Nefyn and District Golf Club

Nefyn and District Golf Club (Morfa Nefyn, Gwynedd, Wales)

Nestled on the rugged coastline of the Llŷn Peninsula in North Wales, Nefyn and District Golf Club stands as a testament to the beauty and challenge that golf can offer. With its 27 holes spread across breathtaking cliff tops, every tee shot is accompanied by the vast expanse of the Irish Sea, creating a golfing experience that is as visually stunning as it is demanding. The iconic “Point”—a narrow strip of land jutting into the sea—hosts nine holes that are etched into the memory of every golfer who plays them, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and strategic golfing challenges. 

Here, at Nefyn, golfers don’t just play a round; they embark on a journey through one of the most scenic landscapes in the golfing world, where the roar of the ocean and the whisper of the wind are constant companions. Whether you’re teeing off amidst dramatic cliffs or following in the footsteps of golfing legends like Ian Woosnam, Nefyn offers an emotional connection to the game that few courses can match.

Key Details

• Location: Morfa Nefyn, Gwynedd, Wales
• Length: 6,138–6,548 yards (18 holes)
• Par: 71 (18 holes)
• Designers: J.H. Taylor (1933), F.W. Hawtree and A.H.F. Jiggens (1980s), Swan Golf Designs (recent changes)
• Established: 1907
• Notable Events: Hosted the Welsh Amateur Open Championship multiple times; featured in Visit Wales TV adverts; Ian Woosnam holds the club record with a 67

History and Significance

Nefyn and District Golf Club was founded in 1907 as a modest 9-hole course, born from discussions in the Ty Coch Inn, a pub nestled on the secluded Porthdinllaen beach. Its popularity led to an expansion to 18 holes in 1912, and in 1933, legendary golfer J.H. Taylor was commissioned to add a further nine holes and refine the existing layout, creating a unique 27-hole configuration. This setup allows golfers to play two distinct 18-hole courses or the full 27 holes, a feature that sets Nefyn apart.

The course’s dramatic location on the Llŷn Peninsula has made it a favorite among golfers seeking both challenge and scenery. The “Point” nine holes, played along a narrow peninsula with the sea on both sides, are particularly renowned for their exhilarating and intimidating design. In 2013, storms damaged the peninsula holes, flooding greens with saltwater, leading to an 18-month closure. The course reopened in April 2015 with nine redeveloped peninsula holes and two additional nine-hole loops, enhancing its appeal.

Nefyn has hosted prestigious events, including the Welsh Amateur Open Championship multiple times, cementing its status in Welsh golfing history. It has also been featured in Visit Wales TV adverts, showcasing its stunning coastal setting. Golfing great Ian Woosnam, a former World Number One, holds the club record with a score of 67 and ranks Nefyn among his favorite courses. Contributions from designers like F.W. Hawtree and A.H.F. Jiggens in the 1980s, and more recently Swan Golf Designs, have kept the course modern while preserving its natural charm.

Culturally, Nefyn is more than a golf course; it’s a cornerstone of the Llŷn Peninsula’s heritage, blending sport with the region’s natural beauty and history. Its cliff-top setting, with views of Anglesey, Snowdonia, and even the Wicklow Mountains on clear days, makes it a bucket-list destination for golfers worldwide.

Course Features

Nefyn and District Golf Club is a quintessential links course, with its 27 holes divided into three distinct 9-hole loops: the Front Nine (Yellow), the Point Nine (Blue), and the Back Nine (Red). The course is set along the dramatic Llŷn Peninsula, with holes weaving through dunes, along cliff tops, and across the narrow “Point” peninsula. The firm, fast fairways demand precise shot-making, rewarding run-up shots but punishing errant ones with thick rough or deep bunkers.

