Donald Trump’s upcoming trip to Scotland has sparked curiosity and conversation. Scheduled to begin on July 25, 2025, this four-day visit is described as a “private” trip, but it’s packed with activities that blend personal interests, business, and diplomacy. As someone who’s always been intrigued by the mix of politics and personal ventures, I dug into the details to understand what’s driving this transatlantic journey. Here’s what I found, broken down into five key reasons behind Trump’s visit to Scotland.
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Visiting His Golf Resorts
Trump’s trip centers around his two prized golf properties: Trump Turnberry in South Ayrshire and Trump International at Menie in Aberdeenshire. He’s owned Turnberry since 2014 and the Aberdeenshire course since 2012, and this visit includes the opening of a new 18-hole course at Menie, initially named after his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, though now simply called the “New Course.” For Trump, these resorts aren’t just business ventures—they’re personal projects tied to his love for golf and his Scottish heritage. Visiting these properties allows him to check on their operations, promote their brand, and perhaps enjoy a round or two, as he’s done on past trips.
Honoring His Scottish Roots
Trump’s mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, was born in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, giving him a deep personal connection to Scotland. He’s often spoken warmly about this link, even dedicating a memorial garden at his Aberdeenshire resort to her memory. This trip feels like a homecoming of sorts, letting him reconnect with the land of his mother’s birth. While he’s only visited her childhood home once briefly in 2008, his Scottish roots are a point of pride, and this visit underscores that sentiment, even if it’s not universally reciprocated by locals.
Meeting with UK and Scottish Leaders
Though billed as a private visit, Trump is squeezing in some high-profile diplomacy. He’s set to meet UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, likely in Aberdeen, to discuss refining a trade deal struck in June 2025 that slashed tariffs and boosted market access between the US and UK. He’ll also meet Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney, who sees the visit as a chance to address issues like tariffs on Scotch whisky and international concerns such as the Middle East and Ukraine. These meetings show Trump blending business with politics, using his Scottish trip to strengthen transatlantic ties.
Opening a New Golf Course
A highlight of the visit is the official opening of the new golf course at Menie. This project, set against Aberdeenshire’s dramatic sand dunes, is a big deal for Trump’s business portfolio. Despite past controversies—like the dunes losing their protected environmental status—the Trump Organization touts it as one of the most sustainable courses ever built. The opening ceremony will likely draw media attention, giving Trump a platform to showcase his investments in Scotland and reinforce his image as a global businessman.
Facing Protests and Local Sentiment
Trump’s visits to Scotland have never been without controversy, and this trip is no exception. Protests are planned in Aberdeen and Edinburgh, organized by groups like the “Stop Trump” coalition, who view his policies as divisive. Past visits, like in 2018, saw thousands protest, with iconic moments like comedian Janey Godley’s blunt placard at Turnberry. While some locals, like those employed by his resorts, appreciate the economic boost, others, including neighbors like David Milne, remain critical, citing his politics and past disputes over land. This tension adds a layer of complexity to his visit.
In short, Trump’s Scotland trip is a mix of personal passion, business promotion, and diplomatic maneuvering. While he’s there to celebrate his golf empire and heritage, he’s also navigating trade talks and local backlash. It’s a classic Trump move—blending the personal with the political in a way that keeps everyone talking.