Prestwick Golf Course - Where Golf History Began
Prestwick Golf Course, located on the west coast of Scotland in the town of Prestwick, is a historic and revered golf course that is widely considered to be one of the birthplaces of the modern game. Founded in 1851, Prestwick boasts a rich legacy, having hosted the first Open Championship in 1860, and a further 23 championships up until 1925. The course is a golfing mecca for enthusiasts and professionals alike, with its fairways, greens and hazards inspiring some of the greatest players in history.
The course itself is situated next to the sea, and provides stunning views across to the Isle of Arran and beyond. The holes themselves are varied and challenging, winding their way through the course's undulating fairways. The course covers a total of 6908 yards, and has a par of 71, and golfers will be tested by a wide variety of hazards, including deep bunkers, gorse bushes, burns, and undulating greens.
The opening hole at Prestwick is a relatively straight forward par four, but from there on, the course steadily increases in difficulty. One of the more challenging holes is the blind par 4 9th, where golfers must hit a blind shot over a large sand dune, making club selection and accuracy paramount. As the course unfolds, golfers will come across some unusual holes such as the Par 4 18th Alps, one of the most iconic holes in golf, featuring a steeply sloping green, and a play on the wind is essential to avoid being sent off course by the gusts coming in from the sea.
Away from the course, Prestwick Golf Course offers a variety of amenities, including a fully stocked pro shop, and a clubhouse bar and restaurant, which provides panoramic views over the course. Golfers can also take advantage of professional coaching and training programs, providing expert advice on techniques, course management and game improvement.
In conclusion, Prestwick Golf Course, with its rich history, challenging links, and stunning panoramic views, is a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast traveling to Scotland. The course is a time-honoured gem that continues to inspire golfers from around the world. In visiting Prestwick Golf Course, you will be following in the footsteps of golfing legends, while experiencing the true identity of Scotland's golfing heritage.
