K Club
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Hospitality, Leisure, Golf |
| Founded | 1991 |
| Founder | Jefferson Smurfit Group |
| Headquarters | Straffan , Ireland |
Area served | Ireland |
Key people | Michael Fetherston (owner, since 2020) |
| Products | Hotel, Golf courses, Restaurant |
| Owner | Michael Fetherston |
| Website | www |
The Kildare Hotel and Golf Club (commonly known as The K Club) is a premier golf and leisure destination located in Straffan, County Kildare, Ireland, just west of Dublin. Established on the historic grounds of the Straffan estate, the property includes the 1830s-built Straffan House. Previously under the ownership of businessman Michael Smurfit, the club changed hands in 2020 when it was purchased by Michael Fetherston.
History
In 1831, Hugh Barton of Barton and Guestier acquired the Straffan lands along with Barberstown Castle from the Henry family and commissioned the construction of Straffan House, which was completed a year later in 1832. The building, inspired by French chateau architecture and later enhanced with a bell tower, now constitutes the eastern wing of the present-day complex. The design is attributed to architect Frederick Darley.
The estate remained within the Barton family lineage, passing from Hugh to his descendants Nathaniel, Hugh Lynedoch, and ultimately Bertram Francis—each having held the position of High Sheriff of Kildare. The Bartons retained ownership until 1949 when Derick Barton sold the property to industrialist John Ellis.
Subsequent proprietors included film producer Kevin McClory, property developer Patrick Gallagher, and real estate entrepreneur Alan Ferguson. In 1988, the Jefferson Smurfit Group acquired the estate and transformed it into what is now known as The K Club, officially opening in 1991. After Jefferson Smurfit merged with Kappa Packaging and was later sold to Madison Dearborn Partners, Gannon and Smurfit privately purchased The K Club in 2005. In 2012, Michael Smurfit increased his stake by acquiring Gerry Gannon’s 49% share from NAMA for €40 million.
The club underwent a major change in ownership in 2020 when nursing home operator Michael Fetherston bought it for an estimated €65–70 million.
Restaurant
The Barton Restaurant is a fine dining establishment that received a Michelin star in both 1993 and 1994. This accolade was achieved under the leadership of head chef Michel Flamme.
Golf
Within the hotel grounds are two golf courses crafted by renowned designer Arnold Palmer. The Palmer North Course notably hosted the Ryder Cup in 2006, marking the tournament’s inaugural occurrence in Ireland. It also served as venue for the Smurfit European Open on the European Tour from 1995 through 2003 and again in 2005. The Palmer South Course hosted this event in 2004, 2006, and 2007. Additionally, the Palmer North Course was selected for the Irish Open in 2016, which was won by Rory McIlroy.