Exploring the Prestige of Royal Golf Courses

Belfast – The Fascinating World of ‘Royal’ Golf Courses

A total of 64 golf clubs around the globe have been honored with the prestigious ‘Royal’ status by the British monarchy. Most of these esteemed clubs are situated in the United Kingdom and Ireland, but others can be found in countries such as Malta, Kenya, Zimbabwe, India, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong. This exclusive designation is typically conferred when a club invites a royal family member as an honorary member or when it applies for the title through a formal process.

However, it is important to note that not every golf course with ‘Royal’ in its name holds the actual ‘Royal’ designation. True ‘Royal’ courses are recognized on official ranking lists, signifying their adherence to specific standards. A recent examination of several prominent ‘Royal’ courses highlights their unique features and challenges faced by golfers.

Top Royal Courses Showcased

The author, who has played 12 such courses, ranks Royal Portrush Golf Club as their absolute favorite. This course is currently hosting The Open and is well-known for its stunning scenic views and playability. Golfers can expect significant elevation changes throughout the course, with thrilling shots such as a downhill tee shot toward the ocean and an uphill par 3 nicknamed ‘Calamity.’

Royal Dornoch stands out for its challenging holes and breathtaking scenery, having been played multiple times since 2015. It has received accolades from Golf Digest as the top international course. Meanwhile, the composite course at Royal Melbourne is met with skepticism due to its accessibility exclusively for professionals and select members.

The Royal Troon’s Old Course is notable for its iconic par 3 known as the ‘Postage Stamp’, which measures under 150 yards and presents a unique challenge. In contrast, while Royal St. George’s has hosted 15 Opens, the author ranks it the least favorite due to its lack of visual stimulation.

Renovations and Restorations

In recent years, Royal Durban has undergone extensive renovations since 2016, receiving commendations for its improvements. The Royal Dublin course has also invested in restoring its bunkers, maintaining a classic design through renovations completed in 2023. Royal St. David’s, which was the author’s first press trip course, sparked a passion for links golf. This rich history emphasizes the allure of these elite golf settings.

Royal Sydney has completed a significant redesign in 2023, further enhancing its status in the golfing world. The need for such renovation reflects the clubs’ commitment to providing exceptional experiences for members and visitors alike.

The History of Royal Golf Clubs

The history of ‘Royal’ golf clubs traces back to 1833, when the Perth Golfing Society sought royal patronage from King William IV. The Royal designation involves a formal application process, necessitating the approval of the reigning monarch, alongside strict criteria relating to a club’s historical significance and its dedication to charitable causes.

Throughout the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, which lasted from 1952 until her passing in 2022, the list of Royal courses expanded, adding nine new facilities. Presently, there are six recognized Royal courses in Canada and eight in Australia, alongside various others worldwide.

The term ‘Royal’ not only signifies prestige within the golfing community but also embodies a club’s commitment to excellence, consistency, and community engagement. The author invites readers to share their opinions about their favorite ‘Royal’ courses and discuss the present rankings of these notable golfing institutions.