Royal County Down
Ranked #1Northern Ireland

Royal County Down

Newcastle, County Down

4.9(300 reviews)
Nearest Airport

Belfast City (BHD)

52 km · ~50 min transfer

Airport Transfer

≈ €75

One way, taxi/shuttle

Hotel per Night

GBP 280600

Slieve Donard Hotel & Spa

3-Night Estimate

≈ €1,488

Transfer + hotel + green fee

About the Course

Royal County Down Golf Club is universally ranked among the finest golf courses in the world. Nestled beside Newcastle, County Down, with the majestic Mountains of Mourne sweeping down to the sea and the ruins of Slieve Donard Hotel framing the landscape, the course offers views of breathtaking beauty at every turn. The Championship Course, opened in 1889, is a supreme test of links golf with blind shots, deep bunkers, and heather-lined fairways demanding precision from the very first tee.

Gallery

Royal County Down — fairway
1 / 7

Course Highlights

Sea viewsMountain backdropBlind shotsDeep pot bunkersHeather roughNatural dune terrain

Awards & Recognition

  • #1 Links Course GB&I
  • Golf Digest #2 World
  • Top 100 Golf Courses #1

Visitor Information

Guest Policy: Visitors welcome on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Handicap certificate required.

MayJuneJulyAugustSeptember

Best months to visit

Where to Stay

Slieve Donard Hotel & Spa — exterior, near Royal County Down
Slieve Donard Hotel & Spa — guest room, near Royal County Down
Slieve Donard Hotel & Spa — spa & pool, near Royal County Down

Slieve Donard Hotel & Spa

A Victorian landmark hotel steps from the first tee, offering a world-class spa and stunning sea views.

WellnessSpa300m from course

GBP 280600

per night

View hotel

Where to Eat

The Percy French

Named after the famous Irish entertainer, serving elegant Irish cuisine in a charming setting.

$$$

Modern Irish

The Oak Bar & Restaurant

Traditional pub fare with local seafood specialities.

$$

Gastropub

Frequently Asked Questions