Special feature: Part one
Ready for the first instalment of the Ultimate Good Course Guide? Read on…
The 2016 county champions across Scotland, Wales and Ireland choose their top 10 favourite courses. Next month, we’ll focus on England.
It’s that time of the year again – when we reveal the top courses in every county in the UK and Ireland, as selected by the reigning champions of every county. We start with Scotland, Wales and Ireland before England’s 34 counties receive the full champion treatment next month.
As always, the top 10 picks of the county champions will cause a lot of clubhouse debate and discussion – none more so than last year when the Old Course at St Andrews didn’t feature! But you’ve got to remember that the selection of the courses boils down to personal preference and that a great course for one golfer can be a curse for another…
And again you’ll find plenty of surprises below, none more so than legendary Gleneagles playing second fiddle to a little known nine-holer! It all makes for fascinating and insightful reading. After all, we’re talking about champion golfers here and if anybody knows a good course when they play one, it is surely the best player in their area….
SCOTLAND
Panmure I’m a tad biased because I’m also a member of this little gem of a course. Every hole is a completely different test and at times it can be extremely difficult. Green fees: £95. Tel: 01241 852460.
Carnoustie The Open Championship venue is an incredibly demanding links. It’s always in great condition – just an absolutely amazing test of golf. Green fees: £175. Tel: 01241 7 802270. Downfield During the summer months in particular, this is a quality parkland place to play golf. Each hole offers a different challenge to the previous one. Green fees: £75. Tel: 01382 825595. Montrose (Medal) With some stunning coastal views, this historic links has some excellent holes. It’s a good test, especially if the wind blows, when it becomes very difficult. Green fees: £70. Tel: 01674 672932. Ballumbie Castle My home club doesn’t get the credit it deserves and in my view boasts the toughest greens in the county – they are small with massive breaks. Green fees: £35. Tel: 01382 770028. Letham Grange (Old Course)
I remember playing it on a regular basis when I was a youngster. This is a stunning course and it’s no exaggeration to say some of the holes are similar to Augusta. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01241 890373.
Monifieth (Medal) A traditional links which provides a huge challenge. The first six holes can be straight into the wind, so it’s not unusual to see your card wrecked by the time you’ve played only three holes! Green fees: £59. Tel: 01382 532767.
Edzell Situated on the northern boundary of Angus, it is often described as a hidden gem – and rightly so. This heathland course is not too long, but it is usually in good condition. Green fees: £42. Tel: 01356 647283. Carnoustie (Buddon)
A few years ago the club spent a bit of money on adding some new holes. The result is a welllooked after course where it is possible to shoot a good score. Green fees: £46. Tel: 01241 802270. Carnoustie (Burnside)
I just loved this course when I was a junior, experiencing 14 quite easy holes and a handful of really tough ones. It runs alongside the Championship course, an added bonus. Green fees: £46. Tel: 01241 802270.
Machrihanish Dunes Maturing and getting better year by year after it opened in 2009 – although you could be forgiven for thinking this magnificent links has been around for decades. The bunkers are all natural and the views stunning. Green fees: £75. Tel: 0800 151 3701.
Machrihanish Designed by Old Tom Morris, this Kintyre links has been a super test of golf for well over 100 years. The opening tee shot, across the beach to an angled fairway, is one of the best on any course in the country, and is part of a great front nine. Green fees: £65. Tel: 01586 810213.
Machrie Hotel Another magical links, although they’ve re-routed the holes. You need to hit a selection of different shots if you’re to successfully negotiate this natural links on the beautiful island of Islay. Green fees: £65. Tel: 01496 302310.
Millport Situated on the Isle of Cumbrae, this heathland has been around for over 125 years. Accuracy is needed from the start as out of bounds comes into play on the first seven holes. Green fees: £26. Tel: 01475 530306.
Dunaverty A clifftop course on Kintyre, close to the two Machrihanish courses, it provides a collection of stunning views. The small greens are difficult to hit while the 6th is one of the
most difficult par 3s in Scotland. Green fees: £28. Tel: 01586 830677.
Cowal Measuring just over 6,000 yards, this mature parkland is laid out above the Firth of Clyde on the slopes of the Cowal peninsula. The most testing holes come over the inward stretch. Green fees: £20. Tel: 01369 705673.
Rothesay My home track is the only 18-hole course on the Isle of Bute. Although it’s only 5,419 yards long, it still has two par 5s over 500 yards and the undulations ensure it is a serious examination. Green fees: £20. Tel: 01700 503554.
Glencruitten Also known as Oban GC, elevations are a common factor on this challenging parkland as golfers usually need to hit off raised tees towards holes up the hillside. Green fees: £20. Tel: 01631 562868.
Tobermory A nine-hole clifftop course above Tobermory Bay on the Isle of Mull offers a good variety of holes. Some can be quite long with the par 3s at the 3rd and 4th over 200 yards. Green fees: £20. Tel: 01688 302741.
Bute The oldest course on the island of Bute offers nine unique holes. There are no par 5s but the 6th, a par 3 measuring 223 yards, will definitely test the bigger hitters. Green fees: £15. Tel: 01700 503091.
Trump Turnberry (Ailsa) Since its reconstruction last year, this Open Championship venue is better than the original – and that was pretty good! It’s a top-quality links. Green fees: £210. Tel: 01655 331000.
Prestwick Old A really quirky, but fun course to play. Probably suited more to matchplay golf which is perhaps why they are holding the knockout stages of the 2017 Scottish Amateur Championship there. Green fees: £170. Tel: 01292 477404.
Western Gailes A championship links that is always in good condition. Situated between the railway and the sea, it offers different challenges throughout. Green fees: £165. Tel: 01294 311649.
Royal Troon If I’m being honest, this is not
my personal favourite. But it’s difficult to argue that the venue for the 2016 Open is not a wonderful and tough course. Green fees: £230. Tel: 01292 311555.
Prestwick St Cuthbert My home club has improved massively in recent years and will proudly host the opening rounds of the Scottish Amateur Championship. And everyone will receive a friendly welcome. Green fees: £38. Tel: 01292 477101.
Irvine (Bogside) With just two short holes and a single par 5 off the back tees, this is a slightly quirky links, but usually good fun to play. It’s usually kept in good condition too. Green fees: £60. Tel: 01294 275979.
Kilmarnock (Barassie) I’ve played this course on a regular basis for the county. It’s a long and tough layout which has held several big amateur competitions. Green fees: £65. Tel: 01292 313920.
