Donald Trump eyes Scottish summer getaway for golf course grand opening
US President Donald Trump could visit the UK towards the end of this month in his first visit to Scotland since winning a second term in November.
He is anticipated to visit for the opening of his new golf course at the Trump International Scotland estate in Menie outside Aberdeen.
The Trump Association confirmed in June that the ‘New’ course would be formally opened with “a grand ceremony as part of a trilogy of fabulous golfing events” including two high-profile, back-to-back, prestigious professional tournaments in August.
During an interview with GB News in January, Eric Trump told presenter Ben Leo to expect the President to visit his ancestral home for the grand opening of the new course this summer.
This week, a source close to the President’s staff told the Channel: “At this stage, we do not know whether President Trump will attend the course opening in the summer.”
Nevertheless, speculation has mounted since Police Scotland issued a statement confirming that “significant” plans were being drawn up in preparation for a presidential visit.
Assistant Chief Constable Emma Bond said: “Planning is underway for a potential visit to Scotland later this month by the President of the United States.
“While official confirmation has not yet been made, it is important that we prepare in advance for what would be a significant policing operation.”
Donald Trump is expected to visit for the opening of his new golf course outside Aberdeen
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Assistant Chief Constable Emma Bond said: ‘Planning is under way for a potential visit to Scotland later this month’
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At time of writing, prospective golfers are unable to book tee times between July 26 and July 29, and guests are unable to book rooms at the 5-star MacLeod House hotel between July 24 and July 28.
The launch of the New course at Trump International holds special significance to the US President.
In addition to a new 18-hole course, a special memorial garden has been created to pay homage to the President’s mother, Mary Macleod, who was born on the Isle of Lewis.
Speaking in June, executive vice president of Trump International, Sarah Malone, said: “The Trump family has a deep affection for Scotland – not only as the home of golf – but as the ancestral home of President Trump’s beloved mother, Mary Anne MacLeod.
“We are therefore delighted to confirm that we are planning the creation of a memorial garden in honour of Mary Anne MacLeod as a fitting tribute to her name and legacy.”
‘The Trump family has a deep affection for Scotland’
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Beginning in August, some of the world’s top golfers will descend on the north east of Scotland to christen the new Trump International fairways: The Staysure PGA Seniors Championship for the second year running; a flagship event for The Legends Tour; and the Scottish Championship on the DP World Tour from August 7-10.
Following an invitation from King Charles for a second state visit – the first of its kind – plans to meet the King this summer fell through due to “diary reasons”.
President Trump’s 2018 state visit required a significant police presence to control protests in Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
More recently, Donald Trump visited between presidential terms in 2023, visiting Aberdeen and his other Scottish Resort, Trump Turnberry, in Ayrshire.
