Tour Tips
The Weather
South West Scotland’s moderate temperatures are ideal for golf throughout the year. The Gulf Stream, crossing the Atlantic from the Caribbean, has a warming effect throughout South West Scotland. Many of the coastal courses of the west coast are playable all year round as there is little winter frost or snow.
Scotland has a temperate climate, with average temperatures during the coldest months - January and February - ranging from 4-7 C (39-44 F). During July and August, the two hottest months, temperatures average 16-20 C (60-68 F) but recent summers have scored well into the 20s (70s). In general. Scotland experiences a year-round golfing climate, a fact which Scots and visiting golfers use to their full advantage.
When to Play
Visitors to South Ayrshire are surprised to learn how much daylight is available through the summer months. Scottish daylight hours begin to extend noticeably by May and continue well into the evening through August. Practically it is light by 5am and does not get dark until 10pm. For golfers this means playing time can be extended and it is perfectly feasible, if you are keen enough, to go out for a round after an early dinner.
Golf clubs open for business between 7.30-8am although some of the first morning tee times are reserved for members and this might be the same in the early afternoon.
At weekends, most clubs hold club competitions usually in the morning. Tee times could be booked for members until well into the afternoon.
The golden golfing rule is to always telephone ahead, even if it is on the day and the club professional or starter will do their best to accommodate.
Club House Facilities
Most Golf Courses in South Ayrshire offer changing and shower facilities to visitors. Most have a PGA golf professional on hand who will offer lessons or club adjustment as well as the usual items for sale in the Pro Shop.
What to Wear
The trend towards soft-spikes has not caught on in Scotland although it no doubt ultimately will.
As most visiting golfers have already made the transition this is not much of a problem. There are dress codes associated with most golf clubs. These are now fairly universal such as no jeans, collar less shirts or football colours etc.
Buggies, Trolleys and Club Hire
All courses have hand-trolleys available for hire through the Pro Shop and some will offer club hire if required. Sit-on buggies have been less available throughout Scotland with the preference for walking. If you require to use a buggy because of disability please ring in advance to ensure that access is arranged.
Car Rental
Car rental companies operate throughout the area with branches available from all main Scottish Airports and Railway Stations.
CAR HIRE COMPANIES
Avis 0990 900500
Hertz 0044 (0) 1292 511281
Budget 0541 565656
European 0870 607 5000
Melvilles 0870 160 999
Kerr & Smith 01290 4224400
Compass 01563 537799
Enterprise 01563 542494
Arnold Clark 0845 6074500
Eurodrive 0044 (0) 1292 619192
