Ultimate UK & Ireland Fantasy Golf Course

We’ve taken the most iconic and must-play holes from the British Isles - in the order they appear on their respective courses - to create our own ultimate fantasy course.

This handpicked collection captures the essence of what makes golf in this region so unique, blending breathtaking landscapes, storied history, and unforgettable challenges.

Discover the highlights of our legendary fairways and explore the bucket-list experiences that every golfer should know about.

How many have you ticked off... and when are you going to tick off the rest?

Par: 4
Length: 428 yards

Often cited as the best opening hole in golf, the tee shot requires a daring drive over the Atlantic, setting the stage for a thrilling round.

• Ranked within the Top 100 Courses in Scotland
• Located on the stunning Kintyre penisular, 3 hours from Glasgow
• Multiple course designers have ammended the course over the years, but most famous architect was Old Tom Morris

❝Built by Old Tom Morris back in 1876 Machrihanish provides an beautiful test of links golf. It is known as having the best opening hole in the world; stand on the first tee facing a long carry across a stunning bay onto a fairway that winds along the coast. This place has the views as well as links challenges in the form of pot bunkers, wild rough and plenty of dunes. 100% worth making the journey to this course across the penisular..❞
Tommy (Sales Director: Handicap 16)

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Par: 4
Length: 425 yards

This par 4 hugs the rugged Welsh coastline, offering dramatic views and a testing second shot to an elevated green exposed to the elements.

• Ranked the best in Wales and 23rd in the UK
• Opened in 1891, full championship course in 1895
• Hosted Senior Open, Walker Cup, Curtis Cup, British Masters & Women's Open

❝Having taken out some of the gorses around the course you may think the courses play easier than it used to, don't be fooled. With the wind swirling around there is never any rest. The course leads you into a sense of false security from the first few holes only to take that away with the brutal par 5 5th hole which usually plays into the wind and is uphill and OB on the right. With blind tee shots on the 12th & 17th make sure you go down the middle. Top tip: make sure you have time to relax in the clubhouse, the old world feel is cosy and homely, and a great place to watch the sunset after having played Wales highest-ranked course.❞
Rob (UK&I Team: Handicap 18)

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Par: 4
Length: 475 yards

Framed by the Mourne Mountains, this hole showcases the best of links golf with a blind tee shot and a sloping fairway leading to a hidden green.

• Ranked 4th in The World by Top 100 Golf Courses & Number 1 by Golf Digest
• Hosted Irish Open, Walker Cup & Senior Open Championship
• Course is over 100 years old, originally opened in 1899

❝What a course! It's hard to describe just how good Royal County Down is: scenery and views are incredible, the golf is challenging and the condition is impeccable. It's a difficult track with big dunes, blind shots, elevated and undulating holes, tight fairways... you have to think strategically on each hole and even if it's not your day, you would never walk off this course with anything less than a smile on your face..❞
Tommy (Sales Director: Handicap 16)

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Par: 4
Length: 496 yards

A classic links challenge, the 4th features the deepest bunker in Open Championship golf. Its undulating fairway demands precision off the tee and a strategic approach.

• Hosted The Open 15 times
• Championship links layout measuring over 7200 yards
• Ranked the number 1 course in England in the Top 100 Courses

❝The multiple Open Championship host is, for me, one of the toughest tests of golf that I've ever played. Depending on the wind, there really aren't any holes on the course that are easy pars or birdie opportunities, it keeps asking questions hole-after-hole and despite being "beaten up" on many occasions playing here it is a place I always like to return to. I also don't think there's a more intimidating tee-shot in golf than the 4th with its giant bunker dominating the right-hand view from the back tee, I've never hit it in there but have seen plenty of people try and fail to get out!❞
Oliver (Marketing: Handicap 1)

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Par: 3
Length: 154 yards

Known as “The Dell,” this blind par 3 has an unpredictable green nestled between dunes. It’s quirky, historic, and unforgettable - a true test of nerve and accuracy.

• Situated amidst breathtaking natural beauty next to the Atlantic Ocean
• Design work from Old Tom Morris, Alister MacKenzie & Dr Martin Hawtree
• One of the oldest & most respected golf clubs in Ireland, with a rich history dating back to 1892

❝The course truly comes alive with excitement as you reach the 7th hole and encounter the stunning features along the estuary. These holes are not only visually captivating but also incredibly fun to play. While the sunshine certainly enhanced the experience, I can only imagine that even on a cloudy day, these holes would still bring a smile to your face.❞
Rick (Marketing: Handicap 12)

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Par: 5
Length: 510 yards

A stunning par 5 with heather-lined fairways, the 6th offers a risk-reward choice. Long hitters can challenge the green in two, but bunkers await errant shots.

