Machrihanish Golf Club Review: Golf as It's Meant to Be
GolfMagic explores Machrihanish, a remote and world-class links course that remains surprisingly affordable. Originally founded as The Kintyre Golf Club in 1876, the course expanded from a 12-hole layout to 18 holes three years later when Old Tom Morris was invited to redesign it. This expansion included the iconic 1st hole, renowned as one of the great opening holes in golf.
The most challenging—and rewarding—part of visiting Machrihanish is the journey itself. Located about 20 miles from the Mull of Kintyre, the area is notable as the filming location for Sir Paul McCartney’s video on a nearby beach. After a scenic three-hour drive along the gentle A83 road, visitors find themselves at a course ranked among the top 40 in Great Britain and Ireland, and within Scotland’s top 20.
Visitors can enhance their trip with additional rounds at Machrihanish Dunes and Dunaverty, creating a rich golfing experience that stays with you.
Course Design and Heritage
Old Tom Morris famously described the land here as "specifically designed by the almighty for playing golf." Golf architect Tom Doak praised the course for being "the only course in Scotland that still seems just as raw and natural as the first time I was there 35 years ago." Over time, J.H. Taylor made adjustments in 1914, with final changes by Sir Guy Campbell in the 1940s, but the course never feels artificially designed—rather, it sits naturally within the landscape.
"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, increasing numbers of golfers have discovered Machrihanish, benefiting from its unique character and challenging layout.
Summary
Machrihanish Golf Club offers a rare combination of natural beauty, rich history, and a challenging links experience that rewards the effort needed to reach it.