Open to club members and the public, Castlereagh Hills Golf Club has acquired a well-deserved reputation as the hidden gem of municipal golf courses in Northern Ireland. There are not many “public” parklands left on these shores, so Golf Royalty thought best to investigate.

Beautifully situated in the heart of the Castlereagh Hills, the facility offers idyllic views over Strangford Lough and County Down. The course elevated position grants unrivalled views that are simply breathtaking. It was outlined in the professional’s shop that both membership and casual play options are available as golfers test their skills over this challenging 18-hole par 67 course.

The magnificent glass fronted clubhouse offers features that most others envy. Conference facilities, private function rooms, professional shop and the resident PGA Golf Professional who can offer private golfing lessons to individuals and groups. The facility can also cater for corporate training and society golf days, which can be tailored to meet your specific needs. I had initial concern that Castlereagh Hills was trying to do too much and cater for too many different markets. However, there seems to be a sense of belief instilled in the club. With backing from the council, they can try new things and puch the boat out a bit.

The only thing lacking, is length. The course is of a great standard, considering its relative youth. There are intriguing shots to be played, sloping greens and the tricky water hazards to contend with. But with the ability to play an iron from many tees and only have a further short iron to the green, scores can come rather easily.

Castlereagh Hills gets a huge thumbs up from everyone at Golf Royalty and we look forward to our return in the future.

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Featured Hole – 3

The third, a dog legged Par 5, plays longer than its yardage suggests. From an elevated tee, everything falls away to the right making the hole suited to a right to left ball flight. Use the central, single tree as a marker, or for the optimum line, use the radio tower situated on Cave Hill. The green is reachable in 2 for the longer players, but with severe bunkerage and water hazards galore, it needs to be a calculated risk.

The green itself is the biggest on the course and wouldn’t look out of place at Augusta National. There are fall away sections both right and left, with a water hazard behind and to the right. Bunkers are in play to the front both left and right. Take care on the approach and a birdie should be yours!

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Filed under: Courses and written by Lee Evans