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Royal County Down
Year Established
1889
Designed by
Tom Morris
Location
Northen Ireland
Address
36 Golf Links Rd, Newcastle, County Down, Ulster, Ireland BT33 0AN
About Royal County Down
This place has made a series of outstanding contributions to Irish golf thanks to hosting many important tournaments. Obtaining tee time here is extra special because of it. Rory McIlroy says Royal County Down is his favourite golf course in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The Championship Course at The Royal County Down has two famous holes, the extraordinary fourth and ninth, both featured in the 500 World's Greatest Golf Holes book. In fact, this course has been voted best in the world, and many golfers would agree.
A Brief History
- Created by Old Tom Morris in 1889
- In 1997 the 17th and 18th holes were strengthened to become two of the world's trickiest finishing holes
- In 2004, a brand new 16th hole was created, an extremely tricky par 4
- The current 4th and 9th holes are two of the most photographed and famous holes in the golfing world
Featured hole – Holes 4 and 9
The fourth and ninth holes at Royal County Down are both featured in the book The 500 World's Greatest Golf Holes. The fourth comes with breath-taking views, endless gorse and multiple bunkers. The long, thin green rises from front to back, offering dramatic drop-offs to both sides and the rear. The pitch shots here are varied but all difficult, apart from the relatively safe haven at the green's front. Putts towards the sea run from front to back. The ninth hole involves a blind tee shot where you have to hug the big dune on the left of the fairway to set up a decent approach, with no room for error. The shorter hitter will discover more room to the right, but that won't help you with your second shot. A couple of bunkers 50 yards short of the green have to be negotiated, and you need to pay full attention when putting from back to front. Pitching from around this green is incredibly difficult.
Known For: Its Immaculate Greens
As Rory McIlroy said, “the courses, the atmosphere, the scenery, the people... it’s a great place to play golf”. It's tough to pin down exactly what makes this course such a winner, since every aspect of it delights the player, from the immaculate, perfectly manicured greens to the unspoiled landscapes and remarkable views, topped off by the warm welcome you’ll receive playing here.
