From September 5th to 6th, 2026, the world’s best amateur golfers will arrive on the rugged west coast of Ireland for one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments, the Walker Cup. Hosted at the legendary Lahinch Golf Club in County Clare, this event will showcase two days of world-class golf, breathtaking Atlantic scenery, and authentic Irish hospitality. Irish golfers Rory McIlroy, Paul McGinley, Padraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell, Philip Walton and Ronan Rafferty have all played in the Walker Cup before going on to represent Team Europe in the Ryder Cup .
For the first time, Lahinch will host this iconic match, making it a truly historic occasion for both Ireland and golf fans worldwide. Known as the “St. Andrews of Ireland,” Lahinch combines history, charm, and a challenging links layout that tests every aspect of a golfer’s game. The excitement surrounding the event is already building.
Ticket prices and event details
Official ticket prices for the 2026 Walker Cup in Lahinch are yet to be confirmed, but based on the 2025 Walker Cup at Cypress Point, fans can expect tickets to start around $100 USD for practice rounds and approximately $200 USD for match-day access.
Schedule and format
The Walker Cup will take place over two action-packed days, with practice rounds scheduled in the days leading up to the competition. Typically, the event begins in the morning with foursomes (alternate-shot) matches around 11 a.m., followed by singles matches in the afternoon at approximately 4:30–4:45 p.m.
The day concludes with the evening ceremony around 7 p.m. On Saturday, eight singles matches take place, and on Sunday, all ten players from each side compete in singles play. Team Great Britain & Ireland (GB&I), captained by Dean Robertson, will face off against Team USA, led by Nathan Smith. GB&I will be eager to end the USA’s five-year streak of dominance, and there’s no better place to do it than on home soil at Lahinch.
Accommodation and where to stay
Finding accommodation for the 2026 Walker Cup will be competitive as many of the hotels will accommodate the players, so booking early is essential. Lahinch and its surrounding towns offer a variety of options to suit all budgets and preferences. Within Lahinch itself, you’ll find charming seaside hotels, cosy bed-and-breakfasts, and local guesthouses within walking distance of the course. If you’re staying nearby, Ennis, Kilkee, and Doolin are excellent bases, each around 30 to 40 minutes away by car.
For a more authentic Irish experience, you can also explore vacation rentals or countryside inns. To make planning easier, SWING Golf Ireland offers complete Walker Cup travel packages that include accommodation, event transfers, and even tee times at nearby courses such as Doonbeg, Ballybunion, and Tralee.
How to get to Lahinch Golf Club
Lahinch is well connected by both car and public transport. From Ennis, you can take a direct Bus Éireann service to Lahinch (approximately 40 minutes, operating daily). If you’re travelling from Kilkee, you can take a bus towards Doolin and then transfer to Lahinch. From Doolin, take Bus Éireann Route 350 to Ennistymon, where you can transfer by bus or taxi for the final short leg of the journey. Many golf fans also choose to rent a car to explore the stunning Clare coastline at their own pace. The Cliffs of Moher, The Burren National Park, and Loop Head Peninsula are all within easy reach.
Why visit Lahinch for the Walker Cup
The 2026 Walker Cup isn’t just about golf; it’s about experiencing Ireland at its finest. The town of Lahinch comes alive during major golf events, with local pubs, restaurants, and music venues welcoming fans from around the world. Visitors can enjoy traditional Irish cuisine, live music sessions, and the warm hospitality that makes County Clare such a special place. Beyond the tournament, Lahinch itself is a top destination for golf enthusiasts. The club’s Old Course, originally designed by Old Tom Morris and later refined by Alister MacKenzie, is considered one of the best links courses in the world. Its unpredictable winds and rolling dunes provide both challenge and beauty, making it a favourite among professionals and amateurs alike.
Plan your 2026 golf experience with SWING Golf Ireland
For those travelling to Ireland for the 2026 Walker Cup, SWING Golf offers a complete range of golf travel services designed to make your trip seamless and unforgettable. Our expert team can help secure Walker Cup tickets, arrange premium accommodation, organise transportation to Lahinch, and even book tee times at Ireland’s most celebrated courses. Whether you’re attending as part of a group or planning a once-in-a-lifetime golf holiday, SWING Golf ensures every detail is taken care of so you can focus on enjoying the event and exploring Ireland’s incredible golf landscape.
The 2026 Walker Cup at Lahinch promises to be a landmark event, where sporting excellence meets Irish charm on one of the world’s most picturesque links. Wherever you select to stay, you are sure to experience Ireland’s famous warmth and hospitality. Let SWING Golf handle your travel, logistics, and golf experiences so you can make the most of this historic occasion.
