Royal Dublin Golf Club
Dublin, Ireland
(12 reviews)
Royal Dublin Club overview
Originally founded in 1885, Dublin Golf Club moved twice before the course finally came to rest on Bull Island in Dublin Bay, which was formed following the building of a sea wall in the early 1800s. This perfect sandy island is the ideal terrain for a links golf course, which was opened in 1889 and two years later granted Royal status by Queen Victoria. It is the oldest club in Dublin and has held more than 50 national and international championships for both amateurs and professionals.
Christy O’Connor is the local hero having been the club pro before becoming a touring professional and going on to win the Irish Open here. More recently, Martin Hawtree redeveloped the course, lengthening it and making several improvements, and one thing you are assured of is a warm welcome as Royal Dublin is one of the friendliest ‘Royal’ clubs anywhere.
Royal Dublin Course overview
More of a classic out-and-back Scottish links, Royal Dublin is fairly flat and narrow with long stretches of out of bounds. Today’s championship layout, which was designed by Harry Colt in 1920 after the original links was ravaged by the First World War and then redeveloped by Martin Hawtree in the early 2000s, is a challenging par-72 and over 7200 yards off the tips.
With fairways flanked by thick rough and plenty of penal bunkering, spectacular coastal views and strong winds, Royal Dublin Golf Club has everything you would expect from a true links course.
Always in immaculate condition with a historic clubhouse and championship standard practice facilities known as ‘the Garden’, we consider Royal Dublin as a must-play when visiting this region. Ranked amongst to 25 courses in Ireland.
Signature Holes
The 18th par-4 is a challenging dog-leg with a burn and out-of-bounds running down the right side. A good (and brave) drive down the right of the fairway sets you up to cut the corner and hit the green, which is the largest on the links.
Did You Know?
Bull Island is 5km long and just 800 metres wide, and the only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in a capital city. The beautiful Dollymount Strand beach runs down one side and the views of Dublin Bay are magnificent.
Accommodation near Royal Dublin Golf Club
Morrison Hotel, Dublin
The Morrison Hotel is a newly refurbished and centrally located venue, ensuring fun both on and off the fairways. When not golfing on one of the nearby courses, guests can enjoy the lively bars and restaurants within minutes of the hotel.
Dylan Hotel, Dublin
Are you looking for the perfect base for your Dublin golf break? Look no further than The Dylan Hotel. This 5-star accommodation offers an indulgent stay near the city center, ensuring an exciting cultural experience.
Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links
The 4-star Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links is a 134-bedroom resort located just north of Dublin. With an 18-hole links course onsite and close to other top courses this is a great venue for golfers.
The K Club
The K Club is a magnificent 5-star resort near Dublin that has been impressing guests since opening in 1991. The ultimate Irish country escape - stay here for good golf and luxury accommodations.
The Grand Hotel, Malahide
The 4-star Grand Hotel in Malahide is an excellent seafront property overlooking the Malahide Estuary. Dating back to 1835 this historic hotel has managed to modernize but retain its old-world charm.
