North West Golf Club

North West Golf Club

Donegal

Situated on the shores of Lough Swilly in County Donegal, North West Golf Club is often referred to as the St. Andrews of Ireland. Established in 1891, it is one of the nine founding members of the Golfing Union of Ireland, making it one of the most historic golf clubs in the country. Offering breathtaking scenery, challenging links golf, and warm Irish hospitality, North West Golf Club provides an unforgettable golfing experience along the Wild Atlantic Way.

course features

Course Details

Type of Course
Links
Number of Holes
18
Par
70
Total Length
6,334 yards
Location
Lisfannon, Buncrana, County Donegal, Ireland
Founded
1891
Designer
Charles Thompson
Standout Hole
4th ('Kinnegar' – risk-reward par 4 with lateral water hazard)
Signature Features
Coastal views, classic links undulations, fescue greens, deep bunkering

The North West Experience

Designed on classic links terrain, the course features humps, hollows, and concealed run-offs reminiscent of St. Andrews’ Old Course. The fast-running fairways, smooth fescue greens, and strategically placed riveted bunkers create a traditional links challenge that will test golfers of all skill levels.
The 6,334-yard, par-70 course features only two par 5s, both located at the 9th and 18th holes, adding to the strategy and difficulty of the layout. Golfers will encounter doglegs, water hazards, and coastal winds, ensuring that no two rounds are ever the same. The short yet demanding 4th hole, ‘Kinnegar’, is a standout, tempting players to cut the corner over a lateral water hazard while punishing any errant shots.
With its rich history, North West Golf Club has produced several champions, including Brian McElhinney, winner of the 2003 European Amateur Championship and 2005 British Amateur Championship. The club also claimed victory in the All-Ireland Senior Cup in 2005, showcasing its strength in competitive golf.

Why North West?

North West Golf Club is a true links gem where golfers can experience the beauty and challenge of traditional Irish golf. From the scenic Lough Swilly backdrop to the ever-changing coastal conditions, every round here is a test of skill and strategy. The club’s deep history and ongoing evolution, including the new 4th hole introduced in 2016, ensure that North West remains a must-play destination.

Gallery

Course Gallery

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Why Choose 18Ireland?

With 18Ireland, your golfing experience at North West Golf Club is tailored entirely to your needs. Whether you simply want to secure a tee time or prefer a complete package including travel, accommodation, and premium club hire, 18Ireland will provide exactly what you require—nothing more, nothing less.
From seasoned golfers to first-time visitors, North West offers a thrilling links challenge along Ireland’s stunning East Coast.
Book your North West Golf Club experience with 18Ireland today and enjoy golf, your way—expertly arranged and effortlessly delivered.

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North West Golf Club

Situated on the shores of Lough Swilly in County Donegal, North West Golf Club is often referred to as the St. Andrews of Ireland. Established in 1891, it is one of the nine founding members of the Golfing Union of Ireland, making it one of the most historic golf clubs in the country. Offering breathtaking scenery, challenging links golf, and warm Irish hospitality, North West Golf Club provides an unforgettable golfing experience along the Wild Atlantic Way.

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