Old Head Course
Old Head, Cork, IE
Old Head Golf Links, a relative newcomer carved into a storied peninsula, immediately asserts itself as one of golf's most dramatic stages. Its creation, not born from centuries of links tradition, but from audacious vision, sets it apart. While not an ancient links, the course’s setting high above the crashing waves of the Celtic Sea, atop jagged cliffs just outside Downmacpatrick, makes it unforgettable. Designed in the late 20th century and opened in 1997, Old Head bears the mark of several hands, including Ron Kirby, the late Eddie Hackett, Paddy Merrigan, and Haulie O'Shea. The resulting course plays long, wide, and at times, daringly close to the cliff edges – a strategic test that often rewards the bold fade. This audacious course is set against the backdrop of a picturesque lighthouse whose beam warns ships off the treacherous coastline. While lacking a championship pedigree, Old Head has become synonymous with a certain type of modern golf experience. It attracts an international clientele, many arriving by helicopter to the course’s private landing pad. This clientele also have direct access from the fairway to various amenities on course, including spa experiences and the course's luxury suites and the locally noted Lusitania Bar and restaurant.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Public: #45
Best in Ireland
Public: #6
Best in CORK
Public: #1
Golfers say Old Head delivers an unforgettable experience driven almost entirely by its dramatic clifftop setting and stunning ocean views rather than exceptional architecture. Most praise the routing along the 300-foot cliffs overlooking the Atlantic as spectacular and truly unmissable, with several holes—particularly the 12th—offering breathtaking backdrops that include a picturesque lighthouse. Reviewers acknowledge the interior holes feel unremarkable by comparison, and some note the design itself isn't groundbreaking, but the sheer scenery and memorable walk more than compensate. Nearly all agree the green fee is exorbitant, though they concede the unique location justifies the premium for those willing to pay it.
9.0
105 players
By far the craziest site in the world. Jaw dropping holes along the cliffs, rest of the course is average. One of those places you need to play at least once in your life
place is undeniably cool but not sure i’d go back
Probably not the greatest golf course but it was the greatest walk of my life.
Just an absolute banger of a track. Spread my ashes here.
Old Head might be the most scenic course in the world. The architecture at Old Head isn't necessarily the best, but it really doesn't matter when you are standing on 300 foot cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on this beautiful peninsula. Pair that up with an awesome light house and Old Head truly can't be missed.
The holes along the cliff edges are spectacular. The holes in the middle of the course are meh and unremarkable. That said, the ones along the cliffs make up for it, the 12th is just an amazing setting for a golf hole. It’s exorbitantly expensive but again if people (myself included) didn’t pay the price it would not be that price.
Public courses closest to Old Head.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Old Head has a Course Vaults score of 9.0 out of 10 based on 68 explicit golfer ratings.
Old Head was designed by Ron Kirby, Paddy Merrigan, Eddie Hackett, Dr. Joe Carr, and Haulie O'Shea.
Yes. Old Head is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Old Head is 72.
Old Head plays 7,150 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Old Head is 142.
