Golf in Northern Ireland

Whether you are an experienced player or new to the game, Northern Ireland has golf courses to suit all levels. As well as two of the top ten ranked courses internationally - Royal County Down Golf Club and Royal Portrush Golf Club - Northern Ireland boasts a rich golfing history and a range of spectacular courses for visitors to choose from. With over 90 courses on offer, our perfect blend of links and parklands located across the country means that golfers and visitors alike can enjoy the tremendous offering no matter where they choose to stay.  

Beyond our world class courses, Northern Ireland has produced some of the finest golfers known to the sport; from legendary figures to homegrown favourites including Fred Daly, Graeme McDowell, Darren Clarke, Rory McIlroy, Stephanie Meadow and up-and-coming superstar Tom McKibbin. 

In addition to major professional tournaments, Northern Ireland hosts a range of Amateur, Open and Junior competitions. The current course record at Royal Portrush Golf Club was set by Northern Ireland’s very own Rory McIlroy during his amateur days, and highlights the tremendous talent on show during some of these lesser-known competitions. McIlroy played of a +4 handicap and shot a round 61 whilst playing in the North of Ireland Championship in 2005. You can view his scorecard which is on display in the club cabinet at Portrush.

For fun off the course, Northern Ireland has excellent facilities to enjoy that well deserved relaxing time at the 19th hole! Be sure to indulge in an excellent meal and sample the local tipples – like a smooth single malt, distilled just a few miles up the road from Royal Portrush Golf Club at the Old Bushmills Distillery or a refreshing pint of Guinness just hits the spot. As locals say “there’s eating and drinking in it”. After an hour or two at the 19th hole you’ll realise how the clubhouses, wherever you go, are the perfect way to end the perfect day!