Ardglass Golf Club

Ardglass Golf Club in County Down, Northern Ireland, is a scenic golf course on cliff tops. This 18-hole, par-70 course is about 6,268 yards from the medal tees. It ranks among the finest links golf courses in Northern Ireland.

Located in a small fishing village less than an hour from Belfast and 30 minutes from Royal County Down, Ardglass is a great place for authentic Irish coastal golf experiences. Founded in 1896 and continually improved, the course follows the rugged coastline.

You can see the ocean from 12 different holes, and the course is both fun and challenging for golfers of all skill levels.

Ardglass Golf Course Layout and Challenges

The layout at Ardglass Golf Club unfolds across a natural cliff-top terrain that demands precision and adaptability. The front nine holes have elevation changes and rocky outcrops. The back nine has lower-lying shorelines and has wide, open fairways shaped by centuries of coastal winds.

The dry fairways and small, firm greens reward accurate shot-making rather than yardage reliance, because the wind can change your shots. Pot bunkers and strategic gorse add further complexity, creating a true links test that plays tougher than its modest length suggests.

The course is enjoyable and challenging for all skill levels, making it a top pick for anyone looking for a challenging links layout in Northern Ireland.

Signature Holes at Ardglass Golf Club

Several holes at Ardglass Golf Club stand out as signature challenges worthy of any world-class course. The first hole, par-4, is a heroic uphill tee shot from beside the historic castle wall. This requires carrying over a jagged rocky crevasse with the Irish Sea behind.

Hole 2, par-3, called “Howd’s Hole,” is a short shot across another rocky plunge.

The 11th hole, a par-5 (“St John’s”), is long and narrow; 488 yards. A tee shot must clear a hedge to a narrow fairway bordered by gorse on one side and the sea on the other, with a stream crossing at 150 yards.

Hole 12, a par-3 (“Cathlin”), is a short shot downhill to a green framed by crashing waves. The 18th provides a downhill finish toward the clubhouse backdrop.

These signature holes at Ardglass Golf Club combine beauty and challenge, making every game at Ardglass hard to forget.

Ardglass Facilities and Clubhouse Amenities

Golfers can use the facilities in one of the oldest clubhouses in the world, dating back to the 15th century.

The clubhouse offers golf lessons from trained coaches, a fully stocked pro shop, and equipment for rent. There is also a restaurant and bar with great food and panoramic sea views, open to everyone. Locker rooms and free use of the practice area are also available.

Golfers need to wear proper golf attire, and you can play year-round. These features make Ardglass Golf Club a comfortable place to enjoy golf before and after your game.

Hosted Tournaments and Events

Ardglass Golf Club often hosts golf tournaments for players from all over Ireland and other countries. Annual highlights include the Ardglass Pro-Am organised in association with the PGA Ireland, as well as UGA events and open competitions open to visitors.

Book Now

Ardglass Golf Club offers everything a golfer needs: a great course, signature holes, good facilities, and competitive events, all within a stunning coastal setting. Book your tee times today to experience this must-play cliff-top links course in Northern Ireland.