World-Class Golf
Golf in the Mourne Mountains
Home to Royal County Down - the world's number one golf course - and a collection of stunning links and parkland courses.
World #1 Course
Royal County Down
Est. 1889
135+ Years
6 Courses
In the Region
Links & Parkland
Variety of Styles
Royal County Down
Golf Digest 2017, 2018, 2019
The World's Greatest Golf Course
Nestled in Murlough Nature Reserve, Royal County Down is a links masterpiece that borders Dundrum Bay with the Mourne Mountains as its dramatic backdrop. Founded in 1889, the course features the narrowest ribbons of fairways, surrounded by purple heather and golden gorse.
Famous Bearded Bunkers
Overhanging lips of marram, red fescue and heather guard fast, domed greens
The Murlough Room
Bar with views of the 18th green, 10th tee, and the Mountains of Mourne
36 Golf Links Road, Newcastle BT33 0AN
Gateway to the Mourne Mountains, seaside town of Newcastle
“A true test of the traditional bump and run.”
Royal County Down demands creativity and links craft - this is golf as it was meant to be played.
More Courses
Explore the Region's Golf Courses
Beyond Royal County Down, the Mourne region offers a wonderful variety of golf experiences - from dramatic coastal links to peaceful parkland courses.
Warrenpoint Golf Club
Just 5 minutes from Rostrevor, this beautiful parkland course offers stunning views across Carlingford Lough. A welcoming club with excellent visitor facilities.
Kilkeel Golf Club
Set in a spectacular coastal location 15 minutes from Rostrevor. The course offers a unique blend of links and parkland holes with stunning sea views.
Ardglass Golf Club
A dramatic coastal links perched above the Irish Sea. The clubhouse is a 14th-century Norman castle - possibly the oldest clubhouse in world golf.
Downpatrick Golf Club
A picturesque parkland course with views of the Mourne Mountains. Rich in history, close to St Patrick's burial place in the nearby cathedral.
Greenore Golf Club
Accessible via the scenic Carlingford Lough Ferry, this links course offers a wonderful cross-border golfing experience with mountain and sea views.
Planning Your Golf Trip
Everything you need to know to make the most of your golfing experience in the Mourne region.
Best Time to Visit
May to September offers the best weather, though links golf is playable year-round. Spring and autumn provide excellent value and quieter courses.
Booking Tips
Royal County Down requires advance booking, especially for weekends. Other courses are generally more accessible but advance booking is recommended in peak season.
Green Fees
Expect premium rates at Royal County Down. Regional courses offer excellent value - typically between 30-60 for a round. Many offer visitor packages.
Ready to Tee Off?
Plan your golfing getaway to the Mourne region. World-class courses await, framed by mountains, sea, and some of Ireland's most beautiful landscapes.
Plan Your Trip