What is the oldest golf course in Ireland?

The Royal Curragh Golf Club which dates back to 1858.

More about The Royal Curragh Golf Club

The Royal Curragh Golf Club is Ireland’s oldest golf course. It has been completely revamped and is now a challenging heathland course of 6,585 yards. Research has proven that golf was first played on the plains of the Curragh in County Kildare in 1852.

The New course layout was designed by Patrick Merrigan. The work was carried out by Fanning Golf. Five new sand based greens were constructed for new 8th, 10th, 11th, 12th and 13th holes.

Other Old golf courses in Ireland

Royal Belfast Golf Club

Royal Belfast Golf Club is often recognized as the second oldest golf club in Ireland:

Founded in 1881

Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Designed by Harry Colt

Features a parkland course and a Victorian clubhouse

The Royal Dublin Golf Club

The Royal Dublin Golf Club is Ireland's third oldest golf club:

Founded in 1885

Located on Bull Island, Dublin

Originally designed by Harry Colt, later extended by Martin Hawtree

Has hosted multiple Irish Open Professional Championships

Other Notable Early Golf Clubs

Royal Portrush Golf Club: Founded in 1888, located in County Antrim

Royal County Down Golf Club: Opened on March 23, 1889, located in Newcastle, County Down

Lahinch Golf Club: Opened in 1892, located in County Clare

County Louth Golf Club (Baltray): Established in 1892, located on the east coast of Ireland

Ballybunion Golf Club: Founded in 1893, located in County Kerry

These historic golf clubs have played significant roles in the development of golf in Ireland and continue to be highly regarded in the golfing world. Many of them, such as Royal County Down, Royal Portrush, and Ballybunion, are consistently ranked among the top courses globally, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the world.

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