Ireland is home to some of the most famous golf courses in the world, including the historic Royal County Down, Ballybunion, and Portmarnock. These legendary locations, renowned for their stunning views and championship backgrounds, welcome visitors and golfers from across the oceans.

Many of the great golf clubs are members only, and thus, guests can only play with members or make a special booking as a visitor, made available for limited times if a club allows.

Ireland's premier golf clubs have fantastic facilities such as pro shops, clubhouses, coaching academies, and awesome driving ranges. Whether you are a golf enthusiast or a relaxed golfer, you will experience an unforgettable day playing world-class courses with incredible Irish hospitality.

1. Trump International Golf Links, County Clare

Trump International Golf Links, with its natural dunes and stunning views of the Atlantic, provides a luxurious but rugged links experience. The unmatched natural beauty of the golf course combines with design genius to challenge every part of your game. It is where elegance melds with the wild Irish coastline. Playing golf here is a challenge and a privilege.

• Build Year: 2002
• Length: 7,026 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast 
• Types of Hazards: Bunkers, sand traps, and dunes 
• Average Slope Rating: 130
• Facilities Available: Clubhouse, practice facilities, pro shop, spa, sauna, and driving range
• Golf Course Designer: Greg Norman and later redesigned by Martin Hawtree
• Address: Doonbeg, County Clare, Ireland

2. Mount Juliet Estate, Thomastown

Mount Juliet Estate features a beautiful parkland course set in the rolling Kilkenny countryside. It is known for having some of the best fairways in the world while also being known as a careful design that only a player with good skills could excel at. You will enjoy a truly sophisticated but demanding round of golf here. The added hospitality enhances the experience.

• Build Year: 1991
• Length: 7,300 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Water hazards (lakes and rivers) and bunkers (sand traps)
• Average Slope Rating:  Blue Tees: 143, White Tees: 140, Green Tees: 134, Red Tees: 129
• Facilities Available: Spa, swimming pool, restaurants, bars, a children’s club, fitness centre, outdoor tennis court, picnic areas, billiard room, and laser sports
• Golf Course Designer: Jack Nicklaus
• Address: Estate, Mount Juliet, Co. Kilkenny, R95 E096, Ireland

3. Portmarnock Golf Club, Golf Links Rd

Portmarnock Golf Club occupies a narrow stretch of land just north of Dublin to create a historic links golf facility.  The superior designation of this championship link offers golfers challenging conditions while ranking its spectacular course among the world's top choices. The terrain at Portmarnock Golf Club contains rolling greens and a precise bunker layout that showcases amazing seaside vistas.

• Build Year: 1894
• Length: 7,500 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 27
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Dunes, natural terrain, elevated tees and greens, blind approaches, doglegs, and sea breeze
• Average Slope Rating: Blue Tees: 143, White Tees: 137, Green Tees: 135, and Yellow Tees: 125
• Facilities Available: Bar, restaurant, pro shop, driving range, accommodation, banqueting facilities, and golf coaching 
• Golf Course Designer: William Pickeman, George Ross, and later redesigned by Fred W.Hawtree and Martin Hawtree
• Address: Golf Links Rd, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, D13 KD96, Ireland

4. Royal County Down Golf Club, 36 Golf Links Rd

Royal County Down Golf Club enjoys an exceptional location where the Mountains of Mourne join the Irish Sea shores. The golf course holds a position among the best link layouts worldwide since members consistently acknowledge its challenging aesthetic beauty.  Each golfing experience at Royal County Down Golf Club becomes an authentic encounter with its time-tested natural landscape due to wind shaping.

• Build Year: 1889
• Length: 7206 yards
• Par: 71
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Very fast
• Types of Hazards: Deep bunkers, heather, gorse, blind shots, and upturned saucer greens
• Average Slope Rating: 142
• Facilities Available: Accommodation, locker rooms, practice facilities, dining, and pro shop
• Golf Course Designer: Old Tom Morris, later redesigned by George Combe, Harry Vardon, and  Harry Colt
• Address: 36 Golf Links Rd, Newcastle BT33 0AN, United Kingdom

5. Old Head Golf Links, Downpatrick

The headland formation at Old Head Golf Links extends for numerous miles into the Atlantic Ocean waters, providing golfers with an exceptional experience. The striking golf course slices through vertical crags as it provides both an exciting and windy experience to players. The golf challenge at this course offers an unforgettable and exciting experience to experienced golfers.

