Links-Parkland · Inishowen

North West Golf Club. Fahan, Lough Swilly.

Founded in 1891, one of Ireland's oldest golf clubs — a unique blend of links and parkland set on the western shores of Lough Swilly on the Inishowen Peninsula. Stunning lough and mountain views, unpretentious atmosphere, and outstanding value for money.

Par 70Par
5,968Yards
€25From Weekday
€45Peak Rate
Course Guide

North West Golf Club

North West Golf Club at Fahan is one of Ireland's oldest and most atmospheric golf clubs, founded in 1891. Situated on the western shore of Lough Swilly on the Inishowen Peninsula, the course offers a fascinating mix of links and parkland terrain — with some holes running along the lough shore and others climbing through sheltered, tree-lined ground above the waterline.

At 5,968 yards and par 70, the course is a genuine test of tactical golf. The lough-side holes are exposed to the wind and demand careful club selection, while the inland sections require precision approach play to well-protected greens. The views across Lough Swilly to the hills of Fanad and the Knockalla Mountains are among the finest from any golf course in Ireland.

North West is ideally positioned for golfers visiting the Inishowen Peninsula — Ballyliffin (Glashedy and Old Links) is just 25 minutes to the north. The village of Fahan itself has a few good restaurants and pubs, and the larger town of Buncrana is 5 minutes away with a full range of accommodation options. Membership and green fees are extremely competitive, making this a rewarding stop on any Donegal golf itinerary.

Course Layout

Scorecard & Yardage

Championship tees — yards (indicative)

Hole123456789Out101112131415161718InTotal
Par434543444353445344443570
Yards3651653554703601453753553852,9751553603704551403653753584152,9935,968
Visitor Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before you play

North West Golf Club was founded in 1891, making it one of the oldest golf clubs in Ireland and indeed on the island. It has a rich history connected with the local community of the Inishowen Peninsula.
The club is located at Fahan, on the western shore of Lough Swilly, approximately 8 km south of Buncrana on the R238. It is about 20 minutes from Derry/Londonderry and 25 minutes from Ballyliffin.
Absolutely — and it is highly recommended. Adding North West to a Ballyliffin trip gives you a completely different character of course at a fraction of the price. Many visiting golfers play North West on arrival day as a warm-up before tackling the Glashedy Links.
Yes — at 5,968 yards par 70, it is very playable for all abilities. The mix of links and parkland terrain means there is variety throughout, and the course is not penalising enough to frustrate higher-handicap visitors.
Buncrana (5 minutes) has several hotels and B&Bs. Ballyliffin Lodge (25 minutes north) is the premium option for a links golf stay in the area. Derry city (20 minutes south) offers a wider range of hotels if you prefer a city base.
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