portpatrick

Situated in the South West of Scotland, overlooking the North Channel to Ireland, the area enjoys a temperate climate due to the Gulf Stream with golf being playable all year round. Like so many of Scotland's hidden gems, the course evolved without much in the way of original help from the hand of man. It was in 1902 that the late Mr C L Orr Ewing MP, realised the possibilities open to Portpatrick and immediately set about the provision of a Golf Course. In the autumn of that year he surveyed the ground along with Mr Charles Hunter of Prestwick. The Club - Dunskey Golf Club - was founded the following year, 1903, extending to 100 acres to which was added the area known as Kennel park and a large proportion of Mill Field .

In 1912 the course was realigned to form what was then a ladies course, nine holes of par 3 which is now called the dinvin course and a fair test for the golfer to improve the short game but also a course for the holiday golfer. In one golf magazine it has been described as the 'the best holiday course in the south of Scotland' this is due to the magnificent views overlooking the coast to Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Mull of Kintyre. Recent changes have been made to extend the course, with sand bunkers introduced some 10 years ago. Despite the changes the course remains relatively devoid of bunkers and relies for its defense on the wind that whistles in from the Irish Sea, and the thick rough and gorse that grows on the headland.

The quality of the course and the friendly atmosphere that abounds sees the return of well kent faces each year to test their skills whichever way the wind blows. This is also achieved by the friendly and hospitable reception awaiting the Golfer.

Dunskey is modest in length at 5908 yards and Dinvin (Par 3) -1504 yards but there is still enough challenge here for all, especially when the wind gets up, then 'The faint of heart' are best advised to leave town.