Royal County Down Golf Club
Northern Ireland, Ireland
Royal County Down Golf Club overview
Royal County Down Golf Club is set within the Murlough Nature Reserve, sandwiched between the magnificent Mourne Mountains and shores of Dundrum Bay. With such incredible natural surroundings, it is only fitting that the Championship Links is often ranked as the number one course in the world. Founded in 1889 and offering two courses, the club boasts tremendous history and has played host to numerous prestigious professional and amateur competitions over the years.
Such a highly regarded and sought-after golf club means that tee times are hard to come by, and we recommend booking at least 12 months in advance to avoid disappointment.
Golf Courses
Royal County Down, as it is affectionately referred to offers two immaculate links courses that share the same magnificent setting. The Championship Links is a must-play and one of the most spectacular courses in the world, with the shorter yet testing Annesley Links a great excuse to squeeze 36 holes in and spend the whole day at this magical place.
Golf courses at Royal County Down Golf Club
Championship Links
Founded in 1889 and designed by Old Tom Morris, the Championship Links at Royal County Down is one of the finest links courses in the world. Sandwiched between the Mourne Mountains and Dundrum Bay it provides the most spectacular setting, with narrow fairways threading their way through impressive sand dunes. The bunkers are severe and the greens fast, which coupled with the panoramic views make this both an incredible test of golf and awe-inspiring place to play.
Annesley Links
Royal County Down tends to be all about the Championship Links, however, we highly recommend including a round on the Annesley Links too and make a day of it. Sharing the same magnificent setting and with holes that intertwine with some on the more famous course, the Annesley Links provides a fun and scenically beautiful round of golf. Don’t let the shorter yardage fool you, as plenty of strategy is required to plot your way round this little gem.
Accommodation near Royal County Down Golf Club
Europa Hotel
A towering landmark in the center of Belfast, the Europa Hotel is one of the premier hotels in Northern Ireland’s capital city. A great base for hitting all the big courses in the north.
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.
Slieve Donard
The Slieve Donard is an upscale 4-star property 30 miles south of Belfast which offers excellent facilities and a wonderful setting close to the Mourne Mountains and Royal County Down.