Few, if any, new high-end courses have opened for public play recently, so with regard to the Golf Monthly course rankings, the architectural focus has been on redesign and improvement. Our two highest new entries, both actually re-entries, reflect the most substantial and dramatic upgrades yet seen in the UK&I. Adare Manor and The Machrie each took the boldest of steps to close for business for a couple of years while the most comprehensive makeovers took place. The results are spectacular, especially at the former, which follows the same routing but has otherwise has been completely transformed.
Moving with the times
Not long ago, change might not have been on the agenda at some of our more traditional clubs, yet a good number have recognised the need to be ready…