Royal County Down Golf Club

48 reviews

Royal County Down Golf Club, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mourne Mountains, is one of the world’s finest links courses. With rugged dunes, fast-running fairways, and deep pot bunkers, this legendary course offers a pure and challenging golf experience along Northern Ireland’s stunning coastline.

Year Founded:

1889

No. of Holes:

No. of Par:

Championship Links: Par 71 Annesley Links: Par 66

Total Length:

Championship Links: 7,186 yards Annesley Links: 4,548 yards

Course Highlights

The Layout

Royal County Down Golf Club features two exceptional courses: the Championship Links and the Annesley Links. The Championship Links, a par-71 course stretching 7,186 yards, is consistently ranked among the world’s best. Designed by Old Tom Morris and later refined by Harry Colt, it offers narrow fairways, blind shots, and subtly contoured greens surrounded by rugged dunes and gorse. The Annesley Links, a shorter par-66 course, provides a scenic yet challenging round.

Authenticity of the Landscape

Set in the stunning Murlough Nature Reserve along the shores of Dundrum Bay, Royal County Down is framed by the towering Mourne Mountains. Its natural linksland, adorned with golden gorse and heather, delivers an unparalleled golf experience that reflects the raw beauty of Ireland’s coastline.

Signature Holes

Hole 4 – “The Ridge”: A par-3 with a raised green protected by bunkers and set against the backdrop of the Mourne Mountains.
Hole 9 – “The Dunes”: A stunning par-4 requiring a blind tee shot over towering dunes, followed by a precise approach to a narrow green.
Hole 13 – “Fairy Ring”: A picturesque par-4 with gorse-lined fairways and an undulating green, testing both accuracy and nerve.

Facilities

Practice Facilities: Includes a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas to refine your skills before tackling the links.
Pro Shop: Fully stocked with premium golf equipment, apparel, and exclusive Royal County Down-branded merchandise, with knowledgeable staff on hand.

Caddie Services: Experienced caddies provide invaluable advice on navigating blind shots, tricky greens, and ever-changing wind conditions.
Club Rentals: High-quality rental clubs ensure visiting golfers enjoy a seamless experience on the course.

Dining and Hospitality

The Clubhouse Restaurant: Offers a menu of locally inspired dishes, including fresh seafood and hearty Irish fare, served with views of the course and Dundrum Bay.
The Mourne Bar: A relaxed and traditional space for post-round drinks, featuring Irish whiskies, craft beers, and light bites.
Private Event Spaces: Elegant and historic rooms ideal for golf societies, private gatherings, or corporate events, with tailored catering and impeccable service.

Tournaments and Accolades

Prestigious Events Hosted

Walker Cup (2007)
Irish Open (2015)
British Amateur Championship

Famous Visitors

Rory McIlroy (Four-time Major Champion)
Tiger Woods (15-time Major Champion)
Padraig Harrington (Three-time Major Champion)

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