Putting together a list of the Top 100 courses in Ireland isn’t an easy task. There is the perennial issue of ranking links courses against parklands, the level of investment from clubs each year to consider and then here at Irish Golfer we have to balance the opinions of our industry expert panel to come up with the final listing. Of course, every golfer has a preference for links or parkland, or specific courses that they like for whatever reason but with our ranking criteria (see opposite page for breakdown) we assess each course across the various categories.
This year you will notice that we’ve added the considerable experience of Gerry Byrne (retired-K Club Course Superintendent) who brings a different dimension to the panel and has an eye for detail from the greenkeepers perspective. We’re delighted to have him with us going forward and his input was a welcome addition for these rankings.
You will also notice that there is cause for celebration with two new entries at the end of the list where Monkstown makes its first ever appearance after a significant investment and Balbriggan returns to the list after a few years away. There are some interesting moves on the list, including inside the Top 20, and a couple of notable absentees with Hogs Head not included as it’s a private members club and Portrush Valley still under construction, so that is also not ranked this year.
100. BALBRIGGAN (New Entry)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.balbriggangolfclub.com
This is a flowing parkland with big undulations and dark evergreens shadowing fairways. Despite the trees, it feels spacious, and the cleverly routed holes take advantage of the natural landscape and water features, while testing your ability to shape shots. The club returns to our rankings after dropping out in 2022.
99. MONKSTOWN (New Entry)
COUNTY: CORK www.monkstowngolfclub.com
Monkstown is a wonderfully easy-paced parkland, south of Cork City and overlooking Cork Harbour. The 3rd hole drops so sharply it makes your head spin. The entire course has been re-bunkered over the past two years and, with a new driving range added, this has helped to elevate Monkstown into the Top 100 for the first time.
98. BALLINROBE (↓5)
COUNTY: MAYO www.ballinrobegolfclub.com
Ballinrobe is a bucolic, large-scale country parkland. It delights with its scale and adventure but, despite its size, Ballinrobe doesn’t brag about it. The course is in need of some TLC to bring it back to its best.
97. MOYOLA PARK (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DERRY www.moyolaparkgolfclub.co.uk
A wonderfully lazy parkland course, easing over an old estate where trees tower, rivers gurgle, and a central hill drips with thrills and spills! The par-3 17th combines all of these elements and is unforgettable.
96. BLAINROE (Same ↔)
COUNTY: WICKLOW www.blainroe.com
Blainroe entered our rankings last year, thanks to the complete re-bunkering of the course, and this seaside parkland has found a well-deserved foothold. The front nine flows over a hill, the back nine takes you out to and along the cliffs.
95. MALAHIDE (↑3)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.malahidegolfclub.ie
Malahide continues to improve and we have seen significant changes at one of Dublin’s big (27 holes) parklands, with clearing work reveal- ing much of this parkland’s true character. And now the conditioning is very much the focus of attention. All of which sees a strong rise.
94. DUNDALK (Same ↔)
COUNTY: LOUTH www.dundalkgolfclub.ie
An old school favourite course where the dark and brooding flanks of trees make this a park- land where restraint may be your best strategy, especially as you can’t always see what lies over the crest or around the bend… other than quality greens.
93. ROYAL CURRAGH (↓1)
COUNTY: KILDARE www.royalcurraghgolf.ie
An old course of heathland flourishes and shapes, with pines, birch and gorse constantly appearing. The 1st is a beautiful par-5 dropping down over a fairway with a storied history, and the constant changes in the terrain keep you entertained.
92. NORTH WEST (↓1)
COUNTY: DONEGAL www.northwestgolfclub.com
A founding member of what is now Golf Ireland, only hints at the history of a sweet-flowing, low-lying links that is packed with intrigue and strategic value. North West is a wonderfully natural course… which has had to adapt to what nature has thrown at it.
91. NAAS (↑4)
COUNTY: KILDARE www.naasgolfclub.com
Naas shines as a parkland of adventure with conditioning always excellent. Investment of over €1m to the course and clubhouse has paid dividends. The final six holes have been re-bunkered to complete an overhaul which has helped this course to shine ever brighter. The biggest mover up in 2025 and a must visit.
90. MACREDDIN (↓1)
COUNTY: WICKLOW www.macreddingolfclub.com
Big at heart and big in scale, Paul McGinley’s Macreddin washes over two sides of a valley with wild abandon and a collection of thrilling holes. Pine and gorse and rhythmic mounding define the front nine; repeat on the back but throw in a river for good measure.
89. GLASSON (↓1)
COUNTY: WESTMEATH www.glassonlakehouse.ie
The redesign of the back six holes has drawn praise and it was a tidy upgrade for this midlands gem. Sitting between two loughs this Westmeath park- land is finding its place in the rankings.
88. KILLARNEY (MAHONY’S POINT) (↑2)
COUNTY: KERRY www.killarneygolfclub.ie
You won’t find a better parkland setting than this one… unless it’s the Killeen alongside. This is golf in a postcard setting of mountains, lake and deer. The old school charm of the course and its calm rhythm fits the occasion only too well and then there’s the remarkable 18th hole.
87. HEADFORT (OLD) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: MEATH www.headfortgolfclub.ie
There’s something about Headfort Old that is utterly charming. It could be its old classic parkland feel. It could be the endless mature trees that give the course such sweet structure and punish the wayward. Or it could be that this very tidy course has no ponds or lakes and lets the landscape do the talking.
86. LAYTOWN & BETTYSTOWN (Same ↔)
COUNTY: MEATH www.landb.ie
L&B combines links holes that favour big and bumpy one moment and then low and sleek the next. The recent re-routing has split up the more out-and-back layout and now tests you constantly with the shifting terrain and direction. Those crumpled shapely beau- ties above the beach are what you will remember most.