Glasgow Gailes Designed by Willie Park Jnr, this Open Championship qualifying venue is a tough test. The signature hole is the 5th, a classic dog-leg par 5. Green fees: £95. Tel: 01294 311561.
Ayr Belleisle Who says municipal venues lack quality? This James Braid design is a great layout and is also really good value-formoney. Green fees: £32. Tel: 01292 441258.
Dundonald Links Always in good condition, this Kyle Phillips-designed modern links is in my opinion the toughest course in Ayrshire when played off the back tees. Green fees: £125. Tel: 01294 314000.
Roxburghe A Dave Thomas-designed championship course which has had a lot of money pumped into it. It’s a top class venue, and hosts pre-qualifying for the European Tour. Green fees: £80. Tel: 01573 450331.
Hawick My home club is one of the oldest courses in the region. It’s a tough test and can be quite tricky in places. It also has some great views. Green fees: £36. Tel: 01450 372293.
Cardrona Another championship modern course, again created by Dave Thomas, which measures over 7,000 yards from the back tees, and has a good variety of holes at the heart of picture-postcard Borders countryside. Green fees: £35. Tel: 01896 833701.
Peebles Starting with a par 3, there are lots of different types of holes on this par 70, which works its way up and down the hill on both loops of nine. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01721 720197.
Torwoodlee This was a superb nine-hole course before it was extended to 18 holes a few years ago. It is improving every year and now
‘The opening shot at Machrihanish is one of the best on any course in the country’
both halves are relatively similar. Green fees: £32. Tel: 01896 752260.
Hirsel Accuracy is a must to shoot a competitive score around this well-kept woodland course, which boast several strong as well as tight and demanding holes. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01890 882678.
Minto Another course where keeping the ball on the fairways is essential. But even then there’s still no guarantee of success because the greens are devilishly tricky and quite sloping. Green fees: £32. Tel: 01450 870220.
Eyemouth It’s not a links course, more of a clifftop, but as it sits close to the sea it has similar characteristics – and the strength of the wind can make it play very tough. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01890 750004.
Kelso Positioned in the middle of Kelso race track, it’s a relatively flat course but it is always kept in excellent condition. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01573 223009.
Woll Course renovations made about four or five years ago have made this a much better track and I’m confident it will continue to improve. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01750 32711.
Loch Lomond Private members club, so it’s very difficult to get a round. But this famous European Tour venue is a stunning course with fantastic greens and breathtaking views. Green fees: Members & members’ guests. Tel: 01436 655555.
The Carrick Another course overlooking Loch Lomond, the opening few holes are on the lower ground before you gradually work your way up to the top…. and then dramatically down at the stunning 14th. Green fees: £90. Tel: 01389 713655.
Cardross A good selection of different types of par 4s over the front nine with two par 5s and a couple of par 3s adding a bit of variety on the inward stretch. This picturesque parkland-woodland layout has a really nice finishing hole. Green fees: £50. Tel: 01389 841754.
Balmore My home club is an undulating parkland with no par 5s and six short holes, including the signature 16th, which is played from an elevated tee to a tiny green protected by a burn. Green fees: £35. Tel: 01360 620240.
Dougalston A club that has undergone a number of changes over the last decade or so, both in name and in terms of the course layout. But it still remains a picturesque woodland. Green fees: £20. Tel: 0141 955 2434.
Hayston This undulating parkland is bookended by some challenging holes as you start with a par 4 and a par 5 before finishing with a quartet of testing holes of varying lengths. Green fees: £25. Tel: 0141 775 0723.
Vale of Leven Formed over a century ago, the course has some great views as it is situated on the east side of the valley. The 2nd hole is a par 5 and then it’s all par 3s and par 4s from then onwards. Green fees: £22. Tel: 01389 752351. Douglas Park The key to success on this parkland is holding a score together over the tree-lined front nine – it’s over 300 yards longer than the inward stretch and with a lower par too! Green fees: £33. Tel: 0141 942 0985. Dullatur Both of the 18-hole courses have defining points. The Antonine is an undulating parkland while the Carrickstone affords panoramic views over the Kilsyth Hills and Campsie Fells. Green fees: £27. Tel: 01236 723230.
Milngavie Just squeezes into my top 10, this moorland course in Mugdock Country Park has plenty of history. It also has a good selection of tees for all standards of golfers. Green fees: £30. Tel: 0141 956 1619.
Kingsbarns Links This stunning modern links – it opened in 2000 – is in my opinion the fairest test of golf in Fife. With its relatively open fairways it is possible to score well on this superb seaside course. Green fees: £185. Tel: 01334 460860.
Crail (Balcomie) Just down the coast from the Home of Golf you’ll discover this historic links oasis which happens to be my home course. It’s a good challenge and has something for everyone, including wonderful views. Green fees: £65. Tel: 01333 450686.
St Andrews (Old Course) You just can’t beat the feeling when you play the first or last hole on golf’s most famous course as you follow in the footsteps of all the game’s greats. Green fees: £55. Tel: 01334 466718.
Leven Links An Open Championship qualifying course that suits my game. It’s a proper links where you have to put the occasional dodgy bounce or two to the back of your mind. Green fees: £55. Tel: 01333 428859.
Ladybank The best inland course in the region. Set among heather, pine trees and silver birch, this quality woodland-parkland is always in stunning condition. Green fees: £60. Tel: 01337 830814.
Elie Don’t be fooled by the fact there are no par 5s, because this is a good challenge. Having said that, it is quirky from the moment you tee it up... with a periscope on the opening tee! Green fees: £77. Tel: 01333 330301.
‘If I’m being honest, deep down the New is my favourite course in St Andrews’
7 St Andrews (New Course) If I’m being honest, deep down this is my favourite course in St Andrews. It is just a really good test of golf. The only thing lacking is that, at 122 years of age, it’s too young! Green fees: £75. Tel: 01334 466718.
8 The Duke’s Something different at the Home of Golf – a lovely inland layout which is not only lengthy and demanding, but offers some stunning views of St Andrews and the Bay. Green fees: £95. Tel: 01334 470214.
9 The Castle Course Part of the charm on this well laid-out course has to be the greens. Where else in the country can you stand over one putt and have five different putting lines? Green fees: £120. Tel: 01334 466718.
10 Pitreavie This Alister Mackenzie-designed course isn’t just in the list because I’m a member. It may be quite short but it has a number of two-tiered greens to negotiate. Green fees: £23. Tel: 01383 722591.
