Insider Golf Guides #2 The 153rd Open
Golf Traveller has many years of experience in delivering The Open Championship itineraries that combine the finest golf and immerse clients in the best that each location has to offer. This is our guide to The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush.
Why go? Attending The Open Championship is more than just a golf tournament. The Masters may be the first Major on the calendar and, while there is undoubtedly an allure to the picture-perfect fairways and blooming azaleas at the end of Magnolia Lane, there is a mystique, an authenticity and a prestige to The Open that cannot simply be matched. The Claret Jug has been lifted by the greats of the game from Harry Vardon to Tom Watson to Tiger Woods, and on the stunning County Antrim coastline, Royal Portrush is certain to make more history in 2025. Renowned for its challenging links and dramatic scenery, the course played host to an iconic moment when Northern Irishman Shane Lowry fought his way to a six-shot victory in 2019.
Shane Lowry in 2019
Beyond the fairways, Northern Ireland has much to offer visitors from picturesque beaches, historic landmarks such as the Giant’s Causeway, and vibrant local culture. Whether you're a die-hard golf fan or simply a traveller seeking adventure, The 153rd Open is a must-visit event combining sport, history, and scenic wonder.
When to go? The 2025 Open Championship will be taking place between the 13-20th of July 2025, right in the finest of Irish summer when the weather is warmest, and you can take full advantage of the outdoors - expect a pleasant 18 degrees on average. With an estimated 280,000 expected to descend on Portrush in the middle of Ireland’s peak season, there will likely be a queue around the 18th green or some of the more popular surrounding sites, but with so many visitors Northern Ireland will be presented at its best, and so there is no better time to visit.
Royal County Down
Why golf in Northern Ireland? The rugged coastline of Northern Ireland really is made for golf. With more than 90 golf courses, some of its best can be found where land meets sea, including Royal Portrush and Royal County Down, regularly featured in the top 20 world rankings. The likes of Portstewart, Castlerock and Ardglass aren’t too far behind, but whether you're playing championship links courses or hidden local gems, the warmth of the local hospitality is what makes the experience.
Where do you stay? Just off the iconic Bedford Street in Belfast, once home to the city’s pivotal linen industry, there is a meeting of old and new in the 23-storey Grand Central Hotel. Towering above the skyline with 300 luxury rooms and incredible dining options, this is not only a destination in itself but also perfectly placed to explore the city streets. The history of the Titanic Quarter is just a stroll away across the Lagan, and the city’s best gastronomy, from Irish Stew at The Crown Liquor Saloon to oysters paired with Guinness at White’s Tavern & The Oyster Rooms, are within a few charming, cobbled streets.
Grand Central Hotel, Belfast
What activities can you do? There are activities in Northern Ireland that cater to every traveller. First of all, naturally, there is golf, with tee times available at Northern Ireland’s very best tracks including Royal County Down, Portstewart and Ardglass.
Beyond the course, there is plenty more for the outdoor enthusiasts, such as exploring the breathtaking Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can walk along the unique basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. For those who enjoy scenic hikes, the misty Mourne Mountains shroud challenging trails with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while history lovers can visit the medieval Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, one of 17 castles that inhabit County Antrim.
For a more laid-back experience, visitors can take a stroll through Belfast’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter, known for its street art, pubs, and live music, or sip whiskey at the famous Bushmills Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery in the world.
What’s the ideal length of stay? A seven-night stay will give travellers time to explore all sides of Northern Ireland, from the windswept Antrim coast to the bustling Belfast streets, as well as teeing off at its most iconic golf courses.