If you’re an avid golfer or simply someone who enjoys the sport, you’ll be delighted to know that the United Kingdom boasts some of the best golf courses in the world – so what are the best golf courses in UK? From the stunning landscapes of Scotland to the picturesque greens of England, this article will take you on a journey through the top golfing destinations in the UK. Whether you’re seeking challenging links courses or luxurious resort-style fairways, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to tee off and indulge in your golfing passion. So, grab your clubs and get ready to discover the best golf courses the UK has to offer.
Scotland
Scotland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich golfing heritage. The country boasts some of the best golf courses in the world, offering an unforgettable experience for golf enthusiasts. Let’s explore three top-notch golf destinations in Scotland.
St. Andrews
St. Andrews is often hailed as the birthplace of golf and is home to the world-famous Old Course. This iconic course, with its challenging links design, has witnessed countless historic moments in the sport. Golfers from all over the globe dream of teeing off on the hallowed turf of St. Andrews, where legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods have left their mark. The town itself exudes an old-world charm, adorned with historic landmarks and a vibrant golfing culture.
Gleneagles
Nestled amidst the picturesque Scottish Highlands, Gleneagles is a golfing paradise that offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience. Boasting three championship courses, including the revered PGA Centenary Course, Gleneagles is a haven for golfers seeking a challenging yet rewarding round. The stunning surroundings, impeccable service, and world-class amenities make Gleneagles a top choice for both professional and amateur golfers.
Carnoustie
Carnoustie Golf Links is considered one of the most demanding courses in the world, known for its formidable links layout and challenging weather conditions. The Championship Course at Carnoustie has hosted numerous Open Championships, attracting top golfers from around the globe. With its strategic bunkers, undulating fairways, and unpredictable winds, Carnoustie provides a true test of skill and mental fortitude. A round at Carnoustie is an experience that will leave golfers in awe and longing for more.
England
England offers a diverse selection of world-class golf courses, ranging from historic links layouts to stunning parkland settings. Here are three exceptional golfing destinations that will leave you impressed.
Royal Birkdale
Royal Birkdale is widely regarded as one of the finest links courses in the United Kingdom. With its dramatic dunes, deep bunkers, and challenging greens, this iconic venue has been a host to multiple Open Championships. Royal Birkdale’s rich golfing heritage, combined with its awe-inspiring natural beauty, makes it a must-visit destination for any serious golfer.
Wentworth Club
Nestled in the heart of the Surrey countryside, Wentworth Club offers an idyllic setting for golf enthusiasts. The famous West Course, designed by Harry Colt, has played host to several European Tour events and showcases breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Wentworth Club provides a wonderful blend of challenge and elegance, making it a favorite among golfers seeking both a competitive round and a refined atmosphere.
Royal Liverpool
Royal Liverpool Golf Club, located in the charming coastal town of Hoylake, has a storied history and a challenging course layout. This championship course has hosted numerous Open Championships, including the historic 2006 victory of Tiger Woods. The course’s firm fairways and fast-running greens, combined with the ever-changing winds off the Irish Sea, offer a thrilling test for golfers of all levels. A round at Royal Liverpool promises an unforgettable golfing experience.
Ireland
Ireland is no stranger to magnificent golf courses. Home to beautiful landscapes and traditional Irish hospitality, the country offers a golfing experience unlike any other. Let’s explore three outstanding golf destinations in Ireland.
Royal County Down
Tucked away at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, Royal County Down Golf Club is often considered one of the most scenic and challenging courses in the world. With its breathtaking views of the coast, majestic dunes, and undulating fairways, Royal County Down offers a true links experience. The challenging nature of the course demands precise shot-making and strategic thinking, making it a favorite among golf purists.
Portmarnock Golf Club
Located on a narrow peninsula just north of Dublin, Portmarnock Golf Club is steeped in golfing history. This traditional links course has witnessed the triumphs of legendary players and continues to attract golfers with its timeless design. With its stunning coastal views, heather-lined fairways, and well-guarded greens, Portmarnock presents a challenge that golfers of all skill levels can appreciate.
