Security Tightens as Donald Trump Tees Off at Turnberry Resort

Former President Donald Trump kicked off his private visit to Scotland on Saturday with a round of golf at his luxury Turnberry resort in South Ayrshire, under a tight security presence.

Trump Arrives in Scotland to Warm Welcome — and Protests

Trump landed at Prestwick Airport on Friday evening, greeted by Scottish Secretary Ian Murray and U.S. Ambassador to the UK Warren Stephens. His arrival drew a mix of fanfare and frustration, with large crowds gathering to witness the touchdown of Air Force One just after 8:30 p.m.

By Saturday morning, Trump was on the green at Turnberry, teeing off around 10 a.m. alongside his son Eric Trump, Ambassador Stephens, and Stephens’ son. The group was followed by a sizable entourage riding in 15 golf carts. Despite the presence of demonstrators in other parts of Scotland, no protesters were visible on the course.

Heightened Security Measures in Place

A significant security operation has been rolled out in and around the resort. Police and military teams conducted area sweeps ahead of Trump’s arrival, and a checkpoint was established near the hotel. A large perimeter fence has also been erected around the grounds. Roads in the vicinity were closed, and the area remains under tight surveillance.

Some guests were still able to access the Ailsa course early Saturday morning, despite the heavy security. A peak-season round at Turnberry can cost up to £1,000.

Protests Erupt in Edinburgh and Aberdeen

While the golf course remained quiet, demonstrations flared in Edinburgh and Aberdeen. Hundreds gathered to express their opposition to Trump’s visit and political views, including his positions on climate change and the Israel-Gaza conflict.

In Edinburgh, protesters rallied outside the U.S. Consulate General’s office. Anita Bhadani, an organizer with the Stop Trump Coalition, described the scene as a “carnival of resistance,” with numerous campaign groups uniting over the weekend to voice dissent.

In Aberdeen, protester Nicola Seal criticized the visit’s financial and logistical toll, saying: “We shouldn’t be hosting him. It’s costing vast amounts of taxpayers’ money and draining police resources.”

Upcoming Meetings and Golf Course Opening

Trump’s four-day trip includes meetings with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney. He is also expected to officially open a new 18-hole course at his golf estate in Aberdeenshire.

The Scottish government, meanwhile, announced that it will contribute £180,000 in public funds to support a golf tournament at Trump’s Aberdeenshire course scheduled for next month.

Trump Praises Scotland, Avoids Protesters

Despite the protests, Trump appeared relaxed and in high spirits, telling reporters it was “great to be in Scotland.” He also offered praise for both the UK and Scottish governments.

At one point during his game, he waved to photographers who had positioned themselves on nearby dunes, capturing his stroll to the fourth tee.

The White House confirmed that Donald Trump Jr. is also accompanying his father on the weekend visit.