Looking back at the history of the Ryder Cup is always mesmerizing, as it gives us some of the most memorable moments in golf. One aspect that often stands out is the incredible courses that have hosted this prestigious tournament.
The Ryder Cup is a competition that brings out intense emotions in golfers from Europe and America. As fans, we are lucky to witness remarkable moments and see these top players make unforgettable memories every two years. From traditional courses to modern masterpieces, the Ryder Cup has been played on some of the most breathtaking courses in the world.
This article will discuss the 9 best Ryder Cup Courses in History.
1. Moortown Golf Club
Moortown Golf Club opened in 1909 and is a championship course that even the most experienced golfers will find difficult. This beautiful course near Leeds was designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, who is well-known for his work at Augusta National, Cypress Point, and Royal Melbourne.
Moortown Golf Club has a rich history and was the first location to host the Ryder Cup on British soil in 1929. Over the past century, the club has welcomed professional and amateur golfers to its course, including legends such as Sir Nick Faldo, Bernard Gallagher, and Sir Michael Bonallack, the former captain of the R&A.
Moortown Golf Club still has great facilities, like a modern warm-up area, which makes it a great place to visit. The club is proud of how friendly it is to golfers from all over the world and how much it wants to keep the history of this famous course alive.
Moortown Golf Club facts
| Location | West Yorkshire |
| Length | 7,001 yards |
| Par | 71 |
| Designed by | Alister MacKenzie |
| Hosted Ryder Cup | 1929 |
| Established | 1909 |
| Where to stay | Leeds or York |
2. Celtic Manor Golf Resort
Celtic Manor, located in the stunning Welsh countryside across the Bristol Channel, is one of the best Ryder Cup courses in history. It can be easily reached by car from most of the UK, making it an accessible destination for golfers looking to experience one of the best courses in the world.
The accommodations at Celtic Manor are spectacular. It has a 5-star Resort Hotel being the highlight of the resort. However, the main attraction at Celtic Manor is undoubtedly the world-renowned Twenty Ten course, which was home to the thrilling Ryder Cup match in 2010, where Europe emerged victorious in an epic battle.
One of the reasons why Celtic Manor is considered to be one of the best Ryder Cup courses in history is that it offers a golfing experience like no other in the UK. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a large group, Celtic Manor can accommodate your needs with ease. The resort of the course prides itself on being able to cater to every guest and group.
Other fantastic accommodation options are also available at Celtic Manor, such as The Manor House, Coldra Court Hotel, and The Hunter Lodges. If you’re looking for the best Ryder Cup courses in history and want to experience the best of golfing in the UK, then Celtic Manor is the place to be.
Celtic Manor Course Facts
| Location | Newport, Wales |
| Length | 7,493 yards |
| Par | 72 |
| Designed by | Ross McMurray, Bob Jones & Robert Trent Jones Jnr |
| Established | 2007 |
| Hosted Ryder Cup | 2010 |
| Where to stay | Resort Hotel / Coldra Court / Manor House |
3. Muirfield Golf Club
Muirfield Golf Club, situated on the enchanting coastline of East Lothian’s Gullane, is heaven for golf enthusiasts. The course was originally designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris in 1891, with further developments done in consultation with world-renowned designer Harry S. Colt.
The club’s rich history of over a century is proudly displayed in the clubhouse, which features a museum-like atmosphere. The course’s design was influenced by the members, including prominent amateur golfers of the time, which added to its prestige. With the latest land acquisitions, the course was further developed, making it one of the top golfing destinations globally.
Muirfield is home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, making it one of the most historical golf clubs in the world. The Ryder Cup took place once in 1973. This has made the course witness many iconic tournaments, marking its reputation as one of the finest links courses in the UK and Ireland.
Muirfield Golf Club Facts
| Location | Gullane, East Lothian |
| Length | 7,245 yards |
| Par | 71 |
| Designed by | Old Tom Morris, Harry Colt, Tom Simpson, Martin Hawtree |
| Hosted Ryder Cup | 1973 |
| Established | 1891 |
| Where to stay | East Lothian |
4. K Club – Ryder Cup Course
The K Club, a premier golf resort in Ireland, gained worldwide recognition when it hosted the Ryder Cup in 2006, becoming one of the best Ryder Cup courses in history. It has since become a top destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide, with many considering it one of the finest golf break destinations in Europe.
