International golfers visit district in specialised tour

International golfers visit district in specialised tour

9 July 2025

A GROUP of international golfers visited the district recently and were welcomed by Newry, Mourne and Down Council chairman Philip Campbell.

Members of the 20-strong group were sampling the area as part of an initiative organised by Golfer to Golfer – a specialised tour operator which create Golf Trips by Golfers for Golfers. 

The golfers visited the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark area with the visitors largely made up of guests from France, along with others from the United States and South Africa.

They had been invited to experience the region’s exceptional golf and tourism offering first-hand. 

The tour forms part of an initiative to promote the area as a premium golf destination to international tour operators responsible for designing luxury golf travel experiences for discerning global clients.

Over the course of their four-night stay at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle, the group played several rounds of golf at the internationally acclaimed Royal County Down 

Golf Club – consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the world.

Their itinerary also included dining at local restaurants, allowing them to sample the area’s hospitality and vibrant local food scene.

The visit was arranged following a successful engagement between a destination representative and Golfer to Golfer, during which the region’s unique combination of world-class golf, spectacular landscapes and warm hospitality was highlighted. 

Council officials said the visit highlights the local authority’s commitment to proactive tourism development and international market engagement

The council chairman said the organisation was delighted to host the international golf travel professionals and introduce them to the unique appeal of our district.

Cllr Campbell said their visit forms an important part of efforts to raise the global profile of Mourne Gullion Strangford as a high-quality tourism destination.

This initiative not only showcases our world-class golf offering at Royal County Down, but also supports local businesses from accommodation providers and restaurants to transport and retail - by encouraging increased international visitor spend. 

“Strengthening our position in the premium tourism market contributes directly to sustainable economic growth and job creation across the district,” he said.

“This trip marks the first organised group visit to the destination through Golfer to Golfer, building on a growing partnership with the operator and generating immediate economic benefits within the district.”