Every golfer loves a great par-3 , and there ' s something magical about hitting a crisp wedge close to the pin on a short hole , or a towering hybrid to the green on a long one . Par-3 ' s are often the most picturesque holes on a course , and in many cases the most difficult ones . Whether it ’ s an elevated tee , a heart-pumping carry over water , a hidden green or one encircled by deep pot bunkers - it ' s often tricky to make par . What follows are 20 memorable par-3 ' s throughout the British Isles ( Scotland , England , Wales , Northern Ireland and Ireland ). Some have earned their reputation as original and influential holes , while others are just waiting to be played on your next golf trip away ...
Trump International Scotland - Par-3 , 3rd . PHOTO CREDIT : Brian Morgan .
HOLE 3 : SCOTLAND , Trump International , 205 yards . When it comes to picturesque par-3 ’ s , the 3rd hole at Trump International has to be up there with the very best . With its delightful green setting and backdrop of beach and ocean , the hole is sheltered by the surrounding dunes and the closest point of the course to the North Sea , as it laps against the sandy shoreline just a few feet from the green . www . trumpgolfscotland . com
HOLE 4 : SCOTLAND , Cruden Bay , 196 yards . This must-play Old Tom Morris design dating from 1899 , bursts into life at the enchanting 4th , named Port Erroll . Anything that reaches the putting surface is a triumph , as short tee shots are destined to be swallowed up by a steep false front that feeds into the hollow below . Anything long will require an awkward chip from the dunes . www . crudenbaygolfclub . co . uk
Cruden Bay - Par-3 , 4th . PHOTO CREDIT : David J Whyte .
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