Author: james mullen

The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush: A Swinging Success

© Tourism Ireland 2023 ©Paul Lindsay - Chris Hill Photographic - Royal Portrush

The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush

The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush has been the main topic of conversation at Brack Tours HQ this week. We were privileged to attend this world-class event.

After the success of The Open in 2019, the R&A announced that the 153rd Open Championship would return to Royal Portrush in 2025. The quick return of such a prestigious event speaks volumes about the lasting impact of the 2019 tournament and the quality of the golf links here in Northern Ireland.

An incredible 278,000 visitors and golf fans from around the world gathered to watch the world’s best golfers in action. The week was filled with a vibrant festival atmosphere. In addition to the exciting competition, spectators were welcomed by the warmth and hospitality of the local community. It was a fantastic showcase of everything Northern Ireland has to offer.

Celebrating Local Talent

Northern Ireland’s finest—Rory McIlroy, Darren Clarke, Shane Lowry, Pádraig Harrington, and Tom McKibbin—all displayed great skill and determination. Ultimately, the trophy went to U.S. golfer Scottie Scheffler. Congratulations to Mr Scheffler on a well-deserved win.

Brack Tours at The Open

Our Managing Director, Nuala Saul, attended the event alongside Tourism NI, which hosted a group of international travel trade executives. This was a fantastic opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland’s diverse tourism products, accommodation, and hospitality.

Nuala Saul
“Attending the 153rd Open, hosted by Tourism Northern Ireland, was an unforgettable experience — not only witnessing world-class golf but also discovering the depth and diversity of Northern Ireland’s tourism offerings. From the stunning landscapes to the thoughtfully upgraded visitor experiences unveiled during the 3-day FAM trip, it’s clear this region is raising the bar for immersive travel. Northern Ireland is not just a destination; it’s a story waiting to be explored.”

Our colleague Megan McGurren also attended The Open with our friends at VisitScotland. Her highlight was sitting in the grandstand for the first tee of the tournament alongside Pádraig Harrington.

Megan McGurren
“Overall, there was a brilliant atmosphere all day. We experienced all four seasons in one day with the weather! It was great seeing all the Irish golfers taking part – McIlroy, Harrington, Lowry, Darren Clarke, and many more. Overall, a fantastic outing!”

View of the Stand and Trophy Royal Portrush - Northern Ireland

Golfing in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is now recognised as a premier golf destination. Despite its compact size, it’s home to over 90 golf clubs across 5,500 square miles of stunning scenery. From dramatic coastal links to scenic parkland courses, the variety is unmatched.

In addition to superb golfing, visitors can enjoy award-winning restaurants, cosy pubs, distilleries, and cultural attractions — making it an ideal location for golfers and non-golfers alike.

Recommended Golf Courses & Experiences

Ardglass Golf Club

Ardglass is a spectacular 18-hole links course located on the north-eastern coast of Ireland. It offers stunning sea views and some truly unique holes. The club is home to the oldest clubhouse in the world, dating back to 1405. With eight holes along the coastline and views of the Irish Sea from every tee and green, this course is a real gem — especially on a windy day!

Royal County Down Golf Club

Regularly ranked among the top golf courses in the world, Royal County Down is nestled in the town of Newcastle, County Down. With the Mourne Mountains as a backdrop and sweeping views over Dundrum Bay, the Championship Links course is a true test for any golfer.

Its iconic 9th hole, with an elevated tee flanked by heather and gorse, is one of the most photographed in golf. If you’re lucky, you might get the chance to play here – but tee times are in very high demand.

Nearby:

  • Slieve Donard Hotel & Spa – Seaside luxury with mountain views.

  • The Bucks Head Restaurant, Dundrum – Fresh, locally sourced dishes.

  • St Patrick Centre, Downpatrick – A unique museum on Ireland’s patron saint.

  • Hillsborough Castle & Gardens – Northern Ireland’s only royal residence.