85. CLANDEBOYE (DUFFERIN) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DOWN www.cgc-ni.com
After a big jump up this list last year Clandeboye is now solidifying its place as one of Ulster’s best parklands. It remains less known across the border. It has big scale, lots of shape and even more colour. It is parkland through and through – and don’t miss the Ava course, either.
84. DRUIDS HEATH (↓1)
COUNTY: WICKLOW www.druidsglenresort.com
The makeover by Peter McEvoy/Jeff Lynch has altered the soul of Druids Heath. The routing has not changed but the feel and challenge have. The bunkering was overhauled and more than halved and this has allowed the big, swift greens to shine ever brighter.
83. ROYAL COUNTY DOWN (ANNESLEY) (↑1)
COUNTY: DOWN www.royalcountydown.org
The changes that took place on this ‘little’ links have helped to push it up the rankings. It’s a gem of a course and, to be blunt, it is the perfect miniature of the giant it resides next to. What a way to warm up for the main event. No par-5s and a strategic test of accuracy and common sense.
82. ST. MARGARET’S (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.stmargaretsgolf.com
Another smartly routed course on the outskirts of Dublin city and one that remains very popular. It has all the parkland elements with a calm landscape, attractive water features and a pro- fessional, smart feel. The par-3s are particularly good.
81. DUN LAOGHAIRE (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.dunlaoghairegolfclub.ie
Boasting three nines sweeping ever higher across a gentle hillside this modern parkland has a strong variety of holes and challenges and, im- pressively, a different feel to each nine. The par threes are especially strong.
80. CASTLEMARTYR (↓2)
COUNTY: CORK www.castlemartyrresort.ie
Castlemartyr has a sweet, flowing rhythm and the course almost surrounds the five-star resort. Designed by Ron Kirby as a links-style course, the fairway edges are drenched in golden fescue.
79. POWERSCOURT (EAST) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: WICKLOW www.powerscourtgolfclub.com
A drainage programme is almost completed which will enhance this brilliant parkland course. ‘The East’ is known for the quality – not to mention the challenge – of its greens and its idyllic setting. Facility improvements may well see this rise next year.
78. MULLINGAR (↑2)
COUNTY: WESTMEATH www.mullingargolfclub.ie
Another timeless parkland classic, it’s almost too easy to forget how good Mullingar is. With classic parkland traits it rumbles over joyously shifting terrain that offers up one sweet shot after an- other. Trees will taunt you… as will the terror of the par-3 2nd. Upgrades underway.
77. ESKER HILLS (↓2)
COUNTY: OFFALY www.eskerhillsgolf.com
The landscape at Esker Hills is a unique one. You go up and down so often you could be bouncing on a trampoline… but the highs of this golf course never stop as thrilling holes are rolled out in an endless, riveting procession.
76. ST. ANNE’S (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DUBLIN
WEB: www.stanneslinksgolf.com
The closing stretch of holes lives long in the memory at this bus- tling links course on Bull Island, where careful strategy is required when you step on the tee. Low links fairways ripple constantly and big greens shine throughout.
75. SEAPOINT (↑2)
COUNTY: LOUTH www.seapointgolflinks.com
The Legends Tour returned in 2024, ensuring Seapoint remained top of mind, especially with a closing stretch of links holes to rival the best. Home to the Flogas Irish Amateur in 2025 the course has an inland start that builds so steadily that you are almost prepared for that thundering finish. Almost!
74. GALWAY (Same ↔)
COUNTY: GALWAY www.galwaygolf.com
Alister Mackenzie’s name gives this club a real edge in the bragging and quality stakes. A smooth opening transitions to hillier holes and it ensures there is lots of variety in store. One thing that always remains the same is the quality of the greens. Oh, and views over Galway Bay.
73. MOYVALLEY (Same ↔)
COUNTY: KILDARE www.moyvalleygolf.com
Having moved up last year Moyvalley, it seems, has found its place on the list. It’s a course of ever-rolling fairways, wide spaces and few trees with a finishing stretch that will test the best.
72. TULFARRIS (↓1)
COUNTY: WICKLOW www.tulfarrisgolfclub.com
With an amazing lakeside setting it’s too easy to get wrapped up in the beauty of Tulfarris. The layout leads you out to the shoreline of Blessington Lakes time and again with a wonderful blend of holes, culminating in a thrilling finish.
71. FARNHAM ESTATE (↑1)
COUNTY: CAVAN www.farnhamestate.com
A modern parkland wrapped up with a plush resort and a new(ish) clubhouse to give it some independence. This is a tale of two nines and a fascinating mix of holes which starts on a more open, rolling landscape before tossing you up into the forest.
70. NEW FOREST (↓4)
COUNTY: WESTMEATH www.newforest.ie
A bit of a drop for this perennial favourite in the midlands where a bunker removal programme has been underway. A fine parkland course routed around a spectacular clubhouse where fairways glide through the estate’s wild setting.
69. GRANGE (↑1)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.grangegc.com
This suburban course is full of colour as you play through swathes of mature trees and splashes of woodland. The course has that easy, intuitive parkland routing and feel, and there are an additional five holes if you haven’t had enough after your first 18. Recent upgrades by McGinley Design.
68. ARKLOW (Same ↔)
COUNTY: WICKLOW www.arklowgolflinks.com
A links brimming with adventure, Arklow remains static this time after a rise last year. There are excellent par-3s and this course of low dunes is all on show from the car park or – even better – the clubhouse. It seriously whets the appetite. Course condition is constantly improving.
