Tag: The Bucks Head Restaurant

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!”

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.

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:

• Grand Central Hotel

• Europa Hotel
  Both are centrally located and close to shops, restaurants, and attractions.

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.