Northern Ireland is getting ready for a major tourism win this summer—and it has everything to do with The Open Championship returning to Royal Portrush. Known as one of the most prestigious events in the golfing calendar, The Open is expected to generate over £120 million for the local economy, surpassing the impressive £110 million figure from its last appearance in 2019.
This isn’t just a golf tournament—it’s a global marketing machine for the region. With nearly 280,000 tickets already sold, and the excitement of Rory McIlroy’s recent Masters victory igniting local pride, Tourism Northern Ireland is expecting an even bigger tourism surge than last time.
According to John McGrillen, head of Tourism NI, the event offers more than just a week of top-tier sport. It’s an opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland’s beauty, culture, and culinary scene to a global audience.
“Golfers tend to spend about four times more than the average leisure visitor,” McGrillen explained. “They are very valuable for the local economy.”
From hotel bookings to restaurant reservations and artisan retail, The Open’s return to Portrush promises a ripple effect of revenue throughout the region. Local businesses are gearing up, hospitality providers are embracing locally sourced offerings, and Tourism NI is working closely with the R&A and local councils to maximize every opportunity.
In this article, we’ll explore how The Open 2025 is expected to turbocharge Northern Ireland’s tourism economy, how local businesses can make the most of it, and what it means for the region’s future as a world-class golf and travel destination.
Why The Open at Royal Portrush Is Such a Big Deal
When The Open last came to Royal Portrush in 2019, it wasn’t just a sporting event—it was a watershed moment for Northern Ireland tourism. The tournament was the first Open held outside of mainland Britain in nearly 70 years, and its success proved that Portrush could host with style, scale, and substance.
This year, the stakes are even higher—and so is the potential payoff. With the global spotlight on the North Coast, the event isn’t just expected to bring record crowds—it’s also expected to elevate the country’s image in travel and hospitality sectors worldwide.
Golf Tourism = Big Spending
There’s a reason Tourism NI is betting big on golf. According to John McGrillen, golf tourists spend nearly four times as much as the average leisure visitor. That’s because golf travelers often:
- Book longer stays
- Spend more on luxury accommodation and fine dining
- Combine golfing with sightseeing and cultural experiences
- Travel in groups or families, multiplying the economic impact
So even if you’re not a golfer, your local café, boutique, or hotel could benefit enormously from the uptick in tourism.
Rory McIlroy’s Win Fuels Local Buzz
Adding to the excitement is Northern Ireland native Rory McIlroy, whose recent Masters win in Augusta has only intensified global interest in the 2025 event. McIlroy is not just a champion—he’s a hometown hero. His success draws eyes, headlines, and crowds.
With McIlroy expected to compete at Portrush, attendance numbers and media coverage are anticipated to soar even further.
Local Businesses: Time to Step Up
Tourism NI isn’t leaving local businesses behind. In fact, they’ve partnered with the R&A and local councils to ensure that Portrush and surrounding areas are ready to leverage the influx of visitors.
“We’ve worked to make sure all hospitality providers are using locally sourced food, and we’ve helped businesses understand how they can make the most of The Open,” said McGrillen.
Here are some practical ways businesses are getting involved:
- Pop-up experiences and vendor booths near the event
- Golf-themed menus and promotions
- Partnerships with tour operators offering excursions and day trips
- Extended hours and seasonal hiring to accommodate the demand
Beyond the Green: A Destination on Display
While the action happens on the golf course, the opportunity extends far beyond it. McGrillen noted that “people are going to spend quite a bit of time on the golf course, but they will be around afterwards.” That means the surrounding region—from Bushmills and Ballycastle to Derry and Belfast—stands to benefit from increased visitor traffic.
Tourism NI is positioning this not just as a weeklong event, but as a marketing campaign for the entire country. International TV broadcasts will spotlight Northern Ireland’s coastlines, castles, pubs, and people, making it more than just a destination—it becomes a dream getaway for global viewers.
Long-Term Impact on Tourism
The long-term benefits of hosting The Open go well beyond a temporary revenue spike. In 2019, the tournament led to a sustained increase in golf tourism over the following years, with tour bookings, golf club memberships, and international interest all seeing noticeable growth.
The hope in 2025 is to replicate—and surpass—that momentum.
It’s not just about bringing in people this summer. It’s about planting the seed that Northern Ireland is a must-visit golf destination for years to come.
Final Thoughts: A Hole-in-One for Northern Ireland Tourism
The return of The Open to Royal Portrush in 2025 represents a milestone moment for Northern Ireland. With nearly 280,000 tickets already sold, millions of TV viewers worldwide, and local businesses aligned with tourism efforts, this is more than just a golf tournament—it’s a showcase for everything that makes this region extraordinary.
From boosting small businesses and creating jobs to increasing international tourism and spreading national pride, The Open is set to bring big returns and lasting legacy.
Whether you’re swinging a club or serving pints, one thing’s for sure: everyone in Northern Ireland has a reason to cheer.
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