The midlands of Ireland are often forgotten in the greater context of superb Irish golf courses. This however, should not be the case, with Birr Golf Club being only one of many fine parkland courses that are well worth a visit. Founded in 1893, Birr Golf Club is a mature course and is rated as one of the finest inland courses in the country. Originally laid out by local members, Birr has undergone a relatively recent redesign under the experienced hands of architect Eddie Connaughton.
Originally part of the grand estate of the Earl of Rosse, Birr Golf Club has been carved out of natural woodland and eskers and its post glacial terrain provides a stern challenge for even the most accomplished golfers. Like Carlow Golf Club, the undulating fairways and dry, springy heathland turf at Birr, is reminiscent of some of Ireland's great links courses.
Many of the holes at Birr are laid out in attractive avenues and valleys; none more so than the short but difficult par 4, 10th hole, running alongside the clubhouse through a tree lined fairway. The combination of natural sweeps, hollows and hillocks along with the carefully designed course layout, provides an exciting challenge to golfers of all standards, while the fairways flow beautifully towards perfectly manicured greens. Truly, this is a superb golf course, with facilities to match.
ONLINE GOLF TRAVEL RATING
The Irish midlands, while it may not be top of most golfers' lists as the ideal destination, contain many excellent golf courses. Birr Golf Club is one of these courses and it offers a stiff parkland challenge in mature surroundings.
Situated 2 miles northwest of Birr Town. Follow the R439 route from Birr to Banagher and the right turn for the golf club is signposted.
NEARBY RESTAURANTS:
The Stables Townhouse Restaurant, Oxmantown Mall, Birr, Co. Offaly. Tel: (353) 509 20263. Email: cboyd@indigo.ie. One of the finest restaurants in County Offaly, the atmosphere is relaxed and menu appealing.
Restaurant at Kinnitty Castle, Kinnitty, Co. Offaly. Tel: (353) 509 37318. Email: kinnittycastle@eircom.net. Award winning restaurant offering top class cuisine, creative menus and extensive wine list.
Spinners Bistro, Castle Street, Birr, Co. Offaly. Tel: (353) 509 21673. A stylish restaurant in a restored 19th century woolen store, with an international menu comprising the best local produce.
Riverbank Restaurant, Riverstown, Birr, Co. Offaly. Tel: (353) 509 21528. Situated on the banks of the Little Brosna River, offering superb, freshly prepared food and fine wines.
The midlands of Ireland are often forgotten in the greater context of superb Irish golf courses. This however, should not be the case, with Birr Golf Club being only one of many fine parkland courses that are well worth a visit. Founded in 1893, Birr Golf Club is a mature course and is rated as one of the finest inland courses in the country. Originally laid out by local members, Birr has undergone a relatively recent redesign under the experienced hands of architect Eddie Connaughton.