1 Cawder My home course is always in pristine condition with nice greens. It is a good challenge, especially the run of four par 4s from the 13th… and they’re all tough! Green fees: £45. Tel: 0141 772 7102.
2 Haggs Castle This has hosted some good tournaments and is always kept in great nick. If you don’t play well, you will get punished. Green fees: £50. Tel: 0141 427 1157.
3 Pollok I won the County Men’s Championship here, so have lots of fond memories, especially my opening round of six under par. There are several good holes around the turn. Green fees: £65. Tel: 0141 632 1080.
4 Ralston Another course I have enjoyed success at after clinching the Glasgow Youth Championship here. It’s a tricky wee track where you have to think your way around – something I like doing. Green fees: £30. Tel: 0141 882 1349.
5 Sandyhills Starting with a par 5, I have played this parkland on numerous occasions, both in individual events and team competitions. You need to take care on the three par 3s in the last six holes. Green fees: £30. Tel: 0141 778 1179.
6 Bishopbriggs Another course I have played lots of times. You need to plot your way around, but it is a good test of golf and is usually in really good condition. Green fees: £40. Tel: 0141 772 8938.
7 Glasgow (Killermont) A beautiful clubhouse matched by a beautiful course, originally designed by Old Tom Morris. This par 70 has some very nice holes and is a terrific, mature parkland. Green fees: Members & members’ guests. Tel: 0141 942 2011.
8 Cathcart Castle I’ve been told lots of good things about this venue and with six short holes and three par 5s, there’s plenty of variety – so it can never be accused of being boring. Green fees: £40. Tel: 0141 638 9449.
9 Cathkin Braes I’ve only played this once, when I was a bit younger, but I enjoyed it. Measuring 6,200 yards off the back tees, the key to success is staying out of the trees. Green fees: £35. Tel: 0141 634 6605.
10 Cowglen This is a nice test, where you need to play well to score well. I’ve done OK around there, managing a few low scores after taking advantage of the excellent practice facilities. Green fees: £40. Tel: 0141 649 9401.
1 Crow Wood Over the last few years my home course has improved dramatically. It is better and harder than it has ever been – it’s a proper test of golf. Green fees: £15. Tel: 0141 779 1943.
2 Hamilton I have good memories of this parkland after equalling the course record a few years ago – I always seem to play well on tree-lined layouts and this has several birdie chances. Green fees: £35. Tel: 01698 282872.
3 Carnwath Any time you play this heathland, it is always in great condition. It has a good blend of holes with some difficult and some that give you birdie opportunities. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01555 840251.
4 Drumpellier Another good test of golf. A variety of different types of shots are needed to post a low score on this tree-lined parkland, although for some strange reason, so far that ➔
has never happened for me. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01236 424139.
5 Lanark A really tough examination as you would expect from a heathland venue that has hosted Open Championship qualifying in the past. Usually to be found in good condition and is packed full of interesting holes. Green fees: £42. Tel: 01555 661456.
6 Carluke Probably not everyone’s choice, but this is a parkland course that suits my eye. Some quirky holes, including the short 11th, but I enjoy it, and have often scored well here. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01555 751053.
7 Easter Moffat A really nice course with some beautiful holes and lots of chances to pick up shots. The only word of warning I’d offer is to watch out for the midges! Green fees: £40. Tel: 01698 801971.
8 Bothwell Castle It’s usually kept in great condition, and they recently changed the layout so it is a little bit different. Despite this, there are six or seven holes which suit me down to the ground. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01698 801971.
9 East Kilbride Another course where I have a good track record. I played in the County Matchplay Final here and also tied for first in the County Strokeplay on this tree-lined, undulating parkland. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01355 581805.
10 Strathaven Many golfers would have this as their number one, and there is no doubt it is an immaculate course with lightning fast greens. But it is exposed, and every time I’ve played there it’s been a battle against the elements. Green fees: £37. Tel: 01357 520421.
1 Muirfield A regular Open Championship venue, it has the history of being one of the oldest clubs in the world and has a spectacular links layout. It has to be number one. Green fees: £220. Tel: 01620 842123.
2 Luffness New With so many courses in a long stretch of coastline, this links forms part of my favourite area in the country and has some really nice holes. Green fees: £90. Tel: 01620 843336.
3 Dunbar My home club and I just love playing this Open Championship qualifying links course. It has a bit of everything and is a good test of your game, with often really good greens. Green fees: £75. Tel: 01368 862317.
4 Renaissance Club Cracking, modern Tom Doak links which opened in 2008, but already has a great reputation. It’s been reworked a bit since it opened to good effect. I’ve only played it twice, the second occasion resulting in victory in last year’s County Championships. Green fees: Available on a One-time experience, with price on request. Tel: 01620 850901.
5 Gullane No.1 I enjoy playing all three courses at Gullane, but this is the best. Some wonderful views and superb holes. It’s just a really lovely round of golf… Green fees: £120. Tel: 01620 842255.
6 North Berwick This out-and-in links has some quirky holes with the short par-4 13th, with a stone wall overlooking a pencil-slim green, being the stand out. There are lots more, and that’s all part of the charm. Green fees: £110. Tel: 01620 895040.
7 Dalmahoy (East) This James Braid creation is championship standard and sure enough has hosted many top tournaments. Part of a Marriott complex, it is quite long and tight in places so you need to think your way around. Green fees: £85. Tel: 0131 333 1845.
8 Craigielaw I just love the quirkiness of this Donald Steel links, and in particular the small greens which are like upturned saucers. It’s only been around since 2001, but is already well established. Green fees: £59. Tel: 01875
870800. 9 Duddingston This parkland course always provides an enjoyable round but you need to hit the ball pretty straight otherwise you’ll run into tree trouble. A mature experience and yet it’s good value for money too. Green fees: £29. Tel: 0131 661 7688.
‘Brora is home of probably the best green fringes – because of the cows and sheep’
10 Pumpherston Parkland course with a few nice par 5s including two at the end of the round. The signature hole is almost certainly the par-4 16th with its island green. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01506 433337.
1 Nairn The overall package at my home course is second to none. The layout is fantastic, the condition is brilliant and quite simply it’s an absolutely superb links. The greens rightly have a tremendous reputation. Green fees: £135. Tel: 01667 453208.
2 Tain An Old Tom Morris course with a traditional out-and-in formation. This par 70 has some great views with the sea on one side and the mountains on the other. Green fees: £55. Tel: 01862 892314.
