The Newcastle-based course topped the publication’s 2026–2027 list of the World’s 100 Greatest Courses. Fourteen courses across the island of Ireland earned places in the ranking. Golf Digest described Royal County Down as “no lovelier place in golf” on a clear spring day.

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Among the highest-ranked Irish courses were Royal Portrush in fifth place and Ballybunion in tenth. New entries included Carne Golf Links in County Mayo, while Adare Manor climbed into the rankings ahead of hosting the 2027 Ryder Cup. Golf Digest described Royal County Down as “no lovelier place in golf” on a clear spring day. Eleven courses in the Republic of Ireland and three in Northern Ireland featured on the list.