Which Golf Courses in Dublin to play on your Golf Trip in 2024

Stay and Play with a Golf Package at Crowne Plaza Hotel

Royal Dublin

North Bull Island Nature Reserve, Dollymount, Dublin

The Royal Dublin Golf Club dates back to 1885, the third oldest Irish golf course. This club is steeped in golf folklore and certainly one not to be missed on your golf tour of Dublin. Hosting the Irish Amateur championship back in 1894 as their first, this stunning links course has seen major championship winner Seve Ballesteros lift silverware twice.

Visitors are very welcome to play at Royal Dublin, and they strive to supply a top class service from the Links to the restaurant to their professional shop. In 2023, a bunker renovation project was undertaken to return the bunkers to a style in line with the original work of H.S. Colt in the 1920s. You will certainly enjoy a game of golf here, it creates a unforgettable experience for the most seasoned players. 

• Architect: H.S. Colt
• Type of Course: Links
• Number of Holes: 18, Par: 72, SSS:69
• Length of Course: 6646 Metres
• Hire Services: Clubs, Caddie, buggies
• Catering: Multiple unique experiences for guests.
• Visitors: Unique Visitor Experience
• Green Fees: Winter rates from €125
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 9km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown: 16.6km

Elmgreen

The first of two courses designed by the legendary Eddie Hackett in 1995, Elmgreen is set in a secluded estate. The holes are surrounded by mature forestry, with tree lined fairways. There are tricky greens for you to master but all round excellent playability is on show. 

Elmgreen has recently refurbished their clubhouse which includes the pro shop, locker rooms, lobby and café. The ground also boasts a driving range and putting green to ensure you’re at your best before driving off the first tee box. The golf experience at Elmgreen is truly sensational and is right outside the door of our Blanchardstown hotel.

• Architect: Eddie Hackett
• Type of Course: Parkland
• Number of Holes: 18, Par: 70, SSS:69
• Length of Course: 5516 Metres
• Hire Services: Clubs, Trolleys, buggies
• Catering: Snacks only.
• Visitors: Welcome year round
• Green Fees: Standard rates from €25
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 11.6km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown: 4.7km

Forrest Little Golf Club

Forrest Little Golf Club, Forest Rd, Fosterstown North, Swords, Co. Dublin, K67 K825

Founded back in 1940, Forrest Little Golf Club was designed by well-known course architect Fred Hawtree. Historically, this parkland course was a qualifying course for the Irish Open. Nowadays, this course attracts a slew of travelling golfers on trips to test their skills.

This par 71 course has strategically positioned bunkers, with several water hazards nestled between the trees of the course. Forrest Little accepts society bookings, with fees starting at €35.

• Architect: Fred Hawtree
• Type of Course: Parkland
• Number of Holes: 18, Par: 71,
• Length of Course: 5901 Metres
• Hire Services: Clubs, Trolley
• Catering: Bar & Restaurant
• Visitors: Reservations required, societies welcome.
• Green Fees: Visitors from
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 6.1km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown: 14.4km

Silloge park

Ballymun Road, Ballymun, Swords, Co. Dublin, K67 X6Y4

Silloge park is one of only four public courses in Dublin. Originally designed as a 9-hole course, it first opened in 1984. Then in 1995 a major redevelopment saw an 18-hole championship course at Silloge Park. Silloge golf club offers excellent value for money with standard rounds starting at just €20 mid-week. This course is a wise choice for societies, with a reduced rate for groups of 12 or more.

The course measures a cool 5946 metres from the white pins. Par is set at 71. The ladies’ pins measure 4899 metres with a par of 70.

• Architect: Dublin City Council
• Type of Course: Parkland
• Number of Holes: 18, Par: 71, SSS:69
• Length of Course: 5946 Metres
• Hire Services: Clubs, Trolley, buggies
• Catering: Light refreshments at the Cafe
• Visitors: Ideal for visitors.
• Green Fees: Standard rate from €20
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 2.7km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown: 10.9km

Stay and play at Crowne Plaza Dublin Blanchardstown

Silloge Park Golf Club is the closest course to the Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport hotel, just six minutes by car. Why not gather your golf buddies and book your stay and receive some great perks while playing a round on a fantastic golf course.

