County Kildare, Ireland
Palmer North is an Arnold Palmer-designed championship golf course located at The K Club in Straffan, County Kildare, Ireland. Ranked regularly among the top three parkland courses in Ireland, it stands as one of Europe's most spectacular layouts. The course has established itself as a premier venue, hosting the Ryder Cup in 2006 and serving as the home of the Irish Open in 2023, 2025, and 2027, along with eleven European Opens.
The course presents both charm and challenge, demanding a high standard of play from visitors. Notable holes include the 4th (Arnold's Pick), the 7th (Michael's Favourite), the 16th (Inis Mor), and the 17th (Half Moon). Palmer North has hosted numerous top professional golfers throughout its history, with the 2016 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open particularly memorable for Rory McIlroy's European Tour Shot of the Year performance on the course. The design emphasizes strategic play and showcases the natural parkland terrain, creating a test that brings out exceptional golf from accomplished players.
