Mount Juliet Golf Club: Course Review, Green Fees, Tee Times and Key Info

Mount Juliet Key Information

The magnificent course that the Golden Bear built on the Mount Juliet Estate in quiet County Kilkenny during Ireland’s 1990s top-end course-building frenzy is now over 30 years old.

It provides a truly majestic setting for the game and has matured extremely well over the course of three decades. Tranquil, beautiful and at times generously open, but with holes that are beautifully framed, this really is one of Ireland’s – and indeed the UK&I’s - very best modern parkland layouts.

Many professional events have visited Mount Juliet, including the Irish Open three times in the 1990s and the WGC–American Express Championship twice, with Tiger and Ernie the victors. The Irish Open returned in 2021 for the first time in 26 years.

Magnificent beech trees and oak line the perfectly manicured fairways, and as is so often the case at a Nicklaus course, water is a regular feature and, indeed, challenge. It's undoubtedly one of the best golf courses in Ireland and also features in our UK&I Top 100 courses rankings.

Yet despite its tree-lined nature, there is also a great feeling of space at Mount Juliet where the course occupies part of a vast 500-acre estate.

Standout holes include the short 3rd, which is protected by both a natural stream and a lake, the long 10th, where a copse of trees gives golfers two distinct choices for their route to the green, and the 16th, where the unusual walled green is almost entirely encircled by sand.

The closing pair bring water to the fore once more, especially if your miss is left, as the 17th and 18th – a sizable par 5 and more-than-sizable par 4 respectively – play either side of the same large lake.

Many fine parkland courses were created in Ireland shortly before and during the time of the Celtic Tiger boom, but few can rival Mount Juliet for both setting and strength of test.

What The Top 100 Panel Said

Gordon Ross

As is often the case with parkland courses, the views are more ‘pleasant’ than ‘dramatic’ due to the inland settings. This is very much the case at Mount Juliet. Many holes are tree-lined and quite secluded from others, some are more open. The setting is quite rural so it is definitely a relaxing place to enjoy a game.

Shane Santry

The fairways were generous, in good condition and well-defined visually. The rough is not punitive and while the ball may sit down, there is usually a clear shot to the green. It's the best course in the area and amongst the best parkland courses in the country. You feel like you are the only golfer on the premises from when you start your round.

Mount Juliet location

Mount Juliet Green Fees

Book tee-times at Mount Juliet direct (opens in new tab)

Best Courses Near Mount Juliet

(opens in new tab)

DUNDRUM (opens in new tab)
It may be a long way to Tipperary, but it’s worth the drive if you want to enjoy a round of golf on this scenic parkland course close to the River Multeen in the next county to Kilkenny. Designed by Ryder Cup winner Philip Walton in the mid-1990s, it’s a proper test from the blues but far more manageable from the forward tees. There is excellent accommodation on site, too.

(opens in new tab)

THE HERITAGE (opens in new tab)
The Heritage, an hour to the north of Mount Juliet, represents the cream of County Laois’ golf. It’s the handiwork of Seve Ballesteros and Jeff Howes. The Slieve Bloom mountains form the picturesque backdrop to a relatively easy-walking course. Water comes into play on ten holes, and the course can really bare its teeth off the back tees.

Best Places To Stay Near Mount Juliet

Mount Juliet Estate -  Book now at Booking.com (opens in new tab)
The whole estate at Mount Juliet covers a vast 500 acres in Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny. The historic Georgian Manor House and chic, sophisticated Hunters Yard both offer luxurious five-star accommodation on site. There are two fine restaurants too - the Michelin-starred Lady Helen in the Manor House, geared up for fine dining, and the Hound Restaurant in Hunters Yard, which offers quality dining in a relaxed setting.

Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny - Book now at Booking.com (opens in new tab)
Newpark Hotel is is ten-minute walk from the centre of Kilkenny and about 11 miles from Mount Juliet. The house is set in 40 acres of parkland and beautiful gardens, with a stunning outdoor infinity pool, a hot tub and an Aveda spa. The leisure club offers an indoor pool, a spacious sauna, and a steam room.

Mount Juliet Gallery

Image 1 of 5

MOUNT JULIET HISTORICAL TOP 100 RANKING UK&I

• 2021/22 - 88
• 2019/20 - 81
• 2017/18 - 77
• 2015/16 - 82
• 2013/14 - 83
• 2011/12 - 82
• 2009/10 - 71

Frequently Asked Questions