Having a Whack at Wykagyl: A Review

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Discovering Wykagyl
2. The Practice Range Experience
3. Understanding East Coast Caddie Culture
4. Hole-by-Hole Strategy Guide
5. Course Design and Playability Analysis
6. The Clubhouse and Hospitality Experience
7. Membership Culture and Exclusivity
8. Performance Highlights and Caddie Impact
9. Dress Code and Attire Recommendations
10. Conclusion: The Wykagyl Experience
11. FAQs

Introduction: Discovering Wykagyl

Stepping onto the grounds of Wykagyl Country Club feels like stepping back into a golden era of golf. Founded in 1898, just seven years after Glenmuir first began crafting fine golf knitwear in Scotland, this prestigious club radiates history. Located merely an hour from the bustle of Manhattan, it was one of the first courses in upmarket Westchester County; the transition from city chaos to serene fairways is striking.

Upon arrival, the welcome is firm yet distinctly warm, characteristic of a classic members' club. The atmosphere is steeped in tradition, with a starter's plinth that serves as the gateway to a Tillinghast masterpiece. For a golfer who appreciates heritage, the immediate impression is one of understated excellence. It is a venue where the purity of the game takes precedence, setting the stage for a memorable round on the East Coast.

The Practice Range Experience

Before facing the first tee, a visit to the practice grounds reveals the club's commitment to quality. The chipping area is a particular highlight, offering a clear indication of how pure and true the greens will run on the course. It was delightful to see the beautifully cut chipping green flow seamlessly towards the first tee, a testament to the exceptional standards of the greenkeeping team. Just try not to skull any of the pristine Pro V1 practice balls bearing the Wykagyl logo onto the first—one way to attract glaring looks from members.

The range itself is well-appointed, with clear hitting areas, marked yardages and my personal favourite, a sign showing the correct divot pattern to avoid ticking off the greenkeeping team. However, visitors should note the distance limitations. The range is restricted to irons up to 175 yards, meaning a 6-iron is likely the longest club you will swing during warm-up. While you cannot unleash the driver, it is certainly superior to hitting into a net, allowing you to loosen up and find your rhythm before the round.

Understanding East Coast Caddie Culture

One quickly learns that caddies on the American East Coast are a breed apart. Strong and hardy, they practice "double bagging," a norm where a single caddie carries two sets of clubs, one on each shoulder, for the duration of the round. Considering our group carried light collegiate bags, one can only imagine the physical toll of carrying two full tour bags.

Our caddies, O'Neil and Beavis, were consummate professionals. At Wykagyl, it is common for caddies to serve the same member for decades. This longevity translates into an encyclopedic knowledge of the course, your swing and a genuinely close bond, with caddies being flown across the world to play with their members at their summer member clubs. They know every subtle break and hidden undulation like the back of their hands. Their expertise is not just a luxury; on a course of this calibre, it is an absolute necessity for navigating the complex greens and strategic layout.

Hole-by-Hole Strategy Guide

Navigating Wykagyl requires more than just a strong swing; it demands strategy. Here are key insights for managing the scorecard:

Hole 1 (Par 5): Do not be deceived by the yardage. A hidden stream runs just short of the green, making a go for the green in two risky. The smart play is to lay up, wedge on, and secure a birdie, which I was fortunate enough to achieve.

Hole 3 (Par 4): This 431-yard challenge is Stroke Index 1 for a reason. It is a spectacular test of golf that demands two high-quality shots—a fade off the tee and a draw for your second.

Hole 4 (Par 3): A stunning hole featuring a hanging green. Precision is paramount here, as anything short or long spells trouble.

Hole 9: Off the tee, aim for the right-hand side near the lonely tree. Finding the top tier is crucial; miss left, and you face a punishing uphill battle to save par.

Hole 11 (Par 3): A picturesque short hole framed by the signature Wykagyl tree, reminiscent of the classic tree on Sunningdale's 18th.

Hole 18 (Par 4): Widest fairway on the course but the most missed statistically by members due to the psychology of the water right and stream left. Swing easy and bring it home.

Course Design and Playability Analysis

The course was presented in immaculate condition, with vibrant green fairways sweeping through rocky brown rough patches and mature trees. The satisfying click of putter on ball across Tillinghast's pristine greens became a constant companion throughout the round. The topography is severe in places, particularly the undulations on the greens. However, the layout remains fair, rewarding good shots while punishing poor decision-making.

Wykagyl is a true walking course, which aligns perfectly with the traditionalist's preference for enjoying the game. The pace of play was refreshing, with our fourball completing the round in approximately four hours. The terrain is engaging without being exhausting, allowing players to appreciate the Tillinghast design features as well as the further improvements made by Coore and Crenshaw's upgrades started in 2006. The seamless flow from hole to hole and the distinct lack of crowding contribute to a rhythm that is often lost in modern resort golf.

