Machrihanish Golf Club

Located on the beautiful Kintyre Peninsula along the West Coast of Scotland, around a 3-hour drive from the city of Glasgow, Machrihanish Golf Club is one of the finest and well-respected links golf clubs in Scotland.

Its unique position off the mainland of Scotland means it isn’t the easiest course to get to, but it is certainly worth the extra effort. Before your round, be sure to check out the practice range, putting green and golf shop to ensure that you are well-prepared for the links challenge that lies ahead.

Golf Course overview

Originally designed as a 10-hole course and later extended to the full-18 in 1879 by legendary course designer Old Tom Morris, Machrihanish is now considered as one of the best golf courses in Scotland, as recognized by Golf Digest and Top 100 Golf Courses.

The course is a classic links layout, with an out and back style, set amongst towering sand dunes, rolling fairways, thick rough, pot bunkers, and undulating greens. Players can also expect to enjoy some truly incredible views over the islands of Islay, Jura, and Gigha, which provide a beautiful backdrop to an already stunning course.

Machrihanish has become a staple venue on the Ladies Tour having hosted the Scottish Ladies Championship on several occasions in recent years.

Signature hole

The signature hole at Machrihanish comes at the very 1st. Noted by Jack Nicklaus as being the best opening hole in the world, the 424-yard par-4 hole is legendary for its imposing tee shot over the beach. A tough start!

Did You Know?

The club dates back to 1876 when it was originally opened as Kintyre Golf Club, but when members later decided that the name was too ordinary for such a fantastic piece of land, they changed the name to Machrihanish (in 1888).

Although the famous historic clubhouse was sadly lost in a fire in December 2019, the club still operates and its Old Tom Morris design has never looked better, as it gently winds through the dunes of Machrihanish village.