It is easy to reach a point where your travel is so focused on Open Rota venues and World Top 100 lists that the “big names” become the only priority. But if the crowds around the typical meccas of the game have you looking for something more authentic, there is a better way to build a trip.
If you enjoy the magic of the unknown, we have a few suggestions. These selections across Great Britain and Ireland are skewed heavily towards the fun, the unique, and the beautiful. If yardage and par are your primary concerns, these might not be for you. But if you crave charm, character, and soulfulness, read on.
These are the courses that used to be the domain of those firmly in the know, but have recently gained the wider recognition they deserve.
Cruden Bay (Aberdeenshire, Scotland): With the inspiration for Dracula’s castle visible in the distance, these massive Scottish dunes marry with a quirky Tom Simpson-Herbert Fowler routing. The amazing contours are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
North Berwick (East Lothian, Scotland): This course sits right in the heart of a quaint town in a similar fashion to St Andrews. A neighbour to Muirfield and Gullane, it possesses at least five legendary holes that architects relish and replicate the world over.
Lahinch (County Clare, Ireland): A billowy Irish seascape paired with Alister MacKenzie greens is a formidable combination. The 5th hole, known as The Dell, is an ancient wonder of the golf world, yet it might not even be the best hole on the property.
There is a lot of truth in the idea that saltwater is the cure for almost anything. While many coastal courses offer joy, these three under appreciated gems provide a truly casual and authentic links experience.
Dunfanaghy (Donegal, Ireland): An old fashioned village links wedged against a rocky bay. It presents everything you want in a relaxed round, with heroic shots, rolling contours, and spectacular views the whole way around.
Isle of Purbeck (Dorset, England): This Harry Colt design offers amazing upland clifftop views. Defined by heather, gorse, and wildflowers, it is an aesthetically pleasing blend of seaside and heathland golf.
The Machrie (Isle of Islay, Scotland): Do not let the two hour ferry journey deter you. Savouring the slow pace of island life before enjoying wonderful links fun on the edge of the ocean is an essential experience.
England is arguably the most underrated golf country in the world. Beyond the superstar venues are many courses with a more playful nature, often using natural landforms to create memorable holes.
Painswick (Gloucestershire, England): A 5,000 yard course laid over the remnants of an Iron Age fort. Once you climb the opening hill, you are rewarded with some of the wildest shots and best views in the Cotswolds.
Royal Worlington & Newmarket (Suffolk, England): Frequently cited as the world’s most famous nine hole course. It is a classical, romantic experience that has been described as a Cleopatra among golf courses.
Huntercombe (Oxfordshire, England): This heathy woodland is the greatest execution of the grass bunker you will likely ever see. There are 100 of them across the property, providing a unique challenge on fantastic firm turf.
Pennard (Swansea, Wales): A clifftop course bursting with character, including the occasional sheep dotting the fairways. This place is pure magic and sits just down the road from the equally brilliant Royal Porthcawl.
The beauty of golf in Great Britain and Ireland lies in its depth. Beyond the famous Open Rota names are courses with a playful nature and a deep sense of history that provide a completely different kind of joy. If you are ready to explore the magic of the unknown and see these wonderful scenes for yourself, we are here to help you plan the perfect journey.
To start planning your next adventure, contact our team by emailing golf@outpostoverseas.com.