Check in with our experienced reservation team and discover your incredible room with offer free Wi-Fi, mineral water, chocolates and free Movie Streaming on Chromecast.

Once you have settled in meet with your friends in the lobby before playing your round of golf. Return to the hotel after the outstanding golf round and relax in our Cinnabar to discuss the finer shots. Avail of some casual dining before we serve your complimentary Pint of Beer or Stout.

As if that doesn’t sound good enough, when you wake up refreshed you can enjoy complimentary breakfast in our restaurant on each morning!

Please phone 01-862 8888 or email: reservations@crowneplazadublin.ie.

The Island

Corballis, Donabate, Co. Dublin, K36 V993

Situated the furthest north on our list. The Island is a must play for keen golfers who are planning a Golf Trip in Dublin. With a 71 par over 18 holes, this is a particularly challenging course. If you can play to your handicap in Donabate, you can play well on any course in Ireland.

The second of the links courses on our list of Golf Courses to play on your golf trip, The Island is one of six courses in the small peninsula of Donabate. While small, Donabate is a major town in the eyes of golfers. Established in 1890, this incredible course is surrounded by the Irish Sea on three sides. The rugged terrain is beautifully sculpted between the highest sand dunes on the East coast of Ireland.

In 2019, The Island Golf Club underwent extensive changes on the front 9. This was overlooked by Ebert & McKenzie. With a steep history in amateur golf, the Island has kept to its best appearances. It was named 9^th best course in Ireland in 2021. Since announcing that it is hosting the Irish Amateur Open in 2023.

• Architect: Unknown original architect but updated through time by many.
• Type of Course: Links
• Number of Holes: 18, Par: 71
• Length of Course: 5771 Metres
• Hire Services: Caddies, Buggies, Trolleys, Clubs & Shoes
• Catering: Restaurant and Bar
• Visitors: Suited to avid Golfers on a Golf Trip
• Green Fees: Standard rate from €250
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 17.4km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown: 27km

St. Margaret’s

St. Margarets, Dublin, K67 K339

A stunning parkland course with water hazards throughout the ground. St. Margaret’s Golf Club is located five minutes from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport. The course and clubhouse have gained a reputation for being first class, highly praised by its many visitors and professionals. An incredible award-winning restaurant awaits you off the 18^th Green.

The 18-hole championship course presents manicured greens, challenging hazards and lush green fairways. St. Margaret’s Golf Club welcomes both societies and corporate bookings and boast that over 97.4% of societies rebook the following year.

• Architect: Tom Craddock & Pat Ruddy
• Type of Course: Parkland
• Number of Holes: 18, Par: 72, SSS: 71
• Length of Course: 6,805 yards
• Hire Services: Clubs, Caddies (on request), buggies
• Catering: Full Catering
• Visitors: Welcome, reservations essential, h’cap certificate
• Green Fees: from € 40
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 9.9km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown: 16.2km

St. Anne’s

Bull Island Nature Reserve, Dollymount, Dublin 5,

St. Annes was founded in 1921, as a 9-hole course with a modest clubhouse. However, in 2023, it is now an 18-hole links course on the unique Bull Island. With panoramic views of Dublin Bay and impressive wildlife. Bull is a UNESCO bird sanctuary of major international significance, being an important wintering site for wild fowl.

This links has a par score of 71. Including three par fives and four par three holes. There is a unique aspect to the back nine of St. Annes Golf course, in that the old turf of GAA pitch Croke Park was used in the development & strengthening of this range of holes. There is no more of an Irish story to tell on your Golf Trip than playing on the turf of Ireland’s sacred stadium.

