The present course was designed by H. C. Colt, eminent course architect, who also laid out Royal Belfast.

The first hole is one of the best openers in Irish golf, setting the pace for thrills to come. Watch for holes 2 and 15, and beware of the greens - the best-tended in Ireland, but they fall towards the sea. And before you tackle the daunting blind pitch hole at 11, peek over the wall for a glimpse of seals basking on the rocks below.

As Ireland's oldest golf club the Royal Belfast has inspired the phenomenal growth and popularity of golf across Ireland, setting the standards for courses and players. Royal status followed in 1885 when the Prince of Wales was invited to become patron during a visit to Ireland.