Newtownmountkennedy, Ireland

⛳

Discover world-class golf courses in Ireland and plan your perfect getaway

Read in AR Read in English Leggi in italiano 한국어로 읽기 Read in NL

Golf Course Rankings & Reviews: Newtownmountkennedy & Beyond

Top 7 Public/Semi-Private Courses

Signature holes, design notes, local terrain adaptations
What makes each course special to the local culture

Newtownmountkennedy and the surrounding Wicklow Mountains offer a diverse range of golfing experiences, from challenging links courses to sheltered parkland layouts. Here's a look at some of the best, catering to different skill levels and preferences.

North Wicklow Golf Club: (Semi-Private)
Signature Hole: The 18th, a demanding par-4 with a blind tee shot overlooking the valley. Requires accuracy and a good iron game.
Design Notes: A classic links-style course, hugging the coastline and utilising the natural undulations of the land. The layout is designed to test accuracy and strategic thinking, with strategically placed bunkers and challenging pin positions.
Local Culture: North Wicklow GC has a long and proud history, deeply intertwined with the local community. It's a traditional club with a strong emphasis on etiquette and camaraderie. Local members are known for their friendly welcomes and willingness to offer advice.
Pricing: Green fees range from €55-€75 (approx. $60-80 USD) during peak season. Cart hire is €25.
Glenmore Golf Club: (Public)
Signature Hole: The 5th, a picturesque par-3 playing over a burn, with a dramatic backdrop of the Wicklow Mountains.
Design Notes: A beautifully maintained parkland course with rolling fairways and strategically placed water hazards. The layout is forgiving for less experienced golfers, but still offers plenty of challenge.
Local Culture: Glenmore is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. It's known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent value. It's a favourite for family outings and casual rounds.
Pricing: Green fees are typically €40-€50 (approx. $45-55 USD). Cart hire is €20.
Wicklow Golf Club: (Semi-Private)
Signature Hole: The 12th, a challenging par-5 that requires a bold drive and a well-executed approach shot.
Design Notes: A more modern design, incorporating elements of both parkland and links styles. The course is known for its undulating greens and strategically placed bunkers.
Local Culture: Wicklow Golf Club is a prestigious club with a strong reputation for its excellent facilities and challenging layout. It attracts a mix of local and international golfers.
Pricing: Green fees range from €70-€90 (approx. $75-100 USD). Cart hire is €30.
Bonane Golf Club: (Public)
Signature Hole: The 18th, a short par-4 with a challenging approach shot over a water hazard.
Design Notes: A compact but well-designed course, perfect for a quick round. The layout is relatively flat, making it accessible for golfers of all abilities.
Local Culture: Bonane is a friendly and welcoming club, popular with locals and visitors. It's a great option for a casual round and a good value for money.
Pricing: Green fees are typically €35-€45 (approx. $40-50 USD). Cart hire is €15.
Royal County Down Golf Club (Loughbrickdown): (Semi-Private - a short drive from Newtownmountkennedy)
Signature Hole: The 17th, a dramatic par-3 with a waterfall cascading down the side of the green.
Design Notes: A world-renowned links course with stunning coastal views. The layout is challenging and demanding, requiring accuracy and strategic thinking.
Local Culture: Royal County Down is a legendary course with a rich history and a strong tradition of excellence. It's a popular destination for serious golfers from around the world.
Pricing: Green fees range from €120-€180 (approx. $130-200 USD). Cart hire is €40.
Mount Druid Golf Club: (Public)
Signature Hole: The 9th, a par-4 with a challenging uphill approach shot.
Design Notes: A beautifully maintained parkland course with rolling fairways and strategically placed water hazards. The layout is forgiving for less experienced golfers, but still offers plenty of challenge.
Local Culture: Mount Druid is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. It's known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent value. It's a favourite for family outings and casual rounds.
Pricing: Green fees are typically €40-€50 (approx. $45-55 USD). Cart hire is €20.
Bray Golf Club: (Semi-Private - a short drive from Newtownmountkennedy)
Signature Hole: The 18th, a challenging par-4 with a dramatic coastal setting.
Design Notes: A links-style course with stunning views of the Irish Sea. The layout is challenging and demanding, requiring accuracy and strategic thinking.
Local Culture: Bray Golf Club is a historic club with a strong tradition of excellence. It's a popular destination for serious golfers from around the world.
Pricing: Green fees range from €75-€95 (approx. $80-100 USD). Cart hire is €30.

Hidden Gems

2–3 lesser-known courses with exceptional value or authentic local experience

Redbrook Golf Club: (Public) - A charming, tree-lined course offering excellent value. It's a favourite among locals for its friendly atmosphere and challenging layout. Green fees around €40.
Northbrook Golf Club: (Public) - A smaller, more intimate course with a focus on quality and attention to detail. It's a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing round. Green fees around €45.

