IRELAND

Golf in Ireland: Where Ancient Links Meet Modern Legends

Golf in Ireland is steeped in history, with the sport dating back to the mid-19th century when the first clubs emerged, including Royal Curragh (1856), one of the oldest inland courses.

The game flourished under British influence but evolved into a distinctly Irish tradition, with links courses shaped by the wild Atlantic and Irish Sea.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw iconic designs by Old Tom Morris and Harry Colt, while modern architects like Arnold Palmer and Tom Fazio have expanded Ireland’s golfing repertoire.

The Open Championship’s return to Royal Portrush in 2019 after 68 years marked a historic moment, reaffirming Ireland’s place in golf’s elite.

Key regions showcase Ireland’s golf diversity.

The southwest, including County Kerry, offers dramatic coastal courses like Waterville and Ballybunion, carved from dunes and battered by ocean winds.

The northwest, with Donegal’s rugged landscapes, features gems like Rosapenna, while the east coast’s parkland courses, such as The K Club, provide lush, tree-lined challenges.

Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast, home to Royal Portrush, blends mythic scenery with world-class golf.

Signature courses include Royal County Down, a timeless links ranked among the world’s best, with its towering dunes and blind shots designed by Old Tom Morris.

Ballybunion’s Old Course, a Herbert Fowler masterpiece, is revered for its natural undulations and cliffside holes.

Portmarnock Golf Club near Dublin, a classic links by William Pickeman, has hosted the Irish Open 19 times.

The modern Adare Manor in Limerick, redesigned by Tom Fazio, blends parkland luxury with Ryder Cup ambitions (2027).

Player development thrives through programs like Golf Ireland’s grassroots initiatives and academies such as the GUI National Golf Academy.

Notable pros include Rory McIlroy, a four-time major champion, and Leona Maguire, the first Irishwoman to win on the LPGA Tour.

Tourism peaks from May to September, with packages combining golf and cultural experiences—exploring Cliffs of Moher near Lahinch or whiskey tours near Druids Glen.

Sustainability efforts include eco-certifications at Tralee Golf Club and water conservation at Carton House.

Future projects include the redevelopment of Lahinch’s Castle Course and Ireland’s bid for the 2031 Ryder Cup, signaling continued growth..