From left, Martin Donnelly of Failte Ireland, Phillip Rock, Mark and Karen Collins, and Cormac Ryan of Killeen Castle, and IGTOA member Elaine Loughlin of Golf Vacations Ireland.

Parkland course of the year award for Killeen Castle

Dunsany venue has hosted Solheim Cup and three Ladies Irish Opens

Killeen Castle Golf Club and Resort in Dunsany has been named Best Parkland Course of the Year at the 2025 Ireland Golf Tour Operator Association (IGTOA) Awards, held last week in The K Club, Co Kildare.

Renowned for hosting marquee tournaments such as the Solheim Cup and three Ladies Irish Opens, Killeen Castle recently staged the DP HotelPlanner Irish Challenge Tour event and has now been confirmed as the host venue for the 2026 and 2027 editions of the HotelPlanner Irish Challenge.

Philip Rock, general manager of Killeen Castle, said: “Being recognised at the IGTOA Awards is a huge accolade for us here at Killeen Castle. We’re incredibly proud of our team and the unparalleled excellence that we provide for every guest. Our Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course offers guests a premier golf experience and paired with our luxury accommodation and exquisite on-site dining options, we’re proud to offer golf enthusiasts an exceptional stay.”

Mr Rock extended congratulations to their fellow nominees in the category, Adare Manor and Druids Glen, two fierce competitors in the golfing industry in Ireland.

“Given the calibre of the award and the quality of golfing experiences in the country, we are truly honoured to have been recognised as Best Parkland Course of the Year.”

The IGTOA Awards are based on customer feedback gathered by the Irish Golf Tour Operators Association, whose members help bring thousands of golfers to Ireland every year. Representing Ireland’s leading golf tour operators, the IGTOA works closely with golf courses, resorts, hotels, transport companies, guides and caddies to deliver unforgettable experiences across Ireland. Previous recent winners include Killarney Golf and Fishing Club, Co Kerry and The K Club, Co Kildare.

Meanwhile, Killeen has launched a series of evenings of fine dining, local flavour and live music at the 'Saturday Night Chef’s Table'.

Following a sell-out of its launch event at the weekend, two additional dates have been added, for Saturday 15th November and Saturday 6th December Hosted at the Sixteen Restaurant in Killeen Castle Golf Club, these events showcase the finest seasonal produce, crafted from Boyne Valley flavours.

“There’s something incredibly special about working with ingredients grown just miles from our kitchen," executive head chef, Declan Cronin says.

"This Chef’s Table is our way of honouring the land, the seasons and the incredible local producers we are lucky to have in the Boyne Valley. Each course tells a story and we can’t wait to bring our guests on a unique culinary journey”.

Diners are treated to a live pianist performing in the restaurant, creating a refined yet relaxed ambience, with the experience continuing post-dinner in The Kiln Bar.