History
The Castle Golf Club was established in 1913 on the grounds of the old Rathfarnham Castle. At that time, the relevant land was leased by the Club from the then owners, William George Bailey and Adam Henry Gibson. In 1917, the Club purchased the land outright for £8250.
Clubhouse c. 1914
The first captain was A.H. Dudley and the first president was Rt. Hon. W.P. Bailey. From the beginning, membership was open to both men and women. One of the earliest members was Dr. Douglas Hyde, who was subsequently the first President of Ireland.
In the early days, the planning of the course layout and design was carried out, for the most part, by a number of talented and dedicated Club members. In 1926, the Club engaged the services of the renowned golf architect and designer, Harold Shapland Colt who came up with a revised layout for the course. Since then, there has been a process of continuous review and modifications to realise a golf course that meets with best international standards.
In the early days, the planning of the course layout and design was carried out, for the most part, by a number of talented and dedicated Club members. In 1926, the Club engaged the services of the renowned golf architect and designer, Harold Shapland Colt who came up with a revised layout for the course. Since then, there has been a process of continuous review and modifications to realise a golf course that meets with best international standards.
Course plan 1927
In 1999, planning of the redesign of the greens and their surrounds commenced and by 2003, all 18 greens had been reconstructed to the highest standard. That investment, and the continued dedication and skill of our course staff, has reaped its rewards. Today, we have the privilege of playing on greens year-round that are held in the highest regard.
Aerial photo c.1960
In addition to the main course, the “Valley” was opened in 2008. Located to the left of the 9th hole, this consists of six par 3 holes and a practice green and bunkers. This has proven to be a major factor in the coaching of the Club’s juvenile golfers.
The most recent enhancement was in 2023, with the significant expansion of the irrigation system to cover all fairways.
Since its establishment, Castle has had six club professionals, two of whom were very long-serving. Willie Holley, a renowned club maker, was the club professional for 45 years, and David Kinsella served the Club for 50 years, establishing a reputation as a golf coach and teacher in that time.
Over the years, the clubhouse and adjoining premises have been modified and updated to reflect the changing needs of members. One unplanned change resulted from a fire on Christmas Day 1970 that caused considerable damage to the clubhouse. In recent years, the dining room and catering facilities have been enhanced and golf club storage and other services have been upgraded.
The most recent enhancement was in 2023, with the significant expansion of the irrigation system to cover all fairways.
Since its establishment, Castle has had six club professionals, two of whom were very long-serving. Willie Holley, a renowned club maker, was the club professional for 45 years, and David Kinsella served the Club for 50 years, establishing a reputation as a golf coach and teacher in that time.
Over the years, the clubhouse and adjoining premises have been modified and updated to reflect the changing needs of members. One unplanned change resulted from a fire on Christmas Day 1970 that caused considerable damage to the clubhouse. In recent years, the dining room and catering facilities have been enhanced and golf club storage and other services have been upgraded.
Clubhouse c. 1966
In 1941, Castle won the Barton Cup. This was followed by a lengthy period of limited success in inter-club competitions. In the early 2000’s however, the scenario started to change. Since then, men’s, women’s, and junior teams have enjoyed great success at both Leinster and All Ireland levels. Much of this progress has resulted from a major investment in junior golf, a tougher golf course and ever-improving coaching and practice facilities.
Barton Cup winners 1941
There has always been a strong family ethos in Castle and there are many families with multi-generational involvement. Castle history also shows evidence of significant social activity from its earliest days. Bridge was an integral part of this activity. The social life of Castle continues to be an important factor in terms of encouraging members to become more involved in club activities.
Centenary Ball 2013
“Our Golfing Demesne”, which was produced as part of Castle’s Centenary in 2013 contains a comprehensive history of the first 100 years of the Club’s existence.
