Ardglass

A wild, coastal cliff-top links with Ireland’s oldest clubhouse. Ardglass is dramatic, rugged, and packed with character – a local legend on the edge of the Irish Sea.

Slope Rating

135

Par

70

Yardage

6,268

Perched above the Irish Sea on the County Down coast, Ardglass Golf Club is one of the most visually striking and entertaining courses in Ireland. The opening holes hug a dramatic cliff edge, with the waves crashing just feet from the fairways. From the very first tee – a bold shot over a rocky inlet – you know this is no ordinary round. The course weaves between coastal ledges and rolling linksland, with constant elevation changes, blind shots, and shifting winds. It’s not long, but it’s full of character and challenge. The 11th, a short downhill par-3 with the sea behind, is postcard-perfect. The back nine climbs into higher ground with panoramic sea views in every direction. Ardglass rewards imagination, course management, and commitment. What it lacks in length, it makes up for with exposure, creativity, and charm. Off the course, the 14th-century clubhouse – once a castle and now a pub – is a destination in itself. It’s a proper Irish links experience, quirky and thrilling in equal measure.

Designer

Various contributors since 1896; modern updates by David Jones

Opened

1896

Tee time availability

Good

Special information

Only 30 minutes from Royal County Down – an ideal second round. Dress code relaxed but respectful.

Tiger’s best round

Rory’s best round

Mens course record

63 – Club competition

Ladies course record

Round duration

4 hours 20 minutes

Caddy guide

Optional but helpful – for navigating cliffside bounces and local quirks

Buggies

Limited availability – walking strongly encouraged

Treat it like a links puzzle – keep the ball low, trust your lines, and shape your shots into tight greens. The wind turns it into a true shotmaker’s course.

Play smart and aim centre-green. Don’t get lured into risky carries over cliffs. Take advantage of the par-5s and shorter par-4s – they’re your scoring chances.

Very playable with forward tees and breathtaking views. Don’t worry about the score – enjoy the drama of each hole. This is the kind of course you’ll remember for life.

Green speed

9 – smooth, firm, and exposed to breeze

Wind

Frequent and unpredictable – swirling off the sea. It affects every hole in different ways, especially on cliff-top par-3s and elevated greens.

Pace of play

Good – traditional rhythm and fewer crowds than bigger-name venues

Nerves on the first tee

High – the tee shot is over a cliff with the castle behind you. Expect a few camera phones clicking.

Clubhouse

Iconic – a 14th-century castle with a bar, fire, and stories to match

The 1st is one of the best opening holes in golf – a par-4 across a rocky chasm. The 11th is a short par-3 with ocean behind and a swirling wind. The 12th plays from an elevated tee across a cliff corner – daring and scenic in equal measure.

Coastal and exposed – sea air, gusty breezes, and occasional mist. Warmer than inland, but weather shifts fast. Summer brings stunning visibility and golden evening light.