Royal Portrush Golf Club
Northern Ireland, Ireland
Royal Portrush Overview
Royal Portrush Golf Club, located on the northern coast of Northern Ireland, was formed in 1888.
This is possibly the best two-course golf club in the world, with both layouts ranked in Golf Digest's World's Greatest Golf Courses list - the Dunluce ranked no.4 and the Valley ranked no.82.
It was originally a nine-hole course named ‘The Country Club’. Another nine holes were added a year later and today it is home to 36 holes of golf with the Valley Course and famous Dunluce Links.
Royal Portrush has hosted The Open Championship in 1951, again in 2019 when local hero Shane Lowry romped to victory to clinch his maiden major trophy, and it is scheduled to host again in 2025.
As with any of the signature links courses across the UK and Ireland, tee times are scarce and we recommend booking at least twelve months in advance to avoid disappointment.
Golf Courses
Royal Portrush has two outstanding courses: The Dunluce Links and the Valley Course.
The Dunluce Links is Royal Portrush’s championship course, consistently ranked among the world’s finest links layouts. Originally laid out in 1888, it was redesigned into today’s masterpiece by legendary golf architect Harry Colt in 1929.
Ahead of hosting The Open in 2019, the course underwent further significant renovations to enhance its challenge and restore Colt’s design intent, ensuring it remains a true test for the world’s best.
The course has hosted over 50 national and international amateur championships alongside its two Open Championships, offering a challenging and unforgettable experience for any golfer visiting Northern Ireland.
Complementing Dunluce is the Valley Course, a slightly shorter and more forgiving layout that still provides an excellent test of links golf. It is perfect for golfers seeking a 36-hole day at Royal Portrush, combining world-class championship conditions with a more relaxed and enjoyable second round.
Read about our experience playing Royal Portrush here.
Clubhouse overview
Royal Portrush’s Clubhouse is the heart of hospitality at the Dunluce Links. It features an elegantly appointed Restaurant & Bar - serving seasonally-inspired cuisine crafted from locally-sourced ingredients, with offerings ranging from casual lunches to celebratory dinners and a well-stocked bar ideal for post-round relaxation.
Adjacent to the playing surfaces is the busy Pro Shop. It offers a wide range of branded apparel, equipment, accessories, and golf balls, along with club and electric trolley hire, lessons, and expert fitting services.
Signature holes
Among Royal Portrush’s many memorable holes, the par-3 16th, known as Calamity Corner, stands out as its most feared and iconic. Playing over a deep ravine to a raised green exposed to the wind, it demands absolute precision and nerve.
Another signature is the par-4 5th hole, White Rocks, a stunning dogleg right running along the cliff tops, offering panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean with a green perched above the beach, making it one of the most photographed holes in links golf.
Did you know?
Rory McIlroy shot a course record of 61 on the Dunluce Links when he was just 16 years old. He along with Graeme McDowell, Darren Clarke and Padraig Harrington are all honorary members of Royal Portrush.
Location
Royal Portrush is located on the spectacular Causeway Coast in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Set within the seaside town of Portrush, it offers dramatic coastal views and lies just a short drive from the famous Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Distillery, making it one of the world’s most scenic golfing destinations.
Golf courses at Royal Portrush Golf Club
Dunluce Course
The Dunluce Links at Royal Portrush was initially formed as a nine-hole course in 1888, with a further nine added the following year. It wasn’t until 1929 that Harry Colt worked his magic, shaping the course into its revered layout. More recent changes were made in preparation for the 148th Open Championship in 2019. Royal Portrush remains the only course outside of mainland UK to have hosted The Open in 1951, 2019 & 2025.
Valley Course
The Valley Course at Royal Portrush lies between the East Strand and the high ground of Dunluce Links, creating the valley in which the name suggests. This course is an outstanding layout in its own right. Despite often playing second fiddle to the Dunluce Course, the Valley Course is the perfect complement to The Open Championship host during your golf break at Royal Portrush. Visitors who play the Valley Course are always glad they did, it offers a slightly easier challenge.
Accommodation near Royal Portrush Golf Club
Golf Links Hotel Portrush
The Golf Links Hotel Portrush offers stunning views of the famous Royal Portrush Golf Club. This charming hotel features comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for golf enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Bushmills Inn Hotel
Steeped in history, Bushmills Inn Hotel dates back to the 1600’s, set in the beautiful town of Bushmills. With extensive refurbishments and extensions made, Bushmills now boasts the beauty of a 1600’s building while offering great modern facilities.
Dunluce Lodge
Nestled beside Royal Portrush Golf Club, Dunluce Lodge is a luxurious 5-star resort on Northern Ireland’s stunning Causeway Coast. Offering elegant suites and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect retreat for relaxation and adventure.
Portrush Atlantic Hotel
With many rooms overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Portrush Atlantic Hotel is a quality 3-star hotel that makes a great base for a golf tour. The hotel also features a pleasant restaurant and café offering a wide range of cuisines.
