In its natural state, the coastal landscape of Turnberry poses a range of formidable tests for golfers. Over the years, great efforts have been made to sustain the delicate character of Ailsa, Kintyre and Arran. Firm, fast, receptive fairways, not the oft-sought lush, springy greenness, are the ideal. A restrained approach is taken to water and fertiliser in order to achieve as genuine and unspoiled an effect as possible. Always hospitable to birds, deer, pheasant, hares and all sorts of wildlife, Turnberry’s courses reserve their challenges for golfers.

All three courses have been lengthened and bunkers have been added to accommodate modern equipment and play. Still, sculpting a fair course is the overarching intent, and accuracy and skill are rewarded over all. When a shot is hit where it should be, the result is excellent. If it is hit improperly, the likelihood of a lucky bounce is small indeed. The objective is to create exacting courses on which the best players win consistently.