Founded in 1913, Clones is a hilly parkland course that was extended to 18 holes last year. After nearly 75 years of playing the old nine in Hilton Park, the evolution from nine to eighteen holes last was undoubtedly a cause for celebration. The course is three miles from the town centre in the attractive County of Monaghan. It is situated on the limestone belt in Drumlin country with magnificent views of the Monaghan and Fermanagh countryside.

Mr Combe, an eminent golf architect from Lisburn, designed the course in 1913 for the princely sum of £5. The nine holes laid out then are much the same as they are today. The course is unique for an inland course in that it is built on the limestone belt and, as such, enjoys year round play. Clones has been renowned down the years for the quality of its greens.

Dr Arthur Spring, who designed the new layout, enhanced this reputation by the standard of the new, large sand-based greens which are up to championship standard.