3 Royal Dornoch A top championship course where you always know what you will get – a quality set of 18 holes in great condition along with plenty of history. Green fees: £145. Tel: 01862 810219.
4 Castle Stuart Links The venue for the Scottish Open is a fun course to play. It reminds me of Kingsbarns and you can’t pay it a bigger compliment than that! Green fees: £195. Tel: 01463 796111.
5 Moray (Old) Another Old Tom Morris design, which in my opinion has the best closing hole in the country, possibly even in the world! The other 17 holes are pretty good too. Green fees: £100. Tel: 01343 812018.
6 Boat of Garten Is there another golf course in the world where the benches actually face away from the tee and towards the course? The views are that special. Green fees: £47. Tel: 01479 831282.
7 Brora Home of probably the best green fringes you’ll ever see – mainly because the cows and sheep are allowed to roam around the course. I usually hit lots of long putts here! A great old links with bags of history. Green fees: £49. Tel: 01408 621417.
8 Forres I will always have fond memories of this parkland course, because it was where I broke 70 for the first time. However, there are some tough holes from the 8th onwards. Green fees: £45. Tel: 01309 672949.
9 Elgin Another course I enjoyed playing as a youngster. Even although it’s only a par 69, it measures almost 6,500 yards off the back tees and so should be treated with plenty of respect. Green fees: £45. Tel: 01343 542884.
10 Nairn Dunbar The second-best course in Nairn is undoubtedly a good track that has improved a lot in recent years and has a good combination of holes capable of testing most golfers. Green fees: £55. Tel: 01667 453964.
1 Royal Aberdeen This links is a fantastic layout that’s really special. It’s challenging to play from the back tees. It’s a great test for all levels of players and is always in tip-top condition. Green fees: £172. Tel: 01224 702571. 2 Trump International Golf Links
Unfortunately I haven’t played this yet, but from what everyone has told me this is pure class. It’s excellent from the practice facilities, to the clubhouse to the course. Green fees: £235. Tel: 01358 743300.
3 Newmachar (Hawkshill) I’ve been a member here for a couple of years. It is a stunning course which is a good length but also tight through the trees and it proved a challenge when recently hosting the Europro Tour. Green fees: £60. Tel: 01651 862127.
4 Murcar Links Situated next to Royal Aberdeen, this similarly guarantees a very enjoyable and challenging round. Invariably the wind is usually blowing quite a bit. Green fees: £105. Tel: 01224 704354. 5 Cruden Bay (Championship) My home club. On a nice day this breathtaking links through the dunes is relatively straightforward but when the wind blows it can be gruelling. Green fees: £110. Tel: 01779 812285.
6 Meldrum House Boasts some of the region’s best greens and they’re played on throughout the year. It’s such a lovely parkland course to play and you can experience it by staying in the on-site hotel. Green fees: Hotel residents, £85. Tel: 01651 872294.
7 Duff House Royal A good inland layout with the nicest bunkers in the north east, and considering there are over 100, the likelihood is that you will find at least one during a round! Green fees: £45. Tel: 01261 812062.
8 Aboyne This is quite short and tricky and is a good test for both high and low handicappers. Irons off the tee are needed on many holes but it’s harder than people give it credit for. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01339 886328.
9 Deeside The Haughton is another course with great bunkers. Overall it has some lovely holes and is a pleasant walk through the trees. Green fees: £70. Tel: 01224 869457.
10 Mcdonald I live here, so I’ve played it loads of times. It’s a lovely fun course with plenty of chances to score – until the last two holes from hell, in the nicest possible way of course! Green fees: £30. Tel: 01358 722891.
1 Blairgowrie (Wee) This is where I grew up playing golf. It may only be a nine-holer, but it still has some of the best holes in Scotland with the 2nd and the magnificent 7th the stand outs for me. Green fees: £25 for 18 holes. Tel: 01250 872622. 2 Blairgowrie (Rosemount) The best 18-hole course in the county is an inland classic. It is always an enjoyable round, as it provides wonderful scenery and two spectacular finishing holes. Playable by all. Green fees: £70. Tel: 01250 872622. 3 Gleneagles (PGA Centenary) An ➔
opportunity to follow in the footsteps of some of the best players in the world by competing on the course that hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup. It’s an absolute must play. Green fees: £195. Tel: 0800 389 3737. 4 Gleneagles (Queen’s) Lots of interesting holes on this fun and beautiful layout. It’s not too penal, so it is a good cure for a Saturday or Sunday morning hangover. Green fees: £195. Tel: 0800 389 3737. 5 Blairgowrie (Lansdowne) Probably the toughest course in the region to play to par, so if you come away with a score on this wonderfully mature parkland, you know you’ve played well. Green fees: £70. Tel: 01250 872622.
6 King James VI I have fond memories of this par-70 inland island course because it’s where I won the County Championships. There’s a real sting in the tail with a great finishing hole. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01738 632460.
7 Strathmore (Rannaleroch) This relatively new course is a fair challenge – players are regularly given an opportunity to open their shoulders and hit a few drivers. It starts and ends with a par 5. Green fees: £36. Tel: 01828 633322. 8 Kinross Always kept in good condition, this is a well-designed course and a fair test. It unusually starts with a par 3 and ends with a couple of challenging holes. Green fees: £42. Tel: 01577 863407.
9 Comrie Another quality nine-hole course which has a good combination of par 4s. I won the County Foursomes here, so have good memories of this eye-catching venue. Green fees: £20. Tel: 01764 670055.
10 Strathtay A quirky and interesting nineholer which includes a par 3 that you will struggle to reach and a driveable par 4 where the green is out of bounds from the tee! It’s really good fun though. Green fees: £15. Tel: 01887 840493.
1 Mar Hall The Earl of Mar course is a new, challenging layout, which is playable from all the different sets of tees. Situated next to the River Clyde, it’s always in good condition. Green fees: £60. Tel: 0141 812 9999.
2 Erskine A very challenging back nine for all standards of players. If things are going really well, sit back and enjoy the stunning Clyde views. Green fees: £35. Tel: 01505 862302.
3 Kilmacolm I’m a bit biased I know, but my home club is the most picturesque golf course in the county! The moorland layout is short, but exceptionally sweet. Green fees: £35. Tel: 01505 872139.