These design principles echo the philosophy found on Scotland's finest links courses—strategic thinking over brute force, rewarding placement and patience. It is this shared heritage between Scottish golf and the East Coast's golden age designs that makes courses like Wykagyl feel like kindred spirits to those of us raised on links golf.

The Clubhouse and Hospitality Experience

The clubhouse is a beautiful blend of classic architecture and sporting history. Inside, memorabilia of golf greats and prestigious tournaments adorns the walls, reminding visitors of the club's storied past. The signature off-white walls and sanitaryware, tartan-inspired carpets and green colour scheme extends into the locker rooms, which offer sweeping views of the 9th fairway, a perfect spot to reflect on the front nine.

Hospitality here is refined and friendly. While members generally keep to themselves, the staff are welcoming. The halfway house is fully stocked, overlooking new tennis and pickleball courts. For refreshments, the "transfusion" appears to be the golfer's drink of choice in this region. We enjoyed these on the terrace after the round, accompanied by salty pretzels. Note that the club enforces strict etiquette: no phones on the table and no hats indoors including the covered terrace.

Membership Culture and Exclusivity

Wykagyl maintains an air of exclusivity that ensures a tranquil experience for players. Even during the week of the 2025 Ryder Cup, we had the course almost entirely to ourselves, encountering only three or four other groups. This speaks volumes about the strict membership and visitor policies that preserve the club's quiet atmosphere.
There are subtle distinctions between members and guests. For instance, we noticed visitors were served beverages in plastic glasses on the terrace, while members received proper glassware. Maybe it was a coincidence, maybe it was not. Rather than feeling slighted, these nuances reinforce the private nature of the club. It creates an environment where members can relax in privacy, and guests can feel privileged to share in the experience for a day.

Performance Highlights and Caddie Impact

I carded a 76 (+4) during our visit, which stands as my best score in at least a decade. I cannot claim full credit for this performance; the lion's share belongs to O'Neil, my caddie. His ability to read the severe green undulations and keep you in play saved our group an estimated 4 to 5 shots each.

When a caddie tells you a putt breaks two cups to the left, you trust them implicitly. Their local knowledge transformed what could have been a frustrating day on the greens into a personal best. For any visitor playing Wykagyl, taking a caddie is not optional advice, it is the single biggest factor in scoring well. They will also help you pronounce Wykagyl, which is said "Wike-a-gill".

Dress Code and Attire Recommendations

To fit in at Wykagyl, one must aim for understated elegance. The aesthetic is "country club chic"—premium, classic, and never loud.
The cool late September morning called for a fine merino golf sweater, the type of golf knitwear that has been Glenmuir's specialty since 1891. I had chosen the g.Knox merino sweater that morning, its lightweight warmth proved perfect for the crisp breeze rolling across the fairways, never restricting my swing yet keeping the autumn chill at bay.

For Men:

Opt for tailored comfort. A pair of g.Ross trousers provides a sharp silhouette. Pair this with a classic polo shirt such as the g.Silloth or g.Muirhead. Layering is key for the East Coast breeze; a g.Johnstone gilet offers warmth without restricting the swing. If the temperature drops further, a round-neck merino golf sweater like the g.Knox finishes the look perfectly, crafted from 100% Italian-spun Merino Wool, it offers that premium feel against the autumn air.

g.KNOX

$160

g.ROSS

$120

g.SILLOTH

$96

g.MUIRHEAD

$104

g.JOHNSTONE

$152

For Ladies:

Elegance meets function. The g.Misha polo combined with g.Kaley trousers or g.Phoebe pedal pushers creates a sophisticated look. A g.Rebecca gilet adds a stylish layer, and it is always wise to carry the g.Amira merino zip neck in the bag to combat any evening wind chill. Our collection of ladies' golf knitwear is designed with the same attention to natural fibres and Scottish craftsmanship that has defined our brand for over 130 years.

g.MISHA

$104

g.KALEY

$136

g.PHOEBE

$136

g.REBECCA

$152

g.AMIRA

$168

Conclusion: The Wykagyl Experience

Wykagyl Country Club offers a golfing experience that is difficult to fault. It combines an immaculate, historic course with the charm of old-school caddie culture. The layout is a joy to walk, the greens are a test of nerve, and the atmosphere is one of quiet prestige.

Despite the minor quirks of visitor hospitality, the day was defined by the joy of the game. Meeting gentlemanly caddies whom we would gladly host over the pond here in Scotland, playing a personal best round, and soaking in the East Coast heritage made for an unforgettable trip. It is a classic members' course that one could play every day without ever growing bored. If you get the chance to have a whack at Wykagyl, grab it with both hands.

Have you played any historic East Coast courses? We'd love to hear about your experiences share them with us on your social media of choice @glenmuir1891.