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What it Costs to Play Royal Portrush And How Good is It

By: | Edited: Thu 17 Jul 2025

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It's said that there are only around 247 true links golf courses in the world, and the majestic Dunluce at Royal Portrush is arguably the best of the lot.

Designed by revered architect Harry Colt, the Dunluce Links is once again being showcased widely during The 153rd Open. It was back in 1951 when the championship first crossed the Irish Sea to be staged at this incredible venue, which is located around 60 miles north of Belfast.

England's Max Faulkner was the winner that week, but it would be 68 years before the game's oldest and grandest major returned to extraordinary crowds and scenes when Shane Lowry won for the island of Ireland in spectacular fashion.

Changes were made to the course ahead of that modern return to the spotlight, overseen by Martin Ebert, but the magic of the Dunluce hasn't been lost and it stands as one of the ultimate layouts that any golfer would dream of playing.

Fortunately, like the overwhelming majority of courses in the UK & Ireland, you can secure a tee time here, but how much does that cost and does the experience offered justify the expense?

Royal Portrush

(Image Credit: Kevin Diss Photography)

How Much Does it Cost to Play Royal Portrush?

You won't be surprised to discover that it's expensive to play the Dunluce Links at Royal Portrush. Peak season green fees (between 1 April - 31 October) in 2026 will cost £420pp.

That said, for those who play their golf on the island (Golf Ireland encompasses both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland), a Golf Ireland rate is available for groups of four upon request, meaning that Irish-based golfers could take on the course for less.

Our travel partners Golfbreaks also offer packages to Northern Ireland that include rounds at Royal Portrush.

Just How Good is Royal Portrush?

Royal Portrush

(Image Credit: Kevin Diss Photography)

It's clear that Royal Portrush is special. It currently sits 5th on the Golfshake UK Top 100, which is based on the reviews and ratings that have been submitted by the everyday golfers who are part of the Golfshake Community.

Let's take a look at some of the comments it has received within the Golfshake Course Section.

"The views were stunning and the course was in excellent condition when I played in late October. The greens were fabulous and playing on the course had a real Open Championship feel to it. The starter was an entertaining guy and the clubhouse had a real sense of history. The view as you walk onto the 5th green is breathtaking. It was fairly tough and expensive to play the course, but it was worth it to play one of the top ten golf courses in the world."

"If you are thinking about paying the green fees. Do it. The weather included 25kph winds and heavy, heavy showers yet all three of our group loved it. We were made to feel really welcome by the staff. The practice facilities were open to all of us at no extra charge and made us feel like pros. The course was incredible. The views, oh my god, the views. The course is so hard. Take plenty of balls, especially if you are like me a little wayward off the tee. We loved every moment of the challenge. We were wet and none of us played anywhere near our handicap but it was an awesome experience and we were made to feel welcome in the restaurant after where we ate great food whilst looking back on a fabulous afternoon."

"The most amazing golfing experience of my life! Enjoyed every aspect of the course."

Royal Portrush

(Image Credit: Kevin Diss Photography)

Back in 2018, Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken had the chance to play Royal Portrush, which was a personal experience he chronicled in this review.

Concluding, he wrote: "The 2017 amendments to the layout feel like they have been ever present. This is a sign of the excellence of this developmental work by the designer Martin Ebert. They fit beautifully into the existing layout and only add value to what is already a world leading golf course.

"Despite its global standing, this club has a wonderfully welcoming feel to any golfers lucky enough to visit. The trophy cabinets and memorabilia are stunning, so please give yourself time to review them when you visit. I would make the same recommendation in respect of the food and beverages.

"This was a memorable golfing experience that I wholly recommend to anyone who plays this game."

We couldn't put it better than that. Royal Portrush is a masterpiece that is waiting for you.


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The oldest & most prestigious major, a trip to The Open is a must for every golf fan. From tickets and transfers to hospitality & golf, Golfbreaks.com can build the perfect package to help you experience The Open in style.


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Tags: The Open Championship The Open Royal Portrush



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