Royal Dublin Golf Club sits on Bull Island in Dublin Bay, reached via the causeway onto the island. It feels a world away from the city, yet you're only a short hop from Dublin's buzz afterwards, which is exactly why it works so well on an Ireland golf break.
Founded in 1885 as The Dublin Golf Club, it relocated twice before settling here and receiving Royal patronage from Queen Victoria in 1889. It is also recognised as the second oldest golf club in Ireland, behind Royal Curragh Golf Club.
The routing is a classic out-and-back links and much of what you play today was shaped by Harry Colt's redesign in the 1920s. Royal Dublin has hosted the Irish Open six times since that work, so you can expect a proper, honest test, especially when the wind gets up off the bay. Think firm, fast turf, strategic bunkering and holes that ask you to pick your side of the fairway, not just hit it as hard as you can. The greens are exposed to the bay wind and the course rewards accuracy and local knowledge over brute force, with plenty of risk-reward decisions that change character depending on wind direction.
If you're building a Dublin golf break, this is an easy one to include alongside Portmarnock Golf Club and The Island Golf Club.
Who is this for?
Golfers who want authentic Dublin links golf with history, pedigree and easy access to the city for food, pubs and nightlife.
Who is it best for?
Mid to low handicappers and golf groups building a Dublin itinerary who enjoy traditional links strategy and a course with genuine championship credentials.
