It was established as a private club in 1921[2] by Sir Stanley Cochrane.

Woodbook was first affiliated to the Golfing Union of Ireland (GUI) in 1926.

[3] Sir Stanley had previously indulged his enthusiasm for cricket at Woodbrook, a fact that is still reflected in the pavilion style clubhouse and the cricket bell which tolled the start and finish of play and now hangs in the bar.

It was also the first host of the revived Irish Open in 1975.

Woodbrook has also hosted the Irish PGA Championship on six occasions (1977, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1990 and 1991).