• Architect: Eddie Hackett
• Type of Course: Links
• Number of Holes: 18, Par: 70, SSS: 70
• Length of Course: 5,669 metres
• Hire Services: Buggies, Clubs, Trolleys & Caddies
• Catering: Full Catering, except Mondays
• Visitors: Welcome, reservations essential
• Green Fees: Standard Visitor – from €125
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 11.1 km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown: 23.2 km

Coorstown

Kilsallaghan, Swords, Co. Dublin, K67 YH68

Corrstown GC offers twenty-seven holes to the player. It’s parkland style offers a unique blend of beauty and difficulty. Although Corrstown is a relatively new course in terms of our list, Opened in the 1990’s. This superb Eddie Connaughton designed complex has matured beyond its years, with ongoing investment plans augmenting the natural development on display at the course.

This ever changing course, with smartly chosen bunker locations, impactful water hazards and large trees make sure you enjoy a challenging but fun experience for all levels of golfer. The 18^th hole is quite special, and quite difficult. Dublin’s only island green will create pressure like you’re on the 17^th in Sawgrass. This fun hole is a must play while staying in Dublin.

• Architect: Eddie Connaughton
• Number of Holes: 27, Par
• Hire Services: Trolleys, Buggies, Clubs
• Catering: Full Catering
• Visitors: Welcome, reservations essential
• Green Fees: From €50
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin: Approx. 11.6 km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin: Approx. 12.9 km

Portmarnock

Golf Links Road, Portmarnock, Dublin, D13 KD96

Situated on the Dublin coastline, Portmarnock links course sits on a narrow strip of duneland. This course is one of the most respected venues in world golf. Visted by the greatness of Arnold Palmer, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, this course is a welcoming venue for visitors from the world over.

Portmarnock links is a very traditional course with very high standards. They do not offer buggies to visitors, and visitors must adhere to the rules of the course. Founded in 1894, the links

• Architect: Mungo Park (1894)
• Number of Holes: 27
• Course Type: Links
• Hire Services: Trolleys & Clubs
• Catering: Full Catering
• Visitors: Welcome, reservations essential
• Green Fees: From €300
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin: Approx. 12.6 km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin: Approx. 22.6 km

Castleknock

Castleknock Golf Club, Porterstown Road, Castleknock, Dublin 15

Nestled in Dublin’s suburbs, this scenic parkland course is an incredible year-round course. The greenskeepers at Castleknock work hard to ensure there are no temporary changes to the lay out of the course. Large trees encapsulate the fairways with water hazards dotted around the course to excite but challenge even the keenest of golfers.

Two holes to look out for at Castleknock are the 9^th and 18^th with a tempting tee shot over the water, but you must beware of the shared double green with a slope from back to front. This is genuinely on of my favourite golf destinations around the Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown, the scenery paired with the beautiful country side feel of a parkland course. 

• Architect: Jonathan Gaunt
• Number of Holes: 18, Par 72
• Distance: 6126 Metres
• Type: Parkland
• Hire Services: Trolleys, Buggies, Clubs
• Catering: Full Catering
• Visitors: Welcome, reservations essential
• Green Fees: From €50
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin: Approx. 16.9 km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin: Approx. 5.6 km

Luttrelstown

Castleknock, Dublin 15, D15RH92

Ranked as the 9^th best parkland course and 35^th best overall by the Irish Golfer, Luttrellstown Castle is a must stop on your golf holiday. This championship course is a par 72, with tee boxes laid to suit any handicap. Luttrellstown bunkers, slopes and hazards led it to be called an inland links. Paired with the large tree lined fairways on the backdrop of the Castle make this parkland course one of the greatest Golf Courses in south Dublin.

• Architect: Tom McKenzie and Donald Steel
• Type of Course: Parkland
• Number of Holes: 18, Par: 72
• Length of Course: 6718 Metres
• Hire Services: Clubs, Trolley, buggies
• Catering: Restaurant and Bar
• Visitors: Ideal for societies & corporate
• Green Fees: Winter rate from €30
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 15.5km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown: 4.2km

Westmanstown Golf Club

Westmanstown Golf Club, Westmanstown, Dublin 15

Originally founded in 1988 as a golf club for members of the Irish Police Force, An Garda Siochana, Westmanstown Golf Club was the last Dublin course designed by renowned course architect Eddie Hackett. In 2016, public use was allowed, and the club is an interesting course to play on your trip to Dublin South West.

