The greens at links courses, especially older ones, often feature relatively flat contours that blend seamlessly with their rolling fairways, designed to handle low shots that land amid coastal winds. However, the course at Portrush stands out for its distinctive greens. Originally crafted by the renowned designer Harry S. Colt during his comprehensive redesign in 1932, these greens showcase a variety of undulations—swales, pockets, and crests—that are typical of Irish links but rarer in Scottish or English courses outside of St. Andrews. Colt’s exceptional designs remain intact, particularly on iconic par 3s and on notable holes like the par-4 first and par-4 14th.
In contrast, recent renovations by British architects Martin Ebert and Tom Mackenzie have aimed to preserve the course’s legacy while updating it for modern play. Their work includes the resculpting of several greens and the addition of two new holes in 2016, the seventh and eighth. They have strived to emulate Colt’s original shaping, resulting in unique hole locations that offer distinct challenges, especially for golfers trying to approach the pins or navigate long putts effectively.
With its blend of history and contemporary design, Portrush continues to serve as a premier golfing destination, merging tradition with modern enhancements that honor the original vision of its historic designer.