Prestwick’s unpredictable bounces, deep bunkers, and firm, rippling fairways. Harsh winds off the Firth of Clyde, thick fescue rough, and the need for strategic, inventive shotmaking make low scores elusive even for accomplished players.
The Good
Golfers revere the pure links experience, historic atmosphere, and the chance to walk where champions like Old Tom Morris and Harry Vardon played. The classic blind shots, quirky layout, and unique holes make Prestwick feel like a trip back in time and a must-play for any golf historian.
The Not So Good
Some visitors mention the course’s idiosyncratic routing leads to a handful of blind shots and quirky bounces that can frustrate first-time international guests. Pace can slow during busy summer periods, especially for those searching for errant balls in the thick fescue rough.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th hole, known as 'Clock', is a driveable par 4 at 288 yards. Golfers aim at the iconic clubhouse clock, with the fairway ridge on the right adding drama to approach shots. This classic finishing hole is watched by those in the clubhouse and at the first tee, making for an exhilarating end to the round.
Clubhouse
The historic clubhouse, extensively refurbished, overlooks the 1st tee and 18th green, offering classic Scottish hospitality, a celebrated members’ lounge, dining room, locker facilities, and a rich display of golf memorabilia including Open Championship artifacts.
Practice Facilities
Prestwick offers a putting green and a modest practice area, but no full driving range on-site. Warm-up facilities are tailored to the traditional links experience, with short game and putting the main focus before play. Practice nets are available for irons and woods.
Dress Code:
Strict
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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