Golf has never been more popular in Northern Ireland, boosted in part by Rory McIlroy’s remarkable achievements. But what does it cost to play? We look at Northern Ireland golf membership fees and green fees across the country.
Staff reporter
15:58, 22 Apr 2026Updated 16:02, 22 Apr 2026
Rory McIlroy plays a shot on the eighth hole at Royal County Down, Newcastle(Image: ©INPHO/Ben Brady)
Interest in golf has surged following Rory McIlroy’s remarkable Masters victory and career grand slam achievement. While the sport has enjoyed considerable popularity on these shores since stars such as Padraig Harrington, Darren Clarke, Graeme McDowell and Shane Lowry secured major titles, McIlroy’s achievements this year have elevated that enthusiasm to unprecedented heights.
The atmosphere on the final day of the Irish Open at The K Club was unlike anything previously witnessed in golf. Crowds of young supporters cheered McIlroy as he sank an eagle putt on the 72nd hole to force a play-off, which he ultimately won.
Throughout the year, golf clubs and driving ranges have been overwhelmed with young aspiring Rory McIlroys, attracted to the sport for the first time. We are fortunate to have some of the finest golf courses anywhere in the world, and thankfully there are numerous more accessible courses where the fundamentals of the game can be learnt and developed.
The most expensive golf membership in the UK is reportedly at Beaverbrook Golf Club in Surrey, with a joining fee estimated at £305,000.
We have examined membership and green fee costs for golf clubs in Northern Ireland to assess the range and quality available.
Royal Portrush
A general view over the 7th hole during the third round of the 148th Open Championship held on the Dunluce Links at Royal Portrush Golf Club (Image: Francois Nel/Getty Images)
The golfing world’s attention turned to Royal Portrush this summer for the 153rd Open. It consistently ranks amongst the best courses in the world and demand for membership there is substantial. Membership at Royal Portrush is in high demand, with a waiting list in place and an annual fee of £2,000. While this is a considerable sum, it pales in comparison to the likes of Beaverbrook in England or some of the most exclusive clubs across the United States. A one-off joining fee also applies, though the exact figure is only disclosed upon contacting the club directly.
For those seeking a single round in 2026, the iconic Dunluce Links is available for £420 per person between 1 April and 31 October, while a game on the Valley Links will set you back £200 per person during the same period. Caddies are also available to hire.
Royal County Down
The par three, fourth hole at Royal County Down(Image: David Cannon/Getty Images)
Nestled beneath the breathtaking backdrop of the Mountains of Mourne, Royal County Down has been crowned the finest golf course in the world, presenting a formidable challenge even for the most accomplished players.
As a private club, Royal County Down does not publicly disclose its membership fees, with details made available only upon direct enquiry. Visitors can tee off at various times between mid-April and October 2026 for £450 per round, with concessionary rates on offer throughout the summer months for Golf Ireland members.
Portstewart
Portstewart Golf Course
Portstewart Golf Club stands as another jewel in Northern Ireland’s golfing crown. Their 2026 green fees are set at £335 for 18 holes during the summer months (May-September) and £195 during the shoulder season (April and October). Membership fees differ depending on category, and while applications are presently closed, prospective members can contact the club office to enquire about future availability.
Lough Erne
Lough Erne resort, Co Fermanagh
Boasting two championship golf courses, cutting-edge practice facilities and an array of resort amenities, the Lough Erne resort has become a favourite amongst golfers.
A waiting list currently exists for memberships, with packages available upon enquiry. Green fees for the Faldo Course can be found on GolfNow, typically ranging between £100 and £150.
Ardglass
Paul Vaughan (left), the director of golf at Ardglass Golf Club with John McGrillen (right), the chief executive of Tourism NI. Mr McGrillen has predicted that the return of the Open Championship to Portrush will have a positive impact for businesses across Northern Ireland.(Image: Darren Kidd/Tourism NI/PA Wire )
Ardglass Golf Club offers multiple membership categories with corresponding costs for 2025: a 7 Day Membership is priced at £932 with a £1,000 entrance fee, a 6 Day Membership costs £812 with a £1,000 entrance fee, a 5 Day Membership is £681 with a £1,000 entrance fee, while an Under 25 Membership costs £305 with a £130 entrance fee. These represent annual subscriptions, alongside a one-off entrance fee for most categories.
Visitors holding GUI (Golf Union Ireland) membership can play 18 holes at Ardglass for £80. Non-GUI members will pay £200.
Castlerock
Castlerock Golf Club(Image: Castlerock Golf Club)
Castlerock represents another outstanding course along the north coast, where annual membership costs £785 plus fees. Student membership is available for £250. Green fees vary from £85-270 depending on the time of year and GUI membership status.
Malone Malone Golf Club
This is an impressive 27-hole facility situated in south Belfast, built around a lake. GUI members can play a round at Malone for £65, while non-members will pay approximately £120. Membership comes at a considerably higher cost, with the website noting that ‘Joining Malone Golf Club means becoming part of a top-tier community’.
An initial joining fee of £1,500 is required upfront, followed by an annual subscription of £900. Junior members face charges of £500 initially and £300 annually.
While such fees and lavish facilities might deter some aspiring future champions, there are numerous courses across the country offering green fees as affordable as £5 per person. This is what children pay at Fivemiletown Golf Club on the Tyrone-Fermanagh border. Adults pay just £20, with attractive membership options also available.
The City of Belfast course charges £415 for membership for those aged 30-64. Other adults pay £300, while under-14s pay £75 for the year. Green fees vary between £13-£18.
Many golf clubs provide twilight deals for late afternoon rounds, while driving ranges have become increasingly popular for those honing their skills or starting out in the sport. The range at Lough Erne in Enniskillen has recently installed TrackMan technology across all bays, offering comprehensive statistics on every shot alongside a wide variety of games to enjoy.