67. WESTPORT (↑2)
COUNTY: MAYO www.westportgolfclub.ie
Westport’s location on the edge of Clew Bay may be part of its draw but from the 7th hole on you will appreciate why this seaside parkland is so highly regarded. And holes 11 to 15, under the watchful eye of Croagh Patrick, are simply superb. Improvements have been made to the opening holes.
66. CASTLE (↑1)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.castlegc.ie
Another classic parkland that flies under the ra- dar in the Dublin region and is slowly creeping up the listing. The rhythm of fairways and pine-lined corridors is hypnotic and promises one strong hole after another. It may play over level ground but that only seems to enhance its flow.
65. CONCRA WOOD (↓2)
COUNTY: MONAGHAN www.concrawood.ie
Lough Muckno is the centrepiece for this modern lakeside parkland of big holes and high drama. Created by O’Connor Junior and Senior, it frequently plays along the shores of the lough and the views from up high are spectacular.
64. DINGLE (↑1)
COUNTY: KERRY www.dinglelinks.com
A small rise for this Kerry gem but we’re expect- ing more to come. Low-lying, devious, strategic and out-on-the-edge-of-the-earth are all used to describe this links in one of Ireland’s beauty spots. A windswept landscape and a challenge to take your breath away.
63. RATHSALLAGH (↑1)
COUNTY: WICKLOW www.rathsallaghgolf.com
Rathsallagh flows so easily, so elegantly through beautiful woodland where trees make a charming nuisance of themselves. A peaceful parkland that revels in its environment.
62. THE HERITAGE (↓1)
COUNTY: LAOIS www.heritageresort.ie
A modern parkland stretched lazily over the Co. Laois landscape. Big and expansive, the course is maturing very tastily indeed, while the facilities are also improving.
61. BUNCLODY (↑1)
COUNTY: WEXFORD www.bunclodygfc.ie
Another rise for this maturing parkland course that always seems to deliver. Bunclody promises immaculate conditioning, strategic design and a memorable experience. The holes down by the Slaney may shine brightest but the entire package is a delightful one.
60. ROYAL BELFAST (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DOWN www.royalbelfast.com
The oldest golf club in Ireland has Harry Colt to thank for a design that flows down to the shores of Belfast Lough. Mostly open, with trees giving you room to play, there are some lovely angles to holes and strong, new bunkering.
59. THE K CLUB (PALMER SOUTH) (↓1)
COUNTY: KILDARE www.kclub.ie
A constantly moving landscape is home to holes of hypnotic shape and frequent drama. Much of it is manufactured in an effort to accommodate a course that is very different to the Palmer North. There are trees but the course is open and spacious, allowing big sweeping greens to shine. With so many water features expect to get wet.
58. ROSSLARE (↑1)
COUNTY: WEXFORD www.rosslaregolf.com
Another rise after a big increase last year, Rosslare continues to impress and we’re expecting even bigger things to come. There’s lots to enjoy on this links in Ireland’s south-east corner.
57. CARTON HOUSE (O’MEARA) (↓1)
COUNTY: KILDARE www.cartonhouse.com
Host to the 2024 and 2025 KPMG Women’s Irish Open, the O’Meara course boasts a serious pedigree. There may be a rather tame 1st and 18th but these are countered by the exhilarating ‘Amen Corner’ stretch of three holes on the River Rye.
56. TULLAMORE (↑1)
COUNTY: OFFALY www.tullamoregolfclub.ie
A classy and well-established parkland in the midlands, Tullamore is slowly making it’s way back to the bigtime. James Braid was the original designer, and holes today demand clear thinking and patience from golfers. Holes constantly bend right or left, and heavyweight trees present numerous challenges.
55. BELVOIR PARK (↓4)
COUNTY: DOWN www.belvoirparkgolfclub.com
An unfortunate drop for this Harry Colt beauty which oozes old world charm. Belvoir has a wonderful rhythm that carries you through the avenues of mature trees and, on the back nine, across a tricky swale. Visit the clubhouse balcony for the perfect appetiser.
54. PALMERSTOWN HOUSE ESTATE (Same ↔)
COUNTY: KILDARE www.palmerstownhouse.ie
Renowned for its water features – and their frequency – Palmerstown House stretches over a vast estate dripping in colour. It possesses one of the best sets of par-5s on the island, not to mention the island green par-3 10th, which was introduced in 2022.
53. BALLYBUNION (CASHEN) (↑2)
COUNTY: KERRY www.ballybuniongolfclub.com
The big plans for the Cashen course are finally underway. After a decade – or two – of rumours, the course is being upgraded. Tom Watson and Graham Webster are at the helm, and holes 4 to 7 were the first to be redeveloped and rerouted in 2024. It is all part of a four-to-five-year overhaul that should see a considerable repositioning of this links. The next few years will be fascinating.
52. POWERSCOURT (WEST) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: WICKLOW
WEB: www.powerscourtgolfclub.com
Narrowly pipping its sister course in these rankings, The West enjoys and revels in its more menacing reputation. The landscape for both is very similar with the West cavorting over higher ground and the greens having even more intrigue than the East’s… and that’s saying something.
51. THE HERMITAGE (↑2)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.hermitagegolf.ie
Another rise for this West Dublin gem where the work of recent years is paying dividends. Hermit- age’s reputation as a parkland of perfect conditioning… reinforced by the superb quality of its greens. Its heaving landscape and parkland maturity date back to 1905.
50. GALWAY BAY (Same ↔)
COUNTY: GALWAY www.galwaybaygolfresort.com
With big plans afoot we’re expecting to see movement from this giant of the West shortly. Galway Bay has some serious muscle and while it’s windswept, it is naturally beautiful. Immaculate conditioning and big adventurous greens await.
