Killeen Castle Golf Resort is just 40 minutes northwest of Dublin, nestled in the peaceful village of Dunsany. While the golf course itself is relatively new—opening in 2008—the estate it sits on has over 800 years of history, with the castle dating back to 1181.
Through the centuries, the castle has witnessed its fair share of drama. In 1951, the last Earl of Fingal sold the estate, and it became a prestigious horse breeding stud. Then, in 1981, a devastating fire gutted the castle’s interior. But out of the ashes came a new vision. In 1997, under new ownership, plans were set in motion to create a world-class golf destination.
And who better to bring that vision to life than the Golden Bear himself—Jack Nicklaus. The course officially opened in 2008 and was an instant hit with players and pros alike. It even hosted the Ladies Irish Open from 2011 to 2013 and was the proud venue of the 2011 Solheim Cup, putting it firmly on the international golf map.
Playing Killeen Castle – A Championship Challenge
With five sets of tees, Killeen Castle offers something for everyone—but make no mistake, this is a serious championship layout. The black tees stretch to a formidable 7,677 yards, while the blue tees come in at 7,142 yards—ideal for elite players and professionals.
We played from the white tees (6,535 yards), which offered a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment. If you’re looking for something a bit more forgiving, the green tees (6,118 yards) and red tees (5,392 yards) ensure that golfers of all skill levels can experience the magic of Killeen.
The Opening Hole
The opening hole measures 402 yards and the challenge is to avoid the sand. The ideal line is down the left although that is fraught with danger. Anything down the right half leaves a difficult approach in over yet another bunker. We managed to reach with a good drive and a solid 6 iron. Two putts and we were relieved to start with a par.
Longest Hole
Approach to the 2nd Hole
The second hole is the longest on the course at 532 yards. For us, it just wasn’t reachable in two shots due to the bunker complexes short of the green. We played it as a three-shot hole although laying up still isn’t easy. Play your second shot to the right as it takes out the water hazard and the bunkers to leave a straightforward pitch to the green. You still have a chance of a birdie but if you don’t make a putt, take your par and run to the next hole.
First Par 3
The 6th Hole
The 6th is the first of four par 3’s on the course. Even at 163 yards, the green is a small target to hit, even on a calm day. The green is narrow but quite long so club selection is key. We went with a 7 iron and ended up in the second bunker on the right. We didn’t get up and down. It’s an easy bogey if you miss the green.
Approach to the 7th
After our bogey on the 6th, we were immediately presented with the chance of a birdie on the 7th hole. Even though it’s only 460 yards, it’s a par 5. There is a copse of trees on the right that you have to stay away from. The hole was ideal for our fade and this is the shot we were left with. 210 yards over the water hazard. We went with our 3 hybrid and ended up just short. A good chip and a 4-foot putt and we had our first birdie of the day.
Tough End to the Front Nine
The 9th green
The 9th hole is a tough one. At 415 yards, it’s not the distance that tough. It’s judging your second shot. Maybe it was the sucker pin that fooled us, but our 6-iron second shot came up short in the bunker. A poor shot out and two putts and we ended the front nine with a bogey. Look at all that room left of the flag!
The Back Nine
Approach to the 11th
The 11th is a strong par 4 at 410 yards. If you can get a tee shot away that stays on the fairway, then you can take on the green. The bunker front right makes the green look small but it isn’t. Beware a right pin as that brings the water into play beyond the green. The safe play is to aim for the left side of the green. You also have more chance of getting up and down from that side.
The 12th Green
The 12th hole is a stunner and another birdie chance if you are brave enough. At 463 yards, it’s not long but there is a wide burn running across the front and up the right-hand side of the green. We got a decent drive away and still had 195 to carry the burn. Our bravery evaporated during our swing and we pulled our 3 hybrid and missed the green left. A good chip was followed by a poor putt and we walked off with a par. It was an opportunity missed.
It’s a Mystery
The 14th Hole
Sometimes, strange things happen on the golf course. It happened to us on the 14th, a par 3 of 180 yards. Our tee shot was lovely, a 5 iron just left of the flag although a little long. We saw it land and sitting on the back fringe, but when we got up there the ball was nowhere to be seen. We have to assume it was picked up by a bird, perhaps a crow and we weren’t delusional as we fixed our pitch mark that was 6 inches from the back of the green. Strange!
The 16th Hole
The last par 3 was playing 182 yards. We went again with our 5 iron and this time it landed safely on the green. We made an easy par. A word of warning though, take enough club to reach the centre of the green. Anything short can easily end up back in the water.
