Belfast as a Base for Northern Ireland Golf

Northern Ireland is one of the world’s most compelling golf destinations, and Belfast offers a natural base for visitors who want to combine memorable golf with city culture, dining and easy travel. At the heart of it is The Royal Belfast Golf Club — Ireland’s oldest golf club, set on the shores of Belfast Lough at Craigavad, just a 20-minute drive from the city centre.

A Different Side of Golf in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is best known for links golf — dramatic coastlines, wind and dunes. Royal Belfast offers the counterpoint: a refined parkland course shaped by trees, natural contours and subtly formed greens, asking for accuracy, patience and judgement rather than power. Pairing a round of links golf with a round at Royal Belfast adds real variety to a Northern Ireland itinerary.

Golf, Culture and Hospitality

Belfast’s mix of historic attractions, restaurants and traditional pubs makes it well suited to mixed groups and couples who want a trip that feels like a holiday as much as a golf trip. After a round, visitors can relax in our clubhouse, Craigavad House, or head back into the city for the evening.

Where to Stay

Many visitors choose Belfast city centre for its choice of hotels, restaurants and transport links. Others prefer Holywood, Bangor or the wider North Down area for a quieter coastal stay close to the Club. International visitors often use Belfast as a convenient point within a wider Irish golf journey, arriving through Belfast, Dublin or other hubs.

Plan Your Visit

Explore our visitor information or to book a tee time here: The Royal Belfast Golf Club – Book Tee Times Online – Online Golf Booking.  For group reservations, contact the Club Office on +44 28 9042 8165 option 1 to discuss availability.

We look forward to welcoming you to Craigavad.