Politics aside, US President Donald Trump’s Hotel has been named the best luxury hotel in Scotland. Find out why.
Trump’s Turnberry Hotel, perched majestically on the Ayrshire coastline in southwest Scotland, has been named the best in Scotland by the prestigious Scottish Thistle Awards. This luxury resort, found in Turnberry village about 80 kilometres south of Glasgow along the captivating Firth of Clyde, is a national icon boasting over a century of history and a commanding view of the Irish Sea, the Isle of Arran, and the distinctive Ailsa Craig rock.
The hotel is housed in a grand Edwardian building originally designed by James Miller in 1906, keeping its historic charm while benefiting from a £200 million revitalisation by the Trump Organisation since buying it in 2014. The restoration brought modern Edwardian opulence, marrying timeless elegance with contemporary luxury and comfort. Guests are welcomed into the resplendent Grand Tea Room & Lounge, graced by sparkling chandeliers, deep carpeted floors, and panoramic views perfect for indulging in afternoon tea or an evening cocktail. Accommodation ranges from inviting deluxe ocean-view rooms to exclusive-use villas and self-catering two-bedroom cottages, all thoughtfully appointed for spacious comfort with options ideally suited for couples, families, and groups.
The resort’s true jewel is its legendary golf experience including three championship links courses, including the famed Ailsa course – ranked among the top courses in Great Britain and Ireland. The course, which has hosted the Open Championship multiple times, was redesigned as part of the rejuvenation and offers classic coastal golf with breathtaking natural scenery. Golfers also praise the newer King Robert the Bruce course and the challenging Robert the Bruce course, offering a superb range of options for all skill levels. A noteworthy mention is the resort’s excellent practice facilities and golf academy, supported by resort amenities that include Halfway House dining and a convivial clubhouse atmosphere.
Dining at Turnberry matches its luxurious surroundings with four distinctive venues. The flagship 1906 restaurant offers a sophisticated menu blending contemporary Scottish flavours with classic luxury dining. The Grand Tea Lounge serves a refined afternoon tea experience, while The Duel in The Sun bar features craft cocktails and casual bites overlooking the golf courses and sea. For golfers, the King of Scots halfway house delivers a convivial atmosphere with light refreshments amid the rounds.
Turnberry’s recognition as Scotland’s best luxury experience at the Scottish Thistle Awards reflects the seamless fusion of heritage, world-class golf, exquisite dining, and warm Scottish hospitality. Whether drawn by the allure of the ocean vistas, the sporting challenge, or the impeccable service for which the resort is celebrated, Trump Turnberry stands as a premier destination on the west coast of Scotland, elevating the country’s golfing and luxury hospitality reputation on the global stage.
Trump Turnberry’s pricing reflects its status as a luxury resort destination in Scotland, with rates and fees that cater to a high-end clientele.
Room Rates: Standard rooms range from about AU$500 to AU$1,600 per night depending on season and availability.
Average nightly rates tend to be around AU$900 to AU$1,150 for regular stays, while peak travel times push rates toward the higher end of the scale.
Golf Fees: Green fees on the renowned Ailsa golf course at Turnberry start at £1,000 (AU$1,900), for peak times before 1pm for non-hotel guests. Off-peak green fees for non-resort guests are around £550 (about AU$1,045).
Hotel guests playing the course pay a more favourable rate integrated with their stay, offering better value overall for the full five-star resort experience.