Golf's Elite Set For Northern Ireland As Country To Host Elevate Golf 2026

New links course at Bellarena will cement Northern Ireland’s global reputation as a world class golfing destination

Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hospitality group Galgorm Collection today unveiled plans to invest more than £30 million to create a new, landmark links golf course at Bellarena on the region’s stunning north west coast.

The company, which owns and runs the championship parkland course at Galgorm Castle in Ballymena and the wonderfully scenic Roe Valley course in Limavady, said its plans would create the first championship links course in Northern Ireland in over 100 years and help to cement the region’s reputation as a world class golfing destination.

Home to 2025 Masters champion and Grand Slam winner Rory McIlroy, Northern Ireland is already a renowned location for some of the world’s most iconic golf courses, and this month plays host to The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush.

Galgorm said its plans to develop a new 18-hole links course at Bellarena – located between Portrush and Limavady within the stunning Causeway Coast and Glens area around 30 minutes’ drive from the City of Derry and its adjacent airport – will help create new local jobs and act as a major catalyst for further tourism investment in the north west.

Subject to planning approval, Galgorm Collection said development of Bellarena Golf Links will start next year and open in 2029, bringing its total investment in the north west to around £65 million and an additional 300 jobs created.

Last year, the group acquired the nearby Roe Park Resort in Limavady and Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena as part of a landmark £50 million investment. It is currently investing a further £22 million in the now newly-named Roe Valley Resort and its own award-winning 18-hole golf course.

Research conducted by Sporting Insights for Tourism Northern Ireland’s annual Golf Tourism Monitor last year showed the golfing sector’s value had risen by almost 66 percent since 2019, when The 148th Open was held at Royal Portrush. Its value has also more than doubled in the past decade, from £33.2 million in 2014. On average, golfers spend around nine days on their visit to Northern Ireland, playing five rounds on different courses during their stay.

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald, said:

“Golf tourism generated a record £86 million for the region last year and this month’s Open at Royal Portrush will help to increase this impact even further. I commend the Galgorm Collection team for their confidence and ambition in supporting our drive to amplify the regional prosperity which the sport can bring.”

At the forefront of the region’s tourism growth, Galgorm Collection has invested around £120 million in less than two decades and currently employs a team of more than 1,400.

Ellvena Graham OBE, Tourism Northern Ireland Board Chair, said:

“With a rich heritage and stunning views, Northern Ireland is a highly sought-after destination for golfers from across the globe and our golf strategy focuses on maximising our strengths to continue to grow this crucially important part of our tourism offer. Galgorm Collection has been a pioneer in developing an outstanding, internationally acclaimed tourism product and I’m delighted that this key, experienced tourism stakeholder is further investing in this area.”

Galgorm Collection Managing Director, Colin Johnston, said:

“Our exciting plans to develop a new 18-hole links golf course at Bellarena on Northern Ireland’s stunning north west coast will deliver a once-in-generation opportunity to drive a new era of golfing and tourism success that will amplify our outstanding and award-winning credentials while also creating hundreds of jobs.

Preparatory work is already well under way that could pave the way for development from next year before we welcome our first guests in 2029. We look forward to consulting widely on our plans and engaging stakeholders at every level to ensure collective, shared success for the local community, the north west region and Northern Ireland as a whole.”

Bellarena – derived from the French word for ‘beautiful’ and Latin for ‘sand’ – is a small townland on the coastal road between Limavady and Coleraine within the Causeway Coast and Glens District Council area and is located close to the main railway line between Belfast and Derry.

Welcoming the plans, East Londonderry MP Gregory Campbell, said:

"Tourism is an important element in the economic development of the North West and an investment of this scale by Galgorm Collection will provide a major economic boost for the area and create new job opportunities while also helping to showcase the region’s outstanding natural assets.

This investment will also help ensure that the benefits of tourism are more widely spread, supporting local growth and prosperity. I’m delighted at the news and look forward to seeing these plans progress over the months ahead.”

Internationally renowned for its luxury resorts, spas and dining experiences, Galgorm Collection is anchored by its flagship Galgorm Resort near Ballymena in a group of properties which includes The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, The Old Inn, restaurants Fratelli and Parisien in Belfast city centre and Roe Valley Resort.

Galgorm Collection, which is also developing plans for a new championship links golf course in Glenariffe in the Glens of Antrim, said this latest investment reaffirms its commitment to excellence, innovation, and enhancing Northern Ireland’s standing as a world-class destination for both local and international visitors.