Lahinch Golf Club
Lahinch Golf Club, situated on the west coast of Ireland, offers a uniquely wild and exhilarating golfing experience. Just steps away from the rugged Atlantic coastline, this links course showcases towering dunes, blind shots, and natural hazards that demand both skill and courage. Lahinch’s Old Course, dating back to 1892, provides a memorable round that embraces the true spirit of links golf.
Wales
Wales may be a small nation, but it is home to some exceptional golf courses that will leave a lasting impression on any golfer. Here are three remarkable destinations that showcase the beauty of Welsh golf.
Royal Porthcawl
Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, located on the stunning South Wales coastline, is a true gem. With its sweeping views of the Bristol Channel and its challenging layout, Royal Porthcawl has earned a reputation as one of the finest links courses in the country. The course’s undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and strategic hazards test every aspect of a golfer’s game. A round at Royal Porthcawl is an opportunity to experience the raw beauty of nature while tackling a championship-caliber challenge.
Celtic Manor Resort
Celtic Manor Resort, nestled in the Usk Valley, offers a combination of luxury accommodation and exceptional golfing facilities. The twenty-year-old resort has already established itself as a world-class golf destination, most notably by hosting the 2010 Ryder Cup. Celtic Manor boasts three championship courses, each with its own unique character and challenges. The resort’s commitment to premium service, stunning surroundings, and top-notch facilities make it a paradise for golfers seeking a memorable and immersive experience.
Royal St. David’s
Royal St. David’s Golf Club, set against the backdrop of Snowdonia National Park, is a true hidden gem. This traditional links course boasts stunning views of Harlech Castle, the Irish Sea, and the rolling Welsh countryside. The Arthur Hills-designed layout features undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and fast greens. Royal St. David’s presents a pure and natural golfing experience that will leave you in awe of its untouched beauty and challenging design.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has gained global recognition as a golfing mecca, thanks to its exceptional courses and the success of local players like Rory McIlroy. Here are three must-visit golf destinations in Northern Ireland.
Royal Portrush
Royal Portrush Golf Club has taken the world by storm, hosting the highly acclaimed 2019 Open Championship. The Dunluce Links, with its breathtaking coastal scenery and challenging layout, has firmly established Royal Portrush as one of the top golf courses on the planet. The course offers a diverse range of holes, from dramatic cliffside shots to strategically demanding inland stretches. A round at Royal Portrush is an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Irish golf.
Lough Erne Resort
Nestled on a peninsula between Castle Hume Lough and Lower Lough Erne, Lough Erne Resort provides a tranquil golfing experience in a stunning setting. The championship Faldo Course, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, winds through mature woodland and boasts strategic bunkering and memorable water features. The course’s unique design offers a balanced challenge for golfers of all abilities, while the luxurious resort provides a perfect retreat after a day on the fairways. Lough Erne Resort is an oasis of relaxation and golfing excellence.
Ardglass Golf Club
Perched on a rugged cliff overlooking the Irish Sea, Ardglass Golf Club offers a thrilling links experience that combines natural beauty with strategic shot-making. The course, believed to be the oldest in Ireland, winds its way through narrow lanes, offering stunning views of the coastline and the Mourne Mountains. Ardglass embraces its rich history, featuring the ruins of a 14th-century castle within the course. With challenging holes and breathtaking scenery, a round at Ardglass is an adventure that every golfer should embark upon.
Championship Courses
When seeking the ultimate golfing challenge, championship courses are where you’ll find the true test of skill and endurance. Here are three renowned championship courses that have hosted prestigious tournaments.
The Old Course at St. Andrews
The Old Course at St. Andrews, often referred to as the “Home of Golf,” is the oldest and most iconic course in the world. With its unique double greens and distinctive features such as the famous Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker, the Old Course presents a true test of strategy and precision. Playing on the same fairways that have witnessed the triumphs of golfing legends is an experience like no other. A round on the Old Course is a pilgrimage that every golfer should embark upon at least once in their lifetime.
