6 Things to See at Portstewart Golf Club

Although it is often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Portstewart Golf Club is a mainstay of Ireland golf packages.

And for very good reason.

The front-9 at Portstewart Golf Club is arguably the finest in Ireland, while the course as a whole presents an enjoyable test of links golf.

As a recent host of the Irish Open, it's also a worthy test for players of all levels.

If you're counting down to a Northern Ireland golf trip, here are a few things to look forward to when the day arrives.

Tubber Patrick

One of the best 1st holes in golf, the opener at Portstewart is named after the nearby St. Patrick's Well. A fresh water supply dating to the Stone Age, the holy well was blessed by Ireland's patron saint in the 5th century. With the towering dunes in the distance, the 1st hole sets the tone for the show-stopping front-9 that awaits.

Giant’s Causeway

Just a short drive from Portstewart Golf Club lies one of the world’s unique natural wonders. The Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO site consisting of over 40,000 basalt stone columns which were formed by ancient volcano eruptions. Legend has it the columns are the remnants of a causeway built by giant’s connecting Ireland to Scotland. Today, thousands of visitors a year visit the Causeway making it one of Ireland’s most visited attractions.

Five Penny Piece

The short par-3 6th hole owes its name to a green which from the tee appears to be the size of a nickel. Although “Penny” is a few yards longer, and the green is a touch larger, some might call this Portstewart’s version of the famed Postage Stamp. When the wind is howling, it is certainly no less intimidating.

Photo Courtesy of Portstewart Golf Club

Bushmills Inn

First licensed in 1608 by King James I, Bushmills is the oldest continuously operating distillery in the world. It is also home to an outstanding whiskey tour, which makes a perfect Good Life pairing with a round at Portstewart Golf Club. The same can be said of the the nearby Bushmills Inn, whose Gas Bar offers a great atmosphere to raise a post-round glass.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge dangles perilously between the mainland and an island just offshore, while crashing waves batter the rocky coast below. Not far from the Giant’s Causeway, this attraction isn’t exactly for the faint of heart, but those who visit are always thrilled they did.

The Royal Neighbor

For much of its existence, Portstewart has lived in the shadow of its illustrious neighbor, Royal Portrush Golf Club. That is unlikely to ever change, especially with the Claret Jug arriving in 2025. But the spotlight of the recent Irish Open at Portstewart showed the golfing world that the pair is a formidable duo. To play one and not the other is truly an opportunity missed.