4 Renfrew The toughest test of golf in Renfrewshire. This Open Championship qualifying venue is a tree-lined course with a crop of interesting dog-leg holes. Green fees: £30. Tel: 0141 886 6692.
5 Ranfurly Castle A moorland course which takes you out into the fields and then back. The panoramic views throughout are memorable. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01505 612609.
6 Paisley There are some testing short holes on this tree-lined course, which is usually in good condition. The splendid views of Glennifer Braes are pretty impressive too. Green fees: £30. Tel: 0141 884 3903.
7 East Renfrewshire Designed by James Braid, this is a shortish, old-fashioned course. It’s also the home of current Walker Cup captain Craig Watson, who is an honorary member. Green fees: £50. Tel: 01355 500256.
8 Bonnyton An enjoyable test of golf with fantastic greens. Designed by Dr Alister Mackenzie, it is plotted on high ground and, as you’d expect, is well laid out by the famous architect. Green fees: £47. Tel: 01355 303030.
9 Whitecraigs Situated on the Netherton estate in the suburbs of Glasgow, this interesting layout opens with a fantastic par 3 that sets the tone for the round. Green fees: £45. Tel: 0141 639 4530.
10 Cochrane Castle Home of two of this region’s most famous golfers, Barclay Howard
and Dean Robertson. The course offers a real test of your long iron game. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01505 320146.
1 Southerness This links is always the top course in the area, boasting great views and great holes. I have fond memories of winning the South of Scotland title here in 2013. Green fees: £55. Tel: 01387 880677.
2 Stranraer Built on the shores of Loch Ryan, this was the last course designed by five-time Open champion James Braid. A difficult track. Green fees: £32. Tel: 01776 870245.
3 Lochmaben This parkland is definitely the most improved course over the last three or four years, and is now worthy of a top-three place. Green fees: £32. Tel: 01387 810552. 4 Portpatrick (Dunskey)
I used to represent this club and I still have a lot of friends there. It is a very friendly place as well as being a classy clifftop par 70 with a couple of par 5s and four short holes. Green fees: £35. Tel: 01776 810273.
5 Powfoot This undulating course is close to the border with England. The long 3rd hole, linksy in nature, gives an early indication of the challenge that lays ahead. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01461 204100. 6 Dumfries & County Situated beside the river Nith on the outskirts of Dumfries, this parkland is usually extremely well presented. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01387 268918.
7 Kirkcudbright Founded in 1893, gentle undulations are the norm on a course that starts with five consecutive par 4s, so you need to be on the ball from the word go. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01557 330314.
8 Newton Stewart I’m back at the club where I grew up playing golf. Even now this parkland
is still a really good test, and will surprise many players when they take it on. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01671 402172.
9 Wigtownshire County A links on the shores of Luce Bay with plenty of par 4s, ranging from 290 to 450 yards, to negotiate. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01581 300420.
10 Brighouse Bay This fine clifftop course just makes my top 10 and the short 3rd is undoubtedly the signature hole as you’re faced with a thrilling tee shot over a gorge. Green fees: £28. Tel: 01557 870509.
1 Grangemouth My home club provides the hardest test of golf in Stirlingshire as you are punished for bad shots. Always in great condition. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01324 503840.
2 Glenbervie The best views in the county, the best practice facilities and a great course which is always in immaculate condition. Green fees: £46. Tel: 01324 562605.
3 Stirling A friendly club with some great views of Stirling castle. But you shouldn’t get too distracted because the well established par-72 parkland is fairly tight in places. Green fees: £35. Tel: 01786 464098.
4 Buchanan Castle Another challenging James Braid course and throw some wonderful scenery into the mix and you’ve got an enjoyable round on your hands – guaranteed. Green fees: £44. Tel: 01360 660330.
5 Falkirk I will always have a soft spot for this course because it is where I won the County Championships. It is a layout where you can’t just go out there and hit wildly. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01324 611061.
6 Falkirk Tryst Course management is also important on this relatively flat layout. This is probably the best year-round venue around owing to the excellent drainage. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01324 562054.
7 Dunblane New This is Andy Murray country and this splendid tight course is a smash hit with most golfers – that certainly applies to the par-3 feature holes at 14 and 16. Green fees: £35. Tel: 01786 821523.
8 Kilsyth Lennox This used to be a nine-hole course but they extended it to 18 holes and improved the putting surfaces. It offers nice views and generally is a pleasant place to play. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01236 824115.
9 Bonnybridge This is still a nine-hole course, but benefits from having different tee positions if you want to play 18 holes. It’s a good test and very enjoyable. Green fees: £16. Tel: 01324 812323. 10 Callander Situated in a scenic area of the county, this par 66 is a good ‘wee’ course with some particularly interesting and challenging par 3s. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01877 330090.
1 Henllys Not the longest course, but the work they have been doing on the course is fantastic and, for me, it is the best golf on the island of Anglesey. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01248 811717. 2 Llandudno (Maesdu)
The course has improved significantly in recent years but it remains a tricky test, particularly the greens. It is always in good condition. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01492 876450.
3 Conwy A good old-fashioned championship links course, with several excellent holes and some wonderful views. Another plus is that it is kept in fantastic condition. Green fees: £48. Tel: 01492 593400. ➔
‘Gleneagles Queen’s has lots of interesting holes on this fun and beautiful layout’
4 Royal St David’s Overlooked by Harlech Castle, this is a different test of golf because you have to seriously plot your way around. And when the wind blows, which is pretty often, it is a serious challenge. Green fees: £65. Tel: 01766 780361.
5 Caernarfon Always in good condition, this parkland track is close to the sea so the wind has a big influence. The greens are very impressive too. Green fees: £28. Tel: 01286 673783.
6 Porthmadog The front nine is parkland while the back nine is true links, so it provides plenty of variety and a good challenge overall with, once again, the wind a big factor. Green fees: £37. Tel: 01766 512037.
7 Bull Bay No two holes are the same, which makes this course a thorough examination and very tough – you need to play a variety of shots to score well. Fortunately I got it right last year when I won the County title here! Green fees: £35. Tel: 01407 830960.
8 Nefyn & District It’s always in great condition and every single hole offers a new challenge. Boasts some of the most spectacular and iconic views of any course in Wales. Green fees: £48. Tel: 01758 720966.
9 North Wales A relatively short links layout in Llandudno where you don’t need to be able to hit the ball a long way; the key to scoring well here is to be sharp from 100 yards in, and then with the putter. Green fees: £12-£45. Tel: 01492 876878. 10 Holyhead A combination of parkland and links holes. A low ball flight is needed, but be careful because there’s plenty of gorse waiting to collect anything off line. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01407 763279.
