10 pleasant ways to kill a few hours in Troon away from The Open Championship

What to do in Troon away from the Open Championship

There’s plenty more to do in Troon than you might think, so if you’re heading to Ayrshire for the 152nd Open Championship, why not take in a few more sights?

Just a few miles from Prestwick International Airport and 45 minutes from Glasgow Central Station lies the coastal settlement of Troon, a small seaside town looking out to the Isle of Arran. Of course, the name is synonymous with The Open Championship, but to reduce Troon to simply a golfing haven would be overlooking a host of other natural and manmade attractions it has to offer.

Royal Troon is the jewel in the crown amongst seven incredible South Ayrshire golf courses, and for a tenth time will be the sporting world’s central focus from July 18-21. But even when it’s not busy hosting prestigious events, Troon remains a popular holiday resort for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Steeped in history, with unspoiled sandy beaches, stunning coastlines, charming independent shops, world-class outdoor activities, and incredible seafood, Troon really does pack a punch. And if you’re lucky enough to have a ticket to The Open this year, be sure to schedule some time to take it all in and make your week even more memorable.

So, in no particular order, here’s our top 10 picks of things you should do in Troon…

1. Troon & Brassie Beaches

No visit to Troon would be complete without a leisurely stroll along Troon’s stunning curved bay beach. The picturesque esplanade buzzes with local tourists, dog walkers, and water sports enthusiasts throughout the summer months and despite the cooler waters along Scotland’s west coast, you can’t fail to enjoy the spectacular views across to the Isle of Arran while enjoying fish and chips and an ice cream. Outlander fans will recognize Troon’s south seafront from an episode at the end of season one!

Another beautiful stretch of sandy beach can be found to the north of Troon harbor. Barassie Beach is long, wide, and ideal for water sports, offering more stunning views of the Isle of Arran and the Firth of Clyde.

2. Dundonald Castle & Visitor Center

Once home to King Robert II, grandson of Robert the Bruce, the 14th-century hilltop ruin of Dundonald Castle is a hidden gem and offers a rich historical experience for all ages. Visitors can explore the high-vaulted halls and gloomy dungeons of this splendid stronghold, perched on a hill above the village. The main tower was built in the 1370s by King Robert II to mark his succession to the throne. Its heritage is explored in the visitor center which includes an exhibition illustrating the history of the site and a display of some of the artifacts found during archaeological excavations on the hill. There is also a souvenir shop and a small cafeteria. 

And to make a full day of it, bring your clubs – not to the castle – but to another of Scotland’s finest courses. Dundonald Links is a modern masterpiece and was one of the four venues used in Final Qualifying this year.

3. Troon Town Clock

A must-see for anyone passing through for The Open. Troon’s Town Clock and Troon Cross stand as the pride and joys of Troon, steeped in history and one of the many great attractions found within the town center near the beachfront. Troon Town Clock intersects many of the town’s roads, including Harbour Road and Portland Street, allowing for incredible pictures of its yellow clock tower face.

4. Ballast Bank

Built in 1840 to protect the town beach and its harbor from the rough storm waves that pass through the area, Ballast Bank is an impenetrable barrier of dumped ballast that offers visitors stunning views of the Firth of Clyde. It’s the perfect picturesque spot for relaxation and photography while remaining convenient for all of Troon’s amenities. A great place to have a breather away from The Open.

5. Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

This award-winning museum is dedicated to Scotland’s National Bard – Robert Burns, whose poetry and songs are loved the world over. The museum starts a journey that weaves through the village of Alloway, along the Poet’s Path, taking you from historical buildings to landmarks known to Burns. Afterwards, you’ll step inside Burns Cottage where Robert was born in 1759. The displays in the museum and Burns Cottage include plenty of hands-on and interactive activities and more than 5,000 Burns artifacts including his handwritten manuscripts. 

6. Portland Street

Troon’s best eateries and nightlife can be found along the bustling Portland Street where you can get up close and personal with the locals over a few beers. If you’re looking to book a table somewhere – Lido Troon is one of the finest restaurants in South Ayr, offering simple dishes with a laid-back Mediterranean feel and fantastic views of the Troon Harbour.

7. Treasure hunting in Ayr

If you’re looking to combine a walk with some Scottish heritage and fun riddle solving, then look no further than ‘Where’s the Treasure in Ayr‘ – a great family-friendly way to explore the historic town of Ayr, just 10 miles from Troon. Starting and finishing outside the entrance of Ayr Railway Station, the trail takes you around the town center and leads you through some of the less well-known paths and to lots of interesting nooks and crannies that explore the history of Auld Ayr. The trail can be completed in 2.5-3 hours or you can make a whole day of it by enjoying the sights along the way.

8. Turnberry

Given that, a tee time at Royal Troon is hard to come by during Open week, those looking for a bucket-list golfing experience might have more luck 45 minutes down the road at Turnberry, home to four Open Championships and the world-famous Ailsa. Its jaw-dropping moments around the famous lighthouse are bettered by nowhere in the UK. A world top 10 without a doubt.

And while you’re there, make sure to grab a beer and a bite at the Watson v Nicklaus-inspired ‘Duel In The Sun‘ situated in the Turnberry Clubhouse that pays homage to the 1977 Open showdown.

9. Craigie Castle

Scotland is estimated to have more than 1,500 castles and just a few miles north of Troon, near the city of Kilmarnock is the ruinous 13th-century Craigie Castle, abandoned in the 1600s. History lovers will find few structures like this in the entire UK making this once vaulted castle a must-see attraction on the north side of Troon. Although very little of the building remains today, The Ayrshire castle can be taken in via an enjoyable countryside walk from Kilmarnock, approximately 5.5 km away.

10. Kitesurfing

Troon is one of the best beaches for kitesurfing in the UK, a wind-powered surface watersport using a kite and a board to move across the water. So, if you’re looking to add some adventure to your trip to The Open, kitesurfing is one activity that should be on your radar. Kitesurf Scotland is the country’s No.1 kitesurfing school, providing high-quality tuition using the best equipment in the industry.

And if in doubt…retail therapy it is!

Troon prides itself on being the perfect place to enjoy a great shopping experience, offering a wide variety of independently owned shops, and boutiques, as well as hosting national retailers including New Look, Morrisons, Boots, Costa, and more. The town’s independent retailers include gift shops, a specialized whisky shop, a deli, shoe shops, ladies’ wear boutiques, an ice cream shop, a sweet shop, a florist, perfumery, and many more.

About the author

Ross Tugwood

Senior Digital Writer

Ross Tugwood is a Senior Digital Writer for todays-golfer.com, specializing in data, analytics, science, and innovation.

Ross is passionate about optimizing sports performance and has a decade of experience working with professional athletes and coaches for British Athletics, the UK Sports Institute, and Team GB.

He is an NCTJ-accredited journalist with post-graduate degrees in Performance Analysis and Sports Journalism, enabling him to critically analyze and review the latest golf equipment and technology to help you make better-informed buying decisions.