The wait is over – The 2026 Top 100 Golf Courses in Ireland rankings have officially been released by The Irish Golfer – and as always, the debate begins.
Ireland remains one of the rare destinations in the world where you can experience every course on a national Top 100 list. From world-renowned links carved along the Atlantic to championship parkland layouts set inland, this list celebrates the extraordinary depth and diversity of Irish golf.
Whether you are a traditional links purist, a parkland devotee, or simply someone who loves great golf in any setting, the 2026 rankings offer a roadmap to some of the finest courses on the planet.
A few notable updates this year:
• The European Club steps out of the rankings while undergoing renovation.
• Royal Portrush – Valley Course returns following a significant renovation and features prominently.
• Two new and well-deserved entries join the list:
hashtagWoodbrookGolfClub and Ballyneety Golf Club.
Of course, while most golfers may agree broadly on a top 20 or 30, the order will always spark discussion. Links versus parkland. Championship pedigree versus hidden gem. Tradition versus modern design. That’s the beauty of a list like this – it fuels conversation across the country and beyond.
The only true way to decide? Play them.
Here’s to discovering (or rediscovering) Ireland’s very best in 2026.
We are still taking bookings for 2026 and 2027 is now in high demand.
Contact hazel@excelgolftours.com
Excelerator Luxury Golf Tours in Ireland @The Irish Golfer hashtagTheIrishGolfer hashtagTop100GolfCoursesInIreland2026
Tourism Ireland | Tourism Northern Ireland