• Build Year: 1997
• Length: 7,200 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast 
• Types of Hazards: Cliff edges, natural caves, wind, and bunkers
• Average Slope Rating: 142
• Facilities Available: Warm-up range, putting green, short game practice area, clubhouse, and a spa
• Golf Course Designer: Ron Kirby, Eddie Hackett, Dr. Joe Carr
• Address: Downpatrick Or Oldhead, Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland.

6. Carton House, Co. Kildare

Carton House’s Montgomerie Course combines classic Irish charm with contemporary golf course design, incorporating strategically placed bunkers and rolling fairways. Located on a grand estate, the course provides a distinguished yet challenging outing for everyone. The mix of tradition and innovation at this outstanding golf venue provides a memorable round every time.

• Build Year: 2002
• Length: O'Meara: 7,006 yards, Montgomerie: 7,301 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Water hazards, sand, bunkers, and natural vegetation 
• Average Slope Rating: Blue Tees: 140, White Tees: 136, Green Tees: 132
• Facilities Available: A pro shop, spa, dining, accommodation, practice areas, and conference facilities
• Golf Course Designer: Richard Cassels
• Address: A Fairmont Managed Hotel, Carton House, Carton Demesne, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 TD98, Ireland

7. The European Club, Co. Wicklow

The European Club provides a contemporary links experience which features challenging conditions near the dramatic County Wicklow coastline. The golf course prioritises strategic development and playability in its design approach, and it has become widely popular among golfers following its relatively recent inception. The European Club challenges golfers through contemplative movements.

• Build Year: 1987
• Length: 7490 yards
• Par: 71
• Number of Holes: 20
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Sand dunes, varied terrain, and shoreline 
• Average Slope Rating: Blue Tee: 135, White Tee: 132, Yellow Tee: 130
• Facilities Available: A clubhouse, pro shop, and dining 
• Golf Course Designer: Pat Ruddy 
• Address: Ardanairy, Brittas Bay, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

8. Druids Glen Golf Club, Co. Wicklow

Dubbed the "Augusta of Europe", Druids Glen delights with its lush parkland environment and immaculate playing conditions. Its lush, rich setting, tree-lined fairways, and sparkling lakes give the impression of tranquillity and elegance. It will match beauty with a challenge as it offers a graceful test of golf. A place of choice for the golfer looking for relaxation, refinement, and calmness.

• Build Year: 1995
• Length: 7222 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Water hazards, bunkers, and tree-lined holes
• Average Slope Rating: White Tee: 134, Red Tee: 125, Green Tee: 127
• Facilities Available: A driving range, pro golf shop, accommodation, dining, health club, spa, indoor pool, playground, sauna, game room, steam room, bar, and lounge 
• Golf Course Designer: Pat Ruddy and Tom Craddock
• Address: Druids Glen Golf Club, Woodstock House, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

9. The K Club, Straffan

The Palmer North course at the K Club combines the lush beauty of parkland with a championship pedigree, having hosted the Ryder Cup. The soft fairways and lakes shimmer with an intoxicating luxury. Every round played here feels special, wrapped in elegance and spirit. It is a fantastic location for resort-style world-class golf close to Dublin.

• Build Year: 2003
• Length: 7277 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Water hazards, bunkers, and challenging greens
• Average Slope Rating: White Tees: 133, Green Tees: 130
• Facilities Available: A driving range, pro shop, spa, dining, and accommodation 
• Golf Course Designer: Arnold Palmer 
• Address: Straffan, Co. Kildare, W23 YX53, Ireland

10. Enniscrone Golf Club, Bartragh

Enniscrone's majestic dunes and rugged coastline provide a golf experience deeply rooted in natural beauty and challenge. The course flows in a way that embraces the wild Irish weather and terrain. Golfers who want their golf to be untethered and authentic will be in their element. It’s a beautiful link experience on the Sligo coast.

• Build Year: 1918
• Length: 7,033 yards
• Par: 73
• Number of Holes: 27
• Green Speeds: Fast 
• Types of Hazards: Sand dunes, bunkers, blind landing areas, hidden hollows, and water hazards
• Average Slope Rating: 133
• Facilities Available: Practice facilities, clubhouse, restaurant, and driving range
• Golf Course Designer: Eddie Hackett 
• Address: Bartragh, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo, F26 PY54, Ireland

11. Lahinch Golf Club, Dough

The western Irish coastline in County Clare is home to Lahinch Golf Club, which delivers a classic links golf experience. The establishment consists of two premium courses, including the iconic Old Course, which stands as an intense examination near maritime waves between extensive dunes on the Irish western coast. Golfers have been drawn to the club because of its conventional design on natural grounds.