The course’s challenges are amplified by the ever-present coastal wind, which can shift direction and intensity, requiring golfers to adapt their club selection and strategy. Strategically placed bunkers and undulating greens add complexity, with the latter often proving difficult to read due to their speed and subtle breaks. The “Point” holes are particularly demanding, with narrow fairways flanked by the sea, where a mis-hit can send the ball into the water.

The scenic beauty is unmatched, with the Irish Sea visible from every tee. On clear days, golfers can see Anglesey, Snowdonia, and even the distant Wicklow Mountains across the sea. The “Point” offers the most dramatic views, with holes perched on a narrow strip of land, creating a thrilling and unforgettable golfing experience. Nefyn’s design balances risk and reward, making it a true test of links golf that captivates players with its natural splendor.

Signature Holes

Nefyn’s signature holes are among the most memorable in golf, particularly those on the “Point.” Here are four standout holes:

5th Hole (Par 3, 152 yards)

This breathtaking par 3 requires a tee shot from a narrow outcropping 50 feet above Cable Bay. The green sits below, framed by crashing waves, demanding pinpoint accuracy. The wind can wreak havoc, and the small green offers little margin for error, making this hole a test of both skill and nerve.

12th Hole (Par 4, 475 yards)

Marking the start of the “Point,” this par 4 features a blind downhill tee shot over a rise, followed by a blind approach over a hill, footpath, and a 100-foot sinkhole. A free drop is offered if the ball lands in the sinkhole, but avoiding it requires careful strategy, making this hole a thrilling challenge.

13th Hole (Par 4, 405 yards)

A dramatic par 4, the 13th demands a drive over a bay inlet to an oblique fairway, with the sea threatening hooked shots. The green, surrounded by rock formations, requires a precise approach. Its stunning setting and high stakes make it a favorite among players.

18th Hole (Par 4, 324 yards)

This short par 4 concludes the round with a fairway squeezed between cliffs and a ridge, the sea looming to the right. The small, undulating green ensures a challenging finish. Completing this hole feels like the culmination of an epic coastal adventure.

Why Visit

Nefyn and District Golf Club offers an unparalleled golfing experience, blending natural beauty, historical significance, and a unique challenge.

• Unmatched Scenery: Every hole boasts views of the Irish Sea, with cliffs, dunes, and distant mountains creating a breathtaking backdrop. The “Point” holes, with the sea on both sides, are often compared to Pebble Beach for their visual impact.

• Unique Golfing Challenge: The 27-hole layout, especially the “Point,” tests golfers with wind, blind shots, and narrow fairways. It’s a course that rewards strategy and resilience, offering a memorable test for players of all levels.

• Historical and Emotional Resonance: Playing where legends like Ian Woosnam have competed, and where the course has been featured in Visit Wales adverts, connects golfers to a rich legacy. As one reviewer noted, “It’s a bucket-list course you won’t forget”.

• Practical Benefits: The club offers a welcoming atmosphere, with a clubhouse serving local cuisine, practice facilities, and a pro shop. Nearby attractions like Porthdinllaen beach and Nefyn village enhance the visit, making it ideal for a golfing holiday.

A round at Nefyn is more than golf; it’s an immersive experience in one of the world’s most stunning settings.

Facilities

Nefyn and District Golf Club provides comprehensive facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

• Clubhouse: The clubhouse is a welcoming hub, featuring a well-stocked bar and a restaurant serving a variety of snacks and bar meals, often with local flavors. It also offers banquet facilities for events and locker rooms for convenience.

• Practice Areas: The club boasts a 3-bay floodlit driving range, six additional open bays, a short-game area with bunkers, a putting green, and a practice hole. These facilities, open year-round, support skill development, with tuition available from resident professional John Froom.

