A Legacy on the Lough
Carnalea Golf Club has stood as a coastal golfing landmark since 1927 — the first municipal course in Ireland. Its storied greens and seaside fairways have welcomed generations of players to experience tradition, challenge, and community by the shore.
A Game Takes Root on the Shore (1892–1926)
Our story begins in 1892, when this beautiful stretch of coastline in Bangor, County Down first echoed with the strike of golf balls. At that time, it was the home of the Royal Belfast Golf Club, the oldest golf club in Ireland. For more than three decades, these scenic grounds were a sanctuary for early golfers, drawn by the natural contours of the land and the inspiring sea views. The rugged charm of the terrain, the salty breeze off the Irish Sea—it all made for golf at its purest.
Royal Belfast eventually moved on to a new home across the Lough in 1926. But this was far from the end of golf at Carnalea—it was the beginning of something new.
These Storied Greens
Where golf meets history, and community meets coastline. As you stroll along our fairways overlooking the glittering waters of Belfast Lough, you’re not just walking a golf course, you’re walking through time. A unique and treasured place, with a tale of seaside golf, of open doors and warm welcomes, and of a club that continues to evolve without ever forgetting where it began.
A Club for the People
In 1927, with a vision to keep golf alive for the community of Bangor, the local council acquired the land, and we were officially born as Carnalea Golf Club. From the beginning, we were different. We weren’t built behind locked gates or for the privileged few. We were founded as Ireland’s first municipal golf club, open to everyday people—a place where local tradesmen, teachers, shopkeepers, and families could come together to enjoy the game.
That spirit of openness still defines us today.
Ours was not a club of pretense, but of passion. Men and women played side by side. Juniors and seniors shared stories on the practice green. Golf was not a status symbol here—it was a shared joy. And in many ways, Carnalea became the beating heart of Bangor's golfing community. We didn’t just offer a round of golf. We offered belonging.
Through the Generations
Like any good club, we've weathered storms—both literal and metaphorical. Through wars, recessions, and changing times, Carnalea has remained steadfast, evolving with the needs of our members while preserving our core identity.
Over the years, we’ve welcomed generations of the same families, seen fathers and daughters, mothers and sons all tee off from the same first hole. It’s not unusual to find three generations of a local family playing together here on a sunny Saturday afternoon.
And we’ve had our brush with greatness, too. In the 1950s, we hosted an exhibition match featuring Fred Daly, the first Irishman to win The Open Championship. His presence here cemented our reputation as a course of character—challenging, scenic, and worth the attention of legends
A Course of Character
Our course today is a mature par-70 seaside layout, set across 88 acres of gently undulating parkland. It stretches 5,716 yards, yet every step is packed with variety. With Belfast Lough to the north and the Mourne Mountains often visible in the distance, nature itself is part of the experience here.
We are proud of our unique layout, including a charming feature that sets us apart: the Bangor-Belfast railway line, which runs right through the course. You’ll hear the soft rumble of passing trains and perhaps catch a glimpse of a smiling conductor waving as you line up your approach shot. For some, it’s a quirk; for us, it’s a signature part of Carnalea’s character.
Some holes may surprise you. Our short par-3 9th hole climbs gently to an elevated green just below the clubhouse, daring you to perform under watchful eyes. And our 18th? It’s a dramatic finish—a long, blind par-4 demanding accuracy and nerve. With the clubhouse rising in view behind the green, it’s a closing challenge that brings every round to a satisfying close.
Above all, what sets our course apart is its balance of playability and challenge. Whether you're a scratch golfer or a weekend enthusiast, you’ll find a rhythm here. Our greens are notoriously smooth and fast, and our fairways meticulously maintained. We take pride in the condition of our course—and we think you’ll notice the moment you step on the first tee.
More Than a Golf Club
While golf is our heartbeat, Carnalea is more than just a place to play. It’s a place to connect, celebrate, and relax. Our clubhouse, overlooking the course and the Lough beyond, is a hub of activity and comfort. From a hearty post-round breakfast to a wedding with a sea view, we host it all.
We’ve modernized, too. Recent years have brought course renovations, refreshed facilities, and a reinvestment in member experience. But the real transformation is in how we continue to serve our community. From our junior development programs to our social calendar of events and fundraisers, we’ve remained true to our founding spirit: inclusive, welcoming, and community-driven.
We’re proud to say that visitors often comment on the friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere they find here. No need for a blazer to enjoy the bar. No gatekeepers guarding the tee sheet. Just good people, good golf, and a view to remember.
Our Story Is Still Being Written
As we look ahead to our 100th anniversary in 2027, we’re not just celebrating the past—we’re planning for the future. With ongoing improvements to the course, clubhouse, and member experience, we’re ensuring that Carnalea remains a vibrant home for golf lovers for generations to come.
We invite you to become part of that story.
Come for the sea views. Stay for the camaraderie. Discover the charm of a course shaped by history and maintained with pride. Whether you’re passing through, joining us for a round, or considering becoming a member, we hope you’ll feel what so many before you have:
At Carnalea Golf Club, you’re always welcome.
The Modern Day
In more recent times the Club's renowned greens has played host to some famous faces, local celebrities and top players. This list now also includes The Golf Mates, a world renowned YouTube channel, who had more than a few words to say about our seaside course...
