The Old Course here was described by the late Herbert Warren Wind as "The St. Andrews of Ireland" and is likewise held in high esteem by architecture critics. Old Tom Morris did some design work, including at the 4th ("Klondyke") and 5th ("Dell"). In 1927, Alister Mackenzie took an entire year to redesign portions of the Old Course, leaving the 4th and 5th untouched. Then in 1999, the club engaged Martin Hawtree to oversee some other modifications.

The peak-season is from early May to the end of September, when the walking rates on the Old Course are €120 on weekdays and €135 on weekends. Other specials, same-day replays, and shoulder-season rates are available, while rates for the Castle Course range from €20 to €30.