Nestled in the leafy suburbs of East Belfast, just three miles from the city centre, Shandon Park Golf Club is a championship-calibre parkland course that offers both serenity and challenge in equal measure. With sculpted fairways, pristine tour-speed greens, and striking views across Stormont Estate and the Belfast skyline, it delivers a truly exceptional golfing experience right on the doorstep of the city.
Originally opened as a nine-hole course in 1898 under the name Knock Golf Club, the grounds evolved over decades into the prestigious club they are today. Shandon Park Golf Club was officially established in 1925, with its current 18-hole layout completed in 1936. Designed by Mr. E. Kennedy and Mr. Harry Hamill, the 6,336-yard, par-70 course is a masterclass in classic parkland design. It rewards precision, strategy, and consistency, with its clever layout and true-rolling greens offering a stern test for even elite players—evidenced by a long-standing course record of just six under par.
Beyond its elegant layout, Shandon Park has made a lasting impact on Irish golf. It has been a breeding ground for international talent, producing no fewer than eight Full Internationals and one Walker Cup player. Among them is Michael Hoey, a four-time European Tour winner and former Alfred Dunhill Links Champion, who proudly represents the club on the global stage.
Shandon Park’s competitive legacy is equally impressive: 13 All Ireland Senior Cup victories, British Amateur and Brabazon Cup wins, and back-to-back European Club Champion titles in 2000 and 2001. The club has also played host to an array of prestigious events, including the Blaxnit Championship in 1964—welcoming legends like Tony Jacklin and Christy O’Connor—and the Gallaher Ulster Open from 1965 to 1970, where icons such as Peter Alliss and Peter Oosterhuis walked its fairways.
A modern, welcoming clubhouse was added in 2000, reinforcing the club’s commitment to excellence both on and off the course. More recently, Shandon Park hosted the All Ireland Finals in 2007, the Ladies British Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship in 2012, and the World Police and Fire Games golf event in 2013.
With its rich history, exceptional layout, and unwavering commitment to the game, Shandon Park Golf Club remains a must-play destination for golfers seeking a blend of heritage and high-performance golf in Belfast.
With its elite competitive history, superb greens, and beautiful setting, Shandon Park Golf Club is one of Northern Ireland’s premier parkland courses. Whether you’re looking to test your skills on a tough championship layout or simply enjoy a relaxing round in stunning surroundings, Shandon Park is a course that truly stands out.
