Old Head Golf Links 4th Hole

The 4th hole at Old Head Golf Links, aptly named "The Razor's Edge," stands as one of the most photographed and revered golf holes in all of Ireland—and indeed, the world. This spectacular par-4 stretches 427 yards from the championship tees, playing southeast toward the historic Old Head of Kinsale Lighthouse, which dates back to 1853 and provides a stunning backdrop to this cliffside masterpiece.

What makes this hole truly extraordinary is its dramatic setting. The entire left side of the fairway clings precariously to the cliff edge, with the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the rocks 300 feet below. It's a hole that demands both courage and precision, where the penalty for a poorly executed shot to the left is not just a lost ball, but a watery grave in the Celtic Sea.

The hole represents a remarkable combination of majestic natural beauty and daunting architecture. From the moment you stand on the tee, with the lighthouse standing sentinel in the distance and the ocean roaring below, you understand why Old Head has earned its reputation as perhaps the most spectacular golf course in the world. The 4th hole, more than any other on the front nine, announces that you've arrived somewhere truly special—a place where golf is played at the very edge of the earth.

The nearly 50-yard deep green provides some forgiveness with length, but at just 18 yards wide, accuracy with your approach shot is paramount. A pair of fairway bunkers sits on the left side of the fairway, and while they might seem like hazards to avoid, they can actually be your salvation—catching your ball before it skips into the Atlantic below.

The course has never hosted a major professional championship or significant televised tournament but does host prestigious member events throughout its April-to-October season, including the annual Club Championship and Dun Cearmna Members' events.

The true "famous moments" at the 4th hole are the countless personal triumphs and heartbreaks experienced by everyday golfers. Every round produces its own drama, the player who navigates the hole successfully despite the intimidating setting or the golfer who watches helplessly as their ball drifts left toward the cliff edge.

These individual battles with one of golf's most thrilling holes have created memories that players carry for a lifetime, making the 4th hole legendary not through television coverage, but through the stories shared by those fortunate enough to have played it.

From the Tee
The 4th hole typically plays as a slight dogleg left, club selection off the tee depends heavily on your skill level and the ever-present wind conditions.

For long hitters consider a 3-wood or hybrid to keep the ball in play. Distance isn't your friend here—control is everything. Most players wil be hitting driver but this is one hole where you might want to grip down or take a smooth swing rather than your aggressive tee shot.

Old Head's weather is famously unpredictable, a crosswind from the right can help push your ball away from danger, while wind from the left requires extra caution and possibly aiming further right than feels comfortable.

Aim right of where you think you should, the lighthouse makes for a picturesque target, but using it as your aim point is a recipe for disaster. Aggressive players who flirt with the left side to set up a shorter approach are playing with fire. The fairway slopes noticeably from right to left, so balls landing on the right side will often feed back toward the middle. This natural contour is your ally—use it.

The pair of fairway bunkers on the left side can actually save you from the ocean. Don't be overly concerned about them; they're infinitely better than the alternative. Favour a fade or straight shot, a slight fade that starts down the right side and works back is ideal.

Approach Shot
After a successful drive your approach demands precision. The elevated green means club selection can vary by 2-3 clubs depending on wind direction and strength.

The green sits at a higher elevation than the fairway, coming up short still leaves you with a chance to chip on, missing long is far better than being left in a difficult position.

Commit to the right side of the green, the 18-yard width gives little margin for error, any miss right leaves you with a manageable chip, while left brings all kinds of trouble. Once you've factored in wind and elevation, commit to the shot. Tentative swings rarely succeed on this hole. With nearly 50 yards from front to back, don't be afraid to use the green's length. Better long than left or short.

Mental Approach

The psychological challenge of the 4th hole is as significant as the physical one. This is one of the most spectacular holes you'll ever play. Take it in, breathe, and appreciate where you are. The intimidation factor is part of the experience. Acknowledge the setting but don't let it dominate your thoughts, decide on your conservative strategy before stepping on the tee and stick to it.

Looking at the ocean guarantees you'll hit toward it. Pick your spot on the right side and commit. Local caddies often advise players to "trust the wind." If playing with a caddie, listen to their advice, they've seen this hole in every condition. A controlled, smooth swing is far more valuable here than trying to crush it.

It's okay to be nervous, every golfer, from touring professionals to high handicappers, feels the pressure standing on this tee. Stick to your normal routine to maintain some normalcy in an extraordinary situation, thousands have successfully played this hole, you can too.

Don't compound mistakes, if you hit a poor tee shot, resist the temptation to be heroic with your recovery. Take your medicine and move on.

Remember, the 4th hole at Old Head is about more than just your score. It's about experiencing golf in one of the most dramatic settings imaginable. Play smart, embrace the challenge, and you'll walk away with memories that last far longer than whatever you write on the scorecard.

❝An epic hole, right down to the lighthouse! The conditions that day were unbelievable: there was absolutely no wind and bright sunshine. The starter even mentioned that playing in those conditions was 'almost like cheating' since Old Head 'never plays like this.'

I approached the intimidating tee shot with a precise Driver trying to shape it well away from the cliff face, not very brave, but I found the fairway, leaving a mid iron into what seemed like a tiny target of a green.

Ok I was short and a bogey prevailed but It was a truly memorable experience given the rare, perfect weather.❞

Tony Roche - Senior Product and Contracting Manager

For golfers planning a trip to experience Old Head, the Cork and Kinsale region offers several excellent courses that can round out an unforgettable Irish golf holiday.

The premium parkland Cork Golf Course was designed by the legendary Alister MacKenzie (of Augusta National fame) and offers beautiful tree-lined fairways with generous routing over gently rolling terrain. The holes around the lake are particularly challenging and scenic, the course has a distinguished history and has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments.

Why play here: The MacKenzie pedigree, outstanding course maintenance, and the prestige of playing a European Tour venue.

Fota Island boasts three championship courses set in a spectacular location with beautiful scenery. The resort offers world-class facilities including luxury accommodations, making it an ideal base for a golf trip.

Why play here: Multiple course options, resort amenities and the ability to combine golf with luxury accommodation. The variety allows you to play different styles without changing hotels.

Castlemartyr is a gentle, modern parkland course set in the grounds of a stately home, now operating as a luxury hotel with self-catering apartments available. The course offers a more relaxed round in beautiful surroundings.

Why play here: Combine your golf with luxury accommodation in a historic setting. Good option for mixed groups where some prefer spa and leisure facilities.

Getting Around
Cork Airport is the closest international airport, approximately 30 minutes from Kinsale and 35-40 minutes from Old Head. Car rental is highly recommended for flexibility in accessing multiple courses.

Best Time to Visit - April through October

• May, June, and September typically offer the best combination of weather and fewer crowds
• July and August are busiest with premium pricing
• Early and late season (April, October) offer reduced rates but less predictable weather

This region of Ireland offers everything a golf enthusiast could want: dramatic coastal golf at Old Head, championship parkland courses, authentic Irish hospitality, and the stunning scenery of County Cork. Whether you're planning an intensive golf trip or a more relaxed holiday that includes sightseeing, the Cork and Kinsale area delivers an unforgettable experience.

Handicap: 4
Favourite Course: Old Head
My 'Expert' areas: St Andrews or Dublin
Best trip I've done: St Andrews Old Course, Kingsbarns & Dumbarnie Links
Where my next trip is to: Augusta to watch The Masters with my Dad

Give Sam a call on 0800 043 6644 to arrange your next golf break.