49. KILLARNEY (KILLEEN) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: KERRY www.killarneygolfclub.ie
Host to an Irish Open – or four – the Killeen course’s setting is majestic, thanks to the Killarney National Park of mountains and lakes. But there’s lots of drama on this parkland, too, with strong holes and an air of elegance.
48. LOUGH ERNE (↓2)
COUNTY: FERMANAGH www.lougherneresort.com
A colourful lakeland adventure designed by Nick Faldo and wrapped around a top-class resort in Fermanagh. The shorelines of two loughs play host to a feast of holes – the short par four 10th most notably – and these combine with forest, high ridges and dramatic tee shots to give you a wonderfully big parkland/lakeside experience.
47. PORTUMNA (↑1)
COUNTY: GALWAY www.portumnagolfclub.ie
Another improvement in the rankings for a club on the rise. Invest- ment in recent years is showing in this quiet, blissful forest setting. The old estate is marked by mature oak anchoring holes while stone watchtowers add a novel twist. Play early or late and enjoy the deer as playing partners.
46. ROSAPENNA (OLD TOM MORRIS) (↑1)
COUNTY: DONEGAL www.rosapenna.ie
The design of the old holes remains revered as it uses original, untouched dune terrain, to create a classic links. These are combined with nine modern holes from the imagination of Pat Ruddy. The two nines are divided by Sandy Hills, and offer an intriguing view of old vs. new.
45. DROMOLAND CASTLE (Same ↔)
COUNTY: CLARE www.dromolandgolf.com
After big jumps up the rankings in 2023 and 2024, Dromoland comfortably sits among its peers in this category. Home to the KPMG Women’s Irish Open in ‘22 & ‘23 the constant improvements of recent years (ahead of the Open) are still continuing, with significant aesthetic and strategic improvements, especially on holes such as the 11th (lake extending around the green) and 18th (tee boxes moved out towards the lake).
44. CARTON HOUSE (MONTGOMERIE) (↓4)
COUNTY: KILDARE www.cartonhouse.com
The Montgomerie was designed as a links-style inland course. The exposed landscape feels almost barren with only a few trees roaming its hypnotically rolling terrain. It is certainly very different… as is the prolific array of punishing bunkers and dramatically shaped green complexes. This is a big challenge and golfers should choose the appropriate tee.
43. GALGORM CASTLE (Same ↔)
COUNTY: ANTRIM www.galgormcastle.com
The investment and improvements at Galgorm are relentless where big changes in recent years have seen them rise considerably in this list. A softening of the first hole and improved practice facilities this year hasn’t yielded continued forward movement but with new owners in place there could be big things ahead once more.
42. ARDGLASS (↑1)
COUNTY: DOWN WEB: www.ardglassgolfclub.com
More steady progress for Ardglass following further improvements under the guidance of Ken Kearney. A continued upward spiral is expected here for a course with a heady mix of charming views and challenging holes.
41. LUTTRELLSTOWN CASTLE (↓2)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.luttrellstowncastle.com
Dropping due to improvements of others around it, Luttrellstown Castle remains a big hitter in the Dublin region. A classic modern parkland with rivers and lakes laced across an old tree-drenched estate. There are no climbs here which only adds to its accessibility and appeal.
40. CASTLEROCK (↑1)
COUNTY: DERRY www.castlerockgc.co.uk
A small move which reflects investment in club facilities and clubhouse this year, Castlerock con- tinues to offer a different links experience to others on the same coastline. Hawtree oversaw upgrade works a few years ago with the addition of some new greens and a bunkering upgrade programme.
39. HEADFORT (NEW) (↑3)
COUNTY: MEATH www.headfortgolfclub.ie
Another big Irish parkland with lots of water, grand trees and, in Headfort’s case, an island at the centre of it all. Water embraces a dozen holes and these kick-start the thrills, but this is part of a 36-hole venue and there is much to be enjoyed here. The overall quality of the course conditioning and the hosting of The Challenge Tour has helped to see Headfort New rise three places.
38. DONEGAL (↓2)
COUNTY: DONEGAL www.donegalgolfclub.ie
There are major upgrade works with Paul McGinley underway at Donegal and while it has dropped for now we are expecting this to bounce back up the rankings in double quick time as the improvements start to show.
37. CARLOW (↑1)
COUNTY: CARLOW www.carlowgolfclub.ie
Carlow is one of Ireland’s best inland courses, a naturally and intuitively routed parkland, winding around a hill. Its setting is a charming Irish landscape, and the qualities bestowed upon it by its original designers – Tom Simpson and Molly Gourlay – are equal to that setting. There is so much more shape here than you’d expect and that presents you with a wonderful variety of holes, including the renowned 7th, 8th and 16th.
36. MALONE (↑1)
COUNTY: ANTRIM www.malonegolfclub.co.uk
This renowned Belfast parkland has seen considerable upgrade work in the past few years. The new short game area and a reimagined 14th that sees the green moved to the edge of the large lake are the stand-out attractions…but Malone is impressive all over with a particularly thrilling back nine.
35. FOTA ISLAND (Same ↔)
COUNTY: CORK www.fotaisland.ie
Fota Island is, as its name suggests, tucked away on an island. It is en- chanting golf and the Irish Open has been held here three times. The slopes, the natural water features, the green locations all contribute to a charming round of golf that is both thrilling and accessible for all. There is an excellent golf academy here too, next to the newest of the three nines. Recent changes have seen some bunkers replaced with trees.
