Discover the Best Golf Courses of the Causeway Coast of Northern Ireland in 2024
The Causeway Coast of Northern Irelandhttps://www.causewaycoast.holiday/culture/is-ireland-part-of-the-uk, a golfer’s paradise, is home to some of the world’s most spectacular and challenging golf courses in northern Ireland. From the awe-inspiring Royal Portrush Golf Club to the hidden gems of Galgorm Castle, Ballycastle, and Castlerock Golf Club, this small region offers a remarkable golfing experience for enthusiasts of all levels. But what makes these courses so special, and how can you make the most of your golf trip to this beautiful part of the world?
In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the best golf courses on the Causeway Coast and further afield in Northern Ireland to uncover hidden gems that deserve recognition and share valuable tips on planning your next golf trip. We will also introduce you to some of the most notable Northern Irish golfers who have left their mark on the sport. So, grab your clubs and let’s tee off on this exciting adventure!
Key Takeaways
- Discover world-class courses like Royal County Down and Royal Portrush with stunning views and thrilling experiences.
- Explore hidden gems such as Belvoir Park Golf Club, Castlerock Golf Club or Galgorm Castle Golf Club for a unique golfing experience.
- Enjoy your trip to Northern Ireland with the help of convenient transportation options, accommodation choices, tee time booking services, and get inspired by successful local players Rory McIlroy & Graeme McDowell!
Top Golf Courses On The Causeway Coast & Northern Ireland
Boasting nearly 100 golf courses, Northern Ireland is a haven for golf enthusiasts. The region offers a diverse range of world-class golf courses, each with its own unique charm and challenge. Some of the best golf courses in Northern Ireland include:
- Royal County Down
- Royal Portrush golf club
- Malone golf club
- Lough Erne
- Ardglass golf club
There is truly something for every golfer to enjoy in Northern Ireland.
Embarking on a golf trip to Northern Ireland, golfers will encounter famous courses like:
- Ardglass Golf Club
- Portstewart golf club
- Castlerock golf club
- Ballycastle Golf Club
- Royal Belfast Golf Club
Best Golf Courses On Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast
Each of these world class courses offers a truly unforgettable experience, with stunning natural settings, immaculate greens, and challenging holes that will test your skills and leave you wanting more.
Royal Portrush Golf Club
The legendary Royal Portrush Golf Club, home to the Dunluce Links and Valley Links courses, is another must-visit destination on any golf trip to Northern Ireland. Designed by the brilliant Harry Colt, the Dunluce course offers an exhilarating and rewarding golfing experience, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the hills of Donegal.
Recent modifications to the Dunluce course, such as the introduction of two new holes designed by Martin Ebert, have bolstered its standing as one of the world’s top courses. Scheduled to host The Open again in 2025, Royal Portrush is a true testament to the quality and prestige of golf in Northern Ireland.
Portstewart Golf Club
Portstewart Golf Club offers the chance to play on not just one, but three fantastic 18-hole courses. The club is renowned for its stunning views and dramatic tee shots, earning it a well-deserved reputation as one of the best golf courses in Northern Ireland. In 2017, Portstewart proudly hosted the Irish Open, further cementing its status as a top golfing destination.
Each of the three courses at Portstewart offers its own unique challenge and charm. The Strand Course is the jewel in the crown, known for its undulating fairways, dune-covered hills, and views over the Atlantic Ocean. The Riverside Course, also designed by Harry Colt, offers a more relaxed round with a spectacular tumbling links layout.
No matter which course you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable round at Portstewart Golf Club.
Castlerock Golf Club
For those seeking a challenging links course amidst majestic towering dunes, Castlerock Golf Club is the perfect destination. This hidden gem provides golfers with a unique experience, as they navigate its narrow fairways and take in the beautiful scenery that surrounds the course.
The course at Castlerock offers a true test of skill, with plenty of pot bunkers and fast greens that demand precision and control. As you play, you’ll be captivated by the stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside, making this course a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast exploring Northern Ireland.
Malone Golf Club
Nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland, Malone Golf Club offers golfers a truly unique 27-hole parkland course experience. With stunning views of the lake, lush mature trees, and thrilling water holes, Malone is a golfer’s paradise, providing an excellent alternative to the coastal links courses.
The 18th hole at Malone Golf Club is particularly memorable, as it leads you back down to a charming clubhouse built on the ruins of a 13th-century castle. The course itself is a rewarding test of golf, with each hole meticulously designed to challenge and delight golfers of all abilities.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this picturesque parkland course on your golf trip to Northern Ireland.
Royal Belfast Golf Club
Established by Thomas Sinclair and later redesigned by Harry Colt, Royal Belfast Golf Club is Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious golf club. With its excellent course conditions, stunning surroundings, and breathtaking views of Belfast Lough and the Antrim plateau, Royal Belfast is one of the best parkland courses in Ireland..
The par 70 course at Royal Belfast challenges golfers with its quick greens, dog legs, and a few lengthy uphill par 4s. As you play, you’ll be captivated by the stunning golfing views of Belfast Lough and the Antrim plateau, making this course a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast exploring Northern Ireland.
