Mount Juliet Official Opening – Sunday July 14th 1991

Mount Juliet Golf Club, located in Thomastown, County Kilkenny, Ireland, was established in 1991. The estate itself dates back to 1757, originally developed by the first Earl of Carrick and later owned by the McCalmont family. Dr. Tim P. Mahony of Toyota Ireland fame purchased 1,550 acres of the Major Victor McCalmont’s estate (the “Old Lady” as he referred to it) in 1988 including the gardens, houses river and stud farm to build a world class golf course.

In 2014 it was sold to Brehon Capital Partners and businessman Emmet O’Neill (who had sold Smile Dental, a teeth whitening chain, which he co-founded in 2005 for €36m) with plans for further expansion. The club is currently owned by Tetrarch Capital, a property investment firm. Recently, there have been reports of a proposed sale to Penman Holdings Ltd, controlled by Mr. English, for a reported price of €50 million. The estate includes a 125-bedroom hotel, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and extensive grounds.

The course was designed by Jack Nicklaus, one of the most renowned golfers and golf course architects in the world. The official opening took place on the 14 July 1991 where Jack Nicklaus and Christy O’Connor Snr. played an exhibition match which was refereed by Joe Carr.

Some of the signature holes include the 14th hole, known for its beautiful and expansive parkland setting, and the 18th hole, which offers a dramatic finish to the round. Mount Juliet Golf Club is a premier golfing destination, offering a blend of history, challenge, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player, it’s a course that provides an unforgettable experience.

The course has hosted five Irish Open Championships, two World Golf Championships, an Irish PGA Championship, Irish Seniors Open and a Wonderful World of Golf Series event with Tom Watson and Fred Couples.