The Best Golf Destinations in the UK You Can Visit

You have been dreaming about it for years. Playing where legends walked and teeing off on courses that shaped the sport itself. But with more than 2,500 courses scattered across the UK, deciding where to go can feel overwhelming, and you do not want to spend your golf holiday on the wrong choice. The good news is that we’ve done the research for you. Here is your complete guide to the best golf destinations in the UK.

Why the UK Should Be Your Next Golf Trip

There is a reason golfers from around the world put the UK on their bucket list. This is where golf was born. The history, variety, and quality of courses are unmatched anywhere else. England alone has more than 2,000 golf courses, more than any other European country. Scotland hosts around 600 courses, Wales has nearly 200, and Northern Ireland offers some of the most dramatic coastal links you’ll ever play. Whether you want championship-level challenges, stunning scenery, or luxury resort experiences, the UK delivers.

Scotland – The Home of Golf

St Andrews

St Andrews Links actually comprises seven public courses, so you’re not limited to just the famous Old. The New Course dates back to 1895, and many locals consider it the better test. The Castle Course offers dramatic clifftop views overlooking the town.

Getting onto the Old Course requires planning. You can enter the daily ballot, book through an authorised provider, or try your luck as a single golfer.  If you’re planning a longer Scottish adventure beyond the fairways, check out this Scotland itinerary that covers everything from Edinburgh to the Highlands. Winter visits are easier to secure and come with package deals.

Of course, nothing beats consistent practice before tackling these legendary links. Many serious golfers use golf simulators from Golfbays to sharpen their game year-round, so they’re ready when their dream tee time arrives. Steady preparation keeps your swing confident when it matters most.

Gleneagles

For luxury alongside your links, Gleneagles delivers. This five-star Perthshire resort hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup and offers three championship courses surrounded by stunning Highland scenery. Beyond golf, expect world-class dining, an award-winning spa, and outdoor activities from falconry to fishing.

England – Championship Variety

The Belfry

The Belfry has hosted more Ryder Cups than any other venue, with four events held between 1985 and 2002. Located in Warwickshire, it is where Sam Torrance made his famous winning putt in 1985, securing Europe’s first victory in 28 years. The Brabazon Course is the main attraction, a 7,255-yard test designed by Dave Thomas and Peter Alliss. With over 300 rooms and a central location, it works brilliantly for group trips.

England’s Golf Coast

Centred around Southport and Liverpool, England’s Golf Coast packs world-class courses into a concentrated stretch of Lancashire coastline. Royal Birkdale has hosted ten Open Championships and is widely considered one of England’s finest links. Royal Lytham and Formby are all within easy reach.

This region offers great value. You’ll find accommodation at various price points in Southport, making it possible to play three or four championship courses in a long weekend. If you’re travelling from the capital, there are plenty of weekend getaways from London that combine golf with exploring the UK’s stunning destinations. A short trip can still feel like a rewarding escape.

Wales – Underrated Excellence

Celtic Manor

The area is well known for its impressive golfing reputation. Celtic Manor hosted the 2010 Ryder Cup, remembered as one of the most dramatic ever after torrential rain extended play to a Monday finish. The Twenty Ten Course was purpose-built for that event and remains the star attraction. It measures nearly 7,500 yards and features water hazards on half of its holes.

The resort offers everything from family-friendly hotels to secluded lodges, plus a spa and multiple restaurants. It’s particularly popular with groups from England thanks to easy M4 access.

Northern Ireland – Raw Links Drama

Royal Portrush

When Shane Lowry lifted the Claret Jug at Royal Portrush in 2019, it confirmed what local golfers had known for decades – this is one of the world’s great courses. The Championship attracted over 237,000 spectators, a record for any Open held outside St Andrews. It was a remarkable turnout for the event.

The Dunluce Links sits on a dramatic stretch of Antrim coastline, with the ruins of Dunluce Castle visible nearby. Playing where Lowry made history, on fairways overlooking the wild Atlantic, is worth planning around.

Best Time to Visit

Seasonal breakdown:

• Peak season (May-September): Best weather, highest prices, book well ahead
• Spring/Autumn (April-May, September-October): Sweet spot for conditions and value
• Winter (November-March): Dramatic deals, empty fairways, pack waterproofs

Planning Your Trip

Famous courses require advance booking. The Old Course at St Andrews and Open Championship venues like Royal Birkdale fill quickly – book several months ahead. Working with specialist golf tour operators can simplify securing hard-to-get tee times.

Stay-and-play packages often represent the best value. Resorts like The Belfry and Celtic Manor include accommodation and golf in bundled rates that undercut booking separately. Midweek breaks typically cost less than weekends.

FAQs

When is the best time to play golf in the UK?

Late spring through early autumn offers the most reliable conditions. May, June, and September provide good weather without peak-season crowds.

Do I need a handicap to play UK courses?

Most courses welcome all abilities, though some championship venues require a handicap certificate. The Old Course at St Andrews requires a maximum of 36.

How far in advance should I book famous courses?

For venues like St Andrews Old Course or Royal Birkdale, booking six to twelve months ahead is wise. Less famous courses typically have availability with a few weeks’ notice.

What should I pack for a UK golf trip?

Waterproofs are essential – even in summer, rain arrives quickly. Pack layers, soft-spike shoes, and a quality golf umbrella.

Can beginners play championship courses?

Many championship courses welcome all abilities. Resort courses and St Andrews’ other layouts cater well to mixed-ability groups.

Key Takeaways

• The UK offers an incredible variety, with links, parkland, and heathland courses all within easy reach.
• Scotland’s St Andrews is golf’s spiritual home with seven public courses
• The Belfry and Celtic Manor offer Ryