A History of Golf in Bray

Bray Golf Club was founded in 1897 although golf was played in Bray as early as 1762, making it one of the oldest golf courses in Ireland. The club’s history dates back to the late 18th century (1762) when golf was played on what is now Bray’s seafront. The club was officially founded on 16 July 1897, with the first meeting held at the International Hotel. The club initially occupied land on Ravenswell House, which was leased from Lord Meath.

Bray Golf Club has undergone several property deals over the years, including the relocation of the course due to land erosion in 1911. The existing 18-hole championship course designed by Des Smyth and Declan Branigan was part of a land swap with property developers Dwyer Nolan for their 9-hole 47 acre city centre site and opened in 2005. The deal was for an 18-hole championship course and clubhouse (“designed to nestle into its hillside surroundings”) on the Killruddery Estate on Bray Head together with a €1.5m injection into the club’s coffers.

Bray Golf Club has been home to several notable golfers, including Keith Nolan, who played in the Walker Cup and Alan Fahy the 2022 West of Ireland Championship winner.