One question I have is it seems the Franz restoration at Southern Pines is treated as some as way more over the top and critiqued than the one he did at Mid Pines. While I love SP and MP but having only seen both after the restorations, what might explain the different reactions to the work done? Does this say more about each course or about Franz's work?

Great write ups Will. Really enjoyed reading each one. Seems like you had a good experience so much underrated great golf in the area. Look forward to more articles like this in the future.

A great review and one of my absolute favorite spots. I could play there everyday.

Royal County Down, Ardglass and Cruden Bay. Should get RCD done next spring on a short 3 day trip. Would love to one day take the time and get to the far reaches of Scotland/Ireland for some off the beaten path gems.

Hey Will, I've really enjoyed reading through these posts. I love that you included notes about the towns, the pubs, and the history as well. I'm sure if I ever make that bucket list trip to Ireland I'll be coming back to read through them again!

My wife and I traveled all around England and Scotland for our honeymoon. She generously allowed me to play one round in the Heathlands (West Hill) and one near Edinburgh (North Berwick). While both were astounding, those experiences birthed my strong desire to return and see more golf in England. As an outsider, the depth and breadth of accessible, stellar, historic golf architecture seems extraordinary. I am 5+ years away from it, but here are some of the courses on my 'dream 40th birthday trip' across England. Would love any other members' feedback or additions on 'must' visits. Sunningdale (Old and New) Swinley Forest St. Georges Hill Woking Hankley Common Huntercombe Royal Worlington and Newmarket Aldeburgh Royal Cinque Ports Royal St. Georges St. Enodoc East Devon West Sussex

I haven't been but friends are getting married next summer in Ireland near Cork and Kinsale. I'm going to try to get in Ballybunion and Old Head. Have an in for Old Head. We'll see what needs to happen for Ballybunion.

I think Mid Pines is just about perfect in terms of its scale, it delivers dramatic shots and moments but also is supremely walkable.

Excellent read. I miss that place so much. I used to play MP 4-5 days a week when i lived in Pinehurst. One of the best walks in Pinehurst.

I'm dreaming of getting out west to Carne. The remote trek is intriguing to me...Machrihanish is also on the Scottish version of that list for me.