Best Golf Courses in Northern Ireland
Ardglass Golf Club
Located just a few miles along the coast from Royal County Down, Ardglass Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers golfers a remarkable cliff-top course with breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and St. John’s Lighthouse. Not only does Ardglass boast a picturesque setting, but it also features the oldest clubhouse in the world, dating back to 1405AD.
The starting salvo of holes at Ardglass Golf Club will leave you in awe, as you tee off right on the water’s edge and aim for the green perched high in a rocky turret. Golf Advisor has listed the first hole of this course as one of the most thrilling uphill holes in golf. This truly exciting opening will certainly get you energized for your next stroke. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unique and memorable course on your golf trip to Northern Ireland.
Royal County Down
The world-class Championship course at Royal County Down, ranked 1st on Golf Digest’s biennial ‘World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses’ list in 2016 and 2018, is a must-play for any golfer visiting Northern Ireland. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mourne Mountains, this awe-inspiring course offers a stimulating and challenging round with its narrow fairways and ‘bearded bunkers.’ The signature hole, the par three 4th on the Championship Links, faces the majestic Mourne Mountains and provides an unforgettable golfing experience.
Beyond the Championship Course, Royal County Down also features the Annesley Links, a superb 18-hole links course catering to golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual golfer, Royal County Down is the perfect destination to experience the true essence of Northern Irish golf.
Clandeboye Golf Club
Located just a short drive east of Belfast, in Bangor, Clandeboye Golf Club offers a championship Dufferin course that is sure to provide a thrilling golfing experience. Designed by Peter Alliss, the course is renowned for its beautiful coastal views and challenging layout, making it a favorite among golfers visiting Northern Ireland.
In addition to the superb Dufferin course, Clandeboye also offers a stay and play package, allowing golfers to fully immerse themselves in the Clandeboye experience. With its excellent course conditions, picturesque setting, and convenient location, Clandeboye Golf Club is a must-visit destination for any golf trip to Northern Ireland.
Lough Erne Golf Resort
For those seeking a premier parkland golf experience, look no further than Lough Erne Golf Resort. Set amidst the beautiful Fermanagh Lakelands, this stunning resort is home to the Faldo Course, designed by six-time Major Championship winner Sir Nick Faldo. The course offers a unique blend of challenging golf, beautiful scenery, and excellent course conditions, making it a must-play destination for any golfer visiting Northern Ireland.
In addition to the Faldo Course, Lough Erne Resort also offers the Castle Hume Course, another magnificent parkland course with breathtaking views and immaculate greens. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking for a relaxing round amidst stunning surroundings, Lough Erne Golf Resort has something to offer everyone.
Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Golf Courses in Northern Ireland
While the top golf courses in Northern Ireland often steal the spotlight, there are many lesser-known gems that deserve recognition. These hidden treasures offer unique golf experiences and beautiful settings that are often underappreciated, providing golfers with unforgettable memories and new challenges to conquer.
Two such hidden gems are Belvoir Park Golf Club and Galgorm Castle Golf Club. Although they may not have the same fame as Royal County Down or Royal Portrush, these courses offer incredible golf experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Let’s take a closer look at these lesser-known golf courses in Northern Ireland.
Ballycastle Golf Club
Nestled along the spectacular Causeway Coastal Route, Ballycastle Golf Club stands out as a unique blend of both links and parkland holes. This 18-hole marvel, draped along the coast of Ballycastle, offers golfers breathtaking views of Rathlin Island, Fair Head, and, on clear days, even the distant Scottish coastline.
The diverse terrain, encompassing dune lands and more mature parkland, challenges golfers of every skill level, making every swing a delightful test of skill amidst nature’s grandeur. A visit to the Causeway Coast for golfing is incomplete without experiencing the picturesque vistas and intriguing play offered by Ballycastle Golf Club.
Belvoir Park Golf Club
Belvoir Park Golf Club is situated in Co. This exclusive club offers a superior golfing experience. Antrim, is a hidden gem that offers golfers a classic parkland layout with stunning scenery and well-planned holes. Designed by the renowned Harry Colt, the course is characterized by its tree-lined fairways and challenging greens, providing a true test of skill for golfers of all abilities.
In addition to the excellent golfing experience, Belvoir Park also features a restaurant called The View, which offers panoramic views of the course and surrounding landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, Belvoir Park Golf Club is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to discover the hidden treasures of Northern Ireland’s golf scene.
Galgorm Castle Golf Club
Another hidden gem in Northern Ireland is Galgorm Castle Golf Club, boasting one of the most exquisite parkland courses in the region. Set on the historic and impressive Galgorm Castle Estate, which dates back to Jacobean times, the course offers a challenging golfing experience with lightning-fast greens and an extraordinary gin menu to enjoy after your round.
In 2020, Galgorm Castle proudly hosted the island of Ireland’s national Open for the first time and the ISPS Handa world invitational, showcasing its commitment to providing an exceptional golfing experience. With its rich history and challenging course, Galgorm Castle Golf Club is a must-play destination for golfers seeking a unique and memorable golf experience in Northern Ireland.
