Overview
Moate Golf Club sits on gently rolling parkland just off the M6 motorway, less than an hour’s drive from both Dublin and Galway. The 18‑hole, par‑72 layout stretches 5,936 m (championship length) and is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, legendary staff friendliness, and a blend of historic features that give the course a unique character. From April the clubhouse’s Par 3 Restaurant opens its doors, offering a balcony view of the 18th green and a menu of home‑cooked Irish fare, making the club a pleasant stop for families and groups alike.
History
Founded in 1900, Moate Golf Club has been a pillar of the Westmeath community for more than a century. The club moved to its present site in 1940 as a nine‑hole course and was expanded to a full 18‑hole layout in 1993. The modern clubhouse, built in 1997, reflects the club’s commitment to contemporary facilities while honouring its heritage. Throughout its history the club has amassed three All‑Ireland pennants and continues to celebrate milestones such as its 125‑year anniversary with a dedicated video page on the official site.
Course Design & Architecture
The course was laid out by Robert J. Browne (often listed as Bobby Browne), whose design philosophy blends natural parkland contours with strategic bunkering. Notable features include:
- A medieval Bull Ring near the 5th tee, a relic from the 12th‑century market that once stood on the site.
- A restored Lime Kiln and the “Soldiers Bunkers” dating back to the Jacobite wars, adding a tangible sense of Irish history to each round.
- Recent upgrades (2020‑2022) introduced expanded 3rd and 4th tee boxes and a redesigned 9th hole with a pot bunker that challenges even experienced players.
The course offers four tee colourings (Blue, White, Yellow, Red) with the following ratings and slopes:
| Tee | Par | SSS | Length (m) | Slope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue | 72 | 71 | 5,964 | 135 |
| White | 72 | 70 | 5,772 | 130 |
| Yellow | 72 | 69 | 5,636 | 128 |
| Red (Women) | 73 | 72 | 4,971 | 123 |
Facilities & Services
- Par 3 Restaurant – Open from early April, the restaurant serves a seasonal Irish menu on a balcony overlooking the 18th green. Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the clubhouse.
- Practice Area – A well‑maintained putting green and a dedicated pitching/chipping zone allow you to warm‑up before your round.
- Equipment Hire – Electro‑trolley €25, pull‑carts, and a full range of clubs are available for rent.
- Defibrillator – A life‑saving defibrillator is located in the clubhouse for visitor safety.
- Accessibility – The clubhouse and main pathways are wheelchair‑friendly, with level access to the reception and restaurant.
- Junior Programme – Golf lessons for juniors can be arranged by contacting the club; the club runs regular junior competitions during the summer.
- Special Offers – Monday “Member‑Guest” rate of €15 for members and €10 for guests (subject to availability).
What to See & Do
- Historic landmarks – While navigating the fairways you’ll encounter a medieval Bull Ring, a newly refurbished Lime Kiln, and the ‘Soldiers Bunkers’ dating back to the Jacobite wars.
- Clubhouse & dining – The Par 3 Restaurant, open from early April, serves lunch on a spacious balcony overlooking the 18th green. The bar offers a selection of drinks, and the pro shop stocks the latest clubs and apparel.
- Competitions – The club runs a popular Mixed Open Competition every Thursday from April to October. Played off the White tees (CR 71.5, Slope 130), the event welcomes visitors and societies, with a two‑player format that encourages camaraderie. The club also hosts a full calendar of internal championships throughout the summer.
Practical Information
Opening hours – The course is open during daylight hours. The clubhouse welcomes guests from 09:00 to 23:30.
Green fees
| Day | Fee (non‑member) |
|---|---|
| Monday‑Friday | €30 |
| Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holidays | €40 |
| Thursday Open Competition (April‑October) | €20 per player |
| Monday Member‑Guest special | €15 (member) / €10 (guest) |
Booking – Tee times for the Thursday Open can be booked online via the club’s visitor menu (book here) or by calling Anna in the shop (090 64 81271) during office hours. For other days, tee times are also available through GolfPass and GolfNow platforms.
Facilities – The golf shop is open year‑round, and the clubhouse is fully accessible for wheelchair users, with level pathways to the main entrance. Changing rooms, lockers, and a reception hall can host private parties and corporate events.
Location & access – The course is conveniently accessed from Moate’s Main Street, right beside the entrance to the Old Railway Station and the start of the Old Rail Trail Greenway. A Google Maps link pinpoints the exact location: Moate Golf Club on Google Maps.
Contact – Email moategolfclub@outlook.com or call 090 64 81271. The club’s friendly staff are happy to assist with tee‑time bookings, event arrangements, and directions.
Nearby Attractions
After a round, explore the Old Rail Trail Greenway, a 43 km path linking Athlone to Mullingar, or visit the historic Moate Museum housed in a former gaol. Within a short drive you can also reach:
- Abbey Blooms Botanical Gardens – a 20‑minute drive north, offering beautiful gardens and a café. [/abbey-blooms-botanical-gardens/]
- Belvedere House Estate and Jealous Wall – an 18th‑century mansion with extensive parkland, about 30 km away. [/belvedere-house/]
- Hill of Uisneach – the mythic “centre of Ireland”, a short 25‑km drive, ideal for a cultural walk. [/hill-of-uisneach/]
Moate Golf Club blends competitive golf, historic charm, and modern hospitality, offering visitors a quintessential Irish golfing experience in the heart of the Midlands.