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

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

GolfMagic visits Machrihanish, a remote, world-class links course that remains surprisingly affordable. The club's origins date back to 1876 when it was founded as The Kintyre Golf Club. Three years later, Old Tom Morris expanded it from a 12-hole layout to a full 18 holes by adding new land, including the famous 1st hole, often celebrated as one of the greatest opening holes in golf.

Location and Access

The most challenging part of visiting Machrihanish is the journey itself. The course is located about 20 miles from the Mull of Kintyre, an area also notable for a beach where Sir Paul McCartney filmed a video. After a scenic three-hour drive along the beautiful A83, golfers are rewarded with a course ranked among the top 40 in Great Britain & Ireland and in the top 20 in Scotland.

Complementary Courses and Experience

Visitors can enhance their trip with rounds at nearby Machrihanish Dunes and Dunaverty, making for a richer overall golf experience before returning home.

Course Design and Legacy

The land was famously praised by Morris as "specifically designed by the almighty for playing golf." Renowned course designer Tom Doak noted it is "the only course in Scotland that still seems just as raw and natural as the first time I was there 35 years ago." In 1914, JH Taylor made some modifications, and the last adjustments were done by Sir Guy Campbell in the 1940s. Despite these changes, the course retains a natural feel, as if it perfectly blends with the terrain rather than being artificially designed.

"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

In recent decades, growing awareness of Machrihanish has enhanced its reputation, proving well worth the journey.

Author's summary: Machrihanish Golf Club offers a pure, natural golfing experience steeped in history, making it a rewarding destination despite its remote location.

GolfMagic — 2025-11-04