Golf and the Good Life - Your Guide for Golf Trips Across the Pond

Our Legendary Links series returns for a conversation with Bill Donald, General Manager of Royal County Down Golf Club.

Bill offers a rare, thoughtful look behind the scenes at what it takes to steward a club like Royal County Down.

We discuss how RCD balances global demand with its member traditions, the refinements underway to elevate the visitor experience, and why planning a golf trip here is best approached the same way you would a world-class event: with intention, patience, and an appreciation for just how special the opportunity is.

We also touch on Bill's favorite moments around the course and a few can’t-miss spots in Newcastle that complete the experience beyond the fairways.

Additional Resources

The Complete Guide to Royal County Down
Explore Northern Ireland Golf Trips

Mentioned in this Episode

Slieve Donard
Brunel's
Villa Vinci
Harbour House
The Buck's Head Dundrum
Nugelato

Our Legendary Links series returns with a conversation from one of the game’s most storied venues, Royal Liverpool Golf Club.
Andy Leadbetter from Royal Liverpool shares an inside look at Hoylake, what it truly means to host The Open Championship, and how those moments shape a club long after the grandstands come down.
Andy also makes the case for England’s Golf Coast as one of the most compelling destinations in the game, offering world-class links golf, deep history, and a journey that rewards those willing to look beyond the usual first stops.

Additional Resources
Royal Liverpool Golf Club website
The Complete Guide to Royal Liverpool Golf Club

The calendar may have just turned to 2026, but for anyone considering a 2027 golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or England, the planning window is already open.
In just a few short weeks, some of the most sought-after courses across the pond will begin opening their tee sheets for 2027 visitors.
At some of these marquee venues, most, if not all, visitor availability often disappears in a matter of days. And in some cases, just hours.
In this episode, Connor and D.J. share key details for planning your 2027 trip, as well as destination-specific insights and the impact of major events like The Open and the Ryder Cup.
It's a timely conversation, rooted in the current realities of overseas golf travel, and a valuable listen for anyone looking ahead to 2027 or beyond.

Additional Resources
The Complete Guide for 2027 Golf Trips to Scotland, Ireland, and England

In the final episode of the year, Connor and D.J. look back on recent and extensive travels across Great Britain and Ireland.

From Royal County Down and Royal Portrush to Liverpool and the London heathland, they share some key takeaways, new discoveries, and why time spent on the ground each season is essential to delivering Golf at its Finest and Life at its Best.

Have a question about golf travel or a story of your own to share? Record your message at ⁠⁠⁠haversham.com/podcast⁠⁠⁠ and you may hear it featured in a future episode.

Mentioned in this Episode
-Royal Portrush Golf Club
-Royal County Down Golf Club
-Old Head Golf Links
-Ballybunion Golf Club
-Tralee Golf Club
-Royal Liverpool Golf Club
-The Municipal Hotel, Liverpool
-Walton Heath Golf Club
-The Fairmont Windsor Park

About H&B
⁠⁠⁠⁠Haversham & Baker Expeditions⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.

“AI is a great researcher — but a terrible trip manager.”

In this episode, Connor and D.J. offer a candid look at how AI is shaping the way golfers are planning their overseas trips.

They unpack the benefits, the blind spots, and what makes a golf travel company like H&B essential for turning research into reality.

Additional Resources
⁠AI & Golf Travel Planning: Even ChatGPT Knows the Difference⁠

Have a question about golf travel—or a story of your own to share? Record your message at ⁠⁠haversham.com/podcast⁠⁠ and you may hear it featured in a future episode.

About H&B
⁠⁠⁠Haversham & Baker Expeditions⁠⁠⁠ is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.