Spotlight on Royal Portrush in new series of ‘Golf’s Greatest Holes’

Millions to tune in to ‘The Open Special’ series co-produced by Tourism Ireland

A new series of the popular TV show Golf’s Greatest Holes will premiere on Sky Sports this evening (28 January) and will be viewed by millions of golf fans across GB. This special six-part series, co-produced by Tourism Ireland, will be devoted entirely to the challenging 18 holes of the Dunluce Links at Royal Portrush, ahead of its staging of the 153rd Open Championship this summer. 

The series is fronted once again by golfer Paul McGinley and TV presenter Chris Hollins. Viewers will recognise some familiar faces playing the world-famous course, including Darren Clarke and James Nesbitt, as they explore selected holes – blending their golf mastery with renowned local charm. The series also highlights some of Northern Ireland’s superb visitor attractions, including the Giant’s Causeway, Titanic Belfast and the Old Bushmills Distillery, as well as the beautiful scenery of the north coast. 

To view a trailer for the series, click below.

Siobhan McManamy, Tourism Ireland’s Director of Markets, said: “Excitement is building for the return of The Open to Royal Portrush this summer and Tourism Ireland is delighted to have supported the production of this exciting new series, ‘Golf’s Greatest Holes – The Open Special’. 

“With millions of people across GB and elsewhere around the world set to watch the series, it’s a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on Northern Ireland’s world-class golf and inspire golfers to put Northern Ireland on their ‘wish-list’ for their next golf holiday.”

Chris Hollins, co-host of Golf’s Greatest Holes, said: “Walking the fairways with Irish royalty and James Nesbitt, we certainly had some laughs out there, but I truly felt the deep connection to Portrush, given the warm reception we received, and those visiting for the Open Championship will have a great time. The pride in the area is unmistakable and the Dunluce Links is a gem that tests every part of your game while offering incredible views and I hope that comes across to the viewers.”

This latest series of Golfs’ Greatest Holes is set to be screened in many other countries around the world, including in the United States, on NBC, from March. Tourism Ireland’s support for the series is just one element of the organisation’s programme of activity to leverage the tourism potential of The Open returning to Royal Portrush this summer.

Golfer Paul McGinley (left); and TV presenter Chris Hollins (right), on the Dunluce Links at Royal Portrush during filming for ‘Golf’s Greatest Holes – The Open Special’.