Golf Course Review

Portstewart Golf Club is located on the coastline of Northern Ireland. North of the city of Coleraine Portstewart lies between Castlerock to the west and Portrush to the east. The Portstewart Strand, The Barmouth and the River Bann all border this spectacular site. There are 54 holes to be found here: The Old, Riverside and The Strand. It is The Strand you've heard of and the one you'll not want to miss!

History of the Old & Riverside Courses

The Old Course dates to 1894 when nine holes were laid out on just 26 acres that measured 1495 yards. The course was extended in 1904 and the first keeper, David Simpson, was hired. Further land was purchased in 1916 and by 1918 the club had 12 holes to play over. In 1934, RC Davison and James Rea made the course virtually what it is today with 18 holes measuring 4822 yards and a par of 64. Eight holes are seaside and the remaining ten, inland.

The Riverside is the latest addition to the golfing landscape at Portstewart. The original nine holes were created by Des Giffin and opened for play in 1990. The remaining nine holes were also done in-house with Course Manager, Bernard Finley, and past captain, Davis Avery, responsible. The 18 holes opened for play in 2003.

Portstewart GC - The Strand

The most famous 18 hole course at Portstewart Golf Club is The Strand. In March 1907, it was decided to employ the professional at Royal Portrush, AG Gow, to build the 18 hole links. The original Strand Course opened for play in July 1908. The course would be further enhanced by Willie Park Jr in the early 1920s. In the 1980s, the club purchased the duneland known as Thistly Hollow. Local school teacher, Des Giffin, was given the responsibility for the design. Some of the original Park holes were updated and incorporated with seven new holes laid out in the newly acquired dunes. The end result is a cohesive design which holds its own against it illustrious Royal neighbour.

Golf Course Photography

Purchase photography of this course here.