Holywood Golf Club

Just five miles from Belfast city centre, Holywood Golf Club is the proud home of Rory McIlroy. It’s perfect for visiting golfers and offers a fair but challenging layout, suitable for all abilities. The views over Belfast Lough add to the experience.

Nearby:

  • Culloden Estate & Spa – Five-star accommodation with exceptional dining and spa facilities.

  • Dunadry Hotel & Gardens – One of Northern Ireland’s finest 4* resort properties, with an AA Rosette Restaurant and modern spa garden onsite.

  • The Cultra Inn – Serves delicious meals made with local ingredients.

  • The Rory Experience – Enjoy stories and photo ops with Rory’s replica trophies.

Nuala Saul Visiting Hollywood Golf Club

Royal Portrush Golf Club – Dunluce Links

Royal Portrush is considered one of the best and most scenic courses globally. Located in the Causeway Coast & Glens, the views stretch across the Donegal hills, the Isle of Islay, and the Giant’s Causeway.

Nearby:

  • Dunluce Lodge Resort – Overlooks the fourth fairway and Causeway Coast.

  • Giant’s Causeway – A must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Amici Italian Restaurant, Portstewart – Delicious food with a smoky twist, thanks to the charcoal oven.

Ballyliffin Golf Club, Donegal

As Rory McIlroy put it, “Anyone planning a golf trip to the north of Ireland, the two courses at Ballyliffin are must-play championship links.”

Located at the northern tip of Ireland, Ballyliffin Golf Club features both the Glashedy Links and The Old Links. The natural beauty and course quality here make it a world-class golfing destination.

Nearby:

  • Redcastle Resort – Offers fine dining, spa treatments, and spectacular views over Lough Foyle.

  • The Edge Restaurant – One of Donegal’s best, focused on local and seasonal ingredients.

  • Doagh Famine Village – A powerful cultural experience exploring Ireland’s past.

Things to Do in Belfast

Take a day to explore the vibrant capital. Walk along the Maritime Mile, explore Titanic Belfast, or tour McConnell’s Irish Whiskey Distillery inside the historic Crumlin Road Gaol. In the evenings, enjoy live music in traditional pubs and sample the city’s bold and creative food scene.

Suggested stays:

Planning Ahead

A golfing trip to Northern Ireland combines exceptional courses, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. It’s more than just a golf holiday — it’s an enriching travel experience.

Looking ahead, Ireland’s profile continues to rise on the global golf stage. The 2027 Ryder Cup will be hosted at Adare Manor in County Limerick, marking only the second time the tournament has been held in Ireland. With excitement already building, now is the perfect time to begin planning. If you’re thinking of golfing in Ireland around this iconic event, Brack Tours can help you book and organise your experience.

Tee times for 2026 are already filling up — don’t miss out! Contact our team today to start planning your unforgettable golf adventure.

Sustainable Travel in Ireland & Scotland: Travel Responsibly with Brack Tours

Travel Beautifully, Leave Only Footprints – Embrace Sustainable Touring Across Ireland & Scotland

At Brack Tours, we believe in the power of travel to inspire, connect, and transform—not only our travellers but the places they visit. As guardians of the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures of Ireland and Scotland, we’re passionate about ensuring these lands remain as beautiful tomorrow as they are today. That’s why we’re committed to offering sustainable travel experiences that celebrate heritage, support local communities, and tread lightly on the environment.

Why Sustainable Travel Matters

Ireland and Scotland boast some of the most unspoiled coastlines, lush green valleys, and ancient historical landmarks in Europe. But like many popular travel destinations, they face growing pressures from over-tourism, climate change, and environmental degradation. Sustainable travel is more than a trend—it’s a necessity. It’s about making thoughtful choices that benefit both the traveller and the local communities.

From conserving natural resources to preserving cultural traditions, sustainable tourism helps protect what makes Ireland and Scotland so unique.

How Brack Tours Champions Sustainability

We’ve woven sustainability into the heart of our operations. Here’s how we’re making a difference:

1. Small Group Tours with a Big Impact

Our tours are intentionally kept small and intimate, reducing the environmental footprint of group travel while fostering deeper connections with people and places. Smaller groups mean less strain on local infrastructure and a more authentic experience for our guests.

