Royal Curragh Golf Club

Royal Curragh Golf Club – Tee Off Where History and Nature Converge Hidden in the sweeping plains of Kildare, the Royal Curragh Golf Club is more than just a golf course — it's the oldest golf club in Ireland, with roots stretching back to 1858.

A Course Born from Plain Beauty

This isn't manicured parkland — it's sprawling heathland, untouched since prehistoric times, offering a rare blend of natural beauty and challenge. Golf was already being played on the Curragh as early as 1852, when the Earl of Eglinton and Colonel Campbell took to the open ground. That early history even includes a memorable match in 1857, where a gutta-percha golf ball struck near Donnelly's Hollow was saved as a quirky memento of the game. Shaping the Course Over Time Over the decades, the course layout evolved. In 1912, a new pavilion was built near the Cricket Ground, and Donnelly's Hollow became part of the course as the 15th hole. By 1934, Tom Travers, then professional at Dún Laoghaire, oversaw a redesign. The most recent major update came in 2007, when course architect Patrick Merrigan reshaped parts of the course, removing road crossings and upgrading several greens.

A Royal Title Restored

The club was granted “Royal” status in 1910, though the title faded in the early years of the Irish Free State. It was never formally withdrawn, and in 2013 the members voted to reinstate the name officially, reclaiming its heritage.

What It's Like to Visit

Today Course Type: A challenging 18-hole, par 72 heathland course stretching about 6,585 yards. Atmosphere: Wide-open views, undulating fairways, and that wild heathland feel — this is natural golf at its best. Facilities: Driving range (250 yards), practice putting green, bunkers, a pro shop, restaurant, and nearby accommodation. Why It's a Must-Play Walking the course, you're treading not only through open air and heather, but also through history — where military officers, local landowners, and even internees from World War II once played. There's something special about teeing off where the Earl of Eglinton once stood, or crossing ground that has remained largely wild for centuries. In a Nutshell Founded: 1858, with golf played since 1852 Course: Historic heathland with modern updates Royal Status: Granted in 1910, restored in 2013 Visitor Info: Welcomes both casual visitors and seasoned competitors