The 5891 metre course encompasses a number of challenging features for golfers with 6 different lakes on the course as well as many bunkers and roughages. You will be sure to enjoy a round here, with special rates for societies, golf classics and corporate events.

Originally

• Architect: Eddie Hackett
• Number of Holes: 18, Par 72
• Hire Services: Trolleys, Buggies, Clubs
• Distance: 5891 Metres
• Style: Parkland
• Catering: Full Catering
• Visitors: Welcome, reservations essential
• Green Fees: From €35
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 18 km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Blanchardstown: 6.8 km

Carton House

Carton Demesne, Maynooth, Kildare, W23 TD98

This is a very special entry into the list. Carton House is home to two championship golf courses. One inland links course named the Montgomerie, and one parkland course named O’Meara. The grounds have hosted the Irish Open on three occasions. Along with the World Amateur Team Championships back in 2018.

Carton House is located in County Kildare, but no list would be complete without a mention of it. You are certain to have a fantastic time playing in this course, just outside the vibrant town of Maynooth. 

Killeen Castle

Killeen Castle, Dunsany, Co. Meath, C15 FH39

Killeen Castle is one of three Jack Nicklaus designed courses in Ireland, which earned a ranking as high as number 3 in parkland courses. The name Nicklaus is legendary in golf, and so are the courses that Jack creates. Killeen Castle is no different, with brilliant greens that play fast but true. Hosting the Solheim cup in 2010, just two years after the course opened in 2008. The parkland style of this course makes for an interesting game on your golf trip to Ireland.

Societies and visitors are welcome to the course every day. Killeen Castle even offers a helipad for landing on your golf holiday, but we much prefer the short drive from our hotels. If you do happen to bring your helicopter on your Irish golf holiday, then Killeen castle is the ideal destination for your round. 

• Architect: Jack Nicklaus
• Number of Holes: 18, Par 72
• Distance: 5975
• Type: Parkland
• Hire Services: Trolleys, Buggies, Clubs
• Catering: Full Catering
• Visitors: Welcome, reservations essential
• Green Fees: From €45
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 34.5km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Blanchardstown: 23.9 km

Newlands Golf Club

Newlands Cross, Dublin, D22 R867

Dating back over 110 years ago to 1910, Newlands Golf Club is a fun but challenging course for golfers of all abilities. The design encourages golfers to look for every club in their bag. We love this course as it supplies opportunity for beginners to feel accomplished in their game. While lower handicapped players can feel a challenge with complex greens and large trees to navigate.

Newlands is a perfect society course to pencil in for your Irish golf tour. Society prize giving, drinks and meals can all be arranged in the modern clubhouse all through their dedicated team.

• Architect: Jeff Howes
• Number of Holes: 18, Par 72
• Distance: 5752 Metres
• Type: Parkland
• Hire Services: Trolleys, Buggies, Clubs
• Catering: Full Catering
• Visitors: Welcome, reservations essential
• Green Fees: From €45
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport: 19.6 km
• Distance from Crowne Plaza Dublin Blanchardstown: 14 km

The Final Swing on Dublin Golf Courses

Now that we have reviewed some of Dublin’s best golf courses, we invite you to give them a try-out with our Stay and Play deals at our Crowne Plaza hotels. Whether you’re playing as a two ball in one of Dublin’s famous links courses or as a society on a golf trip to Dublin’s challenging Parklands at our two fabulous locations your stay will be comfortable, enjoyable and memorable… even if the drive off the tee box is not.

Our round up of renowned golf courses includes picturesque views, lush parkland, coastal courses and just about every amenity needed for an Irish golf trip. Whether you want to play a round every day or second day, a stay in our hotel can cater for your Dublin golf tour, as we have a unique location in the heart of county Dublin. Our luxurious accommodations offer you a peaceful nights rest, and a hearty Irish breakfast to wake up to. 

Speak with our expert team to book your custom fit Irish golf break today, or book online now.  

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