Kirkistown Castle Golf Club

Play golf at Kirkistown Castle Golf Club, an 18-hole course on Ireland’s east coast near Belfast. The course is in the village of Cloughey by the Irish Sea. Designed by James Braid in 1934, the course opened in 1902 and is 6,167 yards from the white tees with a par of 70. Golfers enjoy the friendly layout and beautiful scenery.

In 2019, it was named the Best Value Golf Experience in Ulster. Kirkistown Castle Golf Club combines traditional links character with modern. Kirkistown Castle Golf Club gives visitors a classic golf experience in Northern Ireland.

Layout and Challenges at Kirkistown Castle Golf Club

The course layout features two distinct nine-hole loops. The fairways are uneven, with significant elevation changes, and natural hazards typical of authentic links golf. Doglegs, blind shots, and sloping terrain demand precision over sheer power.

Coastal winds make the game harder, even on easy holes. Bunkers, quarries, gorse, out of bounds, and thick links rough punish bad shots. This layout ensures every round at Kirkistown Castle Golf Club feels fresh and engaging, whether playing in calm conditions or facing the full force of the Ards Peninsula breeze.

Signature Holes

Several signature holes stand out for their beauty and difficulty.

The 10th hole is now a par 5 and is a main highlight. There are bushes and out-of-bounds areas on the left, bunkers on the right, and a small green that sits high above the fairway. It is easier to get a birdie when the wind helps, but getting a par is good when the wind is strong.

The 15th hole is a favourite, known for its lovely view and multiple wind-dependent options. The 12th hole starts with a high tee and goes down into a valley, followed by a long uphill approach.

The 16th, par-3, is a semi-blind tee shot to a severely sloping green. Even the shortest par 3 (around 100 yards) can yield triple bogeys due to tight bunkering and firm summer greens.

Players need to be accurate on every hole.

Facilities at Kirkistown Castle Golf Club

Facilities at Kirkistown Castle Golf Club enhance every visit. A practice ground, two pitching greens, a putting green, and a swing net allow players to warm up. The welcoming clubhouse includes the Braid Bar & Restaurant, where you can relax and eat after playing. These features make it a good choice for anyone who wants to play golf or visit with a group in County Down.

Hosted Tournaments and Events

The club regularly hosts tournaments and open competitions, including Ladies & Gents Open Stableford events, PGA Ireland tournaments, and the Irish Intervarsity Championship. These events attract amateurs and professionals alike.

Book Now

If you want a challenging links test, scenic coastal views, or great value, Kirkistown Castle Golf Club delivers an unforgettable golfing experience. Book your tee time today to play and see why so many people enjoy this place on the Ards Peninsula. Kirkistown Castle is ready for your next great round of golf.