Northern Ireland is a golf powerhouse, with an enviable reputation for producing some of the world’s all-time greats, including Masters and Grand Slam champion Rory McIlroy, US Open winner Graeme McDowell and Open champion Darren Clarke.

Group image, left-to-right: Joel Taggart (BBC NI), Ryan Kartchner (Black Desert/Reef Capital), Phil Harrison (CEO Legends Tour), Ian Woosnam (Legends Tour Ambassador), Colin Johnston (Galgorm Managing Director).

Black Desert NI Legends to take centre stage at Galgorm in milestone 20th professional tournament. 

Galgorm is set to welcome some of the most iconic names in golf as it hosts the Black Desert NI Legends from 29–31 August 2025, marking a historic milestone as the 20th professional tournament held at the venue.

Former Masters champion, Ryder Cup stalwart and World No.1 Ian Woosnam headlines a field that includes Major champions, Ryder Cup players and Tour winners, and the Welshman was excited by the prospect of competing on the island of Ireland once again – the scene, of course, of his memorable winning captaincy at the 2006 Ryder Cup.

At the event’s official launch at Galgorm, Woosnam said:

“I am delighted to be heading back to Ireland to compete in this new Legends Tour event. Golf in Northern Ireland is thriving, especially with Rory McIlroy completing golf’s Grand Slam recently and The Open returning to Royal Portrush next month.

Galgorm enjoys a great reputation as one of the country’s best tournament venues and I am looking forward to competing here in August. The Pro-Am format for the NI Legends lends itself to a great week where amateurs get the chance to compete alongside the professionals.”

The NI Legends enjoys key support from Black Desert Resort and Reef Capital who have luxury golf resorts and destinations in the United States including in Utah, where the Black Desert Championship is currently played on both the PGA and LPGA Tours.

Patrick Manning, Managing Partner Black Desert Resort, said:

"Partnering with the NI Legends at Galgorm is a natural extension of our commitment to world-class golf. At Black Desert, we’re focused on building experiences that transcend the game itself. Places where legacy, community, and global connection come together. This event embodies those same ideals, and we’re proud to be part of it."

Jared Lucero, CEO Reef Capital Partners, added:

“We believe in backing bold ideas that stand the test of time. The NI Legends celebrates iconic players, historic venues, and the timeless spirit of golf - all of which align with the long-term vision we have at Reef. Supporting this event is about more than sponsorship; it’s about investing in stories, people, and the kind of global experiences that define great destinations.”

Just 30 minutes from Belfast, Galgorm has previously hosted DP World Tour (2020 Irish Open) and Challenge Tour (now HotelPlanner Tour) events - plus multiple editions of a tri-sanctioned mixed World Invitational for men and women professionals on the DP World Tour, LPGA and Ladies European Tour.

“We are delighted to be bringing the Legends Tour to Northern Ireland and the wonderful Galgorm,” said Legends Tour CEO, Phil Harrison. “It’s a venue with a long history of hosting professional tournaments and I’m sure it will present a real challenge to all the players. Northern Ireland is a superb destination for golf and we are looking forward to playing in front of such knowledgeable and supportive fans, who I’m sure will welcome the opportunity to watch legends of the game close-up.”

Aine Kearney, Interim CEO at Tourism Northern Ireland, commented:

“We are excited to welcome the Black Desert NI Legends this August, in what is an incredibly exciting year for golf in Northern Ireland. The NI Legends Open, held at Galgorm's championship Castle Course, showcases that Northern Ireland is indeed Made for Golf.

Tourism NI is proud to support this world-class tournament, which draws golf enthusiasts from across the globe. Events like this not only celebrate our rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes but also showcase the superb facilities we offer to golfers worldwide. We’re looking forward to an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike.”

Gary Henry, Group Golf Director, Galgorm Collection, added:

“The Black Desert NI Legends is something of a tournament milestone as its the 20th professional event to be staged at Galgorm, dating back to 2010 and including the 2020 Irish Open. We are delighted to be working with the Legends Tour and title sponsors Black Desert on this exciting new event where many household names and former Major champions will be on show at Galgorm in August. With the Pro-am format we also look forward to welcoming a number of Northern Ireland soccer legends who will take on an All-Star legends team to compete for the Legends Cup.”

