The Strand Course
at Portstewart Golf Club
Northern Ireland, Ireland
The Strand Course overview
Golf at Portstewart Golf Club was originally formed in 1894, with a new 18-hole links course at Strand Head opening in 1907. Willie Park did a makeover in the 1920s and it wasn’t until 1992 that architect Des Giffin was able to incorporate seven new holes in a fresh set of sand dunes and create the magnificent Strand course that we see today.
One of three courses at Portstewart, this is the jewel in the crown and is regularly ranked third best in Northern Ireland after the Royals at County Down and Portrush. Located on the northern coast of Ireland with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Strand is defined by its undulating dunes, runoff pot bunkers, rolling fairways, and difficult manicured greens.
The wind invariably blows and at over 7000 yards off the tips, it is a fearsome challenge, which is why the European Tour chose it to host the 2017 Irish Open.
Signature Holes
The opening nine is one of the best in golf, with the first an intimidating downhill 425-yard par-4, and the two par-3s at the 3rd and 6th holes often tough to score well on.
Did You Know?
The other two courses at Portstewart Golf Club are called the Old and the Riverside. Both are much shorter than the Strand with the Riverside being our pick if you wanted to have a 36-hole day at the club.
Accommodation near The Strand Course
Bushmills Inn Hotel
A superb 4-star boutique hotel, The Bushmills Inn was originally a Coaching Inn dating from the 1600’s. Nowadays, it mixes stunning architecture, beautiful grounds, unique rooms and great food.
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.