The Closing Hole
The last hole is a relatively easy one at 381 yards. A decent drive will leave a medium to short iron into a wide green. Again take enough club as the green is slightly uphill and the bunkers short are deep. We hit 3 wood and then a 7 iron onto the putting surface but 25 feet left of the pin. No more getting suckered into going for the flag. The backdrop of the castle makes this hole special. Whether by design or not, the width of the green looks like it matches the width of the castle. Nice one Jack!
Course Summary
Make no mistake—Killeen Castle is a big walk, so if you’re looking to get your steps in, you’ll be well rewarded. But if you’d rather conserve your energy for that crucial back nine, grab a buggy like we did and enjoy the ride. This is a course that blends championship pedigree with resort-style playability, and it’s an absolute joy to experience—as long as you choose the right tees for your game.
With generously wide fairways, strategic water hazards, and large, visually striking bunkers, Killeen Castle rewards smart play. But miss your lines, and you’ll find yourself contending with knee-high rough and well-placed trouble. It’s a course that demands both strategy and execution, but it never feels unfair.
And then there’s the castle itself—a stunning centrepiece that elevates the experience. Framing several of the holes, it gives the course a majestic atmosphere that’s hard to match anywhere else in Ireland. Conditions were superb both times we visited—late November and again in early June—a testament to the greenkeeping team’s high standards.
Stay in Style – Onsite Lodging at Hunters Yard
When it comes to accommodation, it doesn’t get more convenient than staying on-site. Just a short stroll from the clubhouse, Hunters Yard offers a smart, modern take on lodge-style living. Each lodge is split into four twin ensuite rooms with a shared central lounge, making it ideal for both golfing couples and larger groups—up to 16 guests per building.
Take a look at the video below to see inside.
Hunters Yard Video
The décor is contemporary, clean, and comfortable—perfect for unwinding after a round. Whether you’re here for a weekend break or part of a golf tour, Hunters Yard makes it easy to relax, refuel, and get ready to go again.
The Nicklaus Lounge
The clubhouse at Killeen Castle has seen some exciting recent upgrades. The pro shop has been reimagined, and the standout addition is the elegant new Nicklaus Lounge—a stylish spot to enjoy a post-round drink or meal. Several comfortable lounge areas are available, all serving food, with the same high standard across the board.
We dined here during our November visit and can confidently say the food is excellent—we just wish we’d taken more photos to show it off!
One thing’s for sure: continuous improvement is part of the culture at Killeen Castle. Every new addition and upgrade only enhances the already outstanding experience. This resort is constantly evolving, and it’s clearly aiming for the very top.
Killeen Castle Summary
The famous quote from Field of Dreams—“If you build it, they will come”—feels fitting for Killeen Castle. Since acquiring the estate in 1997, the owners have transformed it from a stud farm into one of Ireland’s most impressive modern golf resorts.
And they’re not done yet.
Plans are underway to fully restore the interior of the castle, transforming it into a luxury hotel. Work is already in progress, with completion expected later this year. Once finished, Killeen Castle won’t just be one of Ireland’s finest—it will be a world-class golf destination in every sense.
Final Thoughts – A Must-Play Near Dublin
If you’re planning a golf trip to Dublin or the surrounding area, Killeen Castle should be near the top of your list. With a world-class course, elegant accommodation, and an unforgettable setting, it offers a golf experience unlike any other. We’re already looking forward to the next visit—and maybe next time, we’ll stay longer and play even more.
Thank You’s
Thank you to Karen Collins, the resort’s Sales and Marketing Manager and to Gerry Kelly, Ciaran Fitzsimons and the rest of the team at Carr Golf for hosting us. Thanks are also due to Cormac Ryan, the Director of Golf, for taking the time to show us around.
At a Glance:
- Jack Nicklaus designed 18-hole championship course
- Well-manicured course with greens that run true
- Modern contemporary Clubhouse
- Excellent bar and catering
- Wonderful, helpful staff
- Fantastic contemporary lodging
- Well-equipped Pro Shop
- 30 minutes from Dublin Airport, 40 minutes from Dublin City Centre
Jim Callaghan CCM is a former Club Manager with experience overseeing several top Scottish Golf Clubs.
Now, as European Editor of Golf Operator Magazine and World’s Best Golf Destinations, he shares insights into club operations and his golfing adventures across Europe.
Jim is also an Ambassador for premium clothing brand Fenix Xcell Clothing and also for the Spanish local DMC, Costa Verde Golf.
If your club/resort or brand wants to reach over 400,000 golfers, contact Jim at [email protected] or call 0044 (0) 78522 88732.
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