• Build Year: 1892
• Length: 6950 Yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 36
• Green Speeds: Slow
• Types of Hazards: Bunkers, water hazards, and vegetation
• Average Slope Rating: 133
• Facilities Available: Clubhouse with dining, a pro shop, practice areas, and caddie services
• Golf Course Designers: Old Tom Morris, later redesigned by  Alister MacKenzie and Martin Hawtree.
• Address: Lahinch Golf Club, Dough, Lahinch, Co. Clare, V95 HD00, Ireland

12. Waterville Golf Links, Murreagh

Spectacularly located within the remote enclave of the Ring of Kerry, Waterville Golf Links provides an authentic and enchanting golfing adventure. Despite facing a challenging course due to Atlantic coastal views and scenic dunes, this famous club offers playable link conditions. For many generations, sophisticated golfers have been drawn to this southwest Irish corner because of its natural scenery.

• Build Year: 1889
• Length: 7347 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Medium
• Types of Hazards: Sand dunes, gorse, native grass, and water hazards
• Average Slope Rating: 131
• Facilities Available: Bar & Restaurant, a pro shop, practice areas, clubhouse, locker rooms, and driving range
• Golf Course Designer: Eddie Hackett, later redesigned by Tom Fazio
• Address: Murreagh, Waterville, Co. Kerry, V23 W940, Ireland

13. Adare Manor Golf Club, Limerick Road

The golf club at Adare Manor Golf Club resides in the central area of County Limerick and provides premium inland golfing services. The meticulously groomed parkland course spreads across a historic estate where players will experience a tranquil yet tough playing challenge. The strategic golf course at Adare Manor stretches between its lush fairways and mature trees while following the River Maigue.

• Build Year: 1900
• Length: 5807 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast 
• Types of Hazards: Water, strategically placed bunkers, and natural vegetation 
• Average Slope Rating: 131
• Facilities Available: Bar, restaurant, clubhouse, showers, locker rooms, and driving range
• Golf Course Designer: Tom Fazio
• Address: Limerick Road, Adare, Co. Limerick, Ireland

14. Ballybunion Golf Club, Sandhill Rd

Ballybunion Golf Club presents a legendary links challenge that faces players on the remote Kerry County coastline. The club features its two celebrated championship layouts, including the Old Course and the Cashen Course, which deliver golfers a pure golfing experience because of their location between majestic sand dunes and Atlantic Ocean views.

• Build Year: 1893
• Length: 6,318 yards
• Par: 71
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Sand dunes, deep bunkers, and fairways
• Average Slope Rating: 130
• Facilities Available: Clubhouse with dining, a pro shop, practice areas, restaurant, driving range, and changing rooms
• Golf Course Designer: Robert Trent Jones Sr.
• Address: Sandhill Rd, Ballybunion, Co. Kerry, V31 RX37, Ireland

15. Royal Dublin Golf Club, Dollymount

Royal Dublin Golf Club resides on the tranquil Bull Island, where golfers can experience a classic links course with charm, historical significance, and coastal scenery. The experience the course provides is ethereal for practitioners who practice patience and focus. Each hole on this course epitomises the essence of Irish links golf.

• Build Year: 1885
• Length: 7269 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Sand dunes, fescue grasses, and water hazards
• Average Slope Rating: 127
• Facilities Available: Pro shop, practice areas (driving range), clubhouse, bar, and restaurant
• Golf Course Designer: Harry Colt, later redesigned by Martin Hawtree
• Address: North Bull Island Nature Reserve, Dollymount, Dublin 3, Ireland

16. Royal Portrush Golf Club, Dunluce Rd

Located on Northern Ireland's breathtaking Antrim coast, the Royal Portrush Club has always been popular. The golf club holds two outstanding courses, and the magnificent Dunluce Links stands out the most among them. Since its founding, the club has tested and mesmerised players from all corners of the world. The course's natural elements, combined with the ocean breeze, result in a thrilling challenge.

• Build Year: 1888
• Length: 7319 yards
• Par: 72 
• Number of Holes: 36 
• Green Speed: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and coastal winds
• Average Slope Rating: 126
• Facilities Available: Restaurant, clubhouse, locker rooms, and driving range
• Golf Course Designer: Harry Colt, later redesigned by Martin Ebert
• Address: Dunluce Rd, Portrush BT56 8jq, UK.

