Discovering Golf in Derry/Londonderry: A Newcomer’s Experience

Derry, Northern Ireland is a great base for golf because of its many nearby golf courses and stunning views.

The Walled City of Derry is the city with the shortest drive to The Opens Derry / Londonderry is the ideal base for you to enjoy 18 holes on some of the most breath-taking golf courses on the island of Ireland.

Derry is literally steeped in history and has the most intact city walls of any in Europe 

When you first arrive in Derry/Londonderry, If you don’t really know what to expect in terms of golf then read on. Have you heard about Royal Portrush, Portstewart, Castlerock, Ballyliffin, Portsalon, Greencastle, North west GC and Rosapenna, if you don’t quite grasp just how incredible the golf scene is in this part of the world. At Deluxe Tours and Transfers having spent some time providing Luxury transport and Tours for guests and Clients all over the world exploring the courses, we and our guests and clients can confidently say it’s a golfer’s paradise.

Golf Everywhere You Turn

One of the first things I noticed was just how many great courses are within easy reach. Whether you want to head east along the Causeway Coastal Route to famous spots like Royal Portrush, Portstewart, and Castlerock, or cross the border into Donegal to experience Ballyliffin, Rosapenna, Greencastle, North wets GC and Portsalon, there’s no shortage of stunning links courses to choose from.

With Royal Portrush, a course that has hosted The Open and is set to do so again in 2025. The views of the Atlantic are just as impressive as the course itself. The Dunluce Links is a real challenge, with tricky greens and unpredictable coastal winds making every hole a test. The famous “Calamity Corner” par three lived up to its name – I was just happy to escape with a bogey!

 

The Charm of Wild Atlantic Way and Donegal

In one of the most rugged yet scenic parts of Ireland and the North west of Ireland lies Ballyliffin, a club with two outstanding courses. The Old Links felt like it had been there forever, with rolling fairways and incredible views of the surrounding coastline. The Glashedy Links is a bit more modern, but just as spectacular, with deep bunkers and firm, fast greens.

Donegal offers more gems. Rosapenna really stands out, especially the newest addition of the 3 courses St Patrick’s Links, this course that feels like it’s been carved out of the dunes for centuries, even though it only opened in 2021. The natural beauty of the landscape here is breath-taking, and the golf is just exceptionally good.

 

Why Derry is a Perfect Base

One of the things I quickly realized is that Derry/Londonderry is the perfect place to stay if you want to experience golf in this region. The city is full of history, great pubs, and excellent food, and it’s really well-connected. Flights into City of Derry Airport make it easy to get here, and Belfast is only a little over an hour away.

Even if you’re not golfing, there’s so much to see and do. The Walled City is fascinating to explore,

The city of Derry/Londonderry with its turbulent history is well worth a visit in its own right. It’s fascinating to explore and to learn about centuries of conflict that have given it alternative names depending on religion or political convictions. These days it’s a tourist Mecca with lots of bars and restaurants to satisfy any visitor.

But what if you are a golfer and, in particular, have a soft spot for links courses? To be sure you will be faced with a dilemma, but a very pleasant one too. For no matter which way you turn you are heading to some of the finest links golf the world has to offer.

It is a vibrant and extremely beautiful  destination, with recent investment, and if you’re a fan of “Derry Girls,” you’ll recognize a lot of locations from the show. The city also hosts one of the best Halloween festivals in the world, so if you time your visit right, you’re in for a treat.

Final Thoughts

If you love golf and haven’t been to this part of Ireland yet, you’re missing out. The combination of world-class courses, stunning scenery, and a lively city makes Derry/Londonderry the ideal base for a golf trip. Whether you’re playing famous championship links or discovering hidden gems, there’s something special about golfing in this part of the world.

If you came here not knowing what to expect and  already planning your next visit. If you’re thinking about a golf trip, put Derry on your list—you won’t regret it!

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