Derry Amateur Golf Club Championship 2026

Sunday mornings in July suit parkland golf well, and Foyle Golf Centre makes a proper setting for a competitive amateur championship. This 18-hole medal-play event is open to members of any affiliated golf club - scratch players and high handicappers alike, sorted into classes so the competition is fair at every level. If you play golf and want a structured day out with real prizes, this is worth pencilling in early.

What to expect

The championship runs on the Earhart Course - Foyle’s 18-hole par 71 parkland layout, measuring around 6,200 metres from the competition tees. The course has a fair amount of character: two lakes come into play, water affects three separate holes, and bunkers are positioned to reward course management rather than just length. Views towards the Donegal hills make it pleasant even when the scorecard is not cooperating.

Play is organised as a shotgun start at 9:00am, meaning all players head off simultaneously from different holes. That keeps the day moving and ensures everyone finishes at roughly the same time, which suits the prize-giving format. Scoring is medal play with full handicap, so your net score counts - not just the scratch performance. Entry includes a light lunch and refreshments on the day, which helps make it feel like a proper occasion rather than just a weekend roll-up. Buggies are available for hire if you need one.

The course has one piece of history worth knowing: in 1932, Amelia Earhart landed on what is now the 6th green after completing the first solo transatlantic flight by a woman. The Amelia Bar in the clubhouse keeps that story alive. It is a small detail but it makes the venue a little more memorable than a standard municipal round.

Getting there

Foyle Golf Centre sits on Alder Road on the north-western outskirts of Derry, roughly 3km from the city centre. From the city, follow the Culmore Road direction and pick up signs for the golf centre. There is on-site car parking. By public transport, Derry Bus Centre on Foyle Street is the main hub; from there a taxi or short bus hop towards Culmore covers the distance easily. Derry is also well connected by train from Belfast (roughly 2 hours) and by bus from Dublin (roughly 2.5 hours via Goldline Express services).

While you’re in Derry

An early finish from a shotgun start leaves the afternoon free for the city. The walled city, the Peace Bridge, and the Bogside murals are all within a few minutes of the centre, and the Guildhall area has good options for a post-round meal. There is more to see in Derry and across Co. Derry.

Good to know

• Sunday 5 July 2026, 9:00am shotgun start
• 18-hole medal play, full handicap scoring; three classes (scratch/low, mid, high)
• Entry: GBP 35, includes light lunch and refreshments
• Must be a member of an affiliated golf club to enter
• Buggies available for hire on the day
• Check details and book at foylegolfcentre.co.uk