34. MOUNT JULIET (↓2)
COUNTY: KILKENNY www.mountjuliet.com
Hosting the 2021 and 2022 Irish Opens gave the famous Jack Nicklaus-designed Mount Juliet serious bragging rights. The course coasts through an estate of towering trees with a grace that makes playing here an absolute joy. Despite water features on eight holes, you do not feel too threatened… rather you feel welcomed and embraced. That only enhances your enjoyment. Put it this way, can you point us towards a golfer who has left Mount Juliet in a bad mood?
33. CORK (Same ↔)
COUNTY: CORK www.corkgolfclub.ie
Few courses enjoy such shifts in style and pace as Cork Golf Club. Few courses have the legendary Alister MacKenzie designing a layout that ties those holes together in a perfect bow. The famed limestone quarry holes remain the club’s signature, along with the preceding two holes (4 and 5) on the edge of Cork Harbour, and these beauties – eight in all – are tucked out of sight of the clubhouse. Significant clearing work opened up the quarry to make these holes even more dramatic and they take many golfers by surprise. It shouldn’t: Cork is highly rated for good reason.
32. STRANDHILL (↑2)
COUNTY: SLIGO strandhillgolfclub.com
Another rise for this beauty on the West Coast. Strandhill could be classed as a ‘quirky’ links but don’t be fooled by the description, it’s brilliant. Holes rise and fall towards and around a central high ridge, with a somewhat eccentric flow of dune shapes: low and cunning on the perimeter; big and breathless in the middle; and everything else is eccentric and unique. This is natural links golf with glorious greens often flowing out of the land. It continues to be improved and rises yet again. Its location with sea on two sides and a mountain looming overhead adds to the drama… and, yes, the quirk!
31. ROSAPENNA (SANDY HILLS) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DONEGAL www.rosapenna.ie
The softening of Sandy Hills in recent years has helped this behemoth become more recognised and popular. Yes, it remains formidable, but it has found a more caring side with wider fairways and more clarity off the tee. There are still plenty of teeth but now it’s more smile than grimace as holes dip and roll like a rollercoaster. It is part of a first-class golf complex that contains the new St Patrick’s Links and, intriguingly, there are plenty of golfers who visit and rate Sandy Hills the best of the resort’s three links.
30. NARIN & PORTNOO (↓1)
COUNTY: DONEGAL www.narinandportnoolinks.com
Gil Hanse renovated Narin & Portnoo in 2020, when the club was taken over. His expansive, shapely new greens have recharged this links while new holes, including three new par-3s, have changed the par from a 73 to a 70. Surprisingly, though, the new short holes are all of a very similar length. Some changes to the routing have also given this links a different look. The Co. Donegal location remains earth-shatteringly beautiful and you simply can’t avoid it, including a tee box so close to the sea you can dip your hand in it.
29. KILLEEN CASTLE (↓1)
COUNTY: MEATH www.killeencastle.com
It was a difficult decision to drop this behemoth of a parkland course. Improvements elsewhere mean it slips one place but that doesn’t mean it’s any less imposing or brilliant. The addition of accommodation has enhanced the offering and as always at Killeen Castle you will enjoy generous fairways which make driving a delight, but Nicklaus placed a serious premium on finding heavily guarded greens. Considering all that space it is no surprise at how peaceful it all feels… or how pristine it looks.
28. CONNEMARA (↑2)
COUNTY: GALWAY www.connemaragolflinks.com
The folklore around Connemara is as mystical as the golf course itself. Designed by Eddie Hackett, the links is as natural as can be, using a low running front nine to whet the appetite before the dramatic back nine kicks things off at a higher level… literally. The backdrop of the Twelve Bens and the Atlantic Ocean contributes greatly to Connemara’s allure, as does the fabled rocky landscape that surrounds you. It gives this club a unique links feel and one that is so evident on arrival. The par-3 13th is the stuff of legend.
27. PGA NATIONAL SLIEVE RUSSELL (Same ↔)
COUNTY: CAVAN www.slieverussell.ie
With new owners in place and a programme of works already partly completed this is another parkland that could be on the move. This course has everything a lover of parkland golf could ask for. Vibrancy and colour envelop you from the moment you stride to the first tee and you are inevitably swept up in the beautiful surroundings and rolling terrain. Facilities are excellent and the Raflewski Golf Europe Academy is simply out of this world.
26. PORTMARNOCK JAMESON GOLF LINKS (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.portmarnock.com
The Jameson Golf Links finished its upgrade in 2024, with the opening of the new 17th hole completing the six-hole redevelopment. The par-3 17th has been replaced by a thrilling risk vs. reward short par-4. It all suggests a new chapter for this links. The purpose of the upgrades was to create views out to sea and enhance the routing… both very much achieved. The overall result sees considerable alterations and rerouting to the final 10 holes. It will be intriguing to watch how the new course settles in.
25. OLD HEAD (Same ↔)
COUNTY: CORK www.oldhead.com
The thrill of Old Head is indisputable, and it remains one of the world’s great golf experiences. You can quibble over the design if you want but the exhilaration of playing over those cliff tops will live with you forever. This is glamour golf at its best and the elegant, generous design makes it a course anyone can play. That’s assuming you can handle the drama of the clifftop holes, of which there are nine. Old Head boasts a world-class, bucket list attraction and anyone who has played here will be quick to tell you about it.
24. DOOKS (Same ↔)
COUNTY: KERRY www.dooks.com
Dooks is blessed by being laid out on a gloriously crumpled landscape in one of Ireland’s most beautiful and scenic locations. It is surrounded by bays, sea and endless mountains, and it is a colourful links that brims with entertainment. It falls this way and that, has de- licious green sites, keeps you guessing and has a toad for a logo. What more could you want? The 2nd green may be the most dramatic place to stand in Irish golf but the allure of Dooks goes well beyond that.
