Ballyliffin Golf Club, situated on Ireland’s northernmost tip at Tullagh Point on the Inishowen Peninsula, offers a divine location overlooking Pollan Strand and the iconic Glashedy Rock. Established in 1947, its Old course began modestly as a nine-hole layout until the 1970s when Martin Hopkins identified prime linksland nearby. Designed by Eddie Hackett, Charles Lawrie, and Frank Pennink, the “Old” course opened in 1973, showcasing classic links characteristics with undulating fairways through rugged dunes.
For decades, the Old course remained a hidden gem until Nick Faldo’s visit in 1993, heralding its recognition. Pat Ruddy’s subsequent improvements, chronicled in “Ballyliffin: Golf’s Great Twin Miracles,” were overshadowed by the construction of the Glashedy course, which complemented and enhanced the club’s allure. Faldo Design’s involvement in 2004 further refined the Old course with strategic bunkering and new tees.
The Old course boasts memorable holes like the challenging par-3 5th, known as “The Tank,” set against a dramatic dune backdrop. Despite the Glashedy’s rise in prominence, both courses offer contrasting yet harmonious links experiences, appealing to golf purists and enthusiasts alike.