2. Locally Owned Accommodations & Guides

We prioritise family-run hotels, B&Bs, and locally owned businesses. Not only does this ensure you get a warm and genuine welcome, but it also supports local economies and sustains cultural heritage. Our expert guides are locals who offer deep insights into the history and traditions of each area—knowledge that simply can’t be found in guidebooks.

3. Low-Impact Travel Choices

Brack Tours promotes travel by eco-friendly coaches for group tours, helping reduce carbon emissions compared to multiple rental cars. Where possible, we incorporate walking tours, nature trails, and heritage sites that encourage travellers to slow down and savour the landscape, rather than rush from landmark to landmark.

4. Farm-to-Table Dining Experiences

We’re proud to offer itineraries that include traditional meals made with fresh, local ingredients. Supporting sustainable agriculture and local producers allows travellers to enjoy the finest flavours of Ireland and Scotland—while reducing food miles.

5. Heritage Conservation Support

Many of our tours include visits to castles, cathedrals, and historic sites, often managed by conservation trusts. By including these sites in our itineraries, we help fund the ongoing preservation of these landmarks through entry fees and donations. Such sites are run by the following organizations: Office of Public Works (OPW), National Trust & Historic Environment Scotland.

6. Authentic Farm Visits that Support Rural Life

At Brack Tours, we include special stops at working farms to connect travellers with the rural heart of Ireland and Northern Ireland. These visits offer a unique glimpse into traditional ways of life while supporting sustainable agriculture and local families.

One such highlight is Glenshane Country Farm in the scenic Sperrin Mountains of Northern Ireland. Here, you’ll witness expert sheepdog demonstrations, learn about life on a hill farm, and enjoy genuine hospitality in a breathtaking setting.

By visiting farms like Glenshane, travellers help sustain rural economies, preserve agricultural traditions, and support low-impact, land-based livelihoods that have existed for generations.

These farm visits are not only educational and engaging—they’re a powerful way to travel responsibly and give back to the communities that make Ireland and Scotland so special.

Tips for Travelling Sustainably with Brack Tours

  • Pack reusable essentials: Bring your own refillable water bottle, tote bag, and travel mug.

  • Respect local customs and natural sites: Stay on marked trails, take only photographs, and engage respectfully with local cultures.

  • Offset your carbon footprint: Consider donating to a verified carbon offset project that supports reforestation or renewable energy.

  • Support artisans and makers: Buy locally crafted souvenirs to help preserve traditional skills and keep money in the local economy.

Embrace Public Transport & Hop-On Hop-Off Tours

One of the easiest and most eco-friendly ways to explore cities in Ireland, Scotland, and Northern Ireland is by using public transport and hop-on hop-off bus tours. These options not only reduce carbon emissions compared to private vehicles but also give you the flexibility to explore at your own pace—perfect for free days built into your Brack Tours itinerary.

Ireland

Northern Ireland

  • Public Transport (Translink): Efficient travel between Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, and rural areas.
    🔗 Translink NI

  • Belfast Hop-On Hop-Off Tours: Tour Titanic Quarter, Stormont, murals, and more.
    🔗 City Sightseeing Belfast

Scotland

These options align beautifully with Brack Tours’ mission to promote responsible, flexible travel, especially during city stays where large vehicles aren’t needed. Ask your tour guide for the best stops or travel cards to make the most of these services.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Sustainable travel is about creating positive change—for yourself, for the people you meet, and for the planet. Whether you’re exploring the windswept cliffs of Donegal, wandering through the cobbled streets of Edinburgh, or soaking in the serenity of the Scottish Highlands, Brack Tours is here to guide you every step of the way.

Let’s journey through Ireland and Scotland in a way that honours the land, uplifts communities, and inspires future generations of travellers.

Ready to Travel More Thoughtfully?
Visit bracktours.com and discover our eco-conscious itineraries for Ireland & Scotland today.