Montgomerie Links

Explore the Montgomerie Links at Carton House, a championship inland links golf course in Maynooth, County Kildare. This course, designed by Colin Montgomerie, offers an authentic links-style challenge on a historic 1,100-acre estate. Measuring 7,301 yards from the championship tees as a par-72 course, it ranks among Ireland’s finest inland tests.

Layout of the Montgomerie Links

Opened in 2003 and designed by Stan Eby, the Montgomerie Links sit primarily to the south of the River Rye in open parkland.

Fairways appear wide, with gentle slopes, firm turf, and tall fescue that clearly define the short grass, surrounds, and native rough.

More than 100 steep-faced pot bunkers, often described as over 130 in total, guard driving zones and greens.

Large, fast greens have gentle slopes and closely mown run-offs that feed balls into dips and hollows. The open setting provides little wind shelter, so the layout plays like a classic links despite its inland location.

Multiple tee options make the course accessible, while the back tees deliver a true championship challenge.

Montgomerie Links Challenges

Success demands accuracy, control, and ground management. Deep pot bunkers punish slightly offline drives and approaches. Thick fescue and rough have a heavy price for wayward shots.

The wind makes every shot more challenging, so players must think about each decision. It’s better to plan your way around the course than just hit the ball as far as possible.

There are chances to take risks, especially on shorter holes, but being too bold can lead to trouble in the sand.

The course is challenging for pros while remaining enjoyable for everyone when the tees are adjusted appropriately.

Standout Holes on the Montgomerie Links

Several holes stand out on the Montgomerie Links course.

The first hole crosses the River Rye, moving from County Meath into Kildare, setting the tone.

The long par-5 4th hole has numerous bunkers that require precise positioning.

The short par-4 13th (about 339 yards from the farthest tee) tempts longer hitters with a drivable green yet protects it with multiple deep bunkers.

The par-5 15th hole requires careful shot placement into a raised green.

The well-bunkered par-3 17th demands full concentration.

The closing stretch brings the River Rye back into view, providing a memorable finish.

Facilities at the Carton House Golf Club

Golfers benefit from the on-site facilities at Carton House.

There’s a modern clubhouse, a well-stocked pro shop, and practice areas, including a driving range. The estate also houses the Golf Ireland National Academy and training facilities.

After the round, dining options, a luxury hotel, and spa amenities complete the experience. Stay-and-play packages make the Montgomerie Links an ideal destination for golf breaks near Dublin.

Hosted Tournaments

The Montgomerie Links have proven themselves as a true championship venue. It hosted the Nissan Irish Open in 2005 and 2006, returned for the 2013 Irish Open, and staged the Irish Seniors Open in 2010.

Carton House Estate hosted the 2018 World Amateur Team Championships. This tournament pedigree confirms the course’s quality and conditioning.

Book Now

If you want a memorable round on one of Ireland’s top inland links courses, the Montgomerie Links at Carton House delivers. Book your tee time to experience this strategic Colin Montgomerie design for yourself.