News Summary
Royal Portrush is set to host The Open Championship, attracting golf enthusiasts globally. Previously hosting the event in 1951 and 2019, the course is renowned for its challenging layout and stunning views. Northern Ireland’s diverse golfing landscape features over 90 golf courses, including Royal County Down, recognized as the world’s top course. The region is further known for attractions such as the Game of Thrones Studio Tour and upcoming developments in championship golf courses, reinforcing its status as a premier golfing destination.
Royal Portrush is preparing to welcome golf enthusiasts from around the globe as it gears up to host The Open Championship, beginning on July 17. This prestigious tournament marks the third time Royal Portrush has held The Open, having previously hosted the event in 1951 and 2019, when Irish golfer Shane Lowry claimed victory. Renowned for its challenging links and beautiful scenery, Royal Portrush stands as one of the world’s premier golf courses.
Northern Ireland boasts over 90 golf courses, making it an attractive destination for both players and fans alike. The region’s diverse offerings include gentle links, parkland courses, and challenging championship layouts, ensuring that golfers of all skill levels can find a course that suits their ability. Notably, Royal County Down, located in County Down, has been recognized as the world’s number one golf course, enchanting visitors with its panoramic views of the Mourne Mountains and the breathtaking Dundrum Bay.
The Slieve Donard Hotel, which overlooks Royal County Down, provides luxurious Victorian-style accommodations, allowing guests to enjoy both comfort and spectacular vistas during their stay. In addition to exceptional golfing, visitors to Northern Ireland can indulge in a range of attractions, such as the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge, where they can explore various filming locations used in the popular series.
For those seeking additional world-class golfing experiences, the Faldo Course at Lough Erne Resort in County Fermanagh is another championship venue designed by golfing legend Sir Nick Faldo. This resort not only features exceptional golfing but also offers five-star accommodations, fine dining options, and a relaxing Thai-inspired spa.
The northern coast is home to the Portstewart Golf Club, which features three authentic links courses that provide stunning coastal views. Both Portstewart and Royal Portrush are in proximity to other notable attractions, including the dramatic landscape of the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the historic Old Bushmills Distillery, which offers tours and whiskey tastings.
As Northern Ireland prepares for The Open Championship, plans are also underway for the development of a new championship links course in Bellarena, set to open in 2029. This will mark the first new championship course to be built in the region in over 100 years. The Galgorm Collection is investing over £30 million in this ambitious project, which is expected to create around 300 new jobs in the local area.
Through hosting significant events like The Open Championship and investing in new golf facilities, Northern Ireland is determined to solidify its reputation as a world-class golfing destination. With its beautiful courses, extensive options for leisure, and stunning natural scenery, the region continues to draw in golfers and tourists, all eager to experience everything that Northern Ireland has to offer.
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Additional Resources
- Golfweek: Best Golf Courses in Ireland
- Golf Monthly: New Northern Irish Links Course
- MSN: Malbon-Bushmills Collaboration
- New York Times: The Open 2025 Live Updates
- CT Insider: Scottie Scheffler’s British Open Journey
- Wikipedia: Golf in Northern Ireland
- Google Search: Best Golf Courses Northern Ireland
- Google Scholar: Northern Ireland Golf Courses
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Google News: Northern Ireland Golf
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
