August 24, 2025
Jameson Golf Links
The land, course and buildings originally belonged to the Jameson family, the famous whiskey dynasty. This course was designed by Masters champion Bernhard Langer with Stan Eby, opening in 1995.
A major multi-million-euro renovation, led by Jeff Lynch of (re)GOLF, was unveiled in October 2023. The course was rebranded as the Jameson Golf Links to reflect its heritage and reduce confusion with the neighbouring Portmarnock Golf Club.
I had not visited the Club for a number of years and was curious on the changes they had made.
The dog-leg 8th is now a straighter par-4 with a new fairway and green complex. Holes 12 and 14 are now par-5s, offering elevated greens and sensational views of Velvet Strand, Howth Head, Lambay, and Ireland’s Eye. The long par-5 13th has become a tough par-4 (stroke index 1), while the 15th has been shortened to a par-3. The 17th was also changed to a par-4 in early 2024 to offer a closing birdie opportunity.
Overall, I like the changes. I think the 15th is a bit weak and an elevated tee box with a little more protection for the green would enhance it. The old 17th was a tough par three and, in all honesty, only suited the low handicapper, so I welcome the change to a risk reward short par 4.
The new pot bunkers are more golfer-friendly. The dunes breathe life into the holes—especially numbers 8 through 10 and the dramatic 7th, which is protected by a steep sand wall.
The course is demanding, with tight fairways, long fescue, and deep bunkers. Fairway Bunkers are, as they should be, penal, which I found out to my cost on a number of holes!
On arrival at the first tee, we were presented with a stroke saver, and a scorecard in a branded leather-bound wallet. A really nice touch which I will certainly be using in the future. Our starter was very friendly and informative and was great for club selection off the 1st tee. We had to work the rest out ourselves😊
I played with two low single handicap golfers and a high handicapper. Regardless of the scores returned, it was clear that this course presents challenges for the low handicappers and playability and scoring opportunities for the higher handicapper. Just what you want from a resort course.
There is a new snack and beverage service is available near the 8th, 9th, 14th, and 15th holes. Plus, there’s a warming hut near the pro shop where you can enjoy a shot of Jameson before teeing off.
If you are travelling from afar, there is a 5-star Hotel on site and plenty of Golf Clubs in the neighbourhood to enjoy.
The Jameson Golf Links continues to be a standout links course, thoughtfully redesigned for drama and playability, and backed by excellent resort infrastructure and hospitality. Whether you’re a serious links enthusiast or looking for a memorable golf-and-cultural getaway, it offers one of the most compelling experiences on Ireland’s coast.
Thanks to Paul McCanny and his team for hosting us.
Planning a Golf Getaway? Call us on +353 87 367 0816 or email niall@heritagegolfgetaways.com and leave the rest to us.
