Situated on the south-east coast of County Down, Ardglass is unquestionably one of the most spectacular courses in Ireland.
Essentially the course meanders its way out to a headland and then meanders its way back.
The first five holes are truly memorable and run right alongside the sea. The par three 2nd (Howd’s Hole) is many people’s favourite and many people’s undoing – with the tee shot needing to be fired across a rocky inlet, it is a real death-or-glory hole and somewhat reminiscent of the 3rd at Tralee. At only 158 yards it may not be as damaging to the score card as the ‘Calamity’ at Royal Portrush, but it nevertheless comes with a health warning.
A second magnificent par three is the downhill 12th where the Irish Sea can provide a daunting diversion and when the wind is dead against it can be truly intimidating. The final hole, however, offers a good chance of a closing birdie and then it’s off to the 19th – in true Ardglass style, a restored castle. Bring plenty of spare golf balls!
Ardglass Golf Club makes a great golfing weekend away when packaged with Royal County Down and a few nights stay at the Slieve Donard Hotel.