Premium Options

Upscale resorts, championship venues, private-fee facilities worth the investment

Royal County Down (Loughbrickdown) - As mentioned above, a truly world-class experience.
Wicklow Golf Club - Offers a more refined and challenging experience than many public courses.

Value Champions

Best budget-friendly choices with local currency price cues

Bonane Golf Club (€35-€45)
Mount Druid Golf Club (€40-€50)
Redbrook Golf Club (€40)

International Golfer Essentials

Difficulty & Standards

Local vs international handicap ratings
USGA/R&A slope comparisons where applicable

Irish handicap systems are based on the USGA/R&A system. A handicap of 10 in the US generally equates to a handicap of 10 here. The slope rating (a measure of course difficulty) is also comparable, though specific figures vary from course to course. You can find detailed slope ratings on the Golf Ireland website (www.golfireland.com).

Language Considerations

English proficiency at courses
Key golf terms in Ireland's language
Communication tips

English is widely spoken throughout Ireland, so communication is rarely a problem. However, you might encounter some local phrases and slang. Here are a few key golf terms:

The 18th: The final hole.
Fore!: A warning shout to alert anyone in the path of a wayward ball.
Divot: A piece of turf displaced by a golf club. It's considered good etiquette to replace divots.
Rough: The longer grass bordering the fairways.
Pin: The flagstick on the green.
Stance: Your posture and position when preparing to swing.

Communication Tip: Don't be afraid to ask for clarification if you don't understand something. Irish people are generally friendly and helpful.

Cultural Golf Etiquette

Local customs, dress codes, pace of play expectations
Tipping practices and cultural context

Etiquette: Irish golfers are generally very polite and respectful. It's important to:

Respect the course: Replace divots, rake bunkers, and avoid damaging the greens.
Be mindful of other players: Don't talk or move around while someone is addressing the ball.
Keep up a reasonable pace of play: Don't dawdle on shots.
Don't walk on putting lines.
Be aware of the wind: It can significantly affect your shots.

Dress Code: Smart casual attire is generally acceptable. Golf clubs typically have dress codes that prohibit jeans, t-shirts, and athletic shoes. A collared shirt and trousers or golf shorts are usually appropriate.

Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Ireland. However, it's becoming increasingly common to tip caddies (around €10-€20 for a good round). You can also tip the clubhouse staff for exceptional service.

Booking Requirements

Advance reservation systems, documentation needs
Guest policies for visitors

Most courses require advance tee time reservations, especially during peak season. You can book online through the Golf Ireland website or by calling the course directly.

Documentation: Passport or other valid identification is required for all visitors. Some courses may require proof of membership or a guest certificate.

Guest Policies: Most courses welcome visitors, but it's always a good idea to check their guest policies in advance. Some courses may have restrictions on the number of guests allowed per member.

Seasonal & Climate Intelligence

Monthly Playing Guide

Weather patterns, rainfall, temperatures
Optimal playing conditions per season

March-May (Spring): Temperatures gradually rise, with average highs of 12-16°C (54-61°F). Rainfall is moderate, and the course is lush and green.
June-August (Summer): Warmest months, with average highs of 18-22°C (64-72°F). Rainfall is relatively low, and the course is in excellent condition.
September-November (Autumn): Temperatures gradually cool down, with average highs of 12-16°C (54-61°F). Rainfall increases, and the leaves turn beautiful colours.
December-February (Winter): Coldest months, with average highs of 4-8°C (39-46°F). Rainfall is high, and some courses may be closed due to weather conditions.

Optimal Playing Conditions: June-August is generally considered the best time to play golf in Ireland, with warm, dry weather and minimal rainfall.

Peak Season Strategy

High-demand periods, pricing fluctuations
Advance booking recommendations

Peak season is typically from June to August, with prices being at their highest. It's essential to book tee times well in advance, especially for popular courses. Consider playing during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) for lower prices and fewer crowds.

Off-Season Opportunities

Shoulder-season advantages, reduced rates, fewer crowds

The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer excellent value and fewer crowds. You can often find discounted green fees and accommodation rates. The weather is still pleasant, and the scenery is beautiful.

Weather Contingencies

Indoor facilities, covered ranges, alternative activities

Many courses have covered practice areas and indoor facilities. If the weather is particularly bad, consider visiting a local museum, exploring the charming towns and villages of Wicklow, or enjoying a traditional Irish pub.

Practical Travel Integration

Access & Transportation

Airport proximity, rental car needs
Public transport, taxi/ride-share options

Dublin Airport (DUB) is the closest airport to many of the golf courses in County Wicklow. A rental car is recommended for exploring the area, but public transportation (buses) is also available. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, but they can be expensive.

Accommodation

Wide range of options from hotels to B&Bs
Book in advance, especially during peak season

There is a wide range of accommodation options available in County Wicklow, from hotels and resorts to bed and breakfasts and self-catering cottages. It's essential to book in advance, especially during peak season.