Helen's Bay Golf Club plays along the southern shore of Belfast Lough in a stretch of coastline that feels more secluded than its proximity to the city would suggest. The club was established in 1896 and has the atmosphere of a proper members' club — relaxed, unpretentious, and welcoming to visitors on its own quiet terms. The village of Helen's Bay is worth a look: a Victorian railway station still in use, good walking along the North Down Coastal Path, and the kind of quiet that is unusual this close to a major city. For golfers based in Belfast who want proper coastal links golf without the hour-and-a-half commitment to the north coast, there is no closer option.
Highlights
- Belfast Lough views
- Closest coastal links to Belfast
- Welcoming club
Visitor Information
Getting There
Common questions
What is Helen's Bay Golf Club?
Helen's Bay is a coastal links on the southern shore of Belfast Lough — the closest coastal links golf to Belfast city centre, about twenty minutes from the city. It occupies attractive ground above the lough with views back towards the city and across to Co. Antrim. A relaxed club with a warm welcome for visitors.
Why play Helen's Bay when Royal County Down is nearby?
Helen's Bay solves a specific problem: golfers who want coastal links golf within twenty minutes of Belfast city without the planning required for Royal County Down. It is substantially cheaper, requires no advance booking through GolfNow, and suits days when weather or schedule makes a longer drive impractical.
Is the area around Helen's Bay worth exploring?
Helen's Bay village is small and pleasant — the beach below the course is excellent. The nearby Crawfordsburn Country Park has good walks along the coast. Bangor is five minutes east. The Ulster Folk Museum at Cultra is ten minutes towards Belfast and is one of the best open-air museums in Ireland.
How do I book Helen's Bay Golf Club?
You can grab a tee time online through GolfNow — availability is generally good at short notice, even at weekends.
Where to Stay
Books directly via GolfNow — no agent wait
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