Ballybunion, named after the Bunion family who owned the local castle, is famed for its wild links course on Ireland’s Atlantic coast.
Originally established in 1893 as a 12-hole layout by James McKenna, financial difficulties led to closure in 1898. Revived in 1906 by Lionel Hewson as a 9-hole course, it expanded to 18 holes in 1926. Hosting the Irish Championship in 1937, Tom Simpson and Molly Gourlay later refined its layout, which remains largely unchanged.
Ballybunion offers a challenging test of golf, especially in windy conditions. President Bill Clinton played here in 1998. Tom Watson praised its dunes and strategic design, considering it a true test of golf.
Highlight holes include the 2nd (“Kennells”), a tough par four threading through towering dunes, and the iconic 11th (“Watsons”), a lengthy par four demanding precision. In 2015, significant renovations by architect Graeme Webster introduced fine fescue greens, revamped bunkers, and enhanced hole designs, reinforcing Ballybunion’s stature.
Alongside the Old Course, Ballybunion features the Cashen Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in the 1980s, further cementing its reputation as one of Ireland’s premier golf destinations.
