The Complete Guide to Royal County Down

Depending upon who you ask or what list you're reading, Royal County Down may find itself noted as the best golf course in the world.

With such a lofty distinction, it's little wonder why Royal County Down is the most sought after course for Ireland golf tours.

Say nothing of its rich history, architectural pedigree, or the sublime setting that it occupies.

While the golf at Royal County Down is certain to be exceptional, the overall experience at both the club and this corner of Ireland is second to none.

If Royal County Down is part of your Northern Ireland golf trip, here's a preview of what awaits.

- Royal County Down History

- Notable Holes & Features

- Additional Highlights

- Royal County Down FAQs

Royal County Down History

The Royal County Down Golf Club was founded in 1889 thanks, in part, to the arrival of the railway to the seaside town of Newcastle.

Old Tom Morris was soon hired for the princely sum of £4 to extend the original 9-hole course to a full 18-holes.

In the decades that followed, Royal County Down was shaped by a number of prominent golfers turned architects, including Harry Vardon, J.H. Taylor, and James Braid.

But the greatest evolution of Royal County Down came at the hands of George Combe, the club’s “Convenor of the Green.”

Besides leaving his mark at Royal County Down, Combe was also instrumental in the development of golf’s first handicap system.

Harry Colt, who left his mark at places like Muirfield and Pine Valley, came to Royal County Down in the 1920s and transformed the links into the beloved course we know today.

Although Royal County Down finds itself among the best golf courses in the world, the club continues to evolve and reach for new heights.

The design firm of Mackenzie & Ebert recently completed a few updates around the course, including the removal of a much maligned pond on the 17th hole.

Notable Holes & Features

The 4th Hole

The collection of par-3s at Royal County Down are easily the finest on the Emerald Isle, with the 4th hole setting the pace.

A sea of gorse, 10 bunkers, and a breathtaking view all greet the golfer on the tee as they prepare to take on one of the truly great par-3s in Ireland.

All 228 yards of it, often into the wind.

The members of The Union League of Philadelphia prepare to tee off on the 4th at Royal County Down.

Bearded Bunkers

The bunkers at Royal County Down are often said to be the most visually stunning in the game, thanks to the “beards” of marram, red fescue, and heather that adorn their faces.

While a trip to the sand is rarely a good idea on the links across the pond, you may find yourself hoping any shot bound for a bunker yields exactly that.

Some of the worst lies imaginable are found in the unkempt grasses surrounding these bunkers, making this one feature of Royal County Down that’s best unseen.

Eric Kong of Candlewood Country Club plays from one of RCD's famous bunkers.

The 9th Hole

Harry Colt created the 9th hole at Royal County Down by combining two holes into one.

The result is one of the most memorable par-4s in golf.

After striking a blind tee shot up and over a ridge, the 9th hole gives way to one of the most photographed spots in the game.

The panorama from the peak some 60 feet above the fairway includes the Slieve Donard, the Mourne Mountains, and the Irish Sea.

Have your camera ready, both the one in your bag and in your mind, as this is one scene you’ll never want to forget.

The members of Applebrook Golf Club on the 9th fairway of Royal County Down.

Additional Highlights

The Slieve Donard

Although the golf is the main attraction at Royal County Down - and rightfully so - the Good Life nearby should not be missed.

Thankfully, you don't need to travel far to find it, as barely a 9-iron from the first tee lies the magnificent Slieve Donard hotel.

The Slieve Donard was the recipient of a head-to-toe renovation as part of its entry into the Marine & Lawn family of hotels.

Whether it’s dinner in their acclaimed restaurant or a visit to the award-winning spa, the Slieve Donard completes the ultimate “perfect pairing” of Golf and the Good Life.

Anthony Malizia, PGA and his Bidermann Golf Club members at the Slieve Donard hotel.

The Good Life

A memorable round at Royal County Down warrants an equal measure of the Good Life when the day is done.

Our members often find this waiting at Mourne Seafood in nearby Dundrum or Villa Vinci up the street in Newcastle.

Both menus pair nicely with a crisp glass of chardonnay and lively conversation reminiscing on putts made and memories shared.

Or if time is short and the sweet tooth happens to strike, we suggest a stop at Nugelato in Newcastle for a scoop or two of gelato.

Ardglass Golf Club

Over the last several years, Ardglass Golf Club has become a must-play stop on golf trips to Royal County Down.

From the 14th century clubhouse, to one of the best 1st holes in golf, to the spectacular views at nearly every turn, it's easy to see why.

Simply put, no visit to Royal County Down is complete without a stop at Ardglass.

The dramatic 1st tee at Ardglass as enjoyed by the members of Westwood Country Club.

Post-Round Pints

On overseas golf trips, sometimes the tendency is to load up after putting out and head back to the hotel or on to the next stop.

But a round as special as Royal County Down deserves to be celebrated.

So set aside a few extra minutes, find a table in the clubhouse lounge, and reminisce on your day at one of the best golf courses in the world over a pint of the finest tasting Guinness you're likely to ever find.

Royal County Down FAQs

When do Royal County Down tee times become available?

Royal County Down tee times generally become available in May of the year prior to play.

Tee times in the peak summer months sell out rapidly.

If you’re hoping to play Royal County Down as part of a golf trip to Ireland, we suggest beginning the planning process in spring of the year prior to your trip.

Where is Royal County Down located?

Royal County Down is located along the southeast coast of Northern Ireland in the town of Newcastle.

Belfast is approximately 45 minutes to the north, while Dublin is just under two hours to the south.

Belfast offers the closest airport to Royal County Down, but Dublin is the favored arrival city for most travelers given the wider array of direct flights from the United States.

What other golf courses should I play near Royal County Down?

There’s an abundance of outstanding golf in Northern Ireland to be enjoyed alongside Royal County Down.

So much, in fact, that this question required a guide of its own: Northern Ireland Golf Trips - Beyond the Royals.

Is it possible to play 36-holes in one day at Royal County Down?

Possible, yes. Advisable, not really.

Royal County Down is an arduous course and walk. While we always endorse the idea of playing it more than once, unless your fitness regimen is similar to Gary Player’s, it’s a task best fulfilled over separate days.

Are caddies available at Royal County Down?

Yes, caddies are available at Royal County Down and we wouldn’t dream of attempting the course without one.

The cost is the club’s prevailing caddie fee plus a recommended gratuity of £20-£30.

Believe us when we say that this is a bargain.

To learn more about caddies for your upcoming trip, give a read of our Caddie FAQs.

What is the best 19th hole near Royal County Down?

As mentioned above, we’ve always found the clubhouse at Royal County Down to be an excellent and convenient option for the post-round libation. The Guinness is cool, the view is splendid, and the members and staff are welcoming.

Elsewhere, The Wolf Bar at the Slieve Donard hotel is always a fine choice.