Did you know that Kilkenny is one of the premium golfing destinations in Ireland? A sport which has been popular for its exercise, relaxation and the ability for easy social distancing while playing, we have decided to honour the gentleman’s game and create two brand new golf packages, available when it is safe and recommended to travel once again.
Pembroke Hotel Golf Packages
Our golf packages are aimed at those whose dream holiday includes a relaxing round of golf in one of Kilkenny’s golf courses, either with friends or as a solo or couples outing. Start your stay by checking into the modern and spacious Pembroke Kilkenny hotel, in the heart of Kilkenny. Grab a spot of lunch in the bar and explore the historic city centre on our doorstep. Enjoy an evening of dining and drinking in the stylish Statham’s, ordering from our extensive menu of dishes freshly prepared on-site by our talented and creative kitchen team. Enjoy a few drinks in the bar and retire to your clean and comfortable bedroom for a refreshing overnight stay. Start the next day early with a delicious breakfast, fuelling you well for the day ahead. Head off to the course of your choice (our packages include a round of golf in either Gowran Park or Mount Juliet Golf Courses) to enjoy a challenging round of golf, heading back to the hotel after for a rest before you hit the road home. You can also extend your stay for a second evening of rest and relaxation before you leave.
Mount Juliet (17kms – 19 min drive)
Mount Juliet has established itself as one of Ireland’s premier golf destinations loved by professionals and amateurs across Ireland and the world. It has been the host of some of the most prestigious competitions, including the Irish Open on three occasions as well as the World Golf Championship in September 2002 which was won by Tiger Woods. It was also to be the host of the Irish Open once again in 2020, which was sadly postponed. This challenging course is open to golfers ranging from professionals to those starting out and players come from across the world to experience this pristine course for both competition and practice. The course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and the beauty of the surrounding area makes it one of the most scenic games in the South East of Ireland.
Gowran Park Golf Club (15kms – 18 min drive)
Developed in 2001, Gowran Golf Course was originally built to compliment Gowran Park, a close-by racetrack that holds meetings throughout the year. It was thought that the two could make up a destination for lovers of golf and racing and bring tourists and businesses to the area. The course takes full advantage of the magnificent backdrop of the Blackstairs Mountain Range and it’s worth a visit for the exquisite views alone! Many of the holes in this challenging course are set in the mature woodland and lake settings of the Annaly Estate, with five holes beside the racecourse itself. The course is an excellent test for a low handicap golfer whilst also being very enjoyable for the middle to high handicapper.
Golf and Covid Restrictions
These packages are available for stays when government restrictions have subsided, and it is safe to travel and engage in sports once again. Once the game has started, social distancing comes naturally when golfing. If we were to monitor a game of golf before Covid -19, most of the time we would be more than 6ft apart by nature so the change in the way we play has been minimal. The government protocols on the prevention of Covid-19 are easily applied. Very little has changed in the way we play the game compared to other sports, aside from the lack of contact in car parks, the clubhouse and of course, the 19th hole where players would usually catch up over a few drinks and review the game.
Plan your post-lockdown golf weekend early to avoid disappointment in what will surely be a busy summer for staycations and golfing. Our golf packages are exclusively available on our website, not on any third-party website. You are always guaranteed the best available rates and conditions when you book direct. We are looking forward to welcoming you back to Pembroke Kilkenny.