The NI Legends tournament will feature a host of well-known players from the Legends Tour, including Major champions, Ryder Cuppers and Tour winners. The full field will be confirmed nearer the time.

The Championship Castle Course at Galgorm measures 7,276 yards from the championship tees and is a former Parkland Course of the Year winner at the annual IGTOA awards (Irish Golf Tour Operator Association).

Formerly known as the European Senior Tour and the Staysure Tour, the Legends Tour is the men’s professional golf tour for members aged 50 and older. Created in 1992, the Legends Tour's active membership features many of the pioneering champions who played on the European Tour including Colin Montgomerie, Jose Maria Olazabal, Ian Woosnam, Michael Campbell, Paul Lawrie, Paul McGinley and Miguel Angel Jimenez.

The Legends Tour provides unmatched playing experiences for amateur golfers at its Legends Experience, Championship Pro-Am and Celebrity Pro-Am events, giving golfers unique opportunities to rub shoulders with and play alongside legends of the game at world-class venues around the world.

The tournament will take place from Friday 29th August to Sunday 31st August.

Landmark acquisitions and investment plans represent a major uplift and confidence in Northern Ireland’s hospitality and tourism industry

Galgorm Collection, Northern Ireland's premier luxury hospitality group, today Monday 11 November 2024, announced a landmark £50 million investment in the region’s hospitality and tourism sector following the acquisition of two of the region’s most iconic properties: Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena and Roe Park Resort in Limavady.

This combined spend, which includes acquisition costs and a multimillion-pound transformation plan for both properties, represents one of the region’s largest investments in Northern Ireland’s hospitality sector and underlines Galgorm Collection’s position as the leading provider of luxury hospitality in the region.

Galgorm Collection, which owns a suite of leading properties including the iconic Galgorm, The Rabbit Hotel and Retreat, and The Old Inn, acquired the historic, internationally renowned Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena and the four-star Roe Park Resort & Spa, set in in a magnificent countryside estate in Limavady, for a combined £28 million.

In addition to acquiring both properties, Galgorm Collection has committed an additional £22 million to enhance the properties and estates over the next five years, further enriching their local, national and international appeal.

Building on Galgorm Collection’s vision for exceptional luxury experiences, this investment promises to transform and confirm both properties as must-visit destinations.

At Roe Park Resort, guests will experience an enhanced family-friendly atmosphere, a new bespoke adult-only spa designed for ultimate relaxation, and continued improvements to its renowned golf offering. The developments will position Roe Park as a top destination for families, golf enthusiasts, and those seeking a luxurious escape.

Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts can look forward to significant developments at Galgorm Castle Estate, as its already impressive golf course is elevated with the bold ambition of becoming the top parkland course in Ireland. Detailed plans will be unveiled in the coming months, solidifying the Estate’s reputation as a premier destination for world class golfing experiences.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director of Galgorm Collection, said:

“We are delighted to welcome both Galgorm Castle Estate and Roe Park Resort to the Galgorm Collection family. These are two iconic properties with strong legacies, and we are committed to building on their successes. Our £22 million investment will further enhance their offerings, creating new opportunities for guests to enjoy unparalleled experiences.

“Most importantly, we are excited to welcome the dedicated teams from Galgorm Castle and Roe Park into our collection. Together, we will continue to drive innovation and excellence, shaping an exciting future for these renowned destinations.

“We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the people of Ballymena. As the home of our flagship property, Galgorm, Ballymena has been at the heart of our journey, and its support has been integral to our success. We look forward to continuing our commitment to this community as we grow Galgorm Collection and welcome these new properties into our family.”

Conor Murphy MLA, Northern Ireland’s Minister for the Economy, said:

“This significant £50 million investment by Galgorm Collection represents a major boost to the wider economy and local communities and will also help cement the north’s international tourism reputation. Galgorm Collection is already a key player in our hospitality offering and this investment demonstrates their commitment to the sector and is a vote of confidence in the tourism potential here for local and international visitors.

“The investment very much aligns with my economic plan of delivering good jobs and a regionally balanced economy where economic development is felt beyond our main urban centres. This kind of investment helps ensure that the benefits of tourism are felt across the north, supporting long-term growth and prosperity.”

John McGrillen, Chief Executive of Tourism NI, added:

“These landmark acquisitions by Galgorm Collection represent a new and transformative milestone for Northern Ireland’s growing tourism industry. The significant investments planned for Roe Park Resort and Galgorm Castle Estate will greatly enhance Northern Ireland’s attractiveness to local, national, and international visitors, helping us drive tourism’s positive impact on the local and regional economy.

