Golf Guide: County Down & County Antrim
Golf in Northern Ireland is an experience unlike any other – where world-famous championship courses meet wild coastal beauty, rich history, and genuine warmth. From the windswept links of the Causeway Coast to the majestic Mourne Mountains, this region delivers both bucket-list moments and hidden treasures.
Home to Royal Portrush and Royal County Down, two of the most revered courses in the world, Northern Ireland is a must-visit destination for golfers chasing greatness. But beyond the icons, you’ll find a wealth of hidden gems – authentic, scenic, and brimming with charm.
Hidden Gem Courses
Northern Ireland is home to exceptional hidden gem golf courses that offer a true links experience – marked by dramatic dunes, rugged coastline, and deep golfing heritage. Tucked along the coast, these lesser-known courses deliver unforgettable rounds steeped in character, history, and natural beauty.

Castlerock Golf Club
5 miles from Portrush Adelphi | 53 miles from Slieve Donard
Classic links golf with rippling dunes and views across the River Bann estuary.
Why it’s a Gem: A local favourite with world-class character, often less crowded than its more famous neighbours.

Portstewart Golf Club
7 miles from Portrush Adelphi | 55 miles from Slieve Donard
Home to the acclaimed Strand Course, Portstewart offers towering dunes, panoramic Atlantic views, and a thrilling front nine.
Why it’s a Gem: A powerhouse of links drama and modern design- pure golf theatre on the coast.

Ardglass Golf Club
21 miles from Slieve Donard | 60 miles from Portrush Adelphi
A cliffside course built around a 14th-century castle, Ardglass is steeped in history and sea views.
Why it’s a Gem: Unique, bold, and unforgettable – where history and golf collide in dramatic style.

Kirkistown Castle Golf Club
35 miles from Slieve Donard | 75 miles from Portrush Adelphi
Designed by James Braid, this pure links course on the Ards Peninsula is fast, firm, and deeply traditional.
Why it’s a Gem: A throwback experience with open skies, crashing waves, and serious golfing pedigree.

Ballycastle Golf Club
16 miles from Portrush Adelphi | 69 miles from Slieve Donard
A charming hybrid of parkland and links that rolls between coast and glen, with captivating views across Rathlin Island.
Why it’s a Gem: Off the beaten track but full of personality – fun, scenic, and welcoming.
Five-Day Golf Itinerary
Pair iconic courses with coastal stays, outstanding food, and restorative experiences on this five-day golf adventure across Northern Ireland.
Day One: Arrival & Portstewart
Arrive in Northern Ireland and settle in at Portrush Adelphi, ideally located for coastal exploration and golf. Tee off in the afternoon at Portstewart Golf Club , a thrilling opener with sweeping Atlantic vistas and dramatic dunes. In the evening, enjoy dinner at Red Sail Room, the hotels’ signature restaurant, serving locally sourced Italian cuisine.
Day Two: Royal Portrush & Causeway Coast
Play a bucket-list round at Royal Portrush (Dunluce Links), host of The Open Championship. The course is a masterclass in links golf – both punishing and poetic. Spend the afternoon exploring the Giant’s Causeway or visit the Old Bushmills Distillery. Return to Portrush for a relaxed evening – try a drink at nearby The Harbour Bar.
Day Three: Castlerock and Travel South
Tee off at Castlerock Golf Club, a quiet gem where duneland drama and ocean air define the round. In the afternoon, travel south along the scenic coastal route to Slieve Donard, your home for the next two nights. Check in, settle in, and enjoy a spa treatment at The Spa at Slieve Donard, where sea views and soothing rituals help you recharge for the rounds ahead. Finish the day with dinner at J.J. Farrall’s, showcasing the best of Irish produce in a welcoming setting.
Day Four: Royal County Down and Local Flavours
Take on Royal County Down, one of the most storied and celebrated golf courses in the world. Nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, it’s an awe-inspiring round with blind tee shots, natural hazards, and unforgettable vistas. After your round, toast to your achievements at The Percy French Inn, a traditional Irish pub just steps from the hotel, known for its hearty fare and lively charm.
Day Five: Ardglass or Spa and Coastal Wondering
Wrap up your trip with a round at Ardglass Golf Club, where the layout hugs the cliffs and castle ruins create a round full of stories. Alternatively, linger a little longer at The Spa at Slieve Donard or explore nearby beaches and trails. Depart feeling restored, challenged, and completely immersed in the beauty of Northern Ireland’s golf coast.
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