Cairndhu

Cairndhu Golf Club was formed in 1928 as Larne Town Golf Club and the members played on a 9-hole course designed by C.A. MacKenzie (brother of Alister MacKenzie) at The Roddins, in Larne. Due to industrial development in the town, the club was forced to move to its present location, just north of Larne, thirty years later. John S.F. Morrison – a partner of the famous golf architect Harry Colt – designed another 9-hole course which was quickly extended to a full 18-hole layout by the same architect in 1963.

Sir Thomas Dixon once owned the land and his wife was a keen botanist – this explains why there is such a great variety of trees and shrubs throughout the course.

Cairndhu is a hilly seaside course, laid out on cliffs which offer absolutely sensational views of the Antrim coastline with Drains Bay to the southeast and Ballygally Bay on the other side of the property.

The signature hole is the 159-yard par three 2nd called “Head” which is the closest point on the course to the headland. The tee sits a hundred yards above the Antrim coast road which hugs the shoreline below. The tee shot – which can be a short iron or a three wood, depending on wind direction – is played to a long, narrow green that slopes to the left and is bunkered to the front right.

Cairndhu really is a joy to play but it is not only a course that makes a club special – don’t forget about the members. Speaking about all the changes that have occurred over the years, the club says: “There are some things that have not changed and never will – the warm welcome afforded to visitors, the stunning views and a first class golf course.” That sounds like you’ve just been extended an invitation to visit Cairndhu.