Wednesday, June 18, 2025
A Grand Return: The Open Championship Comes Back to Portrush
In July 2025, the legendary Open Championship was scheduled to make its much-anticipated return to Royal Portrush Golf Club. This would mark the third time the iconic links course had hosted the prestigious tournament, with the event slated to run from July 17 to July 20. Anticipation reached fever pitch across the country, especially following Rory McIlroy’s thrilling Masters victory, which saw him complete a career Grand Slam. The convergence of this career milestone and the tournament’s return to Northern Ireland set the stage for what many called a historic summer in the world of golf.
With an estimated 278,000 visitors expected to arrive for the tournament, it would become the largest sporting event ever held in Northern Ireland. The scale of this event reflected not just sporting excitement, but the region’s growing stature on the global tourism and events stage.
Economic Ripple: A Boost Worth Millions
The financial uplift expected from the championship was nothing short of monumental. Projections indicated a £213 million economic windfall for Northern Ireland, more than doubling the £100 million generated during the 2019 tournament. This surge of activity was expected to energize several industries—hospitality, retail, transportation, and local services all stood to benefit.
On the international front, the event promised major visibility. With plans to broadcast to more than 150 countries, and a reach of over 100 million households, Portrush would be in the global spotlight, solidifying its place as a world-class sporting and travel destination.
Luxury on the Coast: New Hospitality Ventures
To accommodate the influx of tourists, Portrush had already begun transforming its landscape. In March 2025, the area welcomed its only five-star resort, Dunluce Lodge. With 35 beautifully designed suites, the lodge offered a calm, earthy ambiance and was celebrated for its locally sourced touches, including complimentary snacks and craft beers. Guests could unwind on a year-round terrace, complete with a BBQ and firepit, perfectly positioned to soak in uninterrupted coastal sunsets.
Meanwhile, The Marcus Portrush, a £11 million luxury hotel, was undergoing a major refurbishment and was on track to open by July 1, 2025—just weeks ahead of the tournament. Nearby, the town of Portstewart had approved plans for a new spa hotel, adding yet another high-end retreat for travelers seeking indulgence and relaxation during their stay.
Natural Wonders and Cultural Treasures
While golf was the headline act, the Causeway Coast region offered plenty more to enchant visitors. Chief among its attractions was the breathtaking Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its striking hexagonal basalt columns, formed around 60 million years ago by ancient volcanic activity. This geological marvel remained one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the country.
Not far from there stood the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Dunluce Castle, dramatically perched on a rocky headland. The castle, with its deep historical roots and rugged charm, captivated history lovers and photographers alike.
For panoramic views, Magheracross Viewpoint overlooked the soft sands of Whiterocks Beach, where Skerries rocks pierced the waves in the distance. The scene offered a perfect blend of serenity and wild Atlantic drama.
Art and craft lovers could follow the Causeway Craft Trail, where local artisans shared their skills and stories. Among them, Emer Dixon created intricate Irish silver jewelry, while Louise McLean, a master of willow weaving, introduced visitors to one of the world’s oldest crafts, praising its therapeutic benefits and cultural importance.
A Journey for the Senses: Food and Drink on the Bann
For those whose travel memories are made through flavor, the Spirit of the Bann tour was an unforgettable experience. The river cruise, aboard the M.V. Kingfisher, guided by the enthusiastic skipper Ian McKnight, was a floating celebration of Northern Irish food and drink.
One of the highlights was the tasting session by Dunluce Distillery, featuring the award-winning La Riva Nata—Ireland’s first limoncello made using Sorrento lemon peel—and Shore Born Gin, infused with botanicals like lavender and cardamom.
Local fare included artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and a lineup of handmade condiments: rhubarb chutney, Irish Black Butter, and Distillers Pickle Sauce—each bringing a taste of homegrown craftsmanship. These were served on locally made slate and wooden platters, a thoughtful nod to the region’s heritage and environment.
As the cruise moved through Northern Ireland’s longest river, guests took in views of Mussenden Temple and the hills of County Donegal, all while sipping expertly crafted cocktails like Twilight Shores, a vibrant blend of gin, blueberry purée, lavender syrup, and mint.
Shaping Global Travel: A Blueprint for Tourism Excellence
Portrush’s evolution into a world-class destination was more than just a local success story—it carried global significance. The seamless combination of sport, luxury, nature, and culture offered a model for modern travel. The tournament’s spotlight not only attracted spectators but also highlighted the potential for sustainable tourism—with businesses emphasizing local sourcing, environmentally conscious practices, and authentic visitor experiences.
Other destinations around the world could look to Portrush’s 2025 playbook as inspiration: invest in infrastructure, celebrate cultural identity, and create immersive experiences that resonate with travelers seeking more than just a holiday.
In 2025, Portrush wasn’t just hosting a golf championship—it was making a statement to the world: this is how destination travel should feel.
