A DERRY hotel resort has reported a sharp rise in bookings for its golf course after The Open championship in Portrush.
Roe Park Resort, Limavady, said the world famous tournament contributed to a 15 per cent rise in course bookings, while its driving range saw a 21 per cent uptake.
The resort’s general manager Mike Marshall said the proximity of the hotel’s 18-hole course to the north coast had resulted in a spike in international visitors.
“We have noticed more bookings from Europe and North America in particular and we are delighted to reap the rewards of the legacy of The 148th Open, Royal Portrush,” he said.
“Following a £1m investment programme in our golf and leisure facilities over the past five years, we have undergone a redevelopment of our driving range, golf club, academy and 18-hole course,” he added.
Leanne Rice,
Tourism NI’s golf marketing manager, Leanne Rice, said: “In the last five years, golf tourism revenue has grown by over 50% and in 2018 alone we welcomed over 124,000 golf visitors, contributing £42.6m to the local economy.
“This is anticipated to increase for 2019 particularly with the recent success of The Open and I’m delighted that Roe Park Resort can already see that benefit with increased bookings for their fantastic parkland course.”