17. Castlerock Golf Club, 65 Circular Rd

Castlerock Golf Club offers classic links Golf on Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast with natural dunes and views that seem to go on forever into the Sea. It is a traditional links layout where players will need to contend with both wind and terrain. Castlerock is deceptively difficult to score well. The environment is welcoming, and the club has a rich tradition. Great course for fans of true links golf; you must play here.

• Build Year: 1901 
• Length: Mussenden: 6805 Yards, Bann: 4,892 yards
• Par: 73
• Number of Holes: Mussenden: 18, Bann: 9
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Rolling sand dunes, wind, bunkers, slopes, and rivers
• Average Slope Rating: Mussenden: 126, Bann: 108
• Facilities Available: Clubhouse, PGA Golf Professional, golf academy, and state-of-the-art GPS buggies
• Golf Course Designer: Ben Sayers, Harry Colt, later redesigned by  Dr Martin Hawtree
• Address: Golf Club, 65 Circular Rd, Castlerock, Coleraine BT51 4tj, UK

18. County Sligo Golf Club, Rosses Point

A golfer can experience this magnificent landscape by playing on Rosses Point's beautifully undulating fairways nestled at the foot of the iconic mountain Benbulben, hosting the vast horizon of the Atlantic Ocean. Rosses Point Golf Club, with its traditional links-style course, offers pure windswept golf – with a bit of local charm. The classic links format offers a chance to engage with elements of nature on every hole in a timeless dance.

• Build Year: 1894
• Length: 7,157 yards
• Par: 71
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Bunkers, semi-blind tee shots, and natural features like cliffs and beaches
• Average Slope Rating:  Blue tees: 126,  White tees: 122, Green tees: 119
• Facilities Available: A driving range, bar, restaurant, and clubhouse
• Golf Course Designer: Harry  Colt 
• Address: Rosses Point, Co. Sligo, F91 Y974, Ireland

19. Ballyliffin Golf Club, Co. Donegal

Ballyliffin's Glashedy Links provides a wild, windswept challenge on Donegal's rugged northern coastline. The sweeping dunes and potential sea views provide a stunning backdrop for every shot. Glashedy Links rewards boldness and a good strategic mind. A remote and real gem that offers nothing but 100% exhilarating links golf.

• Build Year: 1947
• Length: Glashedy links: 7542 yards, Old links: 7,200 yards
• Par: 71 
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast 
• Types of Hazards: Water and bunker hazards
• Average Slope Rating: 125
• Facilities Available: Club storage and drying facilities, a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar, and a golf school/academy. 
• Golf Course Designer: Eddie Hackett, Charles Lawrie, Frank Pennick, later redesigned by Nick Faldo
• Address: Ballymac Moriarty, Ballyliffin, Co. Donegal, Ireland.

20. Portumna Golf Club, Co. Galway

Situated in the natural peace of Portumna Forest Park, at the junction of the River Shannon and Lough Derg, is Portumna Golf Club, a beautiful parkland course. The course gently weaves its way through mature oak and beech trees, providing a peaceful yet arduous golfing experience. The layout of the course and the surrounding picturesque scenery make it a popular choice for golfers.

• Build Year: 1913
• Length: 6334 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Water hazards, trees, bunkers, sand, and natural vegetation
• Average Slope Rating: White Tees: 125, Red Tees: 113
• Facilities Available: Bar, restaurant, clubhouse, pro shop, and changing rooms
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• Golf Course Designer: Eddie Connaughton
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• Address: Ennis Road, Portumna, Co. Galway, Ireland

21. Portstewart Golf Club, 117 Strand Rd

The Strand Course in Portstewart is exciting to play, with its towering sand dunes and stunning Atlantic views. It combines wonderful surroundings with a competitive design. The opening holes are some of the best in links golf. Each hole is set up for the round of a lifetime before you head on to the difficult middle section, which requires skill and creativity with unpredictable, ever-changing weather.

• Build Year: 1894
• Length: 6,779 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Dunes, bunkers, and fairways
• Average Slope Rating: 124
• Facilities Available: Pro shop, bar, restaurant, banquet facilities, and locker rooms
• Golf Course Designer: Willie Park and Des Giffin
• Address: 117 Strand Rd, Portstewart BT55 7PG, United Kingdom

22. Carne Golf Links, Co Mayo

On Mayo's wild Atlantic coast, Carne Golf Links is a gem just waiting to be discovered, with rugged dunes rising to protect the sweeping views of the ocean. In its natural, untouched character, Carne Golf Links is a pure links experience without the shoulder-to-shoulder play of many resort-like courses. It is an authentic and thrilling experience for those who are adventurous enough to enjoy it.