23. DRUIDS GLEN (Same ↔)
COUNTY: WICKLOW www.druidsglenresort.com
Druids Glen came back into our lives with a bang in 2023. The original routing remains – with a new 4th green site – but it is now super-polished with new greens, new bunkers, new bridges… new everything. This is an idyllic parkland that hosted four Irish Opens, and who’s to say it won’t host another in the near future. It stays at 23 in our ranking for this year and the future remains bright for this sparkling Irish parkland.
22. BALLYLIFFIN (OLD) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DONEGAL www.ballyliffingolfclub.com
In a similar fashion to Powerscourt, the battle for ‘top dog’ between Ballyliffin’s two courses stirs much debate. The Old may sit just behind the Glashedy in our rankings, but it is fine margins and each has its fans. The Old promises electrifying links golf over low, rumpled terrain where fairways needle you constantly and bunkers lure your ball. What the Old has in its favour is the sparkling run of holes beside the sea, starting at the 14th, which promises a thrilling run for home.
21. PORTSALON (↓1)
COUNTY: DONEGAL www.portsalongolfclub.ie
Another course dropping slightly due to improvements elsewhere, Portsalon is a gem in the North West. Lough Swilly is magnificent and much of Portsalon’s front nine runs riot through rugged dunes above Ballymastocker Strand. Two double greens emphasise how the terrain has been cleverly used and holes smartly routed, and this extends across the course, even to the more inland holes. Greens often lie low on the land emphasising this links’ natural feel and heart.
20. ROYAL DUBLIN (↓1)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.theroyaldublingolfclub.com
As with Portsalon, Royal Dublin is slipping slightly due to enhancements elsewhere but it remains a superb offering at the very top level of Irish golf. A recent makeover proved a real success which has helped Ireland’s oldest links reignite its Harry Colt roots, centred not just on the bunkering but also the strategy of links golf. This low-lying links boasts a classic out-and-back routing where wind intimidates constantly, and bump-and-run rules. Its reputation is stronger than ever and it possesses one of the most famous finishing stretches in Irish golf.
19. PORTSTEWART (STRAND) (↑2)
COUNTY: DERRY WEB: www.portstewartgc.co.uk
The major plans for the Strand course are ongoing, but the work carried out on holes 13, 14 and 15, by European Golf Design (EGD), has already made a significant impact. The holes re-opened in the summer of 2024. The famed dunes of Thistly Hollow, host a stretch of holes often labelled Ireland’s ‘best front nine’ and it is little wonder as you embark on a wild adventure through towering dunes. The closing section of the course may be more sedate but EGD’s work is changing that, hole by hole.
18. BALLYLIFFIN (GLASHEDY) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DONEGAL www.ballyliffingolfclub.com
One of Ballyliffin’s greatest assets is its desire never to rest on its laurels. There is constant change and progress at the club, and the introduction of solar power is only one of its recent efforts. The Glashedy course takes the lead here with clever routing that takes both nines into the biggest dunes. Here you will find two superb par-3s (five and 14) with tee boxes looking down on greens and the startling Glashedy Rock parked in the sea beyond. This is tougher than the Old because subtle doglegs and tight greenside bunkering make accuracy essential.
17. ENNISCRONE (↓2)
COUNTY: SLIGO www.enniscronegolf.com
It’s quite something when you realise that County Sligo has three links in our top 35. Enniscrone, at 17, comes in behind Harry Colt’s Co. Sligo, and yet they are so different… as is Strandhill, at 32. Enniscrone is bodybuilder stuff and shows off its muscles early in the round. It plunges into a giant cascade of dunes rumbling along the shores of Killala Bay. Much of the back nine also plays in these dunes which, in terms of scale, are second only to Carne. And, in terms of blind shots, it is second only to Royal County Down. That is some towering adventure that lies ahead, and it’s packed. Recent work by Martin Ebert is bedding in.
16. THE K CLUB (PALMER NORTH) (↑1)
COUNTY: KILDARE www.kclub.ie
The high levels of investment in Palmer North continued during 2024, with some additional changes to greens ahead of this year’s Amgen Irish Open (4-7 September). The overall result is another rise up our ranking. The quality of the investments will be on display during the Irish Open, particularly the re-laid and sometimes re-shaped fairways. They add class to an already classy product. The overall ambience of The K Club shines through with big fairways, sweeping greens and charming water features… including the Liffey. Excellent facilities, too.
15. TRUMP INTERNATIONAL DOONBEG (↑1)
COUNTY: CLARE www.trumphotels.com/ireland
Doonbeg is locked-in in the mid-teens of our rank- ings but notches up a place this year. The blend of Greg Norman (old) and Martin Hawtree (new), as well as continuing upgrades, has created an impressive modern links of high drama above Doughmore Strand. The farthest point – the 9th green – shows off the spectacular setting, as well as the hotel around the curve of the bay. There are some remarkable holes here with the 1st, 5th, 6th, 13th and 14th particularly noteworthy as they use the best the dunes have to offer. From one end to the other, Doonbeg stretches for almost two miles above the beach. It’s a glorious walk.
14. THE EUROPEAN CLUB (Same ↔)
COUNTY: WICKLOW www.theeuropeanclub.com
This famous – some might say notorious – links bristles with energy and high drama. Sleeper-faced bunkers may have their detractors but there’s no question that this links carries a unique reputation. And that’s thanks to its creator who has added elements you won’t find elsewhere. The course builds to a crescendo in the middle of the back nine where the holes almost touch the Irish Sea but there is so much to enjoy across all 18 holes… or 20, as is the case here. The European Club is an unforgettable experience, and it always demands the best from every facet of your game.
