Tourism Ireland has partnered with former rugby internaiotnal Rory Best to promote Ireland as a key destination for golfing holidays.
The campaign coincides with the 153rd British Open at Royal Portrush and includes an online video featuring Rory and golfer Olivia Mehaffey.
The promotion aims to reach nearly 5m British travellers through a collaboration with The Telegraph, encompassing digital and print articles.
The video showcases famous golf courses and highlights attractions such as the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in addition to the golf experience.
Approximately 10pc of adults in Ireland play golf at least once a year, contributing €717m annually to the economy and supporting 15,600 jobs.
The study by Golf Ireland and the R&A, conducted in 2023, found consumer spending in golf reached €703m, averaging €100 per person on the island.
Club memberships accounted for €143m, representing 20pc of all golf expenditure, while golf generated over €277m in annual taxes.
The return of The Open Championship to Royal Portrush is expected to provide a considerable economic boost, having generated over £100m in 2019.
The report identifies opportunities for growth in female participation and investment in infrastructure, alongside Ireland’s reputation as a world-class golfing destination.
The report shared: “Golf’s major economic role here, underscoring our sport’s ability to drive growth and create employment across Ireland. Golf in Ireland is an industry that has grown impressively since our 2017 study.”
Judith Cassidy of Tourism Ireland shared: “our latest partnership with Rory Best and The Telegraph will highlight Ireland as a leading golf destination to almost 5m potential British holidaymakers. The courses are spectacular, but they’re also picture framed by the fabulous surroundings we have in Ireland.”