• Designs by Willie Park Jr (Old) & Harry Colt (New)
• 10 minutes from Wentworth Golf Club & an hour from Central London
• Both courses are ranked in the World's Best 50 golf courses

❝For me, The Old at Sunningdale is the best golf course I've played anywhere in the world. It's design and playability are excellent and I can't recommend it enough. Amazing driving holes on the 5th and 10th holes are matched by great short holes like the drivable 3rd and 9th. And obviously the sausage sandwich at the halfway hut is an essential snack to enjoy..❞
Oliver (Marketing: Handicap 1)

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Par: 4
Length: 351 yards

Often called “The Links in the Sky,” this hole sits atop cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Gower Peninsula. It’s short but tricky, requiring a well-placed drive.

• Designs by James Braid and C.K. Cotton
• Established in 1896
• Perched on the cliff top, some 200 feet above the sea

❝Known as the links in the sky, it has got a relatively new clubhouse with all the amenities you would need. similar to Southerndown built on common land means the greens are protected from cattle, this just adds to the charm. Pay particular attention when you play holes 6, 7 & 8 do not let the scenery distract you as ball placement is key to score well on these holes.❞
Rob (UK&I Team: Handicap 18)

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Par: 3
Length: 123 yards

The iconic “Postage Stamp” is one of the shortest yet most challenging par 3s in golf. Its tiny green and deep bunkers demand precise club selection and control.

• Redesigned by 5-time Open Champion James Braid
• Ranked in Top 10 Golf Courses in Scotland
• 10-time Open Championship Host

❝Whilst the 8th hole is the one that stands out for many, it is the drive and view off the 1st that stands most in memory for me. Whilst it's only a positional play off the tee, it is a great way to start what is sure to be a memorable round, following in the footsteps of the many great Open Champions who have claimed victory there before.❞
Oliver (Marketing: Handicap 1)

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Par: 4
Length: 452 yards

The 9th hugs the rugged coastline, with the iconic lighthouse as its backdrop. It’s a picturesque yet demanding hole, with wind often adding an extra layer of challenge.

• Multiple host of The Open, Senior Open & Women's British Open
• Named "UK's only 5-star resort" by Forbes Travel Guide in 2024
• Ailsa is ranked no.3 golf course in Golf World's Top 100 Links Courses

❝The Alisa Course was always one of the best in the world and having played it both before and after the changes a few years back, I can attest to the fact that it’s now better than ever. King Robert the Bruce and the amazingly luxurious hotel complete the package but Turnberry’s true magic lies in its location. Staring out over the Firth of Clyde towards Alisa Craig as the bagpiper serenades the sunset - cold beer in hand of course - is the X factor few other venues in the world can provide. A few holes on the Wee Links before it gets really dark can also be a barrel of laughs.❞
Rick (Marketing: Handicap 11)

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Par: 4
Length: 311 yards

This short par 4 is legendary for its risk-reward design, tempting players to go for the green off the tee. It’s also known for unforgettable Ryder Cup moments, including Seve’s daring drive in 1985.

• 4 time Ryder Cup host and regular European Tour venue
• Designed by Dave Thomas & renowned golf commentator Peter Alliss
• Over 7,100 yards from the back tees

❝The Belfry is one of England's most comprehensive golf resorts, with a cracking hotel, PGA National Academy, mini-golf, spa facilities and championship golf all on-site, but there's little doubting that The Brabazon Course is the main attraction here.❞
Rick (Marketing: Handicap 12)

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Par: 4
Length: 436 yards

A strategic hole requiring accuracy, the 11th features a narrow fairway bordered by dunes. It’s a key turning point in many Open Championships held at Hoylake.

• Hosted The Open 12 times
• Women's British Open, Walker Cup & Curtis Cup host
• Top 100 Golf Course in UK & Ireland

❝A great example of links golf. I think the opening tee-shot (the 3rd when they play The Open) is one of the toughest you'll face. Out-of-bounds on the right, long rough on the left with the wind normally trying to push you into the out-of-bounds isn't exactly the opening examination you want to receive. It is a very fair course and one I've played and recommended many times, with a host of great courses in this area this is part of one of the best links golf tours anywhere in the world.❞
Oliver (Marketing: Handicap 1)

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Par: 5
Length: 537 yards

Set atop dramatic cliffs, this par 5 offers breathtaking ocean views. It’s a true test of strategy, with wind and rugged terrain influencing every shot.

• Top 100 Golf Course in UK & Ireland
• Located near Kinsale and Cork - perfect for a golf tour
• One of the world's most spectacular golf courses

❝The course starts off quite fast with the 2nd, 3rd and 4th holes giving you every bit of cliff-top beauty that Old Head has to offer. Any shot left of the fairway on these holes will find their way into The Atlantic Ocean. Quite simply an amazing day on the course that was every bit as great in the clubhouse with a fantastic bar and restaurant that was the perfect place for a bit of post-round analysis. All in all, the Old Head experience is everything you've thought it was and more.❞
Oliver (Marketing: Handicap 1)

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Par: 4
Length: 400 yards

Known as “The Pit,” this quirky hole features a stone wall protecting the green. It’s a unique challenge, blending history and a test of creativity.

