Ulster
Golf in County Down
Overview
A golfer's guide to Down
County Down hosts what is, by most reputable rankings, the greatest golf course in the world: Royal County Down. Set against the Mountains of Mourne with the Irish Sea hard along the boundary, the Championship Links blends bearded bunkers, gorse-lined fairways and views that have no equal in the game. Ardglass — perched on a rocky headland with castle clubhouse — is the underrated companion piece, and a Belfast-Down loop is easy to extend into Antrim for Royal Portrush.
Newcastle is the natural base, with the Slieve Donard hotel a short walk from the first tee at Royal County Down.
When to play
Best time to visit Down
May to September. Royal County Down restricts visitor tee times — typically Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and weekends — so plan months ahead. The course is firm and fast in late summer; spring play is greener and more forgiving. Northern Ireland weather is changeable year-round; layers and a proper waterproof are non-negotiable.
FAQs