23+ BEST Public Golf Courses In Ireland 2024

Ireland is a golfer’s dream destination, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and world-class golf courses. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just starting, Ireland offers a range of courses that cater to all skill levels. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best golf courses in Ireland, answering key questions about public courses, famous courses, and the most renowned ones. From the rugged coastlines of Northern Ireland to the rolling greens of the south, here are the top golf courses you must visit.

Best Public Golf Courses in Ireland

Ireland is home to several public golf courses that offer excellent facilities and beautiful settings. These courses are accessible to visitors and provide a memorable golfing experience.

Ballybunion (Old) (Ballybunion, Ireland) Ballybunion’s Old Course is legendary, with its dramatic dunes and challenging holes. Located on the southwest coast of Ireland, it has been a favourite among golfers for decades.

Lahinch (Old) (Lahinch, Ireland) Often referred to as the “St. Andrews of Ireland,” Lahinch’s Old Course is steeped in history. With its natural contours and stunning Atlantic Ocean views, it’s a true test of golfing skill.

St. Patrick’s Links in Rosapenna is a relatively new addition to Ireland’s golfing landscape. It has quickly gained a reputation for its challenging layout and beautiful setting.

Portmarnock (Old) (Portmarnock, Ireland) Just a short drive from Dublin, Portmarnock’s Old Course is a classic links course that has hosted numerous championships. Its well-maintained fairways and greens make it a favourite among golfers.

Famous Golf Courses in Ireland

Ireland’s golf courses have gained international acclaim, attracting golfers worldwide. Here are some of the most famous ones:

Royal Portrush (Portrush, Northern Ireland) Royal Portrush’s fame extends beyond its public accessibility. Hosting The Open Championship has cemented its status as a world-class course.

Ballybunion (Old) (Ballybunion, Ireland) Ballybunion’s Old Course is iconic in the golfing world. Its dramatic landscape and challenging holes have made it a favourite among professionals and amateurs alike.

Lahinch (Old) (Lahinch, Ireland) Lahinch’s Old Course is renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. Golfers from all over the globe come to experience its unique charm.

Best Golf Courses in Ireland

Now, let’s delve into the details of the best golf courses in Ireland, including those located in specific counties.

County Wicklow

Powerscourt Golf Club Set in the picturesque Powerscourt Estate, this golf club offers two exceptional courses: East and West. The East Course, designed by Peter McEvoy, is particularly popular for its challenging layout and stunning views of the Wicklow Mountains.

County Louth

County Louth Golf Club Also known as Baltray, County Louth Golf Club is a classic links course that has hosted numerous championships. Its natural dunes and firm fairways provide a true test of golfing skill. The club’s rich history and welcoming atmosphere make it a favourite among golfers.

County Meath

Killeen Castle Golf Resort Killeen Castle Golf Resort is a modern golfing destination set in the historic grounds of Killeen Castle. The course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience. The resort’s stunning setting and top-notch facilities make it a must-visit.

County Kildare

K Club The K Club, located in Straffan, County Kildare, is famous for hosting the 2006 Ryder Cup. The resort features two championship courses designed by Arnold Palmer: the Palmer North and the Palmer South. Both courses offer a blend of challenging holes and scenic beauty.

Carton House Carton House is a luxurious resort that boasts two championship courses: the O’Meara and the Montgomerie. The O’Meara Course, designed by Mark O’Meara, offers a parkland golfing experience, while the Montgomerie Course, designed by Colin Montgomerie, provides a links-style challenge.

County Laois

The Heritage Golf Resort The Heritage Golf Resort, located in Killenard, County Laois, is a championship course designed by Seve Ballesteros and Jeff Howes. The course is known for its strategic layout, immaculate conditioning, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

County Kilkenny

Mount Juliet Golf Club

Mount Juliet Golf Club, located in the picturesque County Kilkenny, is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts. Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, this course offers a perfect blend of challenge and beauty. The lush fairways, strategic bunkering, and water features make it a delight for golfers of all skill levels. The course has hosted prestigious events such as the Irish Open and the WGC-American Express Championship.

County Westmeath

Glasson Golf Club

Glasson Golf Club in County Westmeath is another gem in Ireland’s golfing crown. Designed by Christy O’Connor Jr., this course is set on the shores of Lough Ree, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside. The layout is both challenging and enjoyable, with a mix of water hazards, undulating fairways, and well-placed bunkers.

