The Best Hickory Golf Courses Around the World
Posted by Knicks, Links, & Inks Publishing on Feb 1st 2024
Hickory golf, with its roots deeply planted in the early traditions of the sport, offers a unique way to experience golf as it was played over a century ago. For enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves fully in the hickory experience, playing on courses that complement the vintage style of play is essential. Here, we explore some of the best hickory golf courses around the world, each offering a blend of history, challenge, and beauty.
1. St. Andrews Links – St. Andrews, Scotland
Known as the "Home of Golf," St. Andrews Links is a pilgrimage site for golfers worldwide. Its rich history and iconic status make it a perfect venue for hickory golf.
Key Points:
- Historical Significance: As the oldest golf course in the world, St. Andrews offers a direct link to the origins of the game.
- Course Layout: The Old Course’s natural links layout, with its undulating fairways and deep bunkers, provides the ideal challenge for hickory play.
- Experience: Walking these hallowed grounds with a set of hickory clubs offers a truly immersive historical experience.
2. North Berwick Golf Club – North Berwick, Scotland
Another gem in the birthplace of golf, North Berwick Golf Club, offers a classic links experience that is perfect for hickory golfers.
Key Points:
- Classic Design: The West Links course is renowned for its traditional design, with quirky features such as stone walls and deep bunkers.
- Historic Ambiance: Established in 1832, the club exudes a sense of history that enhances the hickory golf experience.
- Scenic Views: With stunning coastal views, playing here feels like stepping back in time while enjoying the beauty of the Scottish landscape.
3. Oakhurst Links – White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, USA
Oakhurst Links is one of the oldest golf courses in the United States and has been meticulously restored to reflect its original 1884 design.
Key Points:
- Authentic Experience: The course uses original hickory-shafted clubs and gutta-percha balls, offering an authentic 19th-century golf experience.
- Historical Value: As the oldest golf club in the U.S., playing here is like stepping into a living museum of golf history.
- Rustic Charm: The course’s design, with its natural landscape and rustic clubhouse, provides a charming and educational golf outing.
4. Royal Melbourne Golf Club – Melbourne, Australia
Royal Melbourne is often cited as one of the best golf courses in the world, and its classic design makes it an excellent venue for hickory golf.
Key Points:
- Historic Layout: The course’s design by Dr. Alister MacKenzie incorporates natural terrain and strategic bunkering that challenge hickory golfers.
- Prestige: As the oldest club in Australia, it carries a rich golfing heritage.
- Scenic Beauty: The sandbelt terrain and stunning flora make for a visually and strategically engaging round of golf.
5. Royal County Down – Newcastle, Northern Ireland
Royal County Down is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and challenging layout, making it a perfect match for hickory golf.
Key Points:
- Spectacular Setting: Set against the backdrop of the Mourne Mountains, the course offers stunning vistas.
- Classic Links Design: The course’s natural links terrain, with its wild rough and strategic bunkers, provides a true test for hickory players.
- Historic Prestige: Founded in 1889, the course has a storied history that enhances the hickory golfing experience.
6. National Golf Links of America – Southampton, New York, USA
Known for its homage to traditional links-style golf, the National Golf Links of America is a must-visit for hickory golf enthusiasts.
Key Points:
- Design Excellence: The course, designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, incorporates elements from some of the best courses in the UK, providing a classic links experience.
- Exclusive Charm: While access is limited, those fortunate enough to play here will enjoy a truly historic round.
- Picturesque Views: The course’s beautiful landscape and meticulously maintained fairways add to the enjoyment of the game.
7. Machrihanish Golf Club – Machrihanish, Scotland
Machrihanish Golf Club, with its famous opening hole and stunning coastal views, offers a classic links experience ideal for hickory golf.
Key Points:
- Famous Opening Hole: The first hole, a dramatic drive over the beach, is one of the most iconic in golf.
- Historic Roots: Established in 1876, the club offers a rich history and a challenging layout.
- Natural Beauty: The rugged coastline and natural dunes create a scenic and challenging golfing environment.