Carnoustie Golf Links
Carnoustie Golf Links, known as “Golf’s Greatest Test,” is a championship course that demands both mental fortitude and exceptional shot-making skills. The course’s narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and strategically placed hazards require precision and accuracy on every shot. Carnoustie has hosted multiple Open Championships, with some of the sport’s most memorable moments unfolding on its hallowed grounds. A round at Carnoustie tests the limits of a golfer’s ability and endurance, leaving an indelible mark on their golfing journey.
Royal Birkdale Golf Club
Royal Birkdale Golf Club, situated in Southport, is a revered championship course that has witnessed the triumphs of golf’s biggest stars. The undulating fairways, towering sand dunes, and challenging bunkers create a visually stunning and fiendishly difficult playing environment. Royal Birkdale has hosted numerous Open Championships, and its reputation for providing a fair but stern test of golfing prowess is well-deserved. Playing this championship course is an opportunity to experience the very best that British golf has to offer.
Links Courses
Links courses are the epitome of traditional golf, combining rugged coastal landscapes with challenging playing conditions. Here are three outstanding links courses that showcase the raw beauty of the British Isles.
Royal County Down Golf Club
Royal County Down Golf Club is often regarded as one of the most spectacular links courses in the world. Nestled beneath the magnificent backdrop of the Mourne Mountains, the rugged fairways and dunes of Royal County Down provide an awe-inspiring setting to test your golfing skills. The course’s unpredictable winds and strategic layout require imaginative shot-making and precise ball control. Playing at Royal County Down is an experience that allows you to connect with the essence of links golf.
Portmarnock Golf Club
Portmarnock Golf Club, situated on a narrow sandy peninsula just north of Dublin, is a golfing gem that embodies the spirit of traditional links golf. With its classic design, pristine fairways, and demanding bunkering, Portmarnock offers an authentic championship course that challenges the modern golfer. Renowned for its strategic design and immaculate conditioning, this historic venue has proven its worth by hosting prestigious events over the years. Playing at Portmarnock is a pilgrimage that every golfer should undertake to appreciate the artistry of true links golf.
Royal Porthcawl Golf Club
Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, nestled on the South Wales coastline, perfectly exemplifies the allure and challenge of links golf. This championship venue, with its rugged sand dunes, undulating fairways, and punishing rough, provides an unforgettable golfing experience. The course demands precision and strategy from tee to green, rewarding well-executed shots while challenging wayward ones. Royal Porthcawl highlights the natural beauty of links golf, offering stunning coastal views and an opportunity to play a truly world-class course.
Parkland Courses
Parkland courses are known for their picturesque surroundings, lush greenery, and strategic design. Here are three exceptional parkland courses that offer a distinctly different golfing experience.
Wentworth Club
Wentworth Club, located in the beautiful Surrey countryside, offers a tranquil parkland setting accompanied by world-class golf facilities. The West Course, designed by Harry Colt, is a masterpiece that will captivate golfers with its tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and immaculate greens. The setting at Wentworth is simply breathtaking, creating an atmosphere of relaxation and serenity that enhances the golfing experience. A round at Wentworth is a perfect blend of natural beauty and refined architectural design.
Celtic Manor Resort
Celtic Manor Resort, a luxurious retreat nestled in the Usk Valley, is home to three outstanding parkland courses. The Twenty Ten Course, designed specifically for the 2010 Ryder Cup, offers a championship-caliber challenge with its undulating terrain and strategic water hazards. The Roman Road and The Montgomerie courses provide equally stunning surroundings and exceptional golfing experiences. Celtic Manor’s parkland courses, with their manicured fairways and beautiful landscapes, offer a perfect escape for golfers seeking a blend of relaxation and competition.
The Belfry
The Belfry, located in the heart of England, has a rich golfing heritage and is home to three fantastic parkland courses. The Brabazon Course, host to the famous Ryder Cup on four occasions, provides an unforgettable golfing experience that challenges the best in the game. The PGA National and The Derby courses offer their own unique charm and test every facet of a golfer’s game. The Belfry’s combination of outstanding course quality, tranquil surroundings, and superb facilities makes it a favorite destination for golfers seeking a memorable parkland golf experience.
Luxury Golf Resorts
For golfers seeking an all-encompassing experience of luxury, impeccable service, and world-class golf, these luxury golf resorts in the UK are the pinnacle of excellence.
Gleneagles
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, Gleneagles is synonymous with luxury and golfing excellence. The resort boasts three championship courses, including the revered PGA Centenary Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus. Gleneagles provides golfers with an unrivaled experience, offering impeccable service, stunning surroundings, and world-class facilities. Golfers can indulge in the resort’s luxurious amenities, including spa treatments, fine dining, and bespoke service, ensuring a truly unforgettable stay.
The Grove
Located just outside of London, The Grove offers a prestigious golfing retreat within easy reach of the city’s hustle and bustle. The championship course at The Grove presents a challenging layout amidst the tranquil Hertfordshire countryside. The resort’s luxurious accommodations, superb dining options, and state-of-the-art facilities provide a perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication. The Grove is the ideal destination for golfers seeking a first-class experience without straying too far from the vibrant energy of the capital.
The K Club
The K Club, situated on the banks of the River Liffey in County Kildare, Ireland, offers a combination of luxury and golfing excellence. The resort showcases two championship courses, including the acclaimed Palmer Ryder Cup Course, which hosted the prestigious event in 2006. The K Club’s elegant accommodations, Michelin-starred dining, and world-class spa facilities ensure a truly indulgent stay. Golfers can relish in the resort’s opulence while experiencing two exceptional courses that test their skills against stunning Irish backdrops.
Historic Golf Courses
For golfers who appreciate the rich history and traditions of the sport, these historic golf courses in the UK provide an opportunity to step back in time and walk in the footsteps of golfing legends.
St. Andrews
St. Andrews, often referred to as the “Home of Golf,” holds a special place in the hearts of golf enthusiasts worldwide. The Old Course, with its iconic landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge and the Valley of Sin, has witnessed the triumphs and defeats of golf’s greatest players. Playing at St. Andrews is not just about the game; it is about embracing the traditions and heritage that have shaped the sport for centuries. A pilgrimage to St. Andrews is a dream come true for golfers, allowing them to connect with the rich history of the game and experience the enchantment of this hallowed ground.
Royal Liverpool Golf Club
Royal Liverpool Golf Club, located in Hoylake on the Wirral Peninsula, offers golfers the opportunity to play on a course steeped in history. This club has hosted multiple Open Championships, attracting the world’s finest golfers to its challenging links course. The sense of nostalgia as you walk in the footsteps of past champions is palpable, and the course’s traditional design and stunning natural features transport you to a bygone era of the sport. A round at Royal Liverpool is a journey through time, allowing you to appreciate the timeless appeal of the game.
Royal Portrush Golf Club
Royal Portrush Golf Club, situated on the dramatic North Antrim Coast, is a historic venue that has taken center stage in recent years. The course’s inclusion in the Open Championship rota has put it firmly on the map of golf’s most cherished destinations. With its dramatic coastal vistas and challenging layout, Royal Portrush encapsulates the spirit of Irish links golf. Playing on the same hallowed grounds that hosted the 148th Open Championship is an experience that any golfer with an appreciation for history will hold in high regard.
In conclusion, the UK offers an exquisite collection of golf courses that cater to every golfer’s preferences. Whether you seek the challenge of championship layouts, the natural beauty of links courses, the serenity of parkland settings, the luxury of world-class resorts, or the charm of historic venues, the UK has it all. Embrace the rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality that await you as you embark on a golfing adventure in this golfing paradise.