“By further developing these iconic destinations, Galgorm Collection is reinforcing Northern Ireland’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination, creating a lasting positive impact on our international brand and the guest experience.”

Christopher Brooke, Owner of Galgorm Castle, said:

“We are both delighted and saddened with today’s announcement - developing Galgorm Castle estate from a state of disrepair to a thriving development has been a life’s work. Securing its future was critical and we have now achieved this; it has been an honour and a privilege to have played a small part in Galgorm Castle’s rich history.

“We felt the time was right for the estate to further evolve and becoming part of a larger organisation will help achieve this. In particular, the Galgorm Collection team has the expertise to develop the Castle into something very special. We wish them well on the next phase of Galgorm Castle’s story.”

Speaking on behalf of the Roe Park Resort, Alan Wilton, Board Chairman said:

“Roe Park Resort holds a special place in our hearts, and we are extremely proud of the team and all that’s been achieved as we’ve grown and developed. The resort’s continued success is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our exceptional team. Their commitment to providing top-class service and excellent hospitality is the reason that our guests return to the resort time and again.

“After almost 30 years at the helm, we believe now is the right time to hand over the reins to new ownership, ensuring the resort is poised for the future. This transition marks a significant milestone for Roe Park Resort, and we are confident that this new ownership will bring fresh vision and drive continued growth.

“Galgorm Collection has an outstanding reputation in the hospitality industry, and we are confident that the resort will go from strength to strength under its ownership. We extend our sincere gratitude to those involved in the resort’s success over the last 30 years and wish the new owners the very best of luck as they embark on this exciting new venture. We would also like to thank CBRE who acted for us on the sale.”

Through this significant investment, Galgorm Collection reaffirms its commitment to excellence, innovation, and enhancing Northern Ireland’s standing as a world-class destination for both local and international visitors.

With exciting plans set to unfold over the coming years, this transformational investment will contribute to the continued growth of Northern Ireland’s tourism industry, benefiting both visitors and local communities.

Galgorm is pleased to announce the Academy at Northern Ireland’s premier tournament venue is now powered by Toptracer Range and available to use by golfers of all abilities. 

Most golfers will be familiar with Toptracer from televised global golf coverage. Toptracer technology is used on PGA Tour and DP Tour World coverage to track the shots of the game’s best players. Viewers will have seen it in use when world number one Rory McIlroy won this week’s Hero Dubai Desert Classic on the DP World Tour.

The Galgorm golfing experience just got even better as it becomes one of only a handful of venues in Northern Ireland that has Toptracer technology. “Toptracer is transforming the everyday driving range experience, where guests of all ages and ability can play a variety of fun and skill-based games. They can compete against friends, see their shot trace, and receive instant data on interactive game screens in the dedicated bays.

“We are delighted to partner with Toptracer and for Galgorm to become the latest Toptracer Range in this part of the world,” explains Ross Oliver, Director of Golf at Galgorm. “Toptracer technology brings the range experience to a whole new level and it’s great that we can roll it out here at Galgorm to complement the other top-class facilities we have on site.

“This really is a facility for golfers of all ability, and for non-golfers who perhaps want to try the game but have never been sure how to get started. At Galgorm, anyone can use the Toptracer Range; it’s a great option for warming up before your game or your group golf day, beginners can hit their first shots, while elite players can work on their game and get the data and feedback they require.”

The new Toptracer Range can also be enjoyed socially where friends can get together to play their favourite virtual courses. Toptracer is a great experience for families to spend a few fun hours before grabbing a bite to eat at Castle Kitchen + Bar or enjoying the newest clubhouse offering in the Barn. Similarly, hotel guests at the resort can now enjoy a new leisure activity as part of their stay.

Toptracer is the market leader in range technology and has over 750 installations globally, including renowned venues such as the Home of Golf at St Andrews Links. It is also the ‘Official Range Technology’ of the PGA of America. Toptracer technology has transformed the range experience and now golfers in Northern Ireland have a new facility they can use at Galgorm. Bays at the Toptracer Range at Galgorm are currently available on a first come, first served basis.

Galgorm is already recognised as Northern Ireland’s premier tournament venue. It is home to the ISPS HANDA World Invitational that will be played from August 17-20, 2023 as a $3 million tri-sanctioned event between the DP World Tour, LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour