Explore the 26 Oldest Golf Courses in Scotland, England & Ireland

The UK and Ireland are widely regarded as the spiritual home of golf, with a rich history that dates back to the origins of the game. These countries boast some of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in the world, offering a glimpse into the game’s deep roots and evolution. 

The game’s origins can be traced back to the 15th century in Scotland, where the first known rules of golf were established. Over the centuries, these early courses have evolved, but they have maintained their traditional charm and challenge. Golf courses such as the Old Course at St Andrews in Scotland, often referred to as the “Home of Golf,” are not only iconic in the golfing world but also hold deep cultural significance.

Here, we’ll explore the oldest golf clubs in the UK and Ireland that you can play with Premier Golf, examining the history behind these revered locations, what makes them so special to the game, and why they continue to attract golfers from around the globe.

Oldest Golf Course in Scotland

1. St Andrews – The Old Course

The Old Course at St Andrews – The Home of Golf. It is probable that golf was played here way back in the 12th century, its timeless design and legendary holes have shaped the game for centuries. 

The 17th hole, “Road Hole,” is famous for its challenging tee shot over a hotel and a tricky approach to a narrow green, while the 18th, with its iconic “Swilcan Bridge,” offers a historic finishing hole that demands precise shot placement to avoid deep bunkers and out-of-bounds areas.

Opened: 1552
Par: 72
Length: 6721 yards
Designers include: Old Tom Morris, Alister MacKenzie
Difficulty: Slope 143 / Rating 75.6

2. The North Berwick Golf Club

North Berwick Golf Club is one of the oldest golf courses in the world, founded in 1832. The course blends traditional links golf with unique and challenging holes that have become famous in the golfing world.

The 13th hole, known as the “Pit,” is a 387-yard par 4. It’s famous for the stone wall that runs along the left side of the fairway and cuts in front of the green. A tee shot to the left invites trouble with the wall, so aiming right gives a better angle. The green’s bowl shape can help the ball roll toward the hole, but a short approach leaves a tricky chip over the wall. 

Opened: 1832
Par: 71  
Length: 6506 yards
Designers include: N/A
Difficulty:  Slope 131 / Rating 72.9

3. Carnoustie Golf Links – Championship Course

Carnoustie Golf Links, located on the rugged east coast of Scotland, is one of the most challenging courses in the world, with a history dating back to 1842. Known for its tough design, it has hosted multiple Open Championships, cementing its reputation as a true test of skill. 

The 18th hole is particularly famous, featuring a narrow fairway flanked by out-of-bounds areas and a treacherous bunker in front of the green, making it a nerve-wracking finish. Success at Carnoustie requires precise shot-making, as the course’s unforgiving rough, strategic bunkers, and often unpredictable wind conditions punish any errors.

Opened: 1842
Par: 72 
Length: 6945 yards
Designers include: Old Tom Morris  James Braid (1926)  Tom MacKenzie (2011)  Martin Ebert (2011)
Difficulty: Slope 139 / Rating 75.2

4. Prestwick Golf Club

Prestwick Golf Club, founded in 1851, is one of Scotland’s oldest and most historic golf courses. Located on the Ayrshire coast, it is famously known as the site of the first 12 Open Championships and a key part of golf’s early development. 

The course features a classic links layout with narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and ever-changing coastal winds that challenge even the most skilled players. One of its most iconic holes is the 1st, known as “Railway”. The hole features an out-of-bounds wall running down the right side from tee to green. To reach the fairway, you’ll need to hit 160 yards, while 200 yards will leave a short iron to the green. For a better angle on your second shot, favor the right side of the fairway.

Opened: 1851
Par: 71
Length: 6908 yards
Designers include: Old Tom Morris (1851)  Donald Steel  Tom MacKenzie  Martin Ebert
Difficulty: Slope 139 / Rating 74.4

5. Royal Dornoch Golf Club – Championship Course

Royal Dornoch Golf Club, established in 1877, is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf clubs in Scotland, with a deep historical connection to the game. It was granted the “Royal” designation by the Prince of Wales in 1906, further solidifying its status in the golfing world. The course has long been considered a true gem of Scottish links golf, having hosted numerous prestigious events over the years. 

Throughout the course, golfers must contend with the natural terrain and changing winds, making accuracy and strategy essential to success.

Opened: 1877
Par: 70
Length: 6799 yards
Designers include: Old Tom Morris (1886), George Duncan
Difficulty: Slope 136 / Rating 73.2

6. Royal Troon Golf Club – The Old Course

Royal Troon Golf Club, founded in 1878, is one of Scotland’s most esteemed and historic golf courses, renowned for its challenging layout and picturesque setting along the Ayrshire coast. Royal Troon has hosted the Open Championship multiple times, justifying its place among the world’s most prestigious golf venues.

One of the course’s most iconic holes is the 8th, known as “The Postage Stamp,” a par-3 that is one of the shortest but most famous holes in golf, with a small green surrounded by deep bunkers, demanding both accuracy and nerve.

Opened: 1878
Par: 71 
Length: 7208 yards
Designers include: Willie Fernie (1888), James Braid (1923)
Difficulty: Slope 145 / Rating 76.0

7. Gullane Golf Club – No. 1

Gullane Golf Club, established in 1884, is one of Scotland’s premier golfing destinations, with its No. 1 course standing as a true test of links golf. Located on the East Lothian coast, the course offers stunning views over the Firth of Forth and features a layout that combines traditional design with modern challenges. 

To succeed at Gullane No. 1, golfers must navigate the natural terrain, including its undulating fairways and the often unpredictable winds, while carefully managing their shot placement around the many hazards

Opened: 1884
Par: 71 
Length: 6873 yards
Designers include: Willie Park (1884), Tom MacKenzie (2015), Martin Ebert (2015)
Difficulty: Slope 113 / Rating 70.0

8. Royal Aberdeen Golf Club – Silverburn Course

Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, founded in 1886, is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf clubs in the world, with the Silverburn Course standing out as its premier layout. Located just outside the historic city of Aberdeen in Scotland, the Silverburn Course offers a traditional links golf experience with breathtaking views of the North Sea.

The Silverburn is an 18-hole layout, with 9 of the holes being par 3s, which might give the impression of an easier round. However, the real challenge comes from the coastal environment in which the course sits.

Opened: 1886
Par: 64 
Length: 3965 yards
Designers include: James Braid
Difficulty: Slope 98 / Rating 60.9

9. Muirfield

Muirfield, home to the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, is one of the most prestigious and historic golf clubs in the world. Located in East Lothian, Scotland, Muirfield has long been regarded as a true test of golf, offering a layout that combines classic links features with strategic design. 

Host to 16 Open Championships, Muirfield is considered to be one of the fairest Open golf courses. However, not all were played on the current Muirfield course. Six Opens, held between 1874 and 1889, were held at its previous home in Musselburgh before the club moved to its current site in Muirfield in 1891.

Opened: 1891
Par: 76 
Length: 7245 yards
Designers include: H. S. Colt (1925)  Old Tom Morris (1891), Tom Simpson (1935), Donald Steel, Tom MacKenzie,  Martin Ebert, and Martin Hawtree (2011)
Difficulty: Slope 145 / Rating 75.8

10. Trump Turnberry Resort – Ailsa Course

The Ailsa Course at Trump Turnberry, established in 1901, is one of Scotland’s most historic and renowned golf courses. After suffering significant damage during both World Wars, the course was restored in 1946 by architect Philip Mackenzie Ross. 

The Ailsa Course gained worldwide acclaim in 1977 when it hosted the iconic “Duel in the Sun” between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson, with Watson’s dramatic victory forever linking the course to this legendary moment in golf history.

Opened: 1946 (originally constructed in 1901 but used as an airbase in WW1 & WW2)
Par: 71 
Length: 7489 yards
Designers include: Mackenzie Ross (1946)  Martin Ebert (2016)
Difficulty: Slope 113 / Rating 70.0

Oldest Golf Courses in England

1. Royal Liverpool Golf Club

Royal Liverpool Golf Club, affectionately known as ‘Hoylake’ by locals, has evolved from its humble beginnings, sharing the linksland with a popular racetrack and the Liverpool Hunt Club, into one of England’s premier golf venues. 

Over the years, the course has been shaped by some of golf’s greatest architects, including Robert Chambers, George Morris (brother of Old Tom), Harry Colt, and more recently Martin Ebert ahead of the 2023 Open Championship. With a rich history of hosting 12 Open Championships, Royal Liverpool offers exceptional play for golfers seeking a true test of skill on a historic links course.

Opened: 1869
Par: 72 
Length: 7312 yards
Designers include: Robert Chambers, Geordie Morris (1871), H.S. Colt (1920), Martin Hawtree (2010), Martin Ebert (2020)
Difficulty: Slope 110 / Rating 70.0

2. Formby Golf Club

Formby Golf Club, established in 1884, is one of England’s most respected and picturesque links courses, located on the beautiful Lancashire coastline. Formby has hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the Amateur Championship, and is famed for its strategic design that demands both accuracy and thoughtful shot placement. 

The 12th hole, a challenging par-4, a tee shot slightly left of center will avoid the hazards on the right and provide a favorable angle for your approach to the green. There’s a large bunker on the left side of the green, and the primary danger lies short of the green. Be sure to select enough club to give yourself a good chance at a birdie.

Opened: 1884
Par: 72 
Length: 7128 yards
Designers include: Willie Park (1912)  James Braid (1922)  Hawtree Ltd (1933)  Donald Steel (1980)  H. S. Colt (1933)  Tom MacKenzie (2011)  Martin Ebert (2011)  Frank Pennink
Difficulty: Slope 110 / Rating 74.0

3. The Royal St George’s Golf Club

Royal St George’s Golf Club, founded in 1887 by Scottish-born surgeon and avid golfer William Laidlaw Purves, was conceived as the southern rival to St Andrews, with Purves naming it after the patron saint of England. Over the years, the club has become the crown jewel of golf in Kent, offering a challenging and historic course. 

Known for its deep bunkers, undulating fairways, and unpredictable coastal winds, Royal St George’s provides a true test of skill and strategy. The course has hosted The Open Championship multiple times, with the most recent in 2021.

Opened: 1887
Par: 70 
Length: 7204 yards
Designers include: Donald Steel, Tom MacKenzie (2011), Martin Ebert (2011), Frank Pennink
Difficulty: Slope 138 / Rating 75.2

4. Royal Birkdale Golf Course

Royal Birkdale Golf Club, established in 1889 and granted the “Royal” title in 1951, is one of the world’s most prestigious and renowned golf courses. Located in Southport, England, it features a classic links layout, with 7,156 yards of challenging dunes, sea breezes, and strategic bunkering.

Known for hosting The Open Championship nine times, including the 2017 event, Birkdale has witnessed golf legends like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. With a rich history of major tournaments, including the Ryder Cup in 1969, it is consistently ranked among the world’s top courses.

Opened: 1889
Par: 70 
Length: 7156 yards
Designers include: Donald Steel, Tom MacKenzie  Martin Ebert, Fred G. Hawtree, Fred Hawtree, Martin Hawtree (1993), John Henry Taylor, and Ken Moodie (1993)
Difficulty: Slope 138 / Rating 74.4

5. Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club

Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, affectionately known as Deal, was founded in February 1892, with the first nine-hole course completed shortly thereafter. After both World Wars took their toll on the course, renowned golfer and course designer James Braid restored it in 1919, followed by Sir Guy Campbell’s efforts in 1946. 

Deal is a formidable links course known for its challenging layout, particularly the back nine, which plays directly into the prevailing southwesterly wind. The course’s stark and narrow design, with tight fairways and awkward lies, makes it a tough test for golfers, rewarding accuracy and precision. Despite its tough nature, it remains one of the most revered golf courses in England.

Opened: 1892
Par: 72 
Length: 7381 yards
Designers include: James Braid (1919)  Sir Guy Campbell (1946)  Henry Cotton (1946)  Donald Steel  Tom MacKenzie (2011)  Martin Ebert (2011)  Tom Dunn
Difficulty: Slope 148 / Rating 76.9

6. Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club

Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club, founded in 1887 and granted the “Royal” title in 1926, is one of the most prestigious golf courses in the UK. Located in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, the course features a classic links layout with 6,731 yards of challenging fairways, deep bunkers, and the ever-present coastal winds. 

Known for its 200+ bunkers, Royal Lytham has hosted The Open Championship 11 times, with legends like Bobby Jones and Gary Player leaving their mark. Uniquely, it is the only Open rota course that starts with a par 3, a tough 206-yard hole. 

