Golf Courses to include on your Golf Break Package in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland boasts a collection of world-class golf courses, attracting enthusiasts from across the globe. Among the most prestigious is Royal Portrush in County Antrim, home to the Dunluce Links, ranked as the second-best course in Ireland and 15th globally. This iconic Harry Colt design, the only Irish course to have hosted The Open Championship, offers breathtaking ocean views and holds a special place for local heroes Darren Clarke and Graeme McDowell. Not to be outdone, Royal County Down in Newcastle, County Down, reigns supreme as the top-ranked course in Europe and fourth worldwide. Designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris, this three-time Irish Open host provides a stunning backdrop of the Slieve Donard Mountains and the Irish Sea, making it a personal favorite of Rory McIlroy.
Beyond these championship venues, Northern Ireland offers a diverse range of golfing experiences. Ardglass Golf Club in County Down provides spectacular views of the Irish Sea from every hole and is conveniently located just a short drive from Belfast. For a taste of history, Royal Belfast in Holywood, one of only six Irish courses with the "Royal" prefix, is considered the oldest in Ireland, dating back to 1881. In County Londonderry, Portstewart Golf Club features the highly-regarded Strand course, ranked third in Ireland. With golf played here since 1889, the course offers stunning Atlantic views and the unique "Thirsty Hollow" dunes.
Finally, for a luxurious golf getaway, Galgorm Castle Golf Club in County Antrim provides a unique experience. Home to the annual Northern Ireland Open, the course is nestled within the 220-acre grounds of the historic Galgorm Castle Estate. Golfers can enjoy luxury on-site accommodation and access to one of Europe's largest thermal spa facilities, making it the perfect destination for relaxation and recreation.
Our guide to playing the best Northern Ireland golf courses.
Royal Portrush Golf Club
Antrim
Rated 9.8 by 19 golfers (Read reviews of Royal Portrush Golf Club)
1 Night, 2 Rounds
- Bed and Breakfast
- 1 round at Valley Links
- 1 round at Castlerock Golf Club (Castlerock Golf Club)
Royal County Down
Down
Rated 10 by 4 golfers (Read reviews of Royal County Down)
3 Nights, 4 Rounds
- Bed and Breakfast
- 1 round at Royal Belfast Golf Club (Royal Belfast Golf Club)
- 1 round at Annesley Links, Royal County Down
- 1 round at Malone Golf Club (Malone Golf Club)
- 1 round at Belvoir Park Golf Club (Belvoir Park Golf Club)
Ardglass Golf Club
Northern Ireland
Rated 9.4 by 7 golfers (Read reviews of Ardglass Golf Club)
1 Night, 2 Rounds
- Bed and Breakfast
- 1 round at Royal Belfast Golf Club (Royal Belfast Golf Club)
- 1 round at Ardglass Golf Club
Royal Belfast Golf Club
Northern Ireland
Rated 8.8 by 7 golfers (Read reviews of Royal Belfast Golf Club)
1 Night, 2 Rounds
- Bed and Breakfast
- 1 round at Royal Belfast Golf Club
- 1 round at Malone Golf Club (Malone Golf Club)
Portstewart Golf Club
Antrim
Rated 9.4 by 17 golfers (Read reviews of Portstewart Golf Club)
1 Night, 2 Rounds
- Bed and Breakfast
- 1 round at Ballycastle Golf Club (Ballycastle Golf Club)
- 1 round at The Old Course
Galgorm Castle Golf Club
Northern Ireland
Rated 8.6 by 7 golfers (Read reviews of Galgorm Castle Golf Club)
1 Night, 2 Rounds
- Bed and Breakfast
- 1 round at Castlerock Golf Club (Castlerock Golf Club)
- 1 round at Galgorm Castle Golf Club
