Clandeblog The best Northern Ireland golf courses near Clandeboye Lodge
From the rugged coastline to the lush green countryside, Northern Ireland's natural beauty is on full display on these golf courses in Northern Ireland.
1. Royal County Down Golf Club
Considered one of the most naturally beautiful links settings in the world, Royal County Down is situated in the Murlough Nature Reserve. With its breathtaking views, it's no wonder why it has been voted the best golf course in the world. With the breathtaking views of the Mourne Mountains and the Irish Sea, it's no surprise that this is one of the best golf courses in Northern Ireland. In fact, the ninth hole of this course is known as one of the most photographed holes in world golf!
Top tip: To secure a tee time at Royal County Down, it's important to book well in advance due to limited availability.
2. Clandeboye Golf Club
Nestled in the scenic woodlands of the Clandeboye Estate in Bangor, Clandeboye Golf Club is a true hidden gem. Its championship Dufferin Course not only offers breathtaking views across Belfast Lough but is also renowned as one of Ireland's premier inland courses, ranked 55th by Golf World. Meanwhile, the Ava Course, often considered a secret treasure, has earned its own acclaim, ranking 53rd on Golf World's list of the most enjoyable courses to play in the UK.
Top tip: Book a golf stay and play package at Clandeboye Lodge. This golf break includes a round of golf at Clandeboye Golf Club, 3-course dinner, overnight stay and freshly cooked breakfast the next day.
3. Ardglass Golf Club
If you're looking to explore more of the best golf courses in Northern Ireland, don’t miss Ardglass Golf Club, famous for its cliff-top course offering panoramic views of the Irish Sea and St. John’s Lighthouse. The uphill first hole, listed by Golf Advisor as one of the scariest opening holes in golf, provides a thrilling challenge. And did you know? Ardglass is home to the world’s oldest clubhouse, dating back to 1405 AD.
Top tip: Always bring an umbrella and waterproof clothing - in Northern Ireland there’s always a chance of rain!
4. Royal Belfast Golf Club
Royal Belfast Golf Club, established in 1881, is the oldest golf club in Ireland and has earned its place among the best golf courses in Northern Ireland. Located in Holywood, County Down, the club offers golfers spectacular views of Belfast Lough and the Antrim Plateau. The course, designed by the renowned architect Harry S. Colt, features sloping terrain, mature hardwoods and strategically placed bunkers, making it a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels.
Top tip: After a day on the course, unwind at the nearby Coq & Bull brasserie for a delicious meal made with the finest, local and seasonal ingredients.
5. Scrabo Golf Club
Scrabo Golf Club is a picturesque golf course located in Newtownards. The course is set amidst the rolling hills of County Down and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The iconic Scrabo Tower, standing tall above the first green, is visible for much of the round and provides a stunning backdrop to this already beautiful course.
Top tip: Beforehand, why not practise your swing at the nearby Blackwood Golf Centre. With Top Tracer Technology, you can track the accuracy and distance of your shots.
6. Holywood Golf Club
Holywood Golf Club, home club of golf legend Rory McIlroy, is set amidst rolling hills, mature trees, and offers stunning views of Belfast Lough and the surrounding countryside. Golfers will appreciate the unique layout of the course, with the first nine holes winding through the hilly terrain and the back nine set along the coast. As the home club of four-time Major Champion Rory McIlroy, the club proudly displays replicas of his major trophies, including the Claret Jug, US Open Trophy, and PGA Championship Trophy, allowing visitors to appreciate his remarkable achievements. This blend of history, breathtaking views, and modern amenities cements Holywood's reputation as one of the best golf courses in Northern Ireland.
Top tip: Check out Holywood Golf Club’s indoor golf simulator where you have access to over 100 golf courses from around the word or practice at the virtual driving range.
7. Blackwood Golf Centre
Blackwood Golf Centre is located in the heart of Clandeboye Estate, just across the road from Clandeboye Lodge hotel. It offers a range of facilities for golfers to enjoy including a driving range, putting green, Championship and Par 3 course. Golfers can enjoy views of the Clandeboye Estate and Helen’s Tower on the Hamilton Course.
Top tip: Book a golf stay and play package at Clandeboye Lodge. This golf break includes a round of golf and 250 balls on the driving range at Blackwood Golf Centre, 3-course dinner, overnight stay and freshly cooked breakfast the next day.
8. Helen’s Bay Golf Club
Spread across nine scenic holes, Helens Bay Golf Course is nestled between mature woodlands, Crawfordsburn Country Park, and the stunning Helen’s Bay beach. This hidden gem offers golfers a unique and picturesque experience, with the added bonus of views stretching all the way to Ailsa Craig, a rocky island located 46 miles off the coast of Scotland near Turnberry, visible on clear days. The course's location, with its natural beauty and coastal vistas, makes it one of the best golf courses in Northern Ireland.
Top tip: Northern Ireland has plenty of attractions to offer beyond golf so make sure you plan some time to explore the region.
9. Bangor Golf Club
Bangor Golf Club is a parkland golf course located in the city of Bangor, Northern Ireland. The course offers stunning views over the Irish Sea and you can even see the Scottish coast from the top of the 4th hole hill on a clear day.
Top tip: It’s the Northern Irish school holidays in July and August so book your hotel and restaurant reservations well in advance to avoid ensure availability.
10. Carnalea Golf Club
Carnalea Golf Club has a rich history that dates back over a century. In fact, it became Ireland's first municipal golf club in 1927, and has been providing golfers with a scenic golfing experience ever since. The course is spread over 88 acres of rolling hills and seaside scenery, with the Bangor to Belfast rail line dividing it into two distinct sections.
Top tip: With shorter daylight hours in winter in Northern Ireland, golfers should plan accordingly and make sure to schedule tee times earlier in the day to maximise playing time.
Golf stay and play offers at Clandeboye Lodge
Clandeboye Lodge offers a range of stay and play golf packages that combine the best of golf and luxury accommodation, making it the perfect choice for your next golf break in Northern Ireland.
For a relaxing golfing getaway, Blackwood Golf Club, located within the scenic Clandeboye Estate, provides a perfect setting for golf and stay options. If you're an accomplished player seeking a greater challenge, Clandeboye Golf Club offers a championship course that will test your abilities while providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
After a day on the course, retreat to the comfort of Clandeboye Lodge, where you can unwind and indulge in a delicious meal at the Coq & Bull brasserie. Known for its locally sourced, seasonal dishes, it's the perfect way to end your day on a high note.
