In an area better known for its dazzling array of links golf courses (Castlerock, Royal Portrush and Portstewart are situated to the northeast; Ballyliffin, Rosapenna, Portsalon and Donegal lie to the northwest and southwest), the Roe Park Golf Club stands out for the fact that, along with Malone and Royal Belfast, it is one of the region's best inland golf courses. Set in 155 acres of magnificent parkland, the course was designed by Frank Ainsworth and opened for play in 1993.

Situated near the northern Irish coast, 60 miles northwest of Belfast City, Roe Park has a charming setting within the long encircling arm of the Sperrin Mountains, the spectacular Eagle Rock to the north and the Inishowen peninsula in the distance. The history of Roe Park dates back to 575 AD when St. Columba attended the Council of Drumceatt, together with most of the bards and chieftains of Ireland to discuss the matters of the day. Today, beside the plateau on which that convention was held, stands the Radisson Roe Park Hotel & Golf Resort. The surrounding countryside includes the Roe Valley Country Park and the fascinating Giant's Causeway.

With a par of 70 and measuring just over 6,300 yards from the championship tees, the Roe Park is certainly not a short course and its design makes superb use of the River Roe, which runs directly alongside the par five 2nd and 4th holes. Roe Park is dominated by Mullagh Hill at its centre and comprises two main sections, starting with the so called Lower Five. The neighbouring Benevenagh and Inishowen Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the course, while a number of lakes increase the challenge offered on three holes in particular.

Some of the finest holes on the outward half include the long par three 3rd hole, which measures over 200 yards from the championship stakes and requires a well hit shot over two lakes to the front and left of the green; and the par five 4th hole, running alongside the River Roe, where your final approach to the green is of paramount importance with the river punishing anything left or long. Of the back nine, the short par four 15th is probably the most interesting, even though it's rated as the easiest on the course. Measuring only 272 yards from the back stakes, the temptation is to aim directly over the lake in order to reach the green and set up an easy birdie opportunity. The smart play however is an iron to the fairway.