• Golf here dates back to 1672 (1832 for today's layout)
• Hosted the Final Qualifying for The Open
• Voted 6th in the Top 100 Courses in Scotland

❝I'm lucky enough to have played The Old Course at St Andrews and there are certainly some similarities between it and North Berwick, an example being the shared fairway between the 1st and 18th. And yet the course is also one of the most unique I've ever played, it's a quirky course full of deep bunkers and blind spots and every hole feels like a signature hole. The 15th par 3 here is said to be THE most copied golf holes in the world - you have to carry the bunkers and a hill to a tilted green. I attempted a punch shot here to the slope carry the ball down... tricky and exciting course.❞
Tom (UK&I Team: Handicap 2)

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Par: 4
Length: 445 yards

Walking through a narrow gap in towering dunes, the 14th tee reveals breathtaking coastal views, creating a dramatic, cloud-like perch for an unforgettable drive.

• Ranked within The Top 100 Golf Courses in The World & Top 25 in UK
• Designed by Martin Hawtree of Lahinch, Royal Dublin & The Island fame
• Within a short distance of Royal Aberdeen, Murcar Links & Cruden Bay

❝This course is a monster from the back tees, I suggest you approach it as humble as you can, select the right tees for your ability and enjoy a great game of golf taking in those breathtaking views! Using a range finder really helped my game as the course is filled with imposing dunes & hazards to avoid, knowing the distance between you and any potential danger means you can easily forget about certain hazards on the course to make your round less daunting.❞
Leo (Marketing: Handicap 13)

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Par: 4
Length: 432 yards

A classic links hole with Harlech Castle as its backdrop, the 15th at Royal St David’s features a narrow fairway flanked by thick rough and deep bunkers.

• The course opened in 1894 and was granted Royal status in 1908
• Hosted The European Open & The Open Championship Regional Qualifying
• Measures 6600 yards from the back tees but is known as the worlds toughest par 69

❝Also known by the locals as Harlech, this is the 2nd Best course in Wales and has hosted several high profile golfers over its history. What sets this course above some of its counterparts is not just the challenging course with undulating fairways and quick greens. But the views, Harlech Castle in the background, reminding us of bygone times and is a foreboding presence of the challenge ahead for any golfer playing this course.❞
Rob (UK&I Team: Handicap 18)

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Par: 3
Length: 236 yards

Known as “Calamity Corner,” this long par 3 is one of the toughest in golf. Its raised green requires a precise shot over a deep ravine.

• Consistently ranked amongst the Top 20 Golf Courses in the UK & Ireland
• Host of The Open Championship
• Redesigned in 1947 by the renowned Harry S. Colt

❝I played here quite a long time ago, before the changes were made and really want to go back. What used to be the 14th hole, Calamity Corner, is a brilliant Par 3 and worth the green fee alone! It caught me off guard, anything right on this hole and you're struggling to even get a boggy. The Dunluce Links Course has just got so much character that even when watching The Open on TV that was hosted here in 2019, it made me reminisce and crave another round!❞
Rob (UK&I Team: Handicap 18)

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Par: 4
Length: 455 yards

The “Road Hole” is perhaps the most famous par 4 in the world. Its blind tee shot over the hotel corner and a treacherous green make it legendary.

• Known as 'The Home of Golf' with golf played here since the 15th century
• Follow in footsteps of Bobby Jones, Jack Nicklaus & Tiger Woods
• Regular host of The Open & Women's Open host

❝Let’s face it, the Old Course is a bucket list for all golfers so when the chance came to play it on an educational trip with some of my colleagues at YGT; it's fair to say that was officially a "dream come true" moment. It was amazing to play such an iconic course. Despite the 1st & 18th shared fairway being the biggest space you'll ever aim a golf ball into, I've never been more nervous (let's call it nervous excitement) than when teeing off in front of the R&A Clubhouse!❞
Tom (UK&I Team: Handicap 2)

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Par: 4
Length: 499 yards

“Home” is a challenging finishing hole, with the infamous Barry Burn snaking through the fairway. It’s a dramatic conclusion to one of golf’s toughest tests.

• Host of The Open & the Women's Open
• Designed by legendary Old Tom Morris & James Braid
• Consistently ranked within the Top 100 Courses in the UK & the world

❝The Championship Course at Carnoustie Golf Links is one that has a fierce reputation. When the wind blows, there aren't going to be many people that play to their handicap here but it is important to appreciate how fair the course is. If you keep it in play, miss the pot bunkers and some of the well-placed rivers that meander along the course, you'll be able to have a chance of getting 36 well-deserved stableford points. Standing on the 18th tee it is easy to see why Van de Velde struggled on that hole, there's not a lot of places to miss it and you can rack up a high score easily.❞
Oliver (Marketing: Handicap 1)

Call 0800 043 6644 to talk about playing this course.