Kilmarnock (Hillhouse)
The Hillhouse loop, formerly part of the main course but now a standalone 9 hole layout, is an absolute treat. Played over similar terrain, indeed it intertwines with the Barassie Links, it comes in at just 2,888 yards from the white tees and has a par of 34.
There are many outstanding holes with the 2nd and 7th the two that stood out most for me. The former is a long, but downhill, par three played to a secluded green with a steep drop-off to the back left.
The latter is a dainty short par-four, aptly named 'Heather', that requires placement from the tee before you play over broken heathery ground to an undulating green protected by a pronounced bunker at the front. There are shades of the Annesley at Royal County Down at this beautiful hole.
There are other fine holes too on a layout that is very impressive in its own right. The 1st and 9th don't cover the most exciting ground but both have entertaining greens as do some of the other excellent par fours. The 3rd, 4th, 6th and 8th are all medium length par fours and each one has at least one moment that leaves you utterly impressed, most likely the green complex. The other short hole (the 5th) is also a lovely drop-shotter with some deceivingly placed bunkers.
The Hillhouse is much more than a relief nine.
Kilmarnock would certainly make for a superb day of golf. Few would be disappointed with a nine-hole knock in the morning on the Hillhouse followed by 18 on the Barassie Links after lunch.
Read the review of Kilmarnock (Barassie) here.
