21
9.53

Royal Troon Golf Club

Course info

ACCESS
Private
EST.
1878
GRASS
Fescue
SEASON
April–October
CART TYPE
Not Allowed
avg. Price
$
392
?
CADDIES
Available
Unknown
Type
Links
Unknown
Par
71
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10.5
City
Troon

Score

9.53
Design
40%
9.6
Conditions
25%
9.4
Desirability
15%
9.6
Scenery
10%
9.4
Fun
5%
9.2
Uniqueness
5%
9.6

Difficulty

Overall
Moderate

Slope 134

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10.5

7
15

Walkability Hard

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind High

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
355
$
392
$
429
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Royal Troon was the first and last course in Great Britain granted Royal status during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, in 1978.

About

Royal Troon Golf Club is an iconic links course on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast, established in 1878 by George Strath and later enhanced by Willie Fernie and James Braid. Renowned for its historic Open Championships and challenging layout shaped by its natural coastal landscape, it offers a world-class links experience to top golfers and is famed for its tradition and prestige.

Caddie Tip

Precision and playing conservatively to the safe side are key here, especially in the ever-present wind. Trust local caddie advice on yardages, particularly on the par-3 Postage Stamp and the difficult 11th, 'Railway'. Avoid the pot bunkers at all costs and respect the unpredictable wind shifts near the Firth of Clyde.

The Main Challenge

Royal Troon’s inward nine is among the most challenging in championship golf due to constantly changing coastal winds, narrow fairways lined with gorse, and deep pot bunkers. The famous 11th, 'Railway', is especially perilous with out-of-bounds running the entire length of the hole.

The Good

Golfers treasure the classic links challenge, especially the dramatic stretch from the 7th to the 12th holes, and the history associated with hosting The Open. The authentic seaside setting, rolling fairways lined by gorse, and the unpredictable weather combine for a memorable, prestigious golf experience unique to Royal Troon.

The Not So Good

Some visitors have cited the challenge of access to tee times, limited facilities for non-members, and a traditional atmosphere that can feel exclusive. Others note that course play can be slow during busy Open Championship periods, and that the wind creates a high level of difficulty, especially for average golfers.

Signature Hole:

#

8

The 8th hole, 'Postage Stamp,' is a par 3 measuring just 123 yards, yet it is infamous for its tiny, narrow green set atop a plateau, punishing errant shots with deep pot bunkers and punishing rough. Despite its brevity, the hole demands absolute precision—many consider it the most feared short hole in championship golf.

Clubhouse

The traditional clubhouse features luxurious locker rooms, fine dining, a well-appointed bar with views over the 18th green, a heritage lounge showcasing memorabilia, and full service for visiting golfers. The staff are known for their professionalism and attention to detail.

Practice Facilities

No items found.

Comprehensive practice area with a full-length driving range, short game area, pitching greens, and dedicated putting green. The facilities are maintained to championship standards and offer excellent turf conditions for serious practice and warm-up.

Dress Code:

Prestigious

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.

Scotland