Discover stunning golf outside of Royal County Down with this guide to nearby courses that are worth your tee time. From coastal links to scenic parklands, the area is rich in world-class golf experiences that perfectly complement a visit to one of the most iconic courses in the world.
Introduction
Royal County Down is often considered the crown jewel in Irish golf. Nestled between the Mourne Mountains and the Irish Sea, its panoramic views and challenging links layout are a bucket-list experience for any golfer. But stepping slightly beyond its fairways reveals a treasure trove of accessible and impressive courses. Whether you’re on a golfing holiday or a local enthusiast looking to expand your range, there’s no shortage of exceptional golf nearby. So, swap a day at RCD for these sensational courses and see why golfing in Ireland offers more than just the classics.
Why Golfers Should Explore Beyond Royal County Down
It’s understandable why many come to Northern Ireland just to play Royal County Down. The history, the layout, the mystique — it is all world-class. But one of the best things about golfing in Ireland is the density and quality of courses within short distances. Ireland is a golfer’s dream not just because of its marquee names but also its hidden gems and storied layouts waiting just around the corner.
Playing nearby courses provides variety, round availability, and a fresh rhythm to your golfing itinerary. Whether it’s a relaxed parkland experience or another wild links challenge, expanding your trip beyond Royal County Down unlocks the full spectrum of Irish golf.
Ardglass Golf Club – Rugged Beauty by the Sea
Only 35 minutes from Royal County Down, Ardglass Golf Club offers another unforgettable coastal experience. Set on the rugged cliffs of the County Down coastline, this lesser-known gem blends natural terrain with medieval charm. Its clubhouse, situated in a 14th-century castle, is believed to be the oldest building in the world used as a golf clubhouse. Ardglass is pure links golf — wind-swept tee shots, dramatic seaside holes, and greens that demand precision.
The opening stretch along the jagged coast is breathtaking, and the views of the Irish Sea are worth the visit alone. But the golf stands up, and Ardglass has been gaining international attention as a must-play course when in the region.
Kirkistown Castle Golf Club – Links with a Local Feel
About an hour’s drive north, Kirkistown Castle adds a completely different dynamic. Designed by the legendary James Braid, this links course lies on the Ards Peninsula, offering a fast and firm layout with towering dunes and tight fairways. It’s one of the oldest golf clubs in Northern Ireland and carries that traditional feel with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Kirkistown Castle doesn’t try too hard to impress — it lets its charm, design, and views do the talking. For those seeking a quintessential local links experience without the crowds, this is an excellent option.
Royal Belfast Golf Club – A Taste of Parkland Elegance
For a change of pace from the linksland, head just over an hour north to Royal Belfast Golf Club. As the name suggests, there’s heritage here. Founded in 1881, it’s the oldest golf club in Ireland and offers a beautifully manicured parkland layout beside Belfast Lough. Designed by Harry Colt, this is a course that asks questions through intelligent bunkering, tree-lined fairways, and subtle greens.
Rather than being intimidated, Royal Belfast invites golfers to think their way around. Its calm, refined aesthetic contrasts sharply with the wild links courses, offering mental respite and a different style of test. The views across the lough towards the Antrim Hills are just enough to distract you from club selection.
Clandeboye Golf Club – A Dual Course Playground
While not as noted internationally as others on this list, Clandeboye is a fan-favourite on the local scene. Located just under 90 minutes from Royal County Down, it’s home to two distinct courses — the Dufferin and the Ava — giving visiting golfers more bang for their buck. The Dufferin Course is the standout, a championship-grade test with heathland characteristics, sweeping elevation changes, and no shortage of drama off the tee.
This is a perfect day-trip stop for those who want to experience a mix of styles and enjoy a full day of challenging golf in a peaceful woodland setting.
Scrabo Golf Club – Views and Value
For those willing to seek out the road less travelled, Scrabo Golf Club is a brilliant value option with incredible scenery. Set high above Newtownards, it boasts panoramic views stretching over Strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. It’s probably not suited to your first game in Ireland, as odd bounces and hilltop wind can make for a chaotic round. But what it lacks in polish, it more than makes up for in soul.
This is raw Irish golf at its best — no frills, few tourists, and a lot of local pride. Scrabo is memorable for its setting, its rugged charm, and a layout that constantly surprises.
Bangor Golf Club – Consistency on the Coast
Another strong contender within an hour’s reach is Bangor Golf Club. This isn’t trying to be Royal County Down or Portrush, but it doesn’t need to. Bangor offers a firm challenge with sea air, a thoughtful layout, and reliable conditions — the kind of place local players return to again and again. For the travelling golfer, it represents a great stop where hospitality and playability shine.
Building Your Golf Itinerary
If you’re planning a golf trip around Royal County Down, consider adding one or two of these courses to your itinerary. Logistics are incredibly favourable; most are within one to two hours by car, and the casual yet welcoming atmosphere of Irish clubs makes planning multiple rounds both enjoyable and easy.
A sample four-day trip could look like this:
- Day 1: Royal County Down
- Day 2: Ardglass Golf Club
- Day 3: Royal Belfast or Clandeboye
- Day 4: Choose between Kirkistown Castle and Scrabo for a final links adventure
Be sure to leave time to enjoy the clubhouse culture, local food, and perhaps a post-round pint or two. The craic is half the fun.
Final Thoughts: Golf in All Its Irish Glory
Royal County Down may headline your golfing trip, and rightly so, but the surrounding courses provide the depth and dimension that make golfing in Ireland truly special. Every fairway tells a story. Every green has its quirks. And every course you play adds something unique to the experience.
It’s not just about ticking boxes. It’s about discovering the rhythm of Irish golf — a touch of history, a bit of wild weather, and nothing but pure joy in every swing.
So, make the most of it. Book that extra round. Drive that scenic road. The golf here is waiting, and it’s absolutely worth the journey.
