With the Ryder Cup returning to Ireland in 2027, global attention will once again turn to the island’s outstanding golfing pedigree. For visitors flying into Dublin Airport, the Boyne Valley offers an exceptional base to experience championship golf, rich heritage and high quality accommodation, all within an easy drive. From historic links shaped by the elements to parkland courses set among ancient estates, the region delivers variety, authenticity and convenience in equal measure.
We have put together a guide of the standout golf courses of the Boyne Valley, each ideally placed for golfers planning a Ryder Cup inspired break.
Bellewstown Golf Club
Located just over 40 minutes from Dublin Airport, Bellewstown Golf Club enjoys elevated views across the Boyne Valley, stretching as far as the Mourne Mountains on a clear day. This Fáilte Ireland approved par 72 parkland course is known for its USGA standard greens, mature tree lined fairways and well integrated water features.
Challenging yet fair, Bellewstown suits golfers of all abilities and provides a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Its proximity to heritage attractions such as the Hill of Tara and the Boyne Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site at Brú na Bóinne makes it an ideal addition to a culture rich golf itinerary. Accommodation options nearby include charming country guesthouses and hotels in Drogheda and Navan.
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Black Bush Golf Club
Situated near Dunshaughlin, approximately 35 minutes from Dublin Airport, Black Bush Golf Club has developed into one of County Meath’s most respected parkland golfing venues. The 27 hole layout features tree lined fairways, carefully placed hazards and pristine greens that provide an enjoyable test for all standards of golfer.
The club is well located for visiting nearby heritage sites such as Trim Castle and the Hill of Tara. After a round, golfers can unwind in the recently renovated bar and restaurant, while those seeking overnight stays will find a wide choice of accommodation across south Meath and nearby Navan.
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County Louth Golf Club (Baltray)
Often referred to simply as Baltray, County Louth Golf Club is one of Ireland’s great links courses and lies just 45 minutes from Dublin Airport. Set at the mouth of the River Boyne, this historic championship links dates back to 1892 and is consistently ranked among the world’s finest.
Redesigned in 1938 by Tom Simpson and Molly Gourlay, the par 72 course offers towering sand dunes, natural rough and strategic holes that reward thoughtful play. Baltray has hosted the Irish Open on multiple occasions and is famously where Shane Lowry won the title as an amateur in 2009.
The coastal setting provides dramatic scenery and fresh sea air, while the surrounding Boyne Valley offers easy access to Brú na Bóinne and Monasterboice. Unique on site accommodation within the clubhouse and excellent dining featuring locally sourced seafood make Baltray a complete golfing experience.
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County Meath Golf Club
Just 45 minutes from Dublin Airport and only 3 kilometres from the heritage town of Trim, County Meath Golf Club is a classic parkland course established in 1898. Tree lined fairways, subtle greens and strategic bunkering ensure a rewarding round for discerning golfers.
The club’s location makes it ideal for combining golf with visits to Trim Castle, the River Boyne and the wider Boyne Valley heritage landscape. Modern clubhouse facilities and a floodlit driving range add to its appeal, with a strong selection of hotels and guesthouses available in Trim and Navan.
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Golf at Killeen Castle
Set within the grounds of an 800 year old castle, Killeen Castle is one of the Boyne Valley’s flagship golfing destinations and lies just 40 minutes from Dublin Airport. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this par 72 championship course stretches over 7,700 yards and is regarded as one of the finest modern parkland courses in Ireland.
Killeen Castle has hosted the Solheim Cup, multiple Women’s Irish Opens and will host the HotelPlanner Irish Challenge in both 2026 and 2027. Recently awarded Best Parkland Course of the Year at the IGTOA Awards, it combines world class design with exceptional presentation.
Golfers can stay on site in the Lodge Accommodation, making it ideal for multi day golf breaks. The course’s proximity to Brú na Bóinne, Trim and the Hill of Tara places it at the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East.
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Headfort Golf Club
Located near the historic town of Kells and just 35 minutes from Dublin Airport, Headfort Golf Club is one of Ireland’s finest parkland golf complexes. The estate features two 18 hole courses set among mature woodland, with Headfort House providing a striking eighteenth century backdrop.
The Championship Course, designed by Ryder Cup legend Christy O’Connor Jnr, is consistently ranked among Ireland’s top parkland layouts. Headfort’s location allows easy exploration of nearby heritage sites including Kells Monastic Site and the wider Boyne Valley corridor. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels in Kells to country house stays across Meath.
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Julianstown Golf Club
Just off the M1 and approximately 35 minutes from Dublin Airport, Julianstown Golf Club offers a relaxed and welcoming golfing experience in the heart of East Meath. The club features a challenging 9 hole parkland golf course alongside Ireland’s largest championship level 18 hole pitch and putt course.
Its village setting places golfers close to the coast, the River Boyne and historic Drogheda, making it ideal for a shorter golf stop or as part of a broader itinerary. Nearby seaside towns and rural accommodation options provide easy overnight stays.
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Knightsbrook Golf Course
Knightsbrook Hotel Spa and Golf Resort is located in Trim, around 45 minutes from Dublin Airport, and offers a complete golf resort experience. Designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr, the 18 hole championship course features water hazards, limestone walls and undulating fairways that test golfers of all abilities.
The resort has previously hosted the Junior Solheim Cup and continues to attract golfers seeking championship quality combined with luxury accommodation. On site hotel rooms, spa facilities and dining options make Knightsbrook an excellent base for exploring Trim Castle, the Boyne Valley and Ireland’s Ancient East.
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Laytown and Bettystown Golf Club
Set on the south bank of the River Boyne and just 40 minutes from Dublin Airport, Laytown and Bettystown Golf Club is a traditional links course with fast greens, rugged bunkering and panoramic coastal views. The club has strong Ryder Cup connections, having produced players such as Des Smyth and Philip Walton.
Its seaside location offers a classic links golfing experience, while nearby heritage attractions include Brú na Bóinne and Monasterboice. Accommodation options range from coastal hotels to guesthouses throughout east Meath and Drogheda.
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Royal Tara Golf Club
Nestled at the base of the Hill of Tara and easily accessed from the M3, Royal Tara Golf Club is approximately 40 minutes from Dublin Airport. The club boasts 27 championship holes set in mature parkland and has earned recognition as one of Ireland’s finest hidden gems.
Designed in part by Ryder Cup golfer Des Smyth, Royal Tara offers variety and challenge across its three nine hole layouts. Its immediate proximity to the Hill of Tara, one of Ireland’s most important ancient sites, makes it a natural choice for golfers seeking to blend sport with history. Nearby accommodation options include country hotels and guesthouses across Meath.
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With world class golf, deep historical roots and excellent accessibility from Dublin Airport, the Boyne Valley is perfectly placed to welcome golfers inspired by the Ryder Cup in 2027. Whether planning a dedicated golf break or combining tee times with heritage exploration, this region offers an authentic and memorable Irish golfing experience.
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