GOLF in Ireland’s county DOWN

Royal County Down Golf Club (Championship Links): Located in Newcastle, Royal County Down is one of the world’s elite links courses, consistently ranked in the global top 10 by Golf Digest. Founded in 1889 and designed by Old Tom Morris, with refinements by Harry Colt and others, this 18-hole par-71 course (7,186 yards) features rugged dunes, heather, gorse, and blind shots, set against the Mourne Mountains and Dundrum Bay. Host to major events like the Irish Open, it’s a bucket-list destination for its history, challenge, and stunning scenery. The 4th hole, a 228-yard par-3. This demanding one-shotter plays to an elevated green framed by bunkers, gorse, and heather, with the Mournes as a backdrop. Its length, wind exposure, and precision demands make it iconic and visually spectacular.
Ardglass Golf Club: Perched on a cliff edge in Ardglass, this 18-hole par-70 links course (6,279 yards), established in 1896, is known as the “Pebble Beach of Ireland” for its dramatic coastal setting. Seven holes hug the Irish Sea, breathtaking views and challenging play with small greens and windy conditions. Visitors praise its unique layout, affordable green fees, and welcoming clubhouse, making it a favourite for those exploring the Mourne coastline. The 2nd hole, a 179-yard par-3. Played from a tee box near a cliff edge to a green with the sea on three sides, this hole demands a precise shot with waves crashing below. Its scenic drama and challenge make it unforgettable.
Holywood Golf Club: Situated near Belfast, Holywood is an 18-hole par-69 parkland course (5,884 yards), founded in 1904 and associated with Rory McIlroy, who honed his game here. Its hilly terrain, tight fairways, and small greens offer a compact but challenging layout, with views of Belfast Lough. Visitors enjoy its historical significance, friendly atmosphere, and proximity to Belfast, making it ideal for a quick round. The 7th hole, a 155-yard par-3. This elevated tee shot plays to a small green guarded by bunkers, with panoramic views of the lough and city. Its connection to McIlroy and scenic challenge make it a highlight.
Scrabo Golf Club: Located in Newtownards, Scrabo is an 18-hole par-71 parkland course (6,400 yards), founded in 1907, set beneath Scrabo Tower with sweeping views of Strangford Lough. Its hilly layout, heathland elements, and challenging greens provide a varied test. Visitors appreciate its scenic beauty, well-maintained conditions, and value, making it a popular stop for those exploring County Down’s inland courses. The 9th hole, a 360-yard par-4. This dogleg requires a strategic drive to avoid gorse and a precise approach to a green with Strangford Lough as a backdrop. Its views and tactical demands stand out.
Bright Castle Golf Club: Located near Downpatrick, Bright Castle is an 18-hole par-70 parkland course (6,048 yards), opened in 1998, known for its scenic beauty and welcoming atmosphere. Set against the Mourne Mountains, it features tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and well-maintained greens, suitable for all skill levels. Visitors enjoy its tranquil setting, affordable rates, and proximity to St. Patrick’s heritage sites. The 15th hole, a 165-yard par-3. This picturesque hole requires a tee shot over a pond to a green framed by trees, with the Mournes in the distance. Its beauty and precision demand make it memorable.
Clandeboye Golf Club (Dufferin Course): Located in Bangor, Clandeboye’s Dufferin Course is an 18-hole par-71 parkland/heathland layout (6,767 yards), designed by William Renwick in 1970. Host to professional events, it features tree-lined fairways, elevated greens, and views of Belfast Lough. Visitors praise its championship quality, modern facilities, and the less demanding Ava Course as an alternative, making it ideal for golfing groups. The 12th hole, a 405-yard par-4. This dogleg left requires a precise drive to avoid trees and a well-guarded green, with lough views adding scenic appeal. Its strategic challenge is a visitor favourite.
$$$Dublin

County Down:

Ireland’s county Down offers a mix of historic sites and scenic landscapes, with Downpatrick’s Saint Patrick Centre and cathedral providing insights into Ireland’s patron saint. The Mourne Mountains offer hiking trails with sweeping views, while Strangford Lough provides kayaking and wildlife spotting. Other attractions include the historic Tollymore Forest Park. Down is Ireland’s 12th largest county by size (2,447 square km) and fourth largest by population (553,261). Population peaked at 361,446 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 204,303, in 1911. In terms of hospitality, Down is Ireland’s 18th most visited tourist county with around 127,000 international visitors per year.

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