Royal Troon Portland Course

The Portland Course runs inland of the Old Course at Royal Troon — a links layout using the same Ayrshire coastal strip but on the landward side of the main line. Less celebrated and significantly cheaper than the Old, the Portland provides a more accessible entry point to Royal Troon for visitors who want to play the club without the full Old Course experience, or who want to combine it with an Old Course round in a two-day visit.

At par 71 and around 6,300 yards, the Portland plays longer than its reputation suggests. The wind is slightly less severe than on the exposed Old Course, but the links ground is genuine, the conditioning is Royal Troon standard, and several holes require the same trajectory management that the famous Old Course demands. The 5th and 14th are the holes most cited by regular Portland players.

Visitor green fee is £55–70 — roughly a quarter of the Old Course rate. Visitor access follows similar rules: specific weekday visitor days (check the club website), handicap certificate required (24/36), advance booking essential. The Portland is typically available on the same visitor days as the Old Course, which means a two-round day is possible.

For visitors who secure an Old Course visitor round, the Portland in the afternoon gives a useful comparative round. For those who cannot get an Old Course slot, the Portland provides a legitimate Royal Troon experience at a price that doesn't require the same budgetary commitment. Caddies available and recommended.