Machrihanish Golf Club Review: Golf as it's meant to be

Machrihanish Golf Club Review: Golf as It's Meant to Be

GolfMagic explores Machrihanish, a remote yet world-class links course offering an unexpectedly affordable experience. Founded in 1876 as The Kintyre Golf Club, it was expanded from 12 to 18 holes just three years later under the direction of Old Tom Morris after additional land became available.

A Legendary Opening Hole

Among golfers, the discussion of great opening holes often starts with Machrihanish’s first hole. It remains one of the most famous starts in world golf.

The Journey and the Reward

Reaching Machrihanish is both the hardest and most rewarding part of the trip. The course lies about 20 miles from the Mull of Kintyre, close to the beach where Sir Paul McCartney filmed one of his iconic videos. A three-hour drive along the scenic A83 brings visitors to a layout consistently ranked among the top 40 in Great Britain and Ireland, and within the top 20 in Scotland.

Heritage and Design

“Specifically designed by the almighty for playing golf.” — Old Tom Morris

“The only course in Scotland that still seems just as raw and natural as the first time I was there 35 years ago.” — Tom Doak

Further adjustments came in 1914 by J. H. Taylor and later in the 1940s by Sir Guy Campbell, although the site still feels organic rather than constructed. The course appears to belong perfectly to its rolling coastal terrain.

Nearby Experiences

Golfers can enrich their trip with additional rounds at Machrihanish Dunes and Dunaverty before returning home with a deeper appreciation of Scotland’s golfing heritage.

Author’s Summary

Machrihanish Golf Club blends natural beauty, history, and challenge, offering players a timeless, authentic links experience at Scotland’s edge.

GolfMagic — 2025-11-05