1 Borth & Ynyslas My home club for the last 13 years and it never gets boring to play. A wonderful links and the major plus is that it’s always in great condition. Green fees: From £30. Tel: 01970 871202.
2 Ashburnham A great layout with tight fairways wonderfully meandering between the dunes. I have fond memories of Ashburnham after winning the Victory Shield (with Mark Lewis) here. Green fees: £45. Tel: 01554 832269.
3 Machynys Peninsula The design of the course makes it so special – off the forward tees, it can be relatively easy to get birdies but off the tips the water comes into play more and it is a real challenge. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01554 744888.
4 Tenby The oldest course in Wales also boasts, in my opinion, the toughest opening stretch in the country: the first four holes are very difficult and overall it’s a great challenge. Green fees: From £25. Tel: 01834 842978.
5 Cardigan The layout is good and there are plenty of excellent holes, the 14th probably
being the best. I have been fortunate to play lots of matches here. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01239 621775.
6 Penrhos The layout is very different, while the 17th is the most picturesque hole in the county. I used to be a member here so I have lots of good memories. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01974 202999.
7 Haverfordwest I’ve not played this course for a while, but it is always in good condition and a really fun course to play. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01437 764523.
8 Glynhir A good imagination is required here because it is short and narrow, so you have to think about where to place the ball. It suits my game, so I always enjoy the challenge. Green fees: £20. Tel: 01269 851365.
9 Carmarthen This is a good layout with sloping fairways, so the ability to regularly play from uphill and downhill lies is very useful round here. The closing few holes are especially difficult. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01267 281588. 10 Trefloyne Another really good test of golf and on occasions it can be extremely demanding with the 12th and 13th holes being among the pick of a tough crop. Green fees: £20. Tel: 01834 845639.
1 Royal Porthcawl Host to countless major amateur and professional events, and to play here is to enjoy the definitive links experience.
‘Nefyn and District boasts some of the most spectacular and iconic views in Wales’
It’s a traditional club that makes for a great day out. Green fees: £130. Tel: 01656 782251.
2 Whitchurch The course is fantastic, in great condition and a strong parkland challenge when the wind gets up. As a member here I have been made to feel very welcome in the short time I’ve been in the area. Green fees: £25. Tel: 02920 620985.
3 Pyle & Kenfig An excellent links course virtually nextdoor to Royal Porthcawl, and featuring two contrasting nines though both of magnificent quality. Green fees: £60. Tel: 01656 783093. 4 Vale Resort (Wales National)
One of the longest courses around features tricky water hazards and USGA standard greens. It is also host to the 2017 Welsh Amateur Strokeplay. Green fees: £60. Tel: 01443 667800.
5 Radyr A fun parkland layout that is very well maintained and has some of the fastest greens in the county. Green fees: £50. Tel: 02920 842408.
6 Cardiff An excellently presented parkland course with a cluster of impressively tree-lined holes, and overall is deceptively challenging for its length. Green fees: £45. Tel: 02920 753320.
7 Pennard This excellent clifftop links was originally designed by James Braid and offers a raw and dramatic experience. You can’t afford to be distracted too much by the stunning panoramic vistas. Green fees: £60.
Tel: 01792 233131. 8 Southerndown Another links in a magical location – on top of a remote hill far away from the crowds. The place is steeped in history and once you make it to the top of the hill on the uphill 1st, you’re in for a visual treat. Green fees: £55. Tel: 01656 880476. 9 Mountain Ash A tough walk for the first few holes until you get on top of the ‘mountain’ but once there you can enjoy spectacular views across the Brecon Beacons on a clear day. Green fees: £15. Tel: 01443 479459.
10 Neath A course in excellent condition yearround. The greens are immaculate and run fast and true with some challenging slopes, particularly the short 7th – you can easily putt the ball off the green if you’re out of position. Green fees: £38. Tel: 01639 633693.
1 Celtic Manor (Twenty Ten) Purely from a course design point of view this is the best. The greens are second to none and are always in great condition all year-round. And of course it’s famously staged the Ryder Cup! Green fees: £130. Tel: 01633 413000.
2 Newport It’s a traditional mature parkland course with some challenging short par 4s and lots of history. The greens always look and play well. Green fees: £50. Tel: 01633 892643.
3 Monmouthshire Idyllic part of the country in the Usk Valley makes this one of the most picturesque courses around. An ultra-friendly club. Green fees: £32. Tel: 01873 852606.
4 Rolls of Monmouth Another beautiful and tranquil location with a nice undulating course and a stunning old clubhouse. There are plenty of feature holes and barely a weak one among them. Green fees: £40. Tel: 01600 715353. ➔
5 Llanwern Many years ago this used to be a nine-holer, but it continues to improve and progress. This club always produces a lot of good golfers which proves they’re doing something right. Green fees: £22. Tel: 01633 412029.
6 St Pierre (Old Course) A course and hotel steeped in tournament history; I grew up watching the likes of Seve play on this outstanding and mature parkland layout which was once a regular European Tour stopping point. Green fees: £65. Tel: 01291 625261.
7 West Monmouthshire It’s known as the ‘Links in the Sky’ and offers a different type of test. My home club and basically where I learnt to play the game. Great value-for-money. Green fees: £12. Tel: 01495 310233.
8 Raglan Parc Conveniently located just off the main road, the course is typically in very good condition with some lovely greens. The closing stretch of holes provide a stern challenge. Green fees: £20. Tel: 01291 690077.
9 Woodlake Park This rather unusual course is quite hilly and therefore not to everyone’s taste. But I like it, especially the putting surfaces which are USGA specification. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01291 673933. 10 Celtic Manor (Montgomerie) It’s a difficult walk as you have to combat the severe undulations. But the bunkers, greens and practice facilities are right out of the top drawer. Green fees: £56. Tel: 01633 413000.
1 Denbigh My home club may not be the longest of courses but it is tight and tree-lined with well protected putting surfaces. It’s also where I won the Denbighshire County Championship last year. Green fees: £26.50. Tel: 01745 816669. 2 Vale of Llangollen A beautiful course, probably the best-looking in the region. It has a nice layout with some strong holes towards the end of each half. Green fees: £42. Tel: 01978 860906.
