Public

The Heritage Course

The Heritage Killenard Golf Resort

Killenard, Laois, IE
eoin
jack.dooley1
corykinsinger
+1
18 holesPar 727,319 yds76/136

About this course

The Heritage at Killenard represents Seve Ballesteros's only golf course design in Ireland, developed in collaboration with architect Jeff Howes and opened in 2000. The course occupies parkland in County Laois, roughly an hour southwest of Dublin, where the relatively flat Irish midlands terrain has been shaped into a championship layout featuring extensive water hazards, strategic bunkering, and mature tree plantings that have matured significantly since opening. The routing incorporates several large lakes that come into play on multiple holes, creating risk-reward scenarios characteristic of Ballesteros's competitive philosophy as a player. The design emphasizes strategic options from the tee and demands precision on approach shots, with generous fairways balanced by well-protected greens. The parkland setting lacks the dramatic elevation changes of links or coastal courses, but the layout uses water, trees, and contouring to define holes and create variety across the eighteen. The Heritage has hosted professional events on the European Tour, including the Irish Open in 2003 and 2004, bringing international attention to the course during its early years. The facility operates as part of a resort complex that includes a hotel and spa, serving both visiting golfers and members. The course plays to a championship length exceeding 7,000 yards from the back tees, though multiple tee options accommodate different skill levels. Its inland location and parkland character distinguish it from Ireland's more famous links courses, offering a different style of golf within the Irish landscape.

Quick facts

Location
Killenard, Laois, IE
Access
Public
Year built
2001
Holes
18
Par
72
Length
7,319 yards
Difficulty
76/136

Getting there

The journey to The Heritage Killenard Golf Resort begins at Dublin Airport, Ireland's principal international gateway, followed by a straightforward hour-and-a-quarter drive southwest through the gently rolling Irish Midlands. The route traces the M7 motorway before peeling off into County Laois, where the landscape softens into pastoral farmland and hedgerow-lined lanes. As you approach Killenard, the manicured grounds and stately Georgian-inspired manor of The Heritage emerge from the surrounding countryside - a vision of refined elegance set against the quiet, unhurried beauty of Ireland's heartland.

FAQ

Common questions about The Heritage

Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.

The Heritage was designed by Seve Ballesteros and Jeff Howes.

Yes. The Heritage is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.

Par at The Heritage is 72.

The Heritage plays 7,319 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.

The slope rating at The Heritage is 136.

The Heritage is a 18-hole course.

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