Dan Jenkins leaves his clubs at home when he visits a world-famous golfing shrine for a weekend break with a difference.

GOLFING widows will know the perils of going on holiday with a loved one who is a slave to the game. Unless you have even the slightest interest in wedges, woods and irons, it is a good idea to pack at least a couple of books, or your walking boots.

The five-star Turnberry Hotel in Ayrshire, on the west coast of Scotland, is already a well-established shrine for hordes of Pringle-wearing pilgrims, thanks to its splendid links course. But now the hotel also is offering a wide variety of activities for those who don't know their four irons from their putters.

The resort has capitalised on the stunning countryside that surrounds the main complex, tapping into Scotland's natural resources to create an outdoor activity centre.

The events are co-ordinated by centre director, Gerry Lapsley, a former member of Scotland's national shooting team. For the more daring, there's off-road driving, involving some hair-raising inclines and a water feature. Hardened adrenaline junkies can get a further kick from the excellent quad bike course, which offers dual tracks to cater for both beginners and seasoned riders. Less arduous pursuits include air rifle shooting and archery.

All our guides for the events are skilled enough to accommodate everyone from complete novices to those who have tried their hand before. There is a well-stocked fresh water lake with a choice of coarse or fly fishing. Our instructor, Bobby Fynes, proves more than competent and a member of our party manages to land a good-sized trout. After being given a sharp tap on the head, the fish is duly escorted to the kitchens, where the chef transforms it into a starter for our lunch.

The clubhouse menu specialises in snacks for the hungry golfer and the hotel restaurant is splendid, with lots of good fish dishes and the wine to go with them.

Outdoor centre guests stay in a group of chalets. The rooms are functional and a good size, and the large bathroom can lay claim to having probably the most powerful shower in the country.

Should you feel like driving a few balls, the hotel is also home to the first Colin Montgomerie Links Golf Academy. It has state-of-the-art facilities, with digital video cameras able to take shots of a player in mid-swing, making it easy for the professionals to show you where you are going wrong.

With additions planned to the outdoor activity list, including falconry and clay pigeon shooting, the Turnberry is well on the way to providing something for everyone.

TRAVELFACTS

A Great Outdoors weekend break at the Turnberry Hotel during the summer costs £582.50 per person. This includes two nights bed and breakfast, a three-course meal in the restaurant on both nights and all the activities. A lesson in the golf academy is £50 per person for 45 minutes. Golf is £105 per person on the Ailsa course or £90 on the Kintyre. For reservations, contact (01655) 334136.