3 Wrexham Another decent layout and invariably in great condition. Wrexham is never less than a good test of golf, especially when you step onto the greens. It also boasts excellent facilities. Green fees: £35.50. Tel: 01978 364268.
4 Prestatyn I played here at the start of this year and it was in excellent condition – in fact the greens were immaculate. It is the most northerly course in Wales. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01745 854320.
5 Rhuddlan Situated in the Vale of Clwyd, this is a longish course demanding power with accuracy. But it also has a number of tricky holes so you need to turn up with your A game. Green fees: £35. Tel: 01745 590217.
6 Holywell A different type of course – it is a bit of heathland, parkland and links all rolled into one par-70 layout. The back nine in particular is a stiff test. Green fees: £20. Tel: 01352 710040.
7 Rhos-on-sea The club have spent a lot of money to improve the course, including adding lots of trees. Despite its name, it’s a parkland course that I would like to play more often. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01492 549641.
8 Padeswood & Buckley Bounded by the river Alyn, this tree-lined parkland is a tricky course with some nice holes. Several, as you’d probably expect, feature water. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01244 550537.
9 Hawarden Situated in the rolling hills, Hawarden has some beautiful holes including Prestatyn Coastal treat with top greens. five cracking short holes. In fact the round unusually finishes with a tricky par 3. Green fees: £17.50. Tel: 01244 531447.
10 Northop This is a course I’ve not played that often, but I always seem to enjoy the round, regardless of the time of year and conditions. Green fees: £25. Tel: 01352 840440.
1 Builth Wells My home course is always kept in good condition and even though it doesn’t have a par 5 and features six short holes, it is still a real challenge. Green fees: From £13. Tel: 01982 553296. 2 Llandrindod Wells Another course where length is not a major issue. Originally designed by Harry Vardon and then altered a few years later by James Braid, this undulating par 69 is a good test. Green fees: £30. Tel: 01597 822247.
3 Cradoc Positioned on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, every hole enjoys stunning views of the rolling hills. A few holes have been remodelled to reduce the climbs, but it’s still a good walk. Green fees: From £20. Tel: 01874 623658.
1 Co Sligo (Rosses Point) Not only is it a great course but it has a buzz among the members and guests that adds character to the whole feel of the club. There is so much history and success around the club. The course has undergone recent changes to make it more challenging and is now a memorable test. Green fees: €145 Sun-fri, €165 Sat. Tel: 00353 71 9177186.
2 Galway Every year Galway seems to get better and is consistently in fantastic condition. The first four holes have their own feel out by the coast and provide a challenging start to the round. Green fees: €85. Tel: 00353 91 522033. 3 Enniscrone I rate Enniscrone up there with many great courses I’ve played for the way it sets up off the tee. It is very fair but it is also extremely demanding. There are so many quality holes and the course is always fantastically presented. Green fees: €125. Tel: 00353 96 36297. 4 Connemara The Championship 18 is a wonderfully natural test. It’s quite a flat links but this adds to the unique nature of the course and personally the par-3 13th is my favourite hole and starts an exciting finishing stretch including 3 par 5s in the final five holes. Green fees: €100. Tel: 00353 95 23502. 5 Athlone A very testing parkland course with small undulating greens and tight fairways, Athlone is always one of the toughest parkland layouts. A great opening hole with the elevated tee shot to a tree-lined fairway opening a really great challenge. Green fees: from €20 Tel: 00353 90 6492073. 6 Westport A very highly regarded Championship venue and a threetime host to the Irish Amateur Close Championship where a 15-year-old Rory Mcilroy won his first senior championship. I really enjoy both the course and the setting. Green fees: €50-70. Tel: 00353 98 28262.
7 Strandhill I played Strandhill on as tough a February day as there is and it still caught my attention as a fine course. I enjoyed the mixture of holes through the natural dunes and also the more exposed holes. A very strong final three holes with plenty of trouble to catch you out. Green fees: From €30. Tel: 00353 71 9168188.
8 Carne Set amidst large dunes, Carne really is a natural beauty. The scenery is breathtaking particularly from the 11th tee. As each hole winds its way across the peninsula, Carne keeps you on your toes with many testing holes. Green fees: €100. Tel: 00353 97 82292.
9 Galway Bay Plotted on Galway Bay and makes for a great challenge for all levels of golfer. Weather conditions are a huge factor and even a breeze on certain holes may seem like its blowing a ‘hooley.’ Green fees: €110. Tel: 00353 91 790711.
10 Castle Dargan With a tough start and finish, Castle Dargan is a fantastic test. With a great variety of short and long par 4s, this course is both very fair and testing at the same time. Green fees: €40 Sun-fri, €50 Sat. Tel: 00353 71 9118080.
1 Lahinch The South of Ireland Championship is played here every year and it is an enjoyable place to spend a few days. The sea views are beautiful, particularly from the 4th tee box. Green fees: €190. Tel: 00353 65 7081003.
2 Tralee This course was designed by Arnold Palmer and is a must-play if you are in Kerry. When it’s windy the back nine is the toughest nine holes I have ever played though my favourite hole is the index one par-4 12th. Green fees: €190. Tel: 00353 66 7136379.
3 Cork This is a course which can be attacked on a calm day but can change dramatically if the wind starts to blow. It features some particularly exciting par 3s. I won my first championship here so it is definitely in my top 10! Green fees: €80 midweek, €100 weekends. Tel: 00353 21 4353451. ➔
‘Winding across the peninsula, Carne is a natural beauty with breathtaking scenery’
‘Killarney’s 1st is a beautiful par 4 with nothing but water right of the fairway’
4 Killarney (Killeen) I like playing here off the back tees because it is a true test of a player’s ability. The 1st hole sets the tone for the round: a beautiful par 4 with nothing but water to the right. Make sure you’ve a decent supply of balls. Green fees: €80 Mon-thur, €110 Fri-sun. Tel: 00353 64 6631034.
5 Kinsale My home course and I really love playing it even though it’s nearly always windy and very difficult to make birdies. The pretty parkland course has undergone some changes in recent times and is improving every year. Green fees: €35 midweek, €40 weekends. Tel: 00353 21 4774722.