County Cork

Old Head Golf Links, Kinsale

Old Head Golf Links in Kinsale, County Cork, is often considered one of the most spectacular golf courses in the world. Perched on a dramatic headland jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, this course offers breathtaking views and challenging play. The layout, designed by Ron Kirby and the late Paddy Merrigan, includes holes that run along the cliff edges, providing a thrilling experience for golfers.

County Mayo

Carne Golf Links

Carne Golf Links in County Mayo is a hidden gem on Ireland’s west coast. Designed by Eddie Hackett, this links course offers a rugged and natural golfing experience. The layout takes full advantage of the dramatic dunes and coastal landscape, providing a challenging and memorable round.

County Sligo Golf Courses

County Sligo, situated on Ireland’s northwest coast, is home to several exceptional golf courses that combine challenging play with stunning scenery. Among these, two standout courses draw golfers from around the globe:

County Sligo Golf Club, also known as Rosses Point, is a revered links course that has hosted many prestigious championships. Its undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers offer a true test of skill amidst panoramic views of Sligo Bay.

Enniscrone Golf Club, another gem in County Sligo, features a unique blend of links and dunes. Golfers here are treated to sweeping views of Killala Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, making every round a memorable experience.

County Donegal Golf Courses

County Donegal, located in Ireland’s rugged northwest, is synonymous with raw natural beauty and outstanding golf courses. Two notable venues in this region include:

Rosapenna Golf Resort, founded in the late 19th century, boasts two championship courses set amidst stunning coastal scenery. The Old Tom Morris Links, designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris himself, offer a traditional links experience that remains unparalleled.

Ballyliffin Golf Club, nestled amidst the Inishowen Peninsula, features two contrasting courses – the challenging Glashedy Links and the more serene Old Links. Both courses showcase breathtaking views of the Donegal coastline and provide golfers with a memorable round in a picturesque setting.

Total Number of Golf Courses in Ireland

Ireland is home to over 400 golf courses, ranging from world-renowned championship venues to hidden gems nestled in the countryside. This abundance ensures that golfers have ample choices to explore the country’s diverse landscapes while enjoying their favourite sport.

The Oldest Golf Course in Ireland

The Royal Belfast Golf Club, established in 1881, holds the distinction of being Ireland’s oldest golf club. Located in Northern Ireland, this historic club offers a glimpse into the rich golfing heritage that has flourished in Ireland for centuries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ireland stands as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts seeking memorable experiences on world-class courses. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged coastlines of County Sligo or the serene beauty of County Donegal, each golf course offers a unique blend of challenge and natural beauty. Plan your visit to Ireland’s best golf courses and immerse yourself in a golfing adventure like no other.

For more information on planning your golfing journey in Ireland, visit “The Best Golf Courses in Ireland”. Explore “Things to do in Sligo for Families” and discover why these courses rank among the “Top 100 Courses in the World”. Plan your trip today and play a round on the best golf courses with guidance from Discover Ireland.

FAQ

Famous Golf Courses in Ireland – Ireland, known for its lush landscapes and rich history, is a haven for golf enthusiasts. The country boasts some of the most famous and challenging golf courses in the world. Let’s explore Ireland’s golfing gems and answer some of the most commonly asked questions about these iconic courses.

Where is the home of the world’s oldest golf course?

The oldest golf course in the world is not in Ireland but in Scotland. The Old Course at St Andrews, located in Fife, Scotland, is widely recognized as the oldest golf course, with a history dating back to the early 15th century. However, Ireland is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in the world, contributing significantly to the sport’s rich heritage.

How many golf courses are there in Ireland?

Ireland is a golfer’s paradise, with over 400 golf courses spread across the country. This abundance of courses includes a mix of championship courses, traditional links, and picturesque parkland courses, offering something for every level of golfer. From the rugged coastline to the serene countryside, Ireland’s golf courses are as diverse as its landscapes.

Is St Andrews golf course the oldest?

Yes, St Andrews is considered the oldest golf course in the world. Its historical significance and contribution to the development of golf make it a revered site for golf enthusiasts globally. While Ireland does not hold the title for the oldest course, it boasts a rich golfing history with courses that have hosted numerous prestigious tournaments and attracted golfing legends.

How many public golf courses are in Ireland?

Ireland boasts a wide range of public golf courses, making the sport accessible to locals and tourists alike. There are over 300 public golf courses in Ireland, offering a variety of playing experiences from challenging links courses to scenic parkland courses. These public courses provide an excellent opportunity for golfers of all skill levels to enjoy the sport without the need for a club membership.