The Valley course at Royal Portrush Golf Club has been praised for its better value compared to the Dunluce course, with striking dune-filled terrain.
The Valley lies between the East Strand and the Dunluce course, situated among towering sand hills along the Atlantic shore and the higher ground of the Championship course. Despite its location, the Valley features humps, hollows, and undulations typical of a true links course.
Owned by Royal Portrush Golf Club, the Valley has been home to Rathmore Golf Club since 1947 and serves as the base for Royal Portrush Ladies. Often overlooked by visitors, the Valley offers a fine test of links golf over its 6,304-yard, par 70 layout, designed by Harry Colt.
James W. Finegan describes the Valley Links as enclosed by tall sand hills, giving it a sheltered, snug quality. The course is filled with challenging and charming holes appealing to even accomplished players.
Recent changes include the replacement of the 5th and 6th holes with a new par three 15th and a short par four 18th. The 336-yard, par four 5th hole and the 237-yard, par three 6th hole epitomise Portrush golf. Additionally, the 17th hole has been extended to a doglegged par five, and the new 17th was restored from old tees to one of the Skerries course greens.
Exciting times lie ahead for the Valley course, with Mackenzie & Ebert overseeing further development approved by members in 2023.
