Royal County Down Golf Club (Championship Links)

Mourne Dunes Shaped Across Generations

The Championship Links at Royal County Down Golf Club began with a nine-hole course laid out by George L. Baillie in 1889. Old Tom Morris visited later that year and advised its extension to 18 holes, ready for play by mid-1890. George Combe then developed two loops of nine, drawing on advice from leading players and architects of the period.

Harry Colt's 1926 work gave the front nine much of its present form. He created new 4th and 9th holes and rerouted several others, while later changes have been limited compared with the course's long evolution.

The route occupies the Murlough Nature Reserve beside Dundrum Bay, with the Mountains of Mourne rising beyond the fairways. Narrow landing areas wind through heather and gorse, while deep bunkers carry overhanging lips of marram and fescue.

The 9th is the best-known moment. Its tee shot crosses a huge mound before the fairway falls sharply below. Fast, often domed greens ask for firm decisions, and the ground game remains central to playing the course well.