If you’re thinking about a 2027 golf trip across the pond, you’ve likely noticed the noise.

Deadlines. Openings. Applications. Limited tee sheets. Ryder Cup. The Open. It can all start to feel like a race before you’ve even settled on a plan.

In this episode of Golf and the Good Life, Connor and D.J. provide a clear-eyed update on where things stand with 2027 planning, particularly for The Old Course, Muirfield, Royal County Down, and Royal Portrush.

We discuss what’s different about this booking cycle, why certain windows are more condensed than in years past, and how major events are shaping demand.

More importantly, we share perspective from the planning side: what truly requires urgency, where flexibility creates opportunity, and how to approach the process without letting it overshadow the excitement.

The goal isn’t to add to the noise. It’s to replace it with clarity.

If 2027 is on your radar, this conversation will help you understand the landscape and move forward with confidence.

Additional Resources

The Complete Guide to 2027 Golf Trips to Scotland, Ireland, and England

In this episode, we're making the case for building breathing room into your overseas golf itinerary and why it's something captains need to plan for upfront, not figure out on the fly.

Drawing from Member feedback, we discuss the tension between wanting to play every marquee course and the reality of what makes a trip truly memorable.

We cover strategic timing for days off, low-key golf alternatives, and the unexpected highlights that emerge when you give your group permission to explore, decompress, or simply do their own thing for a day.

Whether it's a walking tour in Edinburgh, a pub crawl in Belfast, or an impromptu round that becomes a trip favorite, we break down why less golf often leads to better stories.

Additional Resources

Permission to Pause - Why Your Golf Trip Needs Some Downtime

Our Legendary Links series returns for a conversation with Bill Donald, General Manager of Royal County Down Golf Club.

Bill offers a rare, thoughtful look behind the scenes at what it takes to steward a club like Royal County Down.

We discuss how RCD balances global demand with its member traditions, the refinements underway to elevate the visitor experience, and why planning a golf trip here is best approached the same way you would a world-class event: with intention, patience, and an appreciation for just how special the opportunity is.

We also touch on Bill's favorite moments around the course and a few can’t-miss spots in Newcastle that complete the experience beyond the fairways.

Additional Resources

The Complete Guide to Royal County Down

Explore Northern Ireland Golf Trips

Mentioned in this Episode

Slieve Donard

Brunel's

Villa Vinci

Harbour House

The Buck's Head Dundrum

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