Located just west of Portrush on Northern Ireland’s north coast, Castlerock’s Mussenden Course is a superb example of traditional links golf, often overlooked due to its high-profile neighbours. Designed originally by Ben Sayers in 1901 and refined by Harry Colt and Martin Hawtree, it weaves through rolling dunes, undulating fairways, and native fescue with beautiful rhythm. Holes are framed by natural landforms and set against the backdrop of the River Bann and Donegal hills. The front nine offers early scoring opportunities, while the back nine – especially from the 13th onwards – presents more rugged challenges. The par-3 4th (“Leg o’ Mutton”) is iconic: 200+ yards over a railway line with OB left and a burn right. Fairways are firm and bouncy, greens are fast and true, and there’s rarely a flat lie to be found. The atmosphere is welcoming, the views impressive, and the wind ever-present. Castlerock doesn’t chase spectacle – it delivers substance. For players who love authentic, playable links with a local soul, this is a must.