As you stand on the tee, the wind in your hair and the ocean stretching beyond the greens, one thought comes to mind: “Why did I wait so long?” From the ancient greens of Scotland to the windswept parklands of Ireland, the thrill of a golf break is calling out to you this summer.

A golfing escape offers the perfect mix: action-packed travel, adventure mixed with relaxation, and a glimpse inside the true character of a location. With direct flights from Dublin to the UK and from North America and Europe into Ireland, our great value fares make it delightfully easy to tee off in style this summer.

Ireland: Five golf destinations worth flying in for

The K Club, Kildare

The K Club in County Kildare is one of Ireland’s most illustrious golf resorts. Just 40 minutes from Dublin Airport, this five-star estate is home to two championship courses, including the Palmer North, which famously hosted the Ryder Cup in 2006. The parkland layout, dotted with lakes and mature trees, is both challenging and beautiful, making it a favourite among golfers seeking a luxury experience. Off the course, the resort offers fine dining, a world-class spa, and a chance to unwind in the heart of Ireland’s horse-racing country.

For a taste of local charm, the nearby village of Straffan is worth a visit, or head to the lively market town of Naas for excellent pubs and restaurants. If you have time, the nearby Wicklow Mountains offer some gorgeous hiking and scenic drives.

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Powerscourt Golf Club, Wicklow

On the grounds of a historic estate, Powerscourt Golf Club is a world-class golfing destination with some stunning features. Less than one hour from Dublin Airport, the course looks out over Wicklow’s Sugarloaf Mountain, with elegant tree-lined fairways and manicured greens waiting to be explored. Designed by former Walker Cup captain Peter McEvoy, the course blends into the natural landscape, providing a challenging and scenic round for players of different levels.

Extend your Wicklow experience with a visit to Powerscourt House and Gardens, or take a walk to the nearby Powerscourt Waterfall. The village of Enniskerry, with its charming pubs and craft shops, will give you a true glimpse into the county known as the ‘garden of Ireland’.

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Powerscourt Golf Club, Wicklow

Lahinch Golf Club, Clare

Set along the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route, Lahinch Golf Club is a world-renowned links course that has hosted the Irish Open and enchanted visiting players from around the world. The landscape is rugged (with the occasional eye-watering gale) and the layout is as dramatic as it gets. Just an hour from Shannon Airport, Lahinch makes a dream start to any Irish golf trip.

After your round of golf, venture out to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher or the lively village of Doolin, known for traditional Irish music and cosy pubs. This area also acts as a gateway to the Aran Islands if you’re up for a day trip to this trio of epic limestone islands.

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Lahinch Golf Club, Clare

Ballybunion Golf Club, Kerry

Steeped in history and perched dramatically above the Atlantic, Ballybunion Golf Club is a classic links course often described by U.S visitors as the golfing highlight of a lifetime. Expect rolling dunes, narrow fairways, and unforgettable ocean views. It’s about 1.5 hours from Shannon Airport and the journey itself is a scenic experience.

When you’ve had your fill of golf, head to Listowel, known for its literary history and a famous annual writers’ week. Alternatively, take a drive along the Ring of Kerry for some of Ireland’s most awe-inspiring coastal views.

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Ballybunion Golf Club, Kerry (photo by Evan Schiller)

Royal County Down Golf Club, Down

Ranked among the best in the world, Royal County Down Golf Club delivers on every level. Framed by the Mourne Mountains, this championship course is as beautiful as it is gruelling. Just 1.5 hours from Dublin Airport, it’s a worthy adventure for any golfers chasing greatness.

There are further adventures to be found in the charming seaside town of Newcastle, with its sweeping beaches and busy promenade. The nearby Mourne Mountains also offer great hiking routes and epic views of the Irish Sea.

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Portmarnock Golf Club, Dublin

Convenience meets class at Portmarnock, one of Ireland’s most historic and respected links courses. Only 15 minutes from Dublin Airport, it’s the perfect first or final round of any trip, combining strategic challenges with sea views and a rich tournament history.

Worn out after your round of golf? Take a stroll through the nearby fishing village of Howth, known for its seafood restaurants, cliff walks, and panoramic views over Dublin Bay. Don’t miss the Howth Cliff Path Loop for some of the best coastal views in the Dublin area.

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Mount Juliet, Kilkenny

Why not mix your golf experience with a little glitz and grandeur? Mount Juliet is a five-star parkland course in a stately country estate, just 1.5 hours from Dublin Airport. It’s hosted Tiger Woods and the Irish Open, and offers a luxurious, polished contrast to the more rugged courses on Ireland’s coast.

The city of Kilkenny, known for its vibrant arts scene and historic castle, is just a short drive from Mount Juliet. The Smithwick’s Experience offers you a chance to learn about Ireland’s oldest ale, while the Medieval Mile lead to historic buildings, quirky shops and hidden gardens.

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Mount Juliet, Kilkenny

UK: Five great courses just a short flight away

St Andrews Links, Scotland

Known as the Home of Golf, St Andrews is a bucket-list course for golfers around the world. Fly from Dublin to Edinburgh, then drive 1.5 hours to reach this legendary turf. The Old Course is historic, challenging and unmistakably Scottish: a place where golfing legends have been before you.

While you’re in the area, visit the quaint coastal town of St Andrews itself, with its medieval ruins, historic university, and pretty beaches. It’s a town with an interesting story and definitely worth relaxing in after a satisfying round of golf.

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St Andrews Links, Scotland

Royal Porthcawl, Wales

Looking for something under the radar? Royal Porthcawl offers stunning sea views, a tricky layout and a rising global reputation. It’s just 45 minutes from Cardiff Airport, and is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get off-the-beaten-track in Wales.

Cap off your experience with a visit to the nearby town of Porthcawl itself, with its classic seafront promenade, or take a short drive to the Brecon Beacons National Park for some world-class hiking.

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Royal Porthcawl, Wales

Carnoustie, Scotland

Known as one of the toughest tests in golf, Carnoustie Golf Links is a world-famous links course on Scotland’s east coast. It has hosted The Open Championship multiple times and is respected for its demanding layout. Fly from Dublin to Edinburgh, then drive about 1.5 hours to reach Carnoustie. This is where golfers come to prove themselves — a course that celebrates precision, patience and endurance.

While you’re in the area, the historic town of Dundee is just a short hop away, offering great museums, art galleries and a trendy design scene underpinned by the V&A Dundee.

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Royal Liverpool Golf Club (Hoylake), England

Fresh from hosting The Open in 2023, Royal Liverpool is a championship course with amazing credentials. Located just 40 minutes from Liverpool Airport, it’s a brilliant choice for Irish golfers wanting to walk in the footsteps of the greats.

To round out your Merseyside adventure, take a trip into nearby Liverpool, famous for its musical heritage, stunning waterfront, amd lively cultural scene. While you’re there, visit the iconic Royal Albert Dock, home to the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story.

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Royal Liverpool Golf Club (photo by David Cannon)

Ready to play?

With our great value direct flights to some of golf’s most exciting destinations, your next great escape is easier than ever. Whether you’re planning a summer trip with friends, a father-son weekend, or simply chasing the joy of that perfect shot, there’s a world of fairways waiting for you — and we can take you there. Have you booked your flight yet?