Ireland loves golf

Let’s start with our credentials. Ireland has been named International Golf Destination of the Year on more than one occasion by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators. We've also produced more than our fair share of golf’s biggest stars: Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, Padraig Harrington, Paul McGinley and Graeme McDowell, to name but a few.

But golf in Ireland is about much more than championship courses. With over 400 golf clubs, including a third of the world’s natural links courses, we’ve been blessed by nature. But we’ve improved on that with golf academies, courses to suit all levels and plenty of helpful golf pros to help you get started in the game. Every year, golfers from all over the world come here to experience the fun and friendship to be found on (and off) our golf courses. If you want to join them, here are our top tips for playing golf in Ireland.

1. When to play

Most of Ireland’s courses, especially links, are open all year round. However, courses are in best condition and weather is most suitable for golfing from April to October. In summer, daylight hours can stretch beyond 10pm so you can easily fit two rounds and a lazy lunch into a day before relaxing in the 19th hole to talk about that putt you almost made.

2. How to book

Many people book inclusive packages with specialist golf tour operators, who are able to arrange an itinerary including tee times and accommodation. But if you just want to fit in a round or two on your Ireland holiday, it’s easy to organise your own golfing itinerary. Here are some things to bear in mind.

• Always call ahead to check availability and book your tee times at your chosen course.
• Most clubs offer special Green Fees for visitors and groups, so be sure to ask about any offers from the club or your tour operator. They may also know about packages that allow you to play two or three courses over your trip, so that you get to test your skill on a range of courses.
• Book ahead, too, for caddies (available at bigger courses) and buggies or carts (not as common). The cost will vary for all.
• One of the great things about golf in Ireland is that you don’t need to have a handicap certificate to play here but if you have one, do bring it along. If you want to test your skills on some of the more challenging courses, it’s recommended that you have a handicap of 18 or less for men and 28 or less for women to get the most enjoyment out of playing.