Royal County Down was originally laid out in 1889 by ‘Old’ Tom Morris from St. Andrews. However, if you reflect on the marvellous collection of green sites, you appreciate that Mother Nature was the principal architect at Newcastle.
The course enjoys a magnificent stage-like setting as it stretches out along the shores of Dundrum Bay.
It is also one of the most challenging, with great swathes of heather and gorse lining fairways that tumble beneath vast sand hills, and wild tussocky faced bunkers defending small subtly contoured greens. Nick Faldo described the magnificent par 3 fourth as his favourite hole on this superlative links. Tom Watson describes it as “…a tremendous test of golf. The outward half especially is as fine a nine holes as I have ever played.”
What the experts say:
“The ‘Royal’ moniker is the first indication this is no ordinary layout and a very special experience is in store for any with the good fortune to be playing it…not only living up to its regal designation, it exceeds it. Outstandingly handsome, it’s ranked among the top ten in the world…designated as Ireland’s best each of the past dozen years… the undisputed King of Irish golf. ….not for the faint of heart – it demands ability, strategy and a fearless approach.” David Brice, Golf International Inc.
“The sternest examination in golf I had ever taken.” Herbert Warren Wind, New Yorker
