Another Place, The Machrie

Overview

Another Place, The Machrie occupies one of Scotland’s most striking links settings on Laggan Bay, Isle of Islay. The course sits among sweeping dunes with Hebridean sea views — including the Paps of Jura and nearby peaks — and has been reworked for modern championship play while retaining the wild character of a classic Scottish links. It is an island must-play for visitors seeking dramatic scenery, thoughtful routing and a full on-site resort experience.

History and redesign

The original Machrie was first laid out in 1891 by Willie Campbell. After decades of change the links underwent a thorough reimagining in the late 2010s under the direction of D.J. Russell (David J. Russell), producing a contemporary routing that threads through the dunes while improving playability and championship capability for today’s game. The course and new visitor accommodation were part of a major investment and reopening that prepared the venue to receive regular visitors once again. In 2024 the property was acquired by lifestyle hotel group Another Place, which has continued to develop the guest and golf offering.

Layout, length and playing characteristics

The Machrie is presented as a championship links that stretches to roughly 7,000 yards from the back tees and plays to par 72. The routing keeps the feel of a classic links while offering wider fairways than the earlier layout, more recoverable lines off the tee, and a variety of green complexes with run-offs and dramatic contours. The redesign purposefully reduces but does not eliminate blind shots, and it mixes drivable par 4s, strategic par 5s and memorable short holes to reward bold strategy as much as accurate execution. Four tee sets make the course accessible to a wide range of handicaps.

Distinctive features worth knowing

- Bunkering and greens: The Machrie’s new profile includes revetted “ecobunkers” — a construction that uses artificial revetment materials with seeded faces to create classic-looking bunkers that withstand the island’s weather. Greens are contoured with run-off space that encourages creative short-game choices.

- Practice and teaching: A covered driving range, short-game area with bunkers and a practice putting green are available to sharpen your game before teeing off. Lessons and short-game coaching are offered for players wanting a tune-up.

- Short and social golf: On-site there is a six-hole par-3 “Wee course” ideal for families, beginners or a quick warm-up, plus an 18-hole social putting course called “The Hebrides,” which mirrors the classic holes at a reduced scale for fun and accessibility.

Facilities at the club and resort

The Machrie is now part of a full-service hotel and activity hub. Accommodation comprises contemporary guest rooms, suites and lodges designed for golfers and non-golfers alike. On-site amenities extend well beyond the clubhouse — expect a pro shop, golf equipment hire, electric golf buggies, locker and shower facilities, restaurant and bar, and leisure extras such as an outdoor sauna and hot tub garden. The club hosts competitions and events throughout the season. These facilities make The Machrie especially convenient as a base for a short golfing break or a longer Hebridean escape.

Notable holes and playing tips

The Machrie’s routing is intended to be varied and playable in coastal wind. Several holes stand out as strategic tests — drivable par 4s that tempt the aggressive player, long par 5s that reward careful course management, and elevated greens with collection areas that demand precise iron play. Because wind and firm turf are always a factor, favour low, running approaches when conditions are blustery and respect the run-offs around the greens. Take advantage of the practice area before your round to dial in bunker play and feel for the firm, sandy lies typical of the links.

Who should play The Machrie

- Travelling golfers after a dramatic links experience, combined with comfortable on-site lodging and island activities.

- Players from the USA or England looking to combine authentic Scottish links golf with easy accommodation and practice facilities.

- Groups and mixed-ability parties: the four tee options, wider fairways and supporting short-course options (Wee course/The Hebrides) make it an excellent choice for groups with varied handicaps.

Getting there — practical travel tips for visitors from England and the USA

- By air: Islay has a small regional airport (Glenegedale/Islay Airport, ILY) with frequent short flights from Glasgow. The air link is the fastest option if you are travelling from the UK mainland; flights are typically 40–45 minutes. If you’re coming from the USA, the most common routing is an overnight transatlantic flight into a major UK hub (London or Glasgow), then a domestic connection to Glasgow and onward to Islay. Allow extra time for connections and weather-related delays.

- By ferry / car: Regular vehicle and foot ferry sailings operate between Kennacraig (Kintyre) and Islay (ports at Port Ellen or Port Askaig). Ferries are convenient if you prefer to bring a car or enjoy a slower, scenic approach; book vehicle spaces in advance in the summer months. Ferry timetables and seasonal variations are significant, so check sailings and book early for peak season travel.

- Plan extra travel time: Island logistics and weather can affect transfers, so schedule a buffer day at either end of your trip. Combining The Machrie with local whisky distillery visits, coastal walks and wildlife spotting makes a two- to four-day stay a popular option.

Booking, green fees and on-course services

The Machrie operates visitor tee times and packages; a full pro shop is available for equipment hire and purchase, and buggies are on-site for those who need them. If you’re planning a multi-course Scottish tour, contact the hotel/club well in advance to secure tee times, especially for groups and during summer months. Consider booking accommodation and golf together to simplify transfers and tee-time coordination.

What to pack and play considerations

Texture and weather define links golf here: bring a waterproof jacket, warm layers, windproof hat, spikeless or soft-spike shoes suitable for firm turf, and a rain cover for your bag. Tees can be firm and run-up shots are part of the strategy; carry a few extra balls — coastal winds and firm fairways conspire to make distances longer but scatter shots if the wind picks up.

Summary — why play The Machrie

Another Place, The Machrie is a modern links revival rooted in a storied past. The combination of championship-length routing, imaginative bunkering, varied holes, strong practice facilities and on-site accommodation makes it an excellent choice for travellers from England and the USA seeking a top-quality Hebridean golf break. Whether you want a bold, windy test or a relaxed links weekend with family-friendly options, The Machrie delivers a complete, island links experience.