Emily’s recent FAM trip to Trump Turnberry, Scotland
Earlier this month, Emily was invited by Amplified Hotels to attend an exclusive 3 day agency FAM trip at Trump Turnberry in Ayrshire, Scotland, to see firsthand the unique offerings available for corporate retreats and events, as well as incentives and away days.
Our team is dedicated to visiting hotels and venues all over the world so we can add these to our extensive venue portfolio and see how these will work for our clients events.
Overview
Nestled along the rugged Ayrshire coast, Trump Turnberry is one of Scotland’s leading luxury hotels and the UK’s only Forbes Five-Star Rated Resort. It is home to the Championship Ailsa course and the legendary King Robert The Bruce, which are both featured in Golf Digest’s top 100 greatest golf courses worldwide. For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, The Spa at Turnberry offers a serene escape with spectacular views of Ailsa Craig, Thrill-seekers can indulge in a variety of exhilarating outdoor pursuits such as clay pigeon shooting, simulated game shooting, archery, falconry or a variety of horse riding experiences at Turnberry Equestrian Centre, making this venue ideal for corporate retreats in Scotland.
Day 1 – luxury travel and a Scottish welcome!
Traveling in 1st class train carriages there and back courtesy of Avanti West Coast, the journey was so easy and hassle free. The 4 hour journey was a breeze. The group were able to chat, work, enjoy 1st class food and service and of course, a glass of process to toast to a great trip ahead. I would highly recommend travelling to Scotland by train for your next corporate events. Regular trains to & from Euston mean it’s an easy and sustainable alternative to flying.
On arrival to Glasgow station, the group then travelled the 60 minute journey to Trump Turnberry Hotel.
On arrival, we were greeted by the lovely team, complete with authentic Scottish attire and checked into our gorgeous rooms.
After a quick freshen up, we met our hosts outside for a private drinks reception and were blown away by the gorgeous sunset and stunning views.
The bag piper walking up and down the back of the hotel grounds was really special. The weather was certainly on our side as well. Our Scottish experience had begun!
After a champagne drinks reception and site visit of the hotels meetings spaces and bedrooms, we walked across to the Golf Club House for a lovely relaxed dinner. Then it was off to bed for an early ish night ahead of a busy day 2.
Day 2 – the main event
After breakfast (with a view) in the stunning dining room, we drove the short distance to the onsite Turnberry Adventures experience, where the group tried their hand at Clay Pigeon Shooting. Despite trying this a number of times over the years, I didn’t have much confidence in hitting those Clays but our wonderful instructor was so helpful and knowledgeable and made us all feel like absolute pros. We loved it! This is the perfect activity for corporate groups and with a number of shooting stations available, groups are not left waiting around which is key.
After breakfast (with a view) in the stunning dining room, we drove the short distance to the onsite Turnberry Adventures experience, where the group tried their hand at Clay Pigeon Shooting.
Despite trying this a number of times over the years, I didn’t have much confidence in hitting those Clays but our wonderful instructor was so helpful and knowledgeable and made us all feel like absolute pros.
We loved it! This is the perfect activity for corporate groups and with a number of shooting stations available, groups are not left waiting around which is key.
After lunch outside, we made our way to the Hendricks Gin Distillery for a private tour and tasting. The design and interior of the distillery stand out straight away and have a modern but historical feel which works so well. We were honoured to meet the lovely Leslie who created the Hendricks Gin we know and love today and is the mastermind behind the cucumber infusion, one of their most famous marketing successes. The distillery has only recently opened its doors to corporate groups so we honoured to get a behind the scenes tour and have a masterclass in the distillery process. A must-do experience for corporate retreats!
It was then time to make our way back to Trump Turnberry where after a few hours of R&R and soaking in another gorgeous sunset, we headed to the Turnberry Lighthouse for a champagne drinks reception (compete with a private piper experience) The lighthouse is a special building where groups can host drinks receptions, BBQ’s and even stay in if they would like.
Following out reception we made our way back to the main house where our treated to a private dining experience in the Ailsa Craig Suite and an address to the haggis(Robert Burns) by our piper. Following dinner, we were surprised with Karaoke which was a real team bonding experience J
After a nightcap and reflecting on a fab few days, we retired to bed ready to depart back to London the next day.
Day 3 – the return
With departures not until noon, the morning of our last day was the perfect opportunity to go for a walk along the grounds, a quick cold-water dip in the sea or to enjoy the luxurious spa facilities. I opted for an early morning walk and breakfast in bed!
Our 1st class train experienced was just as easy on the way back and event more fun as the group had bonded over a very special experience.
Thank you to our wonderful hosts Trump Turnberry Hotel, Amplified Hotels & Avanti West Coast for organising such a valuable trip & knowledgeable trip and have no doubt we will be booking a client event here very soon.