13. COUNTY SLIGO (Same ↔)
COUNTY: SLIGO www.countysligogolfclub.ie
The fabric of Harry Colt’s design runs deep in the veins of this superb links. It fills every step and inspires every swing. The terrain promises so much variety with the opening holes taking you up high before you descend to a lower plain that’s all on show from the 5th tee. Take a moment and breathe it in: there aren’t many views like this… unless you did the same thing on the 3rd tee. The variety is astonishing but also hugely appealing as there’s always something new to consider. Colt knew how to test golfers’ abilities and this shines through at Co. Sligo.
12. CARNE (WILD ATLANTIC DUNES) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: MAYO www.carnegolflinks.com
Take the biggest dunes you could possibly imagine and thread 18 holes through them, over them and around them. Pile on the views, add in the remoteness and now toss another nine holes on top and you end up with Ireland’s greatest golf odyssey. The Wild Atlantic Dunes layout is Carne’s preferred routing, which intertwines Eddie Hackett’s back nine with Ally McIntosh’s newer nine (2013). There is no question that this is the biggest and most explosive links in Ireland and its soul is buried deep in raw, natural terrain that presents challenges you’ll never have encountered before.
11. ROSAPENNA, ST PATRICK’S LINKS (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DONEGAL www.rosapenna.ie
For such a young course there is an ‘other worldliness’ to St Patrick’s Links. The design is vast, and it feels different to our other links thanks to a modern design by one of the best in the business. Tom Doak created something that is elegant and effortless, with holes rambling through big and broad dunes, leading out to the sea. The green sites are sensational and there are different routes to reach them as hole shapes embrace different strategies. This is magical stuff… which also describes the Co. Donegal setting.
10. TRALEE (↓1)
COUNTY: KERRY www.traleegolfclub.com
When you think of Ireland’s most beautiful locations for a golf course,
Tralee typically springs to mind. Add in a links that easily matches that location and you’re looking at a majestic golf adventure. Recent improvements to the front nine have closed the gap on a revered back nine – also being tweaked – as well as cementing Tralee’s reputation for having the best set of par-3s on the island – with Druids Glen in hot pursuit – with the 16th being a superb hole named ‘Shipwreck’. Tralee also offers an impressive range of facilities, including a clubhouse balcony with sweeping views over the course and ocean.
9. THE ISLAND (↑1)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.theislandgolfclub.ie
The Island nudges up another notch as the conditioning and definition continue to elevate this impressive Dublin links. The course is blessed with character, and it continues to boast one of Ireland’s finest back nines, including holes 13 to 15. It is an astounding stretch of three holes, just across the water from Malahide. The remodelled par-3 4th offers a dramatic new signature hole that breaks up the previous run of eight par-4s, while the new 8th and 9th add considerable bulk to the front nine’s finish.
8. THE GOLF COURSE AT ADARE MANOR (↓1)
COUNTY: LIMERICK www.adaremanor.com
As the Ryder Cup now becomes the European centre piece for 2027, Adare continues to polish the edges of its golfing masterpiece. The attention to detail lavished on the course is second to none with its sub-air technology raising pulses everywhere. Tom Fazio’s re-design is hypnotic in its rhythm with raised greens and vast aprons of run-offs catching the eye. They are dazzling targets. The bunkering is bright and unmissable, framing fairway corridors and threatening constantly around greens. It may be easier to be in a bunker than to run the gauntlet of those aprons which can sweep your ball 30 yards away. And yet its playability is one of Adare’s great strengths.
7. WATERVILLE (↑1)
COUNTY: KERRY www.watervillegolflinks.ie
Moving up inside the Top 10 isn’t easy but it’s hard to argue with this one. Waterville sits in an irresistible setting on the Ring of Kerry, its sublime rhythm creating a links that tugs at the heart strings at every turn. First you find yourself chaperoned by the River Inny, then, later, by the Inny estuary as you head for home. In between is a layout of indescribable beauty with highlights appearing as frequently as the hares. There are no climbs, yet the landscape always moves and twists… it’s as though this terrain could serve no other purpose than to host a golf course.
6. COUNTY LOUTH (BALTRY) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: LOUTH www.countylouthgolfclub.com
The layout at Co. Louth is a purist’s delight, its subtleties revealing themselves a little more with each play. It is similar to Portmarnock in that regard, although here you also have the famous stretch of big dunes that hosts four delicious holes (12 to 16). And while you might consider this to be the best stretch there’s actually another that is just as good: holes 3 to 7 are a perfect foil to the stretch on the back nine and, right there, you have eight electrifying holes.
Is it any wonder the course is so revered. The strategies and intricacies around Tom Simpson’s design – and the greens in particular – open up a myriad of choice and opportunity for shots. And following a major recent irrigation overhaul, the links is in superb condition. One final thought: on account of a few of the inland holes, some feel it lacks the wow factor of other links, but this is to miss the essence and calm brilliance of Co Louth.
5. BALLYBUNION (OLD) (Same ↔)
COUNTY: KERRY www.ballybuniongolfclub.com
A course’s brilliance does not depend on length, rather it depends on routing and layout, and how holes com- bine with the natural setting. Notwithstanding the Old Course at St. Andrews, Ballybunion is widely regarded as the most natural links golf course anywhere, and certainly the most natural with such towering dunes. The shapes of these dunes have created perfect dog- legs, high tees and magical green settings, some set in bowls, some set on plateaus, still others protected by sentry dunes. And yet there are no blind shots.