6 Old Head This course features some fantastic views. Some of the tees are on a cliff edge and it is both breathtaking and nervewracking to stand on the edge of them! During the summer you can play from dawn until dusk and not get bored. Green fees: €170-260. Tel: 00353 21 4778444. 7 Fota Island (Deerpark) A long parkland layout and more suited to long hitters. The course is always in fantastic condition while the greens are immaculate and given the right conditions, can be lightning fast. Green fees: €80 midweek, €100 weekends. Tel: 00353 21 4883700. 8 Castlemartyr This course isn’t on the coast but I’ve heard many people describe it as an ‘inland links.’ There is a lot of long rough waiting to punish errant tee shots though on a calm day, this course is my favourite to try and shoot a really low score. Green fees: €45 Monthur, €50 Fri & Sun, €60 Sat. Tel: 00353 21 4219000.
9 Dingle A good Kerry links course in a natural landscape which provides a great opportunity to play in the winter. It is open most days of the year, unlike many courses. The most westerly course in Europe, Ceann Sibéal is a fine allround course with no obvious weaknesses. Green fees: €70. Tel: 00353 66 9156255.
10 Ballybunion (Cashen) The Cashen course is somewhat overshadowed by the Old Course but is a great alternative if the Old is not available to play. The course features some lovely coastal views which makes the inevitable search for lost golf balls less painful. Green fees: €190. Tel: 00353 68 27146.
1 Royal Portrush One of the best courses in Ireland and a very fair and rewarding links golf, always in excellent condition. It’s fully deserving of its place back on the Open rota – it will hold the Open Championship in 2019 – and the new plans in place look incredible already. Green fees: £180. Tel: 028 7082 2311.
2 Royal County Down A very old-school and famous links which is difficult off any tee and accuracy is very much required. The views you get with the Mourne Mountains in the background are simply out of this world. Green fees: £210 midweek, £220 Sun pm. Tel: 028 4372 3314.
3 Galgorm Castle A very tricky parkland course which is always in top condition. The greens are superb and you definitely need to hit the fairway to have any chance around this course, definitely growing in stature every year with the staging of the Northern Ireland Open. Green fees: £50 midweek, £60 weekends. Tel: 028 2564 6161.
4 Belvoir Park Impressive established parkland course, very long and tight with very quick greens, and definitely worth playing. I love playing it and is a very good test of golf for all golfers. It’s always in great condition and the facilities are top notch too. Green fees: £75 midweek, £85 weekends. Tel: 028 9049 1693.
5 Lisburn Another classy parkland act and a very tough but fair course which again is all about putting the ball in the right spots. The greens are always in top condition, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Green fees: £70 midweek, £80 weekends. Tel: 028 9267 7216.
6 Portstewart A top links though somewhat underrated probably due to its proximity to Portrush, though it’s a very different test to both Portrush and County Down. Host of this year’s Irish Open so it will be interesting to see how the pros get on around it. Green fees: £150. Tel: 028 7083 2015.
7 Shandon Park I find this course very similar to my home club, a tight but not very long course with good greens. But if you can keep it on the straight and narrow, you have a real chance of going low around here. Green fees: £30. Tel: 028 9080 5034.
8 Warrenpoint My home course and although I play it quite a lot I still find it a very good test, especially off the back tees. You will struggle to find a tougher finish anywhere: the last four holes are potential card-wreckers if you take your eye off the ball. Green fees: £25 midweek, £30 weekends. Tel: 028 4175 3695.
9 Malone Another really good parkland course. The speed and shape of the greens is something that always springs to my mind when I talk about this layout which is always in excellent condition. Green fees: £75 midweek, £85 weekends. Tel: 028 9061 2758.
10 Castlerock Pretty similar to Portstewart in terms of how it is underrated. For me, this is a hidden gem of a course: a very fair test of golf but if you’re not on your game it can make you look silly. Green fees: £80 midweek, £95 weekends. Tel: 028 7084 8314.
1 Portmarnock The more you play Portmarnock the more you realise the subtlety of its design and how well the course flows. Stand on the 1st tee gazing over the estuary and you are in one of the best places in Irish golf. The course just serves up great hole after great hole – a ball-striker’s paradise. Green fees: €200 Mon-thurs, €225 Fri-sun. Tel: 00353 18 462968.
2 K Club The minute you drive through the gates you know you are in a special place and if I ever had to play the same three holes for the rest of my life, I would pick 16, 17 and 18 at this classy Club. And of course it has heritage too, having hosted the Ryder Cup in 2006. Green fees: €120-240. Tel: 00353 16 017200.
3 Baltray A truly wonderful design with possibly the best set of par 3s in the country. This course demands everything… course management, good short game and the ability to hold your nerve on super slick putting surfaces. Overall, a really enjoyable test and one I always look forward to. Green fees: €160. Tel: 00353 41 9881530. 4Mount Juliet The ambience of Mount Juliet signifies you are in for a wonderful day’s golf. It boasts putting surfaces that Tiger Woods rated as the best he’s ever putted on. Pick of the holes on this Jack Nicklaus signature design is the par-4 4th played dramatically through an avenue of trees. Green fees: From €35. Tel: 00353 56 7773071. 5 Carton House (O’meara) This is a course that in my opinion will come in for serious accolades as time goes on. It sits on a vast area of rolling Kildare countryside with wonderful variety on each hole. This course delivers one of the best finishes in the whole of Leinster. Green fees: €75-95. Tel: 00353 15 052000.
6 Druids Glen Has held the Irish Open and is a glorious way to spend a mid-summer afternoon. At times the golf is but a distraction due to the gorgeous views around you. The 13th is one of the most memorable holes you will play in Ireland. Green fees: €75 midweek, €90-105 weekend. Tel: 00353 12 870812.
7 European Club Probably one of the best layouts in Europe from an aesthetic point of view and features arguably the hardest hole in Ireland – the 7th is truly an epic hole with OB and trouble both left and right up to the green. Green fees: €200. Tel: 00353 40 447415.
8 Carlow Often overlooked, this is one of the most underrated courses in Leinster. It has fantastic putting surfaces and elevation changes throughout. It feels like an inland links even though some parts of the course are well tree-lined. Green fees: €35 Mon-thur, €40 Fri, €50 Sat. Tel: 00353 59 9131695.
9 The Island Not a hidden gem anymore, this is a course with some of the most singular holes in Leinster including the 14th with the narrowest fairway in Ireland and driveable par 4s with a huge element of risk reward. Green fees: €150 Mon-thur, €175 Fri-sun. Tel: 00353 18 436205.
10 The Curragh Where I learned to golf and though the course isn’t the most difficult you’ll play, it’s a really enjoyable experience with plenty of short par 4s to sharpen up your wedge play. Green fees: From €30. Tel: 00353 45 441714.