There are sadly a fair few nine hole seaside courses, of which Abersoch is a prime example, which have been really spoiled by the addition of a secondary inland nine. Seahouses would be another. I have played the Broomfield at Montrose and would share Robin’s estimation: I always thought the old secondary course at Nairn (the Newton?) was the least distinguished second course of any major UK golf club.
So they can be found, if you really want, although there will always be one or two interesting shots to be played, whatever the overall standard…
Yes, when 9 holes added on non-links land it can detract, few do it well as they tend to simply bolt on a new nine.
This is of course difficult as less featured land means needs more artificial hazards which are difficult to meld with the existing on linksland.
Re. Nairn -
"The Newton" isn't really a "second course" in the usual way, as it was was designed (by James Braid) in 1926 specifically for the encouragement of family play to introduce youngsters/beginners to the game.
It is Par 29 over 9-holes with a yardage of only 1,634yds.
In essence a more formally presented "short course" to grow the pipeline of golfers up at Nairn.
As in other ways, Braid was innovative and well ahead of his time in this, as he was when designing the World's oldest "Pitch & Putt" at Southsea Miniature c.1912 (which BTW is still in existence).
"The Newton" has served its purpose admirably for almost a century (much like the "Childrens' Course" at Gullane, the inspiration for the new "Kid's Course" at Old Barnwell) and is now known as the "Cameron Course" (I believe after a Club benefactor).
Back to the original question, this may be moot as there is considerable work going on there now, but one "links" course that really disappointed (albeit on only one play) was the Cashen at Ballybunion...
(EDIT - Colin you & I must have been typing at the same time...great minds or fools?
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