Derry, the UK’s inaugural City of Culture, may seem like an unusual place for a challenging and unique round of golf. But you may be surprised to discover that they have some stunning golf courses. The Walled City, where the Wild Atlantic Way meets the Causeway Coastal Route is the perfect place to base yourself for a golfing break this summer.
The city is within reach of a number of championship golf courses along the North West Coast of Ireland, including Portrush Golf Club - which hosted the 148th Open, last year - and Ballyliffin Golf Club, which hosted the Irish Open in 2018.
There are two golf courses in the Derry~Londonderry, and various others within driving distance. As is typical for Ireland, the views are spectacular, with many offering both the unique backdrop of the Wild Atlantic Way and the rugged hills of Donegal. While you may be expecting just another course, there are some challenging bits that golfers will relish. Take advantage of some of the city's fabulous Welcome Back offers on here.
If you’re in the area for a couple of days, why not attempt to play a few of Derry’s most interesting golf holes?
Hole #14 - Royal Portrush Golf Club
This hole’s nickname should give you a good idea of what’s to come. It’s fondly known as “Calamity”, and underestimating this one will land you in deep trouble - quite literally.
The hole is split in half by a ravine. Get your shot a little too short and you’ll find your golf ball in the wrong hole! Your next shot will need to be a rescue effort from up to 50-feet below the green.
Interesting Fact: Portrush is regularly named among Golf World Magazine’s Top 20 courses.
Hole #6 - Foyle Golf Centre
This hole is named in tribute to Amelia Earhart, “Amelia’s Landing”. While the gameplay on the hole is not too challenging, it’s a historically fascinating spot, being the exact spot Earheat’s plane touched down.
You may not find the hole too difficult, but it’s an interesting feeling to be standing in the same spot such a famed pilot made such a renowned landing.
Interesting Fact: When Earhart landed, the area was known as Gallagher’s Pasture.
Hole #2 - Greencastle Golf Club
The self-proclaimed toughest hole on the Greencastle Course, named Cluain, challenges golfers with a flowing stream, 4 strategically placed bunkers, and a bit of a rundown that could prove to be a golfer’s downfall.
It’s a par 4 but usually accepted that most golfers will go over unless they’re well acquainted with the course.
Interesting Fact: Cluain means “a meadow or a fertile piece of land among bogs”.
Hole #10 - Faughan Valley Golf Club
Faughan Valley Golf Course is tough but offers some gorgeous views to make up for it. Hole 10, “The Pulpit”, is a testing par 3.
You’ll need to know your stuff to estimate the distance and wind factor correctly. The tee is elevated and much more shielded than the fairway, which can skew judgment. Pick your club carefully.
Interesting Fact: Players can choose from more than one tee position on select holes.
Hole #5 - Ballyliffin Golf Club
The Glashedy Links at Ballyliffin has been the host of many professional tournaments and has received a number of glowing reviews from pros, including Rory McIlroy.
Hole #5 is yet another formidable par 3. A downward-sloping fairway ending in a bunker-flanked green is not easy to get right. However you fare, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of Glashedy Rock Island on Pollan Bay.
Interesting Fact: The spectacular view dwarfs the difficulty of the hole.
Hole # - City of Derry Golf Club
This par-5 may seem like a breeze, but the generous fairway is blocked by a drainage ditch that’s embanked on both sides. This feature could be the downfall of golfers who get too confident!
A couple of bunkers add to the challenge, but either way, it’s a fun and strategic hole on this well-known golf course.
Interesting Fact: The original course was designed by Willie Park in 1912, for a fee of £10.
Hole # - Roe Park Golf Club
This little hole on the Roe Park Golf Course looks like a challenge from the start. It’s pretty short, but you won’t be able to see the green from the tee.
As you get closer you’ll realize that the green is also quite a bit higher than the fairway. All in all, it requires a bit of work to get you there on par!
Interesting Fact: Roe Park Resort was given the title ‘Best Golf Resort in Ulster’ by the Golfer’s Guide to Ireland.
This blog was written by guest blogger, Jordan Fuller from Golf Influence.
