Royal Portrush Golf Club
Northern Ireland, Ireland
Overview
Royal Portrush Golf Club, located on the northern coast of Northern Ireland, was formed in 1888 as a nine-hole course and originally named ‘The Country Club’. Another nine holes were added a year later and today it is home to 36 holes of golf with the Valley Course and famous Dunluce Links. The latter hosted The Open Championship in 1951, the first time outside of mainland UK, and again in 2019 when local hero Shane Lowry romped to victory to clinch his maiden major trophy.
As with any of the signature links courses across the UK and Ireland, tee times are scarce and we recommend booking at least twelve months in advance to avoid disappointment.
Golf Courses
Although initially laid out in 1888, the Dunluce Links has undergone many alterations over time, with the famous architect Harry Colt creating today’s masterpiece in 1929.
Ranked amongst the best links courses in the world and having staged over 50 national and international amateur championships, as well as being the only course to host the Open Championship (twice) outside of mainland UK, the Dunluce Links is a must-play when visiting Northern Ireland. Shorter and more forgiving, the Valley Course is also excellent in its own right and makes for a fantastic 36-hole day at Royal Portrush.
Golf courses at Royal Portrush Golf Club
Valley Course
The Valley Course at Royal Portrush lies between the East Strand and the high ground of Dunluce Links, creating the valley in which the name suggests. This course is an outstanding layout in its own right, despite often playing second fiddle to the Dunluce Course, the Valley Course is the perfect complement to The Open Championship host during your golf break at Royal Portrush. Visitors who play the Valley Course are always glad they did, it offers a slightly easier challenge.
Dunluce Course
The Dunluce Links at Royal Portrush was initially formed as a nine-hole course in 1888. A further nine was added the following year and it wasn’t until 1929 that Harry Colt worked his magic. More recent changes were made in preparation for the 148th Open Championship in 2019, where local hero Shane Lowry romped to his maiden major championship victory. It is the only course outside of mainland UK to have hosted The Open Championship, with the first time being in 1951.
Accommodation near Royal Portrush Golf Club
Bushmills Inn Hotel
Steeped in history, Bushmills Inn Hotel dates back to the 1600’s, set in the beautiful town of Bushmills. With extensive refurbishments and extensions made, Bushmills now boasts the beauty of a 1600’s building while offering great modern facilities.
Portrush Atlantic Hotel
With many rooms overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Portrush Atlantic Hotel is a quality 3-star hotel that makes a great base for a golf tour. The hotel also features a pleasant restaurant and café offering a wide range of cuisines.