Opened: 1897
Par: 70 
Length: 7118 yards
Designers include: H. S. Colt (1919)  Tom MacKenzie (2011)  Martin Ebert (2011)  Tom Simpson  European Golf Design (2001)  Herbert Fowler
Difficulty: Slope 152 / Rating 76.5

Oldest Golf Courses in Ireland

1. The Royal Dublin Golf Club

Founded in 1885, Royal Dublin Golf Club is one of Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious golf courses. Located just three miles from Dublin’s city center on the picturesque Bull Island nature reserve, it offers a traditional ‘out and back’ layout over flat linksland. 

The course was masterfully redesigned by Harry Colt in 1920 and later updated in the 2000s by Martin Hawtree, who maintained the legacy of Colt’s design while modernizing the course. Royal Dublin is closely associated with Irish golf legend Christy O’Connor Sr., who served the club for over 57 years. 

Opened: 1885 
Par: 72 
Length: 7269 yards
Designers include: H. S. Colt (1920)  Martin Hawtree (2006)  Donald Steel  Tom MacKenzie  Martin Ebert  Marc Westenborg (2006)
Difficulty: Slope 138 / Rating 76.1

2. Royal Portrush Golf Club – Dunluce

Royal Portrush Golf Club, with its rich history dating back to 1888, is renowned for its dramatic and challenging layout, especially on the Dunluce Links course. The course gained international acclaim when it hosted the 2019 Open Championship, marking the first time in 68 years that the tournament had returned to Northern Ireland. Royal Portrush’s 18-hole layout features a mix of classic links golf with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged dunes, and a unique blend of difficulty and beauty.

A standout hole is the par-3 16th, known as “Calamity Corner,” which is famous for its intimidating tee shot over a deep chasm, making it one of the most nerve-wracking holes in golf. 

Opened: 1888
Par: 72 
Length: 7319 yards
Designers include: H. S. Colt (1929), Martin Ebert (2017)
Difficulty: Slope 131 / Rating 70.0

3. Royal County Down Golf Club – Championship Course

Royal County Down – the number one golf course in the world. 

Located in the heart of Northern Ireland, Royal County Down was established in 1889. It is situated in the stunning Mourne Mountains, offering spectacular views of the mountains and the sea. 

The current layout of Royal County Down Golf Course features two distinct nine-hole loops that return to the clubhouse. Renowned for its strategic challenge, Royal County Down is one of the few authentic championship links courses that incorporates several intentionally blind shots. 

Opened: 1889
Par: 71 
Length: 7206 yards
Designers include: Old Tom Morris (1890)  H. S. Colt (1925)
Difficulty: Slope 142 / Rating 75.0

4. Waterville House & Golf Links

Waterville House and Golf Links, located on the scenic Ring of Kerry in southwest Ireland, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The golf course itself, however, was established much later, in 1889, when it was initially designed as a nine-hole course. It was expanded to 18 holes in the 1970s and later redesigned by the renowned architect Tom Fazio in 2006, enhancing its already stunning layout. 

The course was originally created by a local landowner, Sir Charles FitzGerald, who recognized the area’s potential as a golfing haven. The layout was expanded and refined under the guidance of golf course designer Eddie Hackett, and its reputation as one of Ireland’s premier links courses was solidified.

Opened: 1889
Par: 72 
Length: 7347 yards
Designers include: Eddie Hackett (1973), Tom Fazio (2006), Beau Welling (2006)
Difficulty: Slope 130 / Rating 72.0

5. The Island Golf Club

Despite its name, The Island is not situated on an actual island; rather it creates the illusion of being surrounded by water on three sides. This captivating setting is part of what makes the course so special. Until 1973, golfers had to row across a narrow stretch of water from Malahide to reach the club, giving rise to its name. 

The championship links course has evolved over the years, benefitting from the expertise of renowned golf course architects such as Fred and Martin Hawtree, Eddie Hackett, Ron Kirby, and most recently Martin Ebert of Mackenzie & Ebert in 2019.

Opened: 1890
Par: 72 
Length: 7264 yards
Designers include: Fred Hawtree (1973)  Eddie Hackett  Jeff Howes (1999)  Martin Hawtree (2014)  Caspar Grauballe (2006)  Tom MacKenzie (2020)  Martin Ebert (2020)
Difficulty: Slope 113 / Rating 65.6

6. Rosapenna Hotel and Golf Links – Old Tom Morris

The Old Tom Morris Links at Rosapenna Golf Resort is a historic and challenging course that beautifully showcases traditional links golf. Designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris in 1891, it offers a stunning setting with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and undulating sand dunes. 

