Golf, Glory and a town reborn - The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush 2025

Portrush and The 2025 Open: Golf, Glory, and a Town Reborn

Whiterocks Beach at the foot of Royal Portrush Golf Club

Who are the top contenders for the 153rd Open?

The Open Championship at Royal Portrush 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated tournaments in recent memory - not just for its world-class setting on the Dunluce Links, but for the calibre of talent it’s set to attract. The field reads like a who's who of modern golf: Shane Lowry, the 2019 champion who triumphed on this very course; Collin Morikawa, one of the game’s most composed major performers; and American stars Xander Schauffele and Scottie Scheffler, both in exceptional form.

But all eyes will be on Rory McIlroy. Fresh off completing his Career Grand Slam with a win at The Masters in April, the Holywood native returns to his home country not only as a fan favourite, but as a man on a mission. Back in 2005, a 16-year-old McIlroy fired a jaw-dropping 61 on the Dunluce Links - a course record at the time - cementing his bond with Portrush long before he became a global icon. Now, nearly two decades later, he returns with history on his side and the weight of Northern/Irish hopes in his bag.

And speaking of local ties, there’s another Portrush connection worth watching: Ricky Elliott, a native of the town - and Royal Portrush Golf Club member since childhood - will be on the bag for Brooks Koepka. Elliott, who left for the U.S. on a golf scholarship as a teenager, has become one of the game’s most respected caddies - and his return to home turf is sure to stir pride among the locals.

Portrush Apparel & Golf Gifts 🎁 

View from Portstewart Golf Club towards Portstewart Strand with Mussenden Temple in the distance

Golfing on the North Coast doesn’t stop at Royal Portrush. In fact, this stretch of coastline is an absolute dream for golfers:

  • Portstewart Golf Club - A mere 3 miles away from Royal Portrush, Portstewart's magnificent Strand Course was the host to the Irish Open in 2017. Portstewart has two other links courses - the Riverside and the Old Course, though the Strand was recently added to the prestigious Golf World Top 100 courses thanks to its big dunes, huge views, and world-class golf.
  • Castlerock Golf Club - With its fabulous Mussenden Course, this is another top tier golf links course with heritage and challenge to match.
  • Rathmore Golf Club - Based at Royal Portrush's Valley Links and known for its local heart and producing stars like Graeme McDowell.
  • Ballyreagh Golf Course - A scenic par-3 course hugging the coast between Portrush and Portstewart. Great for a casual round with friends.
  • Ballycastle Golf Club - Part parkland, part links, and fully beautiful. Just a bit further east and worth the drive.
  • Bushfoot Golf Club - A lovely 9-hole course in Portballintrae by Runkerry Strand with relaxed vibes and beautiful scenery.

Download our FREE Northern Ireland Golf Course Map created by the Northern Ireland tourist board discovernorthernireland.com

Final Word from a North Coast Local

The Open coming back to Portrush is more than just a major tournament - it’s a celebration of our town’s spirit, resilience, and deep-rooted love for sport. From golden beaches to world-class golf, Portrush is the kind of place that sticks with you. There are few places where you can watch the world's best golfers battle the elements by day, and then stroll into town for salt and chilli chicken at Urban Restaurant, some local beers at Kiwi’s Brew Bar, or classic seaside fun at Currys Amusements and Kiddieland with the kids. Whether you're chasing birdies or just making memories, Portrush delivers charm by the bucket (and spade) load.

See you on the fairways
 or down at Harbour Bar with a pint of Guinness and a bag of Tayto đŸșđŸ„”

_______________



The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush FAQ
(Frequently Asked Questions)


When is The 153rd Open 2025?

Are tickets still available to the 153rd Open?

Yes - the championship days have sold out but there are still tickets available for the practice days. You can find out more on the R&A website. Be careful if buying from non-official sites as tickets may not work on entry. Contact us at team@causewaybazaar.com for insider info on any available weekly passes.

Where is Royal Portrush Golf Club?

Royal Portrush Golf Club is situated in the town of Portrush, County Antrim on the North Coast of Northern Ireland, along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route.

How can I travel to The Open 2025?

Visitors can travel by car, train or bus. A Park and Ride service will be available from key locations. The local council is recommending advance booking due to high demand. You can find out more via discovernorthernireland.com

What makes Royal Portrush Special?

Royal Portrush is renowned for its challenging Dunluce Links course, featuring signature holes like Par-3 'Calamity Corner'. The course offers stunning coastal views and has a rich history, having hosted The Open twice before - in 1951 and 2019. 

What’s the difference between the Dunluce and Valley golf courses?

Dunluce is the big championship course – links golf at its wildest. Valley is its neighbour and home to Rathmore Golf Club – just as scenic, less punishing.

What is a links golf course?

When people talk about “links golf,” they’re talking about the game in its purest, most traditional form. A links golf course is typically found on rugged coastal land - the “links” between the sea and the farmland - where the wind blows wild, the ground is firm, and nature decides the rules. Forget manicured fairways and artificial lakes; links courses are raw, windswept, and shaped by centuries of sea air and sand. With few trees, deep pot bunkers, and fast, rolling terrain, links golf demands imagination over brute strength. You’ll need low punches, clever bounces, and a touch of old-school magic. Courses like Royal Portrush’s Dunluce Links aren’t just golf venues - they’re living pieces of sporting history carved into the coastline.

What is the weather like in Portrush in July?

July in Portrush brings typical mild temperatures with a mix of sunshine and occasional rain. It's advisable to dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions. 

How can I watch The Open if I can't get there?

The Open will be broadcast globally on NBC/Golf Channel (USA) and Sky Sports (UK & Ireland). Fans can also stream live coverage via R&A TV, The Open website, and The Open App.

Where can I get Portrush-inspired merchandise?

Have a look at our Causeway Wave collection - all made to order so great for the environment! Good design with a North Coast soul 🌊

The Claret Jug - Championship Trophy of The Open Golf Tournament at Royal Portrush 2025 at Kerr Street Green
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