Planning Your Golf Trip to Northern Ireland
Planning a golf trip to Northern Ireland can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. From finding the perfect accommodation to arranging transportation and booking tee times, a well-planned golf trip can make all the difference in creating unforgettable memories.
This section provides useful tips and information on accommodation options, transportation, and securing tee times at popular golf courses in Northern Ireland. With a little planning and preparation, you’ll be well on your way to an incredible golf adventure in this beautiful region.
Accommodation
A wide variety of accommodation options are available for your golf trip to Northern Ireland. From luxurious golf resorts such as Roe Park Resort, Lough Erne Resort, and Slieve Donard Resort & Spa, to charming bed and breakfast options like Blackrock House in Portrush, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest your head after a long day on the greens.
Many of these accommodations offer golf packages, allowing you to combine your stay with rounds of golf at nearby courses. It’s always a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak golf season from April to October, to ensure you secure your preferred accommodation and tee times.
Transportation
A variety of transportation options make getting around Northern Ireland during your golf trip a breeze. Renting a car is a popular choice, as it provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. Top car rental companies in Northern Ireland for golf tourists include Avis and Europcar.
Alternatively, you can take advantage of the excellent public transportation system in Northern Ireland, which includes buses and trains operated by Translink. For a more luxurious experience, consider joining a guided golf tour or hiring a private transportation service to take you between courses. No matter your preferred mode of transport, Northern Ireland offers plenty of options to help you make the most of your golf trip.
Booking Tee Times
Part of your golf trip planning should involve securing tee times at popular golf courses in Northern Ireland. Peak season for golf in the region generally runs from April to October, with the busiest period from May to September when course conditions are at their finest.
When booking tee times, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the general booking policies of each golf course, which may include advance booking, proof of booking and payment, and specific cancellation policies. For example, at Royal County Down, it’s highly recommended to book tee times 12 months in advance to ensure you get the perfect spot. By planning ahead and researching booking policies, you can enjoy a stress-free golfing experience in Northern Ireland.
Notable Northern Irish Golfers
While exploring the incredible golf courses of Northern Ireland, take a moment to acknowledge some of the extraordinary golfers who have originated from this region. Two such notable Northern Irish golfers are Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell, both of whom have achieved incredible success on the world stage and inspired countless others to take up the sport.
This section delves into the careers and accomplishments of these two golfing legends, shedding light on their journey to the pinnacle of golf and their influence on the sport in Northern Ireland and beyond.
Rory McIlroy
Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy, an extraordinarily talented golfer, has attained remarkable success in his career. With four major championships under his belt, including:
- 2011 U.S. Open
- 2012 PGA Championship
- 2014 Open Championship
- 2014 PGA Championship
McIlroy has cemented his place among golf’s greats.
Beyond his impressive major victories, McIlroy has a deep connection to the golf courses of Northern Ireland, particularly Royal County Down, which he considers his favorite course in the world. As you experience the exceptional golf courses of Northern Ireland, you’ll undoubtedly feel the influence of golfing legends like Rory McIlroy, who have helped shape the region’s golfing landscape.
Graeme McDowell
Graeme McDowell, another accomplished golfer from Northern Ireland, has a stellar career boasting numerous tournament victories, including the 2010 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach. McDowell has also represented Europe in the Ryder Cup and enjoyed a highly successful amateur career before turning professional.
As you explore the golf courses of Northern Ireland, you’ll no doubt feel the impact of golfers like:
- Graeme McDowell
- Rory McIlroy
- Darren Clarke
- Padraig Harrington
These golfers have left their mark on the sport and inspired countless golf fans to follow in their footsteps. With a rich history of golfing excellence and a wealth of incredible courses to experience, Northern Ireland is truly a golfer’s paradise.
Summary
In conclusion, Northern Ireland offers golfers an unparalleled golfing experience, with a diverse range of world-class courses, hidden gems, and stunning landscapes that are sure to leave a lasting impression. From the iconic Royal County Down and Royal Portrush to lesser-known treasures like Belvoir Park and Galgorm Castle, there is truly something for every golfer to enjoy in this beautiful region.
So why wait? Start planning your golf trip to Northern Ireland today and discover the incredible courses, rich golfing history, and notable golfers that make this region a true golfer’s paradise. Your unforgettable golf adventure awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many golf courses are there in Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland is home to an impressive 103 golf courses, providing plenty of options for golfers of all levels.
Where is the most expensive golf course to play?
At Shadow Creek Golf Course, you can expect to pay a whopping $1,000 for a round of golf during peak season, making it the most expensive golf course in the world.
How many golf courses are there in the UK and Ireland?
The UK and Ireland boast an impressive 2,998 golf courses for you to enjoy.
What is the best time of year to plan a golf trip to Northern Ireland?
Experience Northern Ireland’s courses at their best by planning a golf trip from May to September – the perfect time for a memorable golf vacation!
What are some hidden gem golf courses in Northern Ireland?
Discover hidden gems of Northern Ireland’s golfing scene at Belvoir Park Golf Club and Galgorm Castle Golf Club, two courses offering unique experiences amidst stunning scenery.
