Ballycastle Golf Club

Ballycastle Golf Club was founded in 1890 by 26 golfing enthusiasts led by Naval Commander Alfred Malcolm Causton — nicknamed the “Warren Links” for the large number of rabbit holes that kept appearing in the turf. It was a founding member of the Golf Union of Ireland the following year, and forward-thinking for its era: women were welcomed onto the course from 1897. The course was restructured in 1906 and extended to its current 18 holes in 1926, largely unchanged since.

It’s a mix of parkland and links holes rather than a world-class championship test, but the setting does the work — the first few holes run along the Margy and Carey rivers, and the rest open up to views across the coastline and Rathlin Island from the hill-top course at the end of Glenshesk, one of the Nine Glens of Antrim.

Par 71, around 5,800–5,900 yards depending on tee. The clubhouse has a full bar and restaurant, changing rooms, and club/trolley hire. Address: Cushendall Road, Ballycastle, BT54 6QP — contact the club directly for current green fees and booking.