Royal Belfast
Course
Royal Belfast Golf Club, Craigavad, Holywood, County Down
Founded 1881. Parkland Course
Royal Belfast holds the title of the oldest golf club on the island of Ireland and is one of only four Irish clubs to boast a Royal prefix, the others being Royal Portrush, Royal County Down and Royal Dublin. Responsibility for the course redesign at its current location in 1925 was given to renowned architect of the day, Harry Colt, who also designed the links at Royal Portrush. Royal Belfast is a classic old parkland layout which measures just over 6,300 yards from the back tees but its merit does not lie in its length. The course offers a stern challenge in a beautiful setting that affords fantastic views over Belfast Lough. Four of the five par-threes measure over 175 yards in length, while two of the last three holes are testing par-fives. Royal Belfast is the perfect inclusion for an arrival day round or a break from the rigours of the links game.
Sightseeing
The main attraction of Ireland as a golf destination may indeed be its great golf courses but the overall experience is influenced by many other factors including great accommodation options, restaurants, pubs, people, and not least it’s stunning scenery and superb visitor attractions. Each region offers something very different and with all locations being quite close together, it’s very easy to mix the stunning countryside and coastline with more urban attractions.
We work with each of our clients to recommend what suits their trip best. You may have a full day to spend sightseeing or you may squeeze in a quick stop on the way to or from the golf course but we will make sure that you maximise your experience at all times. The below is intended as a very general guide to sightseeing in Ireland.
Northern Ireland has many stories to tell about its troubled past but thankfully the harrowing historical element is now confined to history and we can more fully appreciate the region for its general beauty, vibrant cities and many attractions. The Antrim coastline in particular is breath-taking, with the impressive Giants Causeway (pictured below) a must-see for any visitor.
The historic walled City of Derry is a real highlight and visitors should include a visit to the Walled City Brewery and one of the local walking tours of the city. Playing Royal Portrush & Portstewart provides the ideal opportunity to visit the famous Bushmills Distillery nearby, while you should also take in the imposing ruins of Dunluce Castle and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
Belfast is another vibrant city, which offers much in terms of history, attractions, restaurants and excellent shopping. The recently opened Titanic Belfast tells the sad story of Titanic and is a wonderful experience that should be included if at all possible, while the Ulster Museum and Belfast City Hall are also well worth a visit if time allows. Travelling south from Belfast, your likely destination as a golfer is Newcastle, home to the world renowned golf links of Royal County Down. Highly recommended in this area are Castlewellan Forest Park and Tollymore Forest Park. Both locations offer stunning scenery and beautiful walks.