The par 71 of 6,350 yards (white tees) may seem short by today’s standards but the course’s routing is both challenging and fair… and accessible to all golfers. The back nine are all fired up, steering through the biggest dunes. You’ll want to be on the fairway to take advantage of the many ‘hero’ shots that await – look no further than the par-4 11th.
The links enjoys remarkable conditioning making every inch of the place glow with quality and it promises an electrifying adventure with the routing taking you out to the ocean’s edge on both nines.
4. LAHINCH (Same ↔)
COUNTY: CLARE www.lahinchgolf.com
With holes 4 and 5, Lahinch has a golf course that drifts into the realms of folklore. With holes 3, 6, 9, 12 and 13 this Co. Clare links packs in more punch and drama than most top courses can manage over 18 holes. Never mind the dune system over and through which it plays, Lahinch is blessed with a tempo that sings. The ridge of big dunes that hosts the front nine and press up to the sea heave in every direc- tion creating sublime channels for holes to flow between.
Such natural routing presents a layout where wind tests golfers from every angle but also accommodates some blind shots and fabulous quirks (The Dell, most notably). Farther inland, where the dunes are more subdued, the back nine are little different: perfect routing takes you to startlingly natural green sites. Indeed, the back nine de- mand more guile from the golfer, especially on approaches.
What Old Tom Morris started, Gibson advanced, MacKenzie reimagined and Hawtree restored, is now recognised as one of the world’s greatest links. Alister MacKenzie’s name looms largest, but Hawtree deserves plaudits for his resto- ration of MacKenzie’s original vision. He rebuilt green sites, updated the bunkering for the modern age and added two new par-3s. He also pushed greens out to the ocean’s edge to enhance the links experience. In an age when links courses have little room to expand, Hawtree found other ways to promote Lahinch’s challenges.
3. ROYAL COUNTY DOWN (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DOWN www.royalcountydown.org
Royal County Down (RCD) looked sensational during the Amgen Irish Open in 2024. The only hiccup was not getting the winner we wanted. There’s no question that RCD is one of golf’s greatest experiences – it is unlike anything on the planet with those heaving, gorse-drenched dunes and bearded bunkers – but where it falters in our rankings is in its playability. This is a beauty, but it is also a beast. Blind shots – many of them severe – and those terrifying bunkers makes RCD a stern test for even the best players. Jack Nicklaus certainly thought so. It is simply not as playable as the two courses ranked above it. Please take that as a challenge and find out for yourself.
However you play it will leave you reeling and breathless for RCD remains the ultimate, adrenaline-fuelled links with a heritage that embraces Old Tom Morris and a landscape that has been played over since 1889. Those blind shots are what many golfers remember most but this stretch of tumultuous links land is home to superb green settings and surfaces that roll like velvet. The perfect framing of wild rough, heather and gorse, and the strategic options available make RCD the epitome of a bucket list destination… and always will do.
2. PORTMARNOCK (Same ↔)
COUNTY: DUBLIN www.portmarnockgolfclub.ie
Portmarnock is the epitome of a course that improves and thrills the more you play it. This isn’t about massive dunes and dramatic looking holes: rather it is the guile and strategic nous you need to unlock Portmarnock’s charms because this low-lying links and the word ‘subtlety’ are entwined. Yes, some visitors will miss the nuances of this terrain on a single visit, but there is immense reward on repeat plays as all 18 holes (all 27, in fact) slowly reveal their secrets.
Nuances such as the deceptive ridges on holes 3, 13 and 17, and the blind tee shot on 5 add to the fun but it is the peerless routing that provides the bones for this exceptional championship layout.
It’s worth noting that the skeleton of the course remains the same as when it was extended to 18 holes in 1896. The only significant addition being the famous par-3 15th above the beach, introduced in the 1920s. Portmarnock is big, not in terms of towering dunes but in the size of its greens and hole corridors.
The holes fit so perfectly into the landscape and the routing flows so easily, so intuitively. There is no finer example than the revered closing stretch of five holes, a loop that many a golf writer considers to be one of the best in golf. The condition of the course is also second to none, the fine turf allowing firm and fast surfaces that encourage the ground game and will reward you handsomely if you employ it correctly.
1. ROYAL PORTRUSH (Same ↔)
COUNTY: ANTRIM www.royalportrushgolfclub.com
The Open returns in 2025 and the prospect of another Irish winner remains very real. Excitement levels are high which is no surprise as the 2019 Championship revealed Royal Portrush as a true masterpiece. It continues to retain its No. 1 position in our ranking.
This is classic, golden age course design from the 1920s. The best architects of the day had started to build features rather than rely wholly on nature and Harry Colt was a virtuoso practitioner. At Portrush, he created what remains the best set of greens in Ireland. Indeed, Colt considered the Dunluce course his masterpiece and it’s easy to see why: the holes sweep elegantly through an undulating dunescape, never so violent that the golf is compromised yet never so calmly that one’s guard can be lowered.
We all know the best of them, the 5th doglegging towards the sea and the 16th, Calamity Corner, being one of the most famous par-3s in the world. But, in truth, almost all of the holes are strong, beautifully following the land and taking the golfer on an adventure to each corner of the property.
The course is in a permanent battle with Royal County Down for the top spot in Northern Ireland, with each offering a very different experience. In preparation for the return of the 2019 Open Championship, however, Portrush removed its weaker 17th and 18th holes – commandeered for the tented village – and created two outstanding new holes (par-5 7th and par-4 8th) to give it a vital edge over RCD. The visual appeal and challenge of these two holes have been an overwhelming success and tweaks to the 7th green, during 2024, present opportunities for new pin positions.
WIN ONE OF 10 PRINTS OF ROYAL PORTRUSH
Leave a comment