Dunluce Course
at Royal Portrush Golf Club
Northern Ireland, Ireland
(14 reviews)
Dunluce Course overview
The Dunluce Links at Royal Portrush Golf Club is widely regarded as one of the best links golf courses in the world. 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.
This magnificent coastal links has hosted numerous national and international amateur championships and remains the only golf course outside mainland UK to have hosted The Open Championship, first in 1951 and again in 2019 & 2025. Renowned for its breathtaking scenery and challenging design, the Dunluce Links offers a supreme test of ball striking, course management, and links shot-making skills.
Signature Holes
The 5th hole is often cited among the most stunning par fours in golf. Measuring 382 yards, this dogleg hole plays from an elevated tee towards the Atlantic Ocean, rewarding courageous tee shots that cut across a wide expanse of rough. Accuracy is essential on the approach, as White Rocks beach sits just beyond the green – being long here is not an option.
The famous 16th hole, known as Calamity Corner, is a 236-yard par three that demands a pure, committed long iron or hybrid to carry a deep gorge between tee and green. Miss left and you face a near impossible up-and-down; miss right and you risk finding deep rough or worse. This hole is both feared and loved by all who play it.
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.
Accommodation near Dunluce Course
Europa Hotel
A towering landmark in the center of Belfast, the Europa Hotel is one of the premier hotels in Northern Ireland’s capital city. A great base for hitting all the big courses in the north.
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.
Bushmills Inn Hotel
A superb 4-star boutique hotel, The Bushmills Inn was originally a Coaching Inn dating from the 1600’s. Nowadays, it mixes stunning architecture, beautiful grounds, unique rooms and great food.
