News Summary
Royal Portrush is set to host the prestigious Open Championship this July, highlighting Northern Ireland’s golfing heritage. Known for its stunning courses, this event sees top professionals compete on a globally recognized stage. Northern Ireland, with over 90 golf courses including Royal County Down and Portstewart Golf Club, continues to establish itself as a premier golfing destination. Beyond golf, attractions like the Game of Thrones Studio Tour and the Giant’s Causeway enhance the visitor experience. With new developments in the works, the region is committed to inviting more golf enthusiasts.
Portrush, Northern Ireland – Royal Portrush is preparing to welcome the prestigious Open Championship from July 17, marking a significant event in the golfing calendar. The championship, which will see top professionals from around the globe compete, is a highlight for Northern Ireland, a region recognized for its rich golf heritage and world-class courses.
This will be the third time Royal Portrush has hosted The Open, with previous championships held in 1951 and 2019, when Shane Lowry outshone competitors to claim victory. The course is consistently praised as one of the best in the world, known for its scenic beauty and challenging layout.
Northern Ireland boasts over 90 golf courses, making it a prime destination for golf enthusiasts. The region offers a variety of golfing experiences, ranging from gentle links and parkland courses to demanding championship layouts suited to players of all skill levels.
Top Golfing Venues in Northern Ireland
Aside from Royal Portrush, some of the other notable golf courses include:
- Royal County Down – Located in County Down, this course is often regarded as the world’s number one. It provides breathtaking views of the Mourne Mountains and winds along the stunning Dundrum Bay.
- Portstewart Golf Club – Found on the north coast, it features three remarkable links courses that offer spectacular coastal views.
- Lough Erne Resort – This resort in County Fermanagh, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, boasts a championship course complemented by five-star accommodations, exquisite dining options, and a luxurious Thai-inspired spa.
Attractions Beyond Golf
While golf is a major draw, the region is rich in other attractions. The Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge offers fans the opportunity to explore filming locations. Additionally, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway is a short distance away, as is the historic Old Bushmills Distillery, where visitors can enjoy tours and whiskey tastings.
Future Developments in Golf
Looking ahead, Northern Ireland has exciting plans to further solidify its reputation as a world-class golfing destination. A new championship links course is planned in Bellarena, with an expected opening date in 2029, marking over 100 years since the last new course was developed in the region.
The investment by the Galgorm Collection, amounting to over £30 million, aims to create approximately 300 new jobs, reflecting the region’s commitment to enhancing its golfing offerings and attracting more visitors.
As the countdown to The Open Championship begins, anticipation builds not only for the tournament itself but also for the potential it holds to showcase Northern Ireland as a premier golfing hub. With its rich variety of courses, stunning landscapes, and abundance of attractions, the stage is set for an unforgettable event starting July 17 at Royal Portrush.
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Additional Resources
- Golfweek: Best Golf Courses in Ireland
- Golf Monthly: New Northern Irish Links Course
- MSN: Malbon-Bushmills Collaboration
- New York Times: The Open 2025 Live Updates
- CT Insider: Scottie Scheffler’s British Open Journey
- Wikipedia: Golf in Northern Ireland
- Google Search: Best Golf Courses Northern Ireland
- Google Scholar: Northern Ireland Golf Courses
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Google News: Northern Ireland Golf
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