One of the most memorable holes is the par-3 5th, which requires a precise tee shot over a ravine to a well-protected green. The wind plays a major factor here, so it’s crucial to choose the right club based on its direction and strength. Aiming for the center of the green is key, as the contours can make for tricky putts if you miss your target. 

Opened: 1891 
Par: 70 
Length: 6901 yards
Designers include: Old Tom Morris (1891)  James Braid (1906)  Harry Vardon (1906)  H. S. Colt (1911)  Pat Ruddy (2009)  Tom Doak (2009)  George Waters (2009)
Difficulty: Slope 122 / Rating 71.2

7. Lahinch Golf Club – Old Course

Lahinch Golf Club was established in 1892 and located on the rugged west coast of Ireland in County Clare. The course was originally designed by Old Tom Morris and later redesigned by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, further elevating its status as one of the finest links courses in the world.

One of the most memorable holes is the par-3 13th, known as “The Dell.” This iconic hole requires a precise tee shot over a deep hollow to a small, well-protected green, with a ridge running across the front. The wind often plays a pivotal role, making club selection crucial. It’s best to aim for the center of the green, as any miss can lead to a tricky up-and-down.

Opened: 1892
Par: 72 
Length: 6950 yards
Designers include: Old Tom Morris (1892), Alister MacKenzie (1927), Martin Hawtree (1999), Donald Steel, Tom MacKenzie,  Martin Ebert, and Caspar Grauballe (1999)
Difficulty: Slope 113 / Rating 70.0

8. Old Course at Ballybunion Golf Club

Founded in 1893, Ballybunion Golf Club has become one of the world’s most treasured golfing destinations, with its Old Course standing as the crown jewel of South West Ireland’s golf scene. The course is a favorite among Open champions, including the legendary Tom Watson, a five-time holder of the Claret Jug. 

One of the most memorable holes on the Old Course is the par-4 11th, also known as “Watson’s.” With the prevailing wind coming off the sea, aim your tee shot toward the boundary line to set yourself up for a good angle. For your second shot, it’s crucial to carry the ball all the way to the green, so be sure to select a club that provides enough distance to reach it. 

Opened: 1893
Par: 71 
Length: 6739 yards
Designers include: Tom Simpson (1936), Graeme Webster (2017), Tom Watson, and Caspar Grauballe
Difficulty: Slope 110 / Rating 70.0

9.Portmarnock Golf Club – Championship Course

Founded in 1894, Portmarnock Golf Club, located just north of Dublin along the Irish Sea, is a true gem of Irish golf and a highlight of any Dublin golf tour. Frequently ranked as one of the top 10 courses in Ireland and among the World’s Top 100 Courses, Portmarnock is celebrated for its traditional links layout and strategic design, offering both a test for seasoned players and a rewarding experience for golfers of all levels. 

Portmarnock’s finishing holes are legendary, with the final five providing an exhilarating conclusion to the round. As Bernard Darwin once noted, “I know of no greater finish in the world than that of the last five holes at Portmarnock.” The club also features a third nine-hole course, allowing golfers the opportunity to play extra holes after their round on the championship links.

Opened: 1894 
Par: 72 
Length: 7466 yards
Designers include: Fred G. Hawtree (1894), W. C. Pickermann (1894)
Difficulty: Slope 110 / Rating 70.0

10. Ardglass Golf Club

Ardglass Golf Course, located on the stunning coast of County Down, Northern Ireland, has become a firm favorite on any Northern Ireland Golf Tour and is widely regarded as one of the most enjoyable golfing experiences in Ireland.

While the course itself is the centerpiece of the experience, Ardglass Golf Club is equally famous for the warm welcome it extends to every visitor, embodying the traditional Irish “craic”. The clubhouse, which is the oldest in the world, dates back to 1405 and is housed in a fortified warehouse, adding a unique historical element to the experience.

Opened: 1896
Par: 70 
Length: 6216 yards
Designers include: David Jones (1998), Ken Kearney (2018)
Difficulty: Slope 110 / Rating 70.0

The UK and Ireland offer a golf experience like no other, where history and tradition blend seamlessly with the challenge of world-class courses. Premier Golf can help turn your dream golf vacation into reality, guiding you to these iconic destinations and ensuring an unforgettable experience. Let us help you make your golfing journey a truly memorable one!

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