First played in 1927, the Irish Open is one of the oldest competitions in golf across Europe, with a legendary list of former champions including Seve Ballesteros, Sir Nick Faldo, Rory McIlroy, Padraig Harrington and Shane Lowry to name just a few.
The prestigious championship is one of the world’s most celebrated golf tournaments and was first played in Northern Ireland in 1928, at none other than Royal County Down Golf Club. This year, the competition is set to return to the stunning landscapes of County Down for the 5th time in the club’s history, between 11th – 15th September 2024.
PRO-AM Day: Wednesday 11th September 2024
The action will kick off with the PRO-AM where golf, sports and celebrities combine. The confirmed field for 2024 includes Jonny Sexton, Tommy Bowe, Patrick Kielty and James Nesbitt with more names being announced soon.
Tournament Days: Thursday 12th September – Sunday 15th September 2024
Four unmissable days of golf at Royal Count Down Golf Club with an exciting field for all to enjoy, including home favourites Shane Lowry, Rory McIlroy, Tom McKibbin, Padraig Harrington and Seamus Power. Find tickets here.
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“The Irish Open is one of the greatest tournaments in the world, and I am so excited to play at Royal County Down already.” - Shane Lowry, former Irish Open (2009) and 2019 Open Champion.
Royal County Down Golf Club is renowned for its beautiful landscape, challenging layout and tough conditions. The last time the Irish Open was played here in 2015, the winning score was a modest –2 which highlights the great challenge that awaits the field.
In the 2015 tournament, Rory McIlroy missed the cut with a +9 performance through 36 holes of golf. Despite this, he is looking forward to his return to the club where he is rumoured to hold the unofficial course record of 61 (-10) set in 2005. The official course record of 66 (-5) was set by Ireland’s own Jimmy Bruen in the opening round of the 1939 Irish Open. Can anyone in the field find this form in the opening round this September?
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“I’m incredibly excited to have the opportunity to play in this year’s Irish Open at a venue so close to home. Royal County Down is a fantastic venue and I still have some great memories from the 2007 Walker Cup.” “The crowds are always so supportive of all the Irish golfers taking part and the atmosphere is unlike any other we have at a golf tournament. Time and time again the fans prove that they are some of the best in the world and I can’t wait to see them out in support of us again.” - Rory McIlroy, 2016 Irish Open Champion.
The Irish Open's return to Royal County Down promises to showcase the club's splendour to the world, drawing top players and avid fans alike to witness the drama and excitement unfold amidst Northern Ireland's breathtaking vistas.
Another Northern Irishman excited to take the field, is 21-year-old Tom McKibbin, who made his Irish Open debut in 2020 at Galgorm Castle Golf Club. McKibbin went on to become the island of Ireland’s youngest winner on the DP World Tour since McIlroy when he claimed the Porche European Open title in 2023. He then went on to make his first Irish Open appearance as a professional later that season, finishing T39 at the K Club.
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“It’s an incredible golf course and once you’re out there you can understand why it’s rated so highly by so many” “Obviously, to make my Irish Open debut on home soil four years ago was very special, but it was a very different atmosphere without fans due to the pandemic. So I’m really excited to have the chance to play so close to home in front of some big crowds” - Tom McKibbin.
Royal County Down Golf Club, situated in Newcastle, County Down, is the links golf paradise which sits between the stunning backdrop of the magnificent Mourne Mountains and the majestic Irish Sea. This September, some of the world’s top golfers will return to play in the Irish Open and battle it for one to be crowned champion.
As one of the oldest and most revered golf clubs in the world, Royal County Down has a legacy that spans over a century. The championship course is a masterpiece of design, crafted by Tom Morris and later enhanced by legendary architects such as George Combe, Harry Colt, Mackenzie and Ebert. The course is renowned for its stunning scenery, challenging layout, and unpredictable weather conditions, making it a favourite among both players and spectators.
Did you know?
Royal County Down’s sister course, The Annesley, shares the same surreal setting as the Championship course and offers visitors a taste of the dramatic dunelands neighbouring the world-famous jewel. The Annesley is a much shorter course spread over 4397 yards with exceptional views all around. The challenging mix of Par 3 and Par 4 holes offers a great test to any golfer and an ideal way to experience all the best that links golf has to offer. The Annesley is the perfect partner for the Championship links and should not be overlooked whilst visiting Northern Ireland.
County Down not only offers a challenging golfing experience, but also the chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich heritage of Northern Ireland. From historic landmarks and breathtaking natural wonders to culinary delights and cultural gems, prepare to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure.
While you're here, make sure to check out our Spirit Trail. In Northern Ireland we have a passion for distilling, and we’d love to share it with you. There are 14 distilleries on our trail, each of which brings their own twist to the whiskey, gin and poitin that they produce in small batches. Book onto a guided tour, enjoy tasting samples to discover your new favourite, and stamp your Distillery Passport as a momento of your visit to each location. Those who visit all the stops on the Spirit Trail receive a special souvenir, so don't delay - check out our interactive map and start planning your visit today. Northern Ireland Spirits Trail | Distillery Passport (discovernorthernireland.com)
Whether you're an avid golfer or a curious traveller, Northern Ireland promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return time and time again.
Find more on our Golf Stay & Play Offers here or for help planning where you're going to stay during your golf trip, make sure to check out our Golf Accommodation recommendations.
Royal County Down is located in one of the world's most naturally beautiful links settings in the Murlough Nature Reserve. Against the magnificent backdrop of the Mountains of Mourne.
The 2024 Amgen Irish Open will take place from 11-15 September, at Royal County Down Golf Club, in Newcastle, Northern Ireland. World-class golf, live music, and the best fans in the world are all to be enjoyed at this unmissable tournament.
