Ardglass Golf Club, located on the north-east coast of Ireland, has a rich history dating back to 1896. Founded by the Rev Thomas MacAfee (a Presbyterian Minister), the club initially started as a 7-hole course with a total length of less than 1,000 yards and shoehorned into the area that is now the 1st and 18th fairways. Over the next 100 years our Club leased and then purchased the additional land that stretches out to Ringfad Point and around to the original Coney Island Bay. It has since expanded to an 18-hole links course since 1971. David Jones introduced three new holes into the design.
The clubhouse, which began as a fortified warehouse in the 15th century, is the oldest building used as a golf clubhouse in the world. The initial construction of the castle started no later than 1405. The club is a member-owned organization, with various membership options available for both local and international golfers. The club continues to be managed and maintained by its members, ensuring a high standard of facilities and services. Ardglass Golf Club is known for its challenging layout. The course features hard fairways, small firm greens, and almost ever-present winds, making it a true test of golf. Some of the standout holes include the opening hole, Lambs Lough, which is a 338-yard par 4 with a tee shot over a rock face. Another notable hole is Howd’s Hole, a 168-yard par 3 with a deep gully in front of the tee.
The club has expanded its land holdings over the years, acquiring additional land to develop the course. The most recent expansions have focused on the lands around Coney Island Bay, enhancing the natural beauty and layout of the course. Ardglass Golf Club offers a unique and memorable golfing experience with its stunning coastal views, challenging layout, and historic clubhouse. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, this course provides a test of skill and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Irish coastline.
The most notable golfer is Cormac Sharvin who won the Irish Men’s Amateur Close Championship in 2013.
An historical booklet on Ardglass Golf Club broken into two parts (1) the Castle tracing it to the Normans, Vikings and down through the centuries and (2) the Golf Club. It details the four cannons that adorn the outside of the clubhouse and attributes their presence to piracy which was very prevalent between 1730 to 1830 or the need for additional defenses to fight off the possibility of a French invasion.