• Build Year: 1992
• Length: 6706 Yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: water hazards, bunkers, and dunes 
• Average Slope Rating: Blue Tees: 124, White Tees: 120, Yellow Tees: 116, Red Tees: 121
• Facilities Available: Bar, restaurant, clubhouse, and driving range
• Golf Course Designer: Eddie Hackett
• Address: Carne, Belmullet, Co. Mayo, Ireland

23. Rosapenna Golf Resort, Co. Donegal

Sandy Hills Links at Rosapenna presents a challenging course of wild dunes and stunning views of Donegal's unspoiled coastline. The course's narrow fairways and elevated greens push your skill and nerve. This course defines the rawness of nature magnificently, mixed with the artistry of golf. A must-play for all link lovers.

• Build Year: 2003
• Length: Old Tom Morris: 6901 yards, Sandy Hills: 6930 yards
• Par: Old Tom Morris: 71, Sandy Hills: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast
• Types of Hazards: Wind, bunkers, and the terrain itself, including dunes and narrow fairways
• Average Slope Rating: Old Tom Morris Course: Blue Tee: 122, White Tee: 119, Red Tee: 118; Sandy Hills: Blue Tee: 121, White Tee: 117, Red Tee: 119
• Facilities Available: Clubhouse, chipping area, banquet facilities, card room, wellness centre, sauna, and steam room
• Golf Course Designer: Harry Vardon and James Braid
• Address: Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Resort, Sheephaven Bay, Downings, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, F92 PN73, Ireland. 

24. Luttrellstown Castle Golf & Country Club, Dublin

Conveniently located within a large estate near Dublin, Luttrellstown Castle is a championship parkland course flanked by mature trees and drenched in castle splendour. The course offers a unique mix of strategy and beauty, as it presents a posh golfing opportunity.

• Build Year: 1993
• Length: 7347 Yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast 
• Types of Hazards: Water hazards and bunkers
• Average Slope Rating: 113
• Facilities Available: Pro shop, restaurant, clubhouse, bar, catering, locker rooms, driving range, and conference facilities
• Golf Course Designer: Tom MacKenzie and Donald Steel
• Address: Castleknock, Co. Dublin, Ireland

25. Tralee Golf Club, Barrow West

Tralee, Arnold Palmer's pièce de résistance, waits to be played through magnificent dunes and tremendous coastlines with stunning views. Tralee's design, strategic in nature, is a combination of challenge and beauty. It is an experience of links golf in some of Ireland's most picturesque landscapes. An absolute essential for links golf enthusiasts.

• Build Year: 1896
• Length: 6,975 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Medium
• Types of Hazards: Bunkers, water hazards, and natural vegetation
• Average Slope Rating: 113
• Facilities Available: Bar, restaurant, clubhouse, and driving range
• Golf Course Designer: Arnold Palmer 
• Address: Barrow, Barrow West, Co. Kerry, V92 A406, Ireland

26. Ardglass Golf Club, Downpatrick

Ardglass Golf Club is a cliff-top link that offers stunning views over the Irish Sea and a historic golf course. The rugged terrain and challenging holes will test your skill and mettle, but the warm community spirit will welcome all. An experience you will never forget.

• Build Year: 1896
• Length: 6,268 yards
• Par: 70
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast 
• Types of Hazards: Water hazards, bunkers, and environmental hazards like rugged terrain and strong winds
• Average Slope Rating: 112
• Facilities Available: A pro shop, practice facilities, a clubhouse, caddies, club hire, and golf buggies 
• Golf Course Designer: Alister Mackenzie, later redesigned by  David Jones
• Address: 9 Castle Pl, Ardglass, Downpatrick BT30 7tp, UK

27. Headfort Golf Club, Co. Meath

Headfort Golf Club features two famed parkland courses nestled amid mature trees and river landscapes. The natural beauty and careful design of the club balance sereneness with a challenge. Such is the peace and harmony of the club that it has become a popular getaway for those "escaping to play." A hidden gem in County Meath.

• Build Year: 2000
• Length: 6484 yards
• Par: 72
• Number of Holes: 18
• Green Speeds: Fast 
• Types of Hazards: Water hazards, bunkers, and mature trees 
• Average Slope Rating: 110
• Facilities Available: A clubhouse with a bar, restaurant, and snooker room, a pro shop, golf buggy and trolley rentals, a short game area, putting greens, and practice bunkers
• Golf Course Designer: Christy O'Connor Jr
• Address: Headfort Pl, Headfort Demesne, Kells, Co. Meath, A82 E330, Ireland