The Ryder Cup Course at The K Club was the first Irish venue for the event, and it saw Europe clinch a record-equalling victory. The course is a stadium-style resort layout, spanning over 7,300 yards and is known to be one of Ireland’s most challenging inland courses, making it a must-play for avid golfers.
The K Club boasts the Palmer North Course, a challenging inland layout on the Emerald Isle that many golfers consider to be the most difficult. With two championship golf courses, luxurious five-star accommodations, and a great location just a short drive from Dublin, The K Club has become a must-visit destination for golfers planning an Irish golf break.
The K Club Palmer North Course Facts
| Location | Straffan, Co. Kildare |
| Length | 7,350 yards |
| Par | 72 |
| Designed by | Arnold Palmer |
| Established | 1991 |
| Hosted Ryder Cup | 2006 |
| Where to stay | Dublin Area |
5. Medinah Country Club
Medinah Country Club, founded in 1924, is a distinguished private country club located 25 miles west of Chicago, known for its three world-class 18-hole golf courses. The club was established to create the finest country club in America, and the first course, No.1, was opened in 1925, followed by No.2 in the following year.
The no. 3 course was originally designed for the Medinah ladies and opened in 1928. The No.3 course has undergone many changes, hosting three US Opens and the 1999 PGA Championship, where Tiger Woods won his fifth major.
In 2012, the 39th Ryder Cup was held at Medinah, considered one of the most remarkable events in Ryder Cup history. Medinah Country Club is widely recognized as one of the best golf courses in Chicago.
Medinah Country Club Facts
| Location | Medinah, Illinois |
| Length | 6,210 yards |
| Par | 72 |
| Designed by | Richard G. Schmid |
| Established | 1924 |
| Hosted Ryder Cup | 2012 |
| Where to stay | Medinah |
6. Ocean Course Kiawah
Kiawah Island Golf Resort is located in South Carolina. It has importance as a top golfing destination, with five exceptional courses that attract golfers from all over the world. The resort’s Ocean Course is the highlight, having previously hosted major tournaments and the Ryder Cup.
Designed by Pete and Alice Dye, this course is renowned for its challenge, with Atlantic winds adding to the difficulty. The Ocean Course has ten holes along the coastline and eight parallel inland, making it one of the world’s most spectacular courses and a desirable destination for golf enthusiasts.
Golf Digest named it the best course in South Carolina, and GOLF Magazine ranks it third. It’s absolutely one of the best golf courses in America. Its hosting of the Ryder Cup is just one of many reasons why Kiawah Island is a must-visit for golfers.
Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Facts
| Location | Kiawah Island, Charleston, USA |
| Length | 7,356 yards |
| Par | 72 |
| Designed by | Pete Dye |
| Established | 1991 |
| Hosted Ryder Cup | 1991 |
| Where to stay | Kiawah Island Resort |
7. Pinehurst, No.2 Course
The Pinehurst No. 2 Course is a truly remarkable golf course that has played host to numerous prestigious championships in golfing history. Designed by the renowned golf course architect Donald Ross and opened in 1907.
This 18-hole championship course is located in Pinehurst, North Carolina. It has been the site of many of golf’s most important events, including the Ryder Cup, the US Open on three occasions, and a PGA Championship.
The Pinehurst Resort has over nine golf courses and offers luxurious accommodation options and top-class amenities, making it one of the world’s finest golf resorts. This charming corner of North Carolina is a mecca for golf enthusiasts who enjoy the world-renowned Pinehurst No. 2 Course and other incredible golf courses the resort offers.
