Royal Troon (Championship)

Royal Troon (Championship)

Royal Troon (Championship) Golf Club

Royal Troon (Championship) Golf Club | NCG Top 100s: GB&I Golf Courses

The Royal Troon Championship Course is a golfing masterpiece that embodies the rich heritage and challenge of traditional links-style golf. Situated on the captivating Ayrshire coast in Scotland, this iconic course has a storied history dating back to its establishment in 1878.

Its location, in a stunning section of Ayrshire coastline, puts Royal Troon among some of the best courses in the country, including the likes of Prestwick, Ayr and Dundonald Links.

Its incredible history includes being the proud host of both the Open Championship and the AIG Women's Open, with the course being granted Royal status during its centenary year in 1978.


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A Brief History of Royal Troon (Championship) Golf Club

Royal Troon Golf Club was formed in 1878 by local golf enthusiasts with its original design conceived by George Strath. Royal Troon is the only golf club in Great Britain to have been granted Royal status by Queen Elizabeth II.

In 1909, Willie Fernie, who was then the club professional, drew up plans to alter the layout and, before  hosting its first Open Championship in 1923, James Braid added his thoughts. The course's design has been largely unaltered since.

Royal Troon have hosted the Open Championship on nine occasions. Following 1923, the Claret Jug has also arrived in 1950, 1962, 1973, 1982 1989, 1997, 2004 and 2016, with Sweden's Henrik Stenson coming out on top in a famous duel with Phil Mickelson. It will host the Open again in 2024.

Royal Troon also hosted the AIG Women’s Open in 2020, when Germany's Sophia Popov won by two shots.

Royal Troon (Championship) Golf Club Review | NCG Top 100s: GB&I Golf Courses

The Royal Troon Championship Course is a historic and renowned golf course located in Troon, South Ayrshire, Scotland. 

The Royal Troon Championship Course is characterized by its rugged coastal landscape, featuring rolling sand dunes, deep bunkers, and challenging fairways that are influenced by the unpredictable coastal winds. 

The fast and undulating greens, strategically placed bunkers, and natural hazards make every round a thrilling and memorable experience. 

The course's layout is designed to test every aspect of a golfer's game, requiring strategic shot-making, precise ball control, and a deep understanding of how to navigate the ever-changing conditions.

Signature Holes

The Postage Stamp:
Arguably one of the most famous par-3 holes in the world, the "Postage Stamp" is a true jewel of the Royal Troon Championship Course. This diminutive hole demands laser precision and a steady nerve as golfers attempt to land their ball on a minuscule green surrounded by deep bunkers. Measuring a mere 123 yards, this hole belies its length with the challenge it presents, making every tee shot a heart-pounding experience.

The Railway:
As the course ventures inland, the 11th hole, known as "The Railway," presents a captivating blend of challenge and history. The fairway is punctuated by a historic rail line that demands golfers' attention and precision. With strategic bunkers and the rail line as formidable obstacles, players must carefully navigate their shots to reach the green in regulation on this par-5 gem.

The Dunure:
Nestled along the coastline, the 15th hole, aptly named "Dunure," offers golfers a breathtaking view of the sea and the surrounding Ayrshire landscape. This par-3 requires a skillful tee shot over a rugged shoreline, with the ocean breeze adding an unpredictable factor to the trajectory. The beauty of the location coupled with the challenge of the shot makes this hole a memorable and picturesque experience.

The Crosbie:
Playing along the course's undulating terrain, the 17th hole, the "Crosbie," showcases the strategic brilliance of Royal Troon's design. This par-5 tempts long hitters to go for the green in two shots, but a series of bunkers and dunes demand precision and careful club selection. The ever-present sea breeze can influence decisions and make the approach shot even more daunting, contributing to the overall allure of this captivating hole.

The Craigend:
The closing hole, "Craigend," provides a fitting finale to the round. Golfers are met with a fairway flanked by dunes, making accuracy off the tee paramount. The approach shot to the elevated green must carry over a large bunker, adding a touch of drama to the conclusion of the round. The 18th hole encapsulates the essence of the Royal Troon experience—strategic challenge against a backdrop of natural beauty.

How many courses are there at Royal Troon?

There are two 18-hole courses at Royal Troon, the Portland Course and the Old Course (the Championship layout).

Can the public play at Royal Troon?

Yes, non-members can play at Royal Troon but there are specific requirements. For example, golfers must be 12 years old or over and if golfers are between the ages of 12 and 25, they must have a handicap of 12 or less to play the Old Course.

Furthermore, Royal Troon is an old and traditional golf club, therefore visitors are expected to adhere to the dress code and remain club-appropriate.

Where will the 2024 British Open be held?

The 2024 British Open will be held at Royal Troon on it's Old Course, this will be its 10th time hosting the Championship.


Visit Royal Troon's website here.
Go back to the NCG Top 100s Homepage.