FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
We have put together a list of commonly asked questions to assist you when booking a golf tour. Feel free to browse through the list below, and if you have any additional queries, please contact the team at JD Golf Tours
Call +1 800 650 8047 or email golf@jdgolf.ie
You should start planning your golf trip to Ireland/UK 12 to 18 months in advance, or even up to 24 months for popular courses like Royal County Down or Royal Portrush. Booking this far ahead is crucial for securing tee times and accommodations, especially for travel during the peak season from May to September.
The main golf season in Ireland and the UK runs from April to October, with the best weather typically occurring between May and September. While you can golf year-round, summer offers longer days and more favourable conditions, while the shoulder months of April and October are popular for fewer crowds. Some top courses may close to visitors during the winter months, so it's best to check ahead if planning to travel in the off-season.
We will always try and accommodate your change of plans by moving activities to a date that suits you depending on availability and notice given to us. If you choose to cancel your tour outside our cancellation period, then you will lose your deposit. Credit may be offered to your group depending on the circumstances and suppliers’ decision to release the booking without a cancellation fee.
Yes, we usually require a 25% deposit to book your tour.
Yes, you should make reservations for restaurants in Ireland and the UK from April to October, especially for popular or high-end places, Sunday lunches, or groups larger than two. While pubs and less popular restaurants might have walk-in availability, booking ahead is recommended to avoid disappointment and wasted time, particularly in larger cities and during peak times or special events like August race week in Galway.
Yes, you should book excursions in advance for most trips to ensure availability, especially for popular activities, and to secure potentially lower prices. We are happy to offer our services in booking excursions in advance and giving you the best recommendations of what to do while on tour.
Yes, numerous activities are available for non-golfers traveling to Ireland and the UK, ranging from exploring historical sites and natural landscapes to enjoying cultural experiences like music, food, and local tours. Many of our tour packages are specifically designed to cater to both golfers and non-golfers, ensuring everyone can have an enjoyable and memorable trip.
BOOKING A GOLF TOUR
Golf attire is generally smart casual: collared shirts, tailored trousers or shorts, and proper golf shoes are standard. Bring layers and waterproofs, as Irish & UK weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.
Yes, you can ship your golf clubs ahead using Shipsticks company. Just ask sales for a unique link to avail of a discount when booking through our company.
Caddie prices in Ireland/UK generally range from €60 to €80/ £65 - £100 per bag for a single caddie but can vary depending on the club. Some courses may charge more. Caddies accept cash only payments.
There are no single, universal golf course requirements across Ireland and UK; rather, requirements are specific to individual clubs and courses. The key requirements to be aware of when planning a visit are:
Most courses do not strictly require an official handicap certificate for general play, especially public or municipal courses.
Prestigious/Championship courses often require proof of a current handicap, typically below a certain maximum (e.g., 24 for men and 36 for women, but this varies).
It is highly recommended to bring a paper or digital copy of your handicap certificate, as you might be asked to present it.
The World Handicap System (WHS) is used across Great Britain and Ireland, allowing you to submit scores to your home handicap from any affiliated course
Yes, golf courses in the UK and Ireland impose restrictions on hiring and using buggies, which vary by club but commonly include requirements for the driver's age and licence, adherence to safety rules, and course condition limitations.
GOLFING QUERIES
You will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter Northern Ireland (and the rest of the UK) starting January 8, 2025. For Ireland, you will need a valid passport and may need to show proof of funds and your travel intent upon arrival.
All major debit and credit cards are accepted, however we do advise bringing some cash for the caddies as well as for tipping drivers and hospitality workers.
We recommend a daily tip of €/£50 - €/£150 per day depending on group size and the level of service received.
UK and Ireland both use type G plug.
Yes, you can rent a car in both Ireland and the UK with an American driver's license, as it is in English. We can arrange a rental car for your group. However, if you would like to arrange to rent a car independently some rental companies may require an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well, so it is best to check with your specific rental company beforehand and carry your passport, a major credit card, and any other required.
Must-see places include Dublin's Guinness Storehouse, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Giant's Causeway in Ireland; Edinburgh Castle, the Isle of Skye, and Loch Ness in Scotland; and London's Tower of London and the British Museum, along with the Lake District and Stonehenge in England.
Ireland
Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse, see the Book of Kells, and explore the city center.
Cliffs of Moher: Witness the dramatic coastal cliffs in County Clare.
Giant's Causeway: See the unique hexagonal rock formations in County Antrim.
Blarney Castle: Kiss the Blarney Stone for the "gift of gab".
Ring of Kerry & Dingle Peninsula: Drive the scenic routes in County Kerry.
Scotland
Edinburgh: Explore Edinburgh Castle and the historic city.
Isle of Skye: Visit the dramatic landscapes, including the Old Man of Storr and Quiraing.
Loch Ness: Look for the mythical monster and visit Urquhart Castle on its shores.
Glenfinnan Viaduct: See the famous viaduct featured in the Harry Potter films.
Ben Nevis: Hike to the summit of the highest mountain in the British Isles.
England
London: Visit historical landmarks like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and Westminster Abbey, as well as world-class museums like the British Museum and the Natural History Museum.
Lake District: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Ullswater area and the surrounding national park.
Stonehenge: See the prehistoric monument on Salisbury Plain.
North Yorkshire: Explore the county's mix of natural beauty and rich history.
Dorset: Visit the coastal towns and beaches of this southern county.
COMMON TRAVEL QUERIES
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