• Services: Club rental, carts (£35), and pull-carts are available. The pro shop provides golfing essentials and expert advice, ensuring all needs are met.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Nefyn and District Golf Club, Lon Golff, Morfa Nefyn, PWLLHELI, Gwynedd, LL53 6DA
• Phone: 01758 720 966
• Email: secretary@nefyn-golf-club.co.uk
• Website: Nefyn Golf Club
• Directions: From Manchester or Liverpool airports (about 3 hours), take the M56 westbound, join the A55 towards Bangor, exit at the A499 towards Pwllheli, and follow signs for Morfa Nefyn. Public transport options include trains to Bangor or Pwllheli, followed by bus or taxi to Nefyn.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking is available.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

• Booking Process: Book online at Nefyn Golf Club or contact the club at 01758 720 966 or secretary@nefyn-golf-club.co.uk. Advance booking is recommended.
• Requirements: Smart casual attire is required; no handicap certificate is typically needed.

Nearby Attractions

The Llŷn Peninsula, home to Nefyn and District Golf Club, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage, perfect for enhancing your golfing getaway. From historic castles to serene beaches, the region offers something for everyone, whether you’re a golfer or traveling with companions.

• Royal St David’s Golf Club: A challenging links course in Harlech, set against the backdrop of Harlech Castle, offering a world-class golfing experience for enthusiasts.
• Caernarfon Castle: A majestic medieval fortress and UNESCO site, showcasing Wales’ rich history with its imposing walls and towers, ideal for history lovers.
• Snowdonia National Park: A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring Mount Snowdon, hiking trails, and stunning landscapes that showcase Wales’ natural splendor.
• Porthdinllaen: A charming beach and harbor with the historic Ty Coch Inn, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a pint with sea views, steps from the course.
• Porth Neigwl (Hell’s Mouth): A dramatic beach known for surfing and rugged coastal scenery, offering a thrilling escape for adventure seekers.
• Nefyn Village: A quaint coastal village with local pubs, shops, and a warm Welsh welcome, ideal for experiencing authentic community culture.
• Plas Glyn-y-Weddw: A historic manor turned art gallery with beautiful gardens, offering a cultural retreat near the coast for art and nature lovers.
• Abersoch: A lively seaside village with sandy beaches, watersports, and vibrant dining, perfect for a fun day out or family activities.
• Portmeirion: A whimsical Italian-style village with colorful architecture and gardens, created by Clough Williams-Ellis, a unique cultural gem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much are green fees at Nefyn and District Golf Club?

Midweek: £46 per round, £60 per day; Weekend: £54 per round, £65 per day.

How do I book a tee time at Nefyn Golf Club?

Book online at the official website or call 01758 720 966 for reservations.

Is Nefyn Golf Club suitable for beginner golfers?

Yes, but some holes, especially on the Point, may challenge novices.

When is the best time to play Nefyn Golf Club?

Summer (June–August) offers milder weather and stunning coastal views.

What is the dress code at Nefyn Golf Club?

Smart casual attire, such as collared shirts and tailored trousers, is required.

What facilities does Nefyn Golf Club offer?

Clubhouse with dining, pro shop, driving range, putting green, and club rentals.

How do I get to Nefyn and District Golf Club?

Drive 3 hours from Manchester via A55/A499 or take a train to Pwllheli.

Are there other golf courses near Nefyn Golf Club?

Royal St David’s in Harlech, a top links course, is about 25 miles away.

What tournaments has Nefyn Golf Club hosted?

It has hosted the Welsh Amateur Open Championship and regional events.

Why is Nefyn Golf Club famous?

Its dramatic “Point” holes and stunning sea views rival global coastal courses.

Are there hotels near Nefyn Golf Club?

Yes, Nefyn and Pwllheli offer hotels, B&Bs, and cottages for visitors.

Can I join Nefyn Golf Club as a member?

Membership is available; contact the club for details and requirements.

What’s the weather like at Nefyn Golf Club?

Mild but changeable, with frequent rain and strong coastal winds possible.

Can I bring food to Nefyn Golf Club?

Personal food is generally allowed, but confirm with the club first.

What makes Nefyn Golf Club unique?

The “Point” nine, with cliff-top holes and sea views, is unforgettable.