Photo: Wikimedia CommonsKirkistown Castle Golf Club
Cloughey, Co. Down · Designed by James Braid · Est. 1902
Kirkistown Castle Golf Club was founded in 1902 on the southern end of the Ards Peninsula — a narrow finger of land between Strangford Lough and the Irish Sea that makes this course among the most remote and unspoilt in Ulster. The present layout was redesigned by James Braid and retains exactly the character he intended: honest links exposed to the Irish Sea wind, with views to the Scottish coast on clear days. It is a long way from the main north coast circuit, which is precisely its appeal — the drive down the peninsula through coastal villages is part of the experience, and at £50 the combination of Braid pedigree and setting is outstanding value.
Highlights
- James Braid design
- Views to Scotland
- Easternmost links in Ireland
Visitor Information
Getting There
Common questions
What is distinctive about Kirkistown Castle Golf Club?
Kirkistown Castle is the easternmost 18-hole golf course on the island of Ireland, sitting on the Ards Peninsula at Cloughey overlooking the Irish Sea. James Braid redesigned the course in 1934, giving it the elevated tees and raised greens that are its most distinctive feature — the 10th hole, Long Reach, has a green elevated more than 30 feet above the fairway, making it one of the most demanding approach holes in Ulster golf. Views to the Scottish coast on clear days.
Is Kirkistown Castle a good links course?
It is an authentic links with traditional character — no concessions to modern course design, minimal earthmoving, natural rough doing the defensive work. For golfers who want a no-frills, old-school links experience on the Ards Peninsula, Kirkistown is the genuine article. At the price it charges, it is exceptional value.
How far is Kirkistown Castle from Belfast?
Kirkistown is about forty-five minutes to an hour from Belfast, depending on traffic through Newtownards. It is on the eastern tip of the Ards Peninsula — an area that also includes Donaghadee, Helen's Bay, and the excellent seafood restaurants of Portaferry at the peninsula's southern end.
How do I book Kirkistown Castle?
Kirkistown books through GolfNow with reliable online availability. Same-week bookings are generally straightforward.
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