Pinehurst, No.2 Course Facts
| Location | North Carolina, USA |
| Length | 7,588 yards |
| Par | 70 |
| Designed by | Donald Ross |
| Established | 1907 |
| Hosted Ryder Cup | 1951 |
| Where to stay | Pinehurst Resort |
8. Champion Course at PGA National
Champion Course at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, is a true golf lover’s paradise located just 90 minutes north of Miami International Airport. This makes it an ideal destination for UK visitors looking to experience the ultimate Florida golf resort.
This course is renowned for being the home of the PGA of America. It also holds an impressive selection of five championship golf courses. This includes The Champion, which is widely considered to be one of the best courses in the United States. The Champion course has a rich history of hosting prestigious events like the Ryder Cup and PGA Championship.
Aside from The Champion, the resort offers four other championship golf courses, including The Fazio, The Match, The Palmer, and The Estate, which are all beautifully designed to test golfers of all skill levels while showcasing stunning natural landscapes and breathtaking views.
The Champion course is particularly notable as a top-class tournament venue, hosting the 1983 Ryder Cup matches and the 1987 PGA Championship. The course’s closing holes are famously known as ‘The Bear Trap’ and are considered among the most challenging in Florida.
Champion Course at PGA National Facts
| Location | Miami, Florida |
| Length | 7,045 yards |
| Par | 72 |
| Designed by | Tom Fazio, George Fazio, Jack Nicklaus |
| Established | 1981 |
| Hosted Ryder Cup | 1983 |
| Where to stay | Miami |
9. Gleneagles, PGA Centenary Course
The PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles is a true delight for golfers and nature lovers alike. The course boasts stunning views of the Perthshire straths, Grampian Mountains, and Trossachs.
It was designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus and opened for play in 1993 under the name Monarch. Nicklaus himself described it as “the finest parcel of land in the world I have ever been given to work with”.
One of the unique features of the PGA Centenary Course is its combination of Scottish and American course design elements. The course is a modern classic and has been made rather than placed, with rolling banks of rough and broad lush fairways. It measures almost 7,300 yards from the back tees, making it the longest inland course in Scotland.
It hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup. It was a challenging course to design, even for Nicklaus, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest golf architects in history. Despite the challenges, the result is a masterpiece that combines the best of Scottish and American golf course design.
Gleneagles, PGA Centenary Course Facts
| Location | Perthshire, Scotland |
| Length | 7,296 yards |
| Par | 72 |
| Designed by | Jack Nicklaus |
| Established | 1993 |
| Hosted Ryder Cup | 2014 |
| Where to stay | Gleneagles Resort |
Conclusion
The Ryder Cup is one of the world’s most prominent events. It has been played on some of the most outstanding courses in the world. This results in some of the most memorable events in golf history.
In this article, we have explored 9 of the best Ryder Cup courses throughout history. From the classic Moortown Golf Club to the modern-day marvel that is the Celtic Manor Golf Resort, each course has its own unique characteristics and challenges that have helped shape the tournament’s history.
Other courses on the list include Muirfield Golf Club, The K Club – Ryder Cup Course, and more. These courses have played an important part in the tournament’s rich history.
FAQs
Which course has hosted the most Ryder Cups?
The PGA National Course at The Belfry in England has held the most Ryder Cups. The Ryder Cup has been held at the Belfry four times: in 1985, 1989, 1993, and 2002. The course has also held the European Tour’s British Masters and the Women’s British Open.’
How is the Ryder Cup course chosen?
The Ryder Cup is administered by two organizations, the PGA of America and Ryder Cup Europe. The organizations alternate in selecting host venues for the tournament.
How many courses are at the K Club?
The famous golf course designer Arnold Palmer made two amazing parkland golf courses at The K Club. These courses offer a truly unique way to play golf. The quality and design of these courses are famous all over the world.
What course is the 2023 Ryder Cup?
The Marco Simone Golf & Country Club will host the 2023 Ryder Cup tournament. It is located just outside Rome. It will host Ryder Cup tournaments from September 25 to October 1, 2023.
This is a historic moment for both golf fans and Italy, as the country welcomes one of the world’s biggest sporting events to a prestigious venue.
- Read Also: Facts to Know About Ryder Cup Trophy
