ScotRail will be playing its part in helping golf fans travel to Royal Troon this week, as The Open returns to the iconic Ayrshire course.
A temporary timetable was introduced on Wednesday, 10 July, however, the train operator will provide extra services during busy times to the Ayrshire station on Championship days (Thursday, 18 to Sunday, 21 July) and additional capacity will be available on existing services on Practice Days.
The temporary timetable is providing greater certainty and reliability for customers, instead of short-notice cancellations. ScotRail is operating services which the vast majority of customers use and is still using all available train carriages so customers can continue to travel.
To connect spectators from Troon station to the venue, ScotRail has teamed up with Stagecoach to offer a two-in-one Golflink ticket, which includes both return rail travel to Troon station, as well as a regular shuttle bus linking customers to and from the Championship.
Purchasing a train ticket in advance can save time at the station and reduce the possibility of queueing, allowing more time to experience and enjoy the sporting occasion. Tickets are available to purchase as an mTicket on the ScotRail app. Simply select Golflink (QGL) as the destination for combined Rail and Bus ticket on the ScotRail website or app.
Queuing systems will be in place and extra ScotRail staff will be on hand at Troon and Glasgow Central station to help, and customers are reminded that the carrying and consumption of alcohol is prohibited on all ScotRail services.
More information can be found on ScotRail's dedicated webpage: https://www.scotrail.co.uk/scotland-by-rail/things-do/open-golf
Phil Campbell, ScotRail Customer Operations Director, said:
“We will be doing everything we can to support fans attending the return of The Open at Royal Troon next week.
“While a temporary timetable is operating, we have been able to add extra services at busy times both before and after each Championship day.
“Our all-inclusive Golflink ticket is a great way to combine train travel form anywhere on our network to Troon station, with a frequent bus link to the event course included, saving time and helping your journey run smoothly.
“Purchasing your tickets in advance means less queuing and more viewing at The Open at Royal Troon, and tickets can be purchased via the ScotRail app, website, ticket offices or on board.”
Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, Executive Director – Championships at The R&A, said:
“Tens of thousands of fans will be travelling to The Open at Royal Troon each day and so we are encouraging them to use public transport instead of coming by car so that congestion on the roads is minimised and carbon emissions are reduced.
“We have been working closely with ScotRail to agree enhanced rail services to and from Troon and are grateful for their support, particularly on Championship days when we will be at full capacity at Royal Troon.
“We are advising all fans to check transport and travel websites to plan their journey and allow for extra time to get to and from Troon. We look forward to welcoming them to The Open next week.”