Pitch and Putt Dublin: Prices, Courses & Beginner Tips

There’s something quietly addictive about pitch and putt in Dublin. It’s not the length of the courses or the prestige of the clubhouse; it’s how quickly you can grab a club, spend an hour in the fresh air, and walk off feeling like you’ve had a proper game.

Average price per round in Dublin: €7–€10 ·
Typical duration of a round: 1 to 1.5 hours ·
Number of affiliated courses in Dublin: 20+ ·
Club rental cost (per set): €3–€5 ·
Minimum age for beginners (recommended): 6 years old

The table below summarises key facts from official club sources.

How much does it cost to play pitch and putt?

Typical green fees in Dublin

• At Elmgreen Golf Club (Dublin 16 municipal course), an adult round costs €7 and juniors under 16 pay €5.
• Jamestown Par 3 (family-run course near Lucan) charges €7 for adults, €5 for juniors/OAPs, and €6 for students.
• Most other Dublin courses fall in the €6–€10 range for a full 18-hole round.

“An adult round costs €7 and juniors under 16 pay €5.” — Elmgreen Golf Club

Club rental and other hidden costs

Club hire is widely available. Elmgreen charges €4 per set and Jamestown charges just €0.50 per club. At Deer Park, all equipment can be hired from the Pro Shop. There are no hidden membership fees, but some courses offer annual passes – Deer Park’s adult unlimited pass runs €250, a kids’ pass €100, and a family pass €300, allowing play 363 days a year.

Discounts for juniors and families

• Elmgreen: under-16s at €5
• Jamestown: juniors €5, students €6
• Deer Park annual family pass: €300 (covers adults + kids)

The pattern: occasional visitors benefit from pay-as-you-go, while regulars save most with an annual pass.

Is pitch and putt ok for beginners?

Why pitch and putt is ideal for new players

• Holes are short, typically 50–100 metres, so you never need a driver or long iron.
• The 2-putt rule (standardised by the governing body and used across Dublin courses) caps putts per hole at two, keeping pace fast and frustration low.
• No handicap or prior experience is required – you turn up, pay, and play.

What beginners should expect in terms of difficulty

You’ll mostly use a putter and maybe a 7- or 9-iron. The greens are generally less undulating than full golf courses, and the fairways are forgiving. Most Dublin courses welcome first-timers; some even offer free or discounted introductory sessions.

Recommended age to start

Children as young as 6 can play comfortably alongside adults. Courses like Elmgreen and Deer Park are especially family-friendly.

For most beginners, the short course and 2-putt rule make pitch and putt the gentlest introduction to the game.

What is pitch and putt and how does it differ from golf?

Core rules of pitch and putt

• Played on holes 50–100 metres long (full-size golf holes are 100–600+ metres).
• You can use only a putter and a few short irons (typically a 7-iron, 9-iron, and wedge).
• The game is governed by Pitch and Putt Ireland (the national governing body), which sets official standards.
• Scoring follows golf rules but with a maximum of two putts per hole – the 2-putt rule.

Key differences in course length and equipment

“A round typically takes 60 to 90 minutes to play.” — Deer Park Golf

Why it is often called ‘mini golf’s grown‑up cousin’

Unlike mini golf, you’re hitting a real ball over real grass with real technique. But because the holes are short and the putting is strictly limited, it’s far quicker and more accessible than a full round of golf. For many Dubliners, it’s the perfect midweek evening activity.

The implication: pitch and putt is the ideal compromise between mini-golf and the full 18-hole experience.

What do you need to play pitch and putt?

Equipment: clubs and balls

• Just a putter and a couple of irons. Most players use a 7-iron for longer approaches and a 9-iron for shorter ones.
• Standard golf balls work fine – no special gear needed.

Can you rent clubs?

Yes – nearly every Dublin course offers club rental. At Elmgreen it’s €4 per set; at Jamestown it’s €0.50 per club. Deer Park’s Pro Shop stocks hire sets. You do not need to bring your own.

What to wear and other essentials

• Comfortable walking shoes (trainers are fine) and weather‑appropriate clothing – Dublin weather is unpredictable.
• A round typically lasts 1 to 1.5 hours, so bring water and perhaps a snack; most courses don’t have a full pro shop or café.

All you need is an hour and a small budget – the courses provide the rest.

What are the best pitch and putt courses in Dublin?

Top‑rated public courses

• Deer Park Golf (Howth – scenic coastal course): 18 holes with panoramic views. Equipment hire available. Annual passes start at €250.
• Elmgreen Golf Club (Dublin 16 – municipal facility): 18 holes, open daily, club rental €4. One of the most budget-friendly options.
• Jamestown Par 3 (Lucan – family-run par‑3 course): 18 holes, club hire per club, student discounts.

Courses with scenic views

Deer Park in Howth is the standout: the course winds along the hillside with views of Dublin Bay and the Mourne Mountains on clear days. It’s also the most popular pitch and putt destination for tourists and locals alike.

Family‑friendly options

• Elmgreen – junior rates and short holes ideal for kids.
• Deer Park – dedicated family annual pass (€300) and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Bohernabreena (Tallaght area) – well-reviewed on Yelp, known for being welcoming to families.

Three courses, one pattern: all charge roughly the same single-round price, but the value shifts dramatically if you play often.

If you plan to play more than 10 times a year, Deer Park’s annual pass becomes the clear winner for your wallet.

If you’re planning a trip beyond Dublin, check out our guide to Things to Do in Westport, Ireland. And for professional golf context, see the European Ryder Cup Team 2025.

Frequently asked questions

Pitch and putt in Dublin is one of those rare activities that’s cheap, easy to learn, and genuinely fun for all ages. The barrier to entry is almost non-existent – show up with €11 and an hour to spare, and you’re playing. For Dublin families and casual visitors, the choice is clear: pick a course near you, rent a club, and enjoy the simple pleasure of chasing a ball across 18 short holes. No membership, no hassle, no excuses.