It’s a long and arduous process to get to the point where we publish a new NCG Top 100s list, and this time, it’s Ireland – but what were our panellists highlights?
There are some stunning golf courses in Ireland, with beautiful seaside links venues, along with inland moorland courses.
Imagine waking up, driving to the course and realising you’re playing on the coastline of the Irish Sea? Or you’re overlooking the North Sea? That’s the beauty of golf in Ireland and the diverse nature on offer.
But what did our panellists think? They all will have played different courses, so all of their high points will be different, or will they…?
What were our panellists highlights from their trips to Ireland?
Craig Morrison
Returning to Portmarnock: pure and perfect really. Revisiting Portmarnock Links too, now renamed and requiring reappraisal: the Jameson Golf Links is truly excellent.
Lewis Marr
The depth and variety of golf in Ireland is remarkable and surpassed all expectations. A personal favourite within GB&I.
Josh Poysden
Seeing Lahinch for the first time.
Steve Carroll
I enjoy courses that are off-beat and unusual, and Cruit Island was unforgettable. Is it the best 9-hole course in the world?
Chris Myatt
The welcome received at The Island was the perfect precursor to an outstanding afternoon’s golf on a spectacularly pure but rustic course.
Dove Jones
Finally making it to Cruit Island and discovering it exceeded expectations – it doesn’t have to be 18 holes by a “name” designer to be great.
Jim Banting
Royal County Down – improvements to the back nine have taken this masterpiece to another level. Presentation and condition incredible.
Ed Battye
A round at Lahinch – the course exceeded my high expectations of it.
Dan Murphy
Undoubtedly experiencing St Patrick’s Links at Rospenna for the first time. It blew my mind – it’s the best new course I have ever played in GB&I.
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Mike Atkinson
The stunning stretch of coastal holes on the back nine at Pat Ruddy’s The European at Brittas Bay, played in early-autumn sunshine. Inspiring.
Mike Hyde
I got an absolute soaking at Strandhill on my final trip, accompanied by a rainbow that literally began and ended at each side of the 11th fairway. A nice touch from the golfing gods.
Mike Robertson
Making the long, long trip to Carne to experience golf at the edge of the world.
- NOW READ: The methodology behind the NCG Top 100s: Ireland list
- NOW READ: Meet the NCG Top 100s: Ireland panel
What are your memories of playing golf in Ireland? Do you have any highlights from playing courses on the NCG Top 100s: Ireland list? Let us know your thoughts with a post on X, formerly Twitter!
