Howth Golf Course
Howth, County Dublin
Howth is par-70 heathland golf course offering a mix of challenging hillside holes with stunning views of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea. Originally designed by the renowned James Braid, the layout is both demanding and rewarding, with a variety of elevations, tight fairways, and strategically placed bunkers. Modern updates have maintained the course as a truly enjoyable test while staying faithful to the original vision held by the designer.
Howth Course Description
Howth Golf Club, located on the scenic Howth Peninsula just north of Dublin, offers a stunning heathland golf experience with breathtaking views over Dublin Bay, Ireland’s Eye, and Lambay Island. Established in 1916, this historic course is set within the grounds of the Howth Castle Estate, providing a unique combination of natural beauty and golfing challenge.
Designed by the renowned James Braid, the course plays to a par 71 and stretches to approximately 5,900 yards. Though not particularly long by modern standards, Howth Golf Club demands accuracy and strategic play due to its undulating fairways, natural gorse, and unpredictable coastal winds. The layout is characterized by elevation changes, tight landing areas, and fast, sloping greens that reward precision over power.
The front nine offers a mix of shorter par 4s and scenic par 3s, with elevation shifts that challenge club selection. The back nine increases in difficulty, featuring several tricky approach shots where the wind plays a major role. One of the standout holes is the par-3 13th, which offers a spectacular view of Dublin Bay but requires a well-struck tee shot to avoid the surrounding hazards. The closing holes demand careful course management, especially with the natural contours and occasional blind shots adding to the challenge.
Howth Golf Club is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and picturesque setting, making it a favorite among local golfers and visitors alike. With its combination of history, scenery, and strategic design, it provides a memorable golfing experience just a short drive from Dublin city centre.
