Over the years, VPAR has grown from hosting events in England to traveling across Europe and beyond. This expansion has given me the opportunity to visit some of the most stunning venues, providing scoring services for corporate businesses in Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Spain, Germany, France, and more.
Our journeys involve packing up laptops, devices, and a sense of adventure as we head to each new destination. In this series of blog posts, I’ll take you behind the scenes on some of these trips, highlighting the amazing venues and features that make each location special.
A Trip to Killeen Castle
One of the most memorable trips I’ve taken was to Killeen Castle in Ireland. Flying into Dublin Airport, I opted to stay nearby. It’s a more budget-friendly option compared to the city, which can be quite expensive. From the airport, it’s just a 35-minute drive northwest to the castle.
Killeen Castle is home to one of only two Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses in Ireland. Stretching over 7,700 yards from the back tees, this course is ranked 28th in Ireland—a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. Jack Nicklaus, famously known as the Golden Bear, holds a record of 18 major championships and has designed nearly 300 golf courses worldwide. Upon arriving at Killeen Castle, be sure to pay homage to the man himself by admiring his large golden statue near the 1st tee.
The course at Killeen Castle is a masterpiece, with mature trees and small ponds that add to its unique character. The new, modern clubhouse, situated at the end of a scenic mile-long drive (a signature of Nicklaus-designed courses), overlooks the 1st tee and putting green. The clubhouse also boasts an impressive collection of memorabilia from events hosted at the venue, including the Solheim Cup, Ladies Irish Opens, and PGA Events.
One of the course’s most iconic features is the Shamrock Bunker. This enormous bunker is easy to miss in person, but once you see it in photos, you’ll appreciate the subtle nod to Ireland. Positioned on the left of the fairway as you tee off, this green shamrock-shaped bunker is as beautiful as it is challenging—be sure to keep your shot straight to avoid landing in it!
While the castle itself was under renovation during my visit, it remains an incredible sight. The structure, which dates back to 1180, can be seen from the drive and from holes 3, 11, and 18. The castle’s rich history adds a layer of mystique to the entire experience. Keep an eye on the ongoing renovations—they’re sure to make this venue even more impressive.
Though I haven’t had the chance to play a round at Killeen Castle yet, the Jack Nicklaus name alone makes it worth a visit. If you find yourself in Ireland and are looking to host a golf day, Killeen Castle should be at the top of your list.
Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes stories from my travels with VPAR!