Ayrshire Trip March '18 (solo)

[OBR_FFLP]

Hello,

 

Newbie here. Thanks for having me. Just moved to Germany and have blanket approval from the wife to take as many UK golf trips as I can (within reason) over the next 3 years. First will be to Ayrshire in March. I figured I should "press to test" the wife approval process/results as soon as possible, and prices are lower for the final winter months.

 

I figured I'd brave a questionable weather time-frame. I've done Scotland previously in June/Sep, but up in the Highlands/Moray, and it was hit or miss, so I know luck has a bit to do with it. Seems March weather is reasonable, but worried about morning frost delaying my plans for 36 on several of the days....is frost common in March? Any other weather thoughts....

 

I've got Trump Turnberry (both courses), Girvan, Prestwick St. N, Dundonald, Western Gailes, Gailes, West Kilbride and Barassie on the list. Any additions/subtractions? Interested in hidden gems and mostly playing links or inland links. Also looked at Darley and Irvine...and if I find more $, a round at Prestwick (on mats).

 

I'm Air bnb'ing it in Troon for a center-point for travel.

 

If anyone has any suggestions or will be in the area 13-18 March, let me know!

 

Cheers,

Jason

[davep043]

I have no advice, but I hope you'll post some of your reactions. I'll be in that area in June, playing Western Gailes, Gailes, Dundonald, and Prestwick. I'd be particularly interested in good pubs and restaurants, and even more interested if you found one of them in Prestwick itself. We're staying right across from the Prestwick clubhouse. Have a great time!

[thecraw]

Hello,

 

Newbie here. Thanks for having me. Just moved to Germany and have blanket approval from the wife to take as many UK golf trips as I can (within reason) over the next 3 years. First will be to Ayrshire in March. I figured I should "press to test" the wife approval process/results as soon as possible, and prices are lower for the final winter months.

 

I figured I'd brave a questionable weather time-frame. I've done Scotland previously in June/Sep, but up in the Highlands/Moray, and it was hit or miss, so I know luck has a bit to do with it. Seems March weather is reasonable, but worried about morning frost delaying my plans for 36 on several of the days....is frost common in March? Any other weather thoughts....

 

I've got Trump Turnberry (both courses), Girvan, Prestwick St. N, Dundonald, Western Gailes, Gailes, West Kilbride and Barassie on the list. Any additions/subtractions? Interested in hidden gems and mostly playing links or inland links. Also looked at Darley and Irvine...and if I find more $, a round at Prestwick (on mats).

 

I'm Air bnb'ing it in Troon for a center-point for travel.

 

If anyone has any suggestions or will be in the area 13-18 March, let me know!

 

Cheers,

Jason

 

Send me a message at the beginning of March, I may be able to host you at Dundonald on the 14th or 15th of March or if you fancy a road trip I could potentially sign you on at Machrihanish Dunes.

 

I'd drop Girvan.

 

I'd look at Troon Portland ahead of West Kilbride, St Nicholas, Irvine or Darley. Portland is the ugly sister of Royal Troon but she is far from ugly, a great track in her own right.

[OBR_FFLP]

Dave,

 

I will keep my eye out and let you know what I come across in both golf and pub life. I'll be staying in Troon, but will be sure to take a quick look around Prestwick. June should be a great time of year. I'm headed to South Wales at that time. Hoping for a great week of weather for both of us.

 

Cheers,

Jason

[OBR_FFLP]

Craw,

 

Thanks for the words of wisdom. I threw Girvan in there as a late round on arrival day after KRTB as it was close and the front nine looked interesting. Not expecting a lot, but like to get off the beaten track some. Kilbride was the one that I had read mixed reviews on....Portand sounds better (and less driving). I think I'll play some courses twice rather than try and hit every one. Thank you again.

 

Dondonald or Mach Dunes would be great. Schedule is changing a bit, may have to slide to 25-30 March, but will know more shortly and will shoot you a message beginning of March to see if anything is possible.

 

I really appreciate the offer.

 

Regards,

Jason

[thecraw]

Craw,

 

Thanks for the words of wisdom. I threw Girvan in there as a late round on arrival day after KRTB as it was close and the front nine looked interesting. Not expecting a lot, but like to get off the beaten track some. Kilbride was the one that I had read mixed reviews on....Portand sounds better (and less driving). I think I'll play some courses twice rather than try and hit every one. Thank you again.

 

Dondonald or Mach Dunes would be great. Schedule is changing a bit, may have to slide to 25-30 March, but will know more shortly and will shoot you a message beginning of March to see if anything is possible.

 

I really appreciate the offer.

 

Regards,

Jason

 

Personally I think West Kilbride is better than Prestwick St Nicholas and Irvine Bogside but that is just my opinion. I think Portland is very good. Well worth adding it, I think you can get a day ticket to play both Royal Troon and Troon Portland.