AR
One of Ireland’s most prestigious golf courses, The European Club, has been sold in a landmark deal reported to exceed €35 million.
Founded in 1987 by renowned course designer Pat Ruddy, the iconic 193-acre links at Brittas Bay in County Wicklow has long been regarded as one of the finest golf experiences in Europe. After years of maintaining private ownership, Ruddy has agreed to sell the property to Raymond and Nicky Conlan, former motor dealers, according to The Irish Independent.
The European Club has hosted a roll call of golfing royalty. Rory McIlroy and Padraig Harrington both claimed national titles at the course, while legends such as Tiger Woods, Gary Player, and Johnny Miller have also walked its fairways.
The European Club, Wicklow – Supplied Sotheby’s International
The sale was managed by Lisney Sotheby’s International Realty, who described the property as a rare opportunity with enormous potential. In their listing, they noted that the club’s exclusive character—featuring a small, private membership of around 80—offered the new owners flexibility in shaping its future.
“This gives a new owner the choice of remaining private, going ultra-private, or maximising commercial golf traffic through world visitor play and an enlarged membership,” the listing read.
While Ruddy had previously turned down offers, the deal marks a significant moment in Irish golf, potentially ushering in a new chapter for the club. Whether the Conlans opt to maintain the course’s low-key exclusivity or embrace a broader commercial vision remains to be seen.
Follow Golf Digest Middle East on social media
Main Image: Lisney Sotheby’s International
