In 2023, former president Donald Trump made headlines when he expressed his desire to see the British Open Championship held at his Turnberry golf resort in Scotland. The Ailsa Course at Turnberry is already well-known and highly regarded, ranking seventh on Golfweek’s Best’s Top 50 Classic Courses in Great Britain and Ireland. However, the resort is set to become even more exclusive and pricey, with plans to increase green fees to £1,000, or approximately $1,286 U.S. dollars. This fee will apply to golfers who are not staying at the five-star hotel and spa and wish to tee-off before 1 p.m.
The decision to raise green fees at Turnberry is aimed at protecting tee times for members and hotel guests, according to Trump Turnberry’s general manager Nic Oldham. Oldham stated that staying in the hotel and playing the Ailsa Course will come in at a lower cost than the £1,000 green fee, offering better value for golfers. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that all aspects of the resort’s business are viable, as simply selling rounds of golf is not a sustainable business model. Turnberry is unique among venues that have hosted The Open Championship, as it is a complete resort offering a full five-star experience.
Turnberry has a rich history of hosting The Open Championship, having done so on four separate occasions. However, the last time the tournament was held at Turnberry was in 2009 before Trump purchased the property five years later. During Trump’s visit to the resort in 2023, staff were seen waving hats that read “Made Turnberry Great Again,” showcasing the strong connection between the former president and the golf resort. The decision to increase green fees reflects Turnberry’s efforts to enhance its exclusivity and maintain its reputation as a top-tier golf destination.
The news of Turnberry’s plans to raise green fees sparked discussions within the golf community about accessibility and affordability in the sport. Some critics argue that the increased fees will further limit access to the course, potentially alienating a significant portion of golf enthusiasts. However, supporters of the decision believe that the higher fees are justified by the exclusive experience and quality of the Ailsa Course. Turnberry’s focus on offering a premium golfing experience aligns with its position as a luxury resort catering to high-end clientele.
Despite the controversy surrounding the decision to raise green fees, Turnberry remains a highly sought-after destination for golfers around the world. Its rich history, stunning course design, and luxurious amenities continue to attract golf enthusiasts looking for a top-tier experience. While the increased fees may deter some visitors, the resort’s commitment to providing a five-star experience ensures that those who choose to play at Turnberry will receive exceptional service and top-notch facilities. As Turnberry prepares to implement the new pricing structure, golfers and industry experts will be closely watching to see how the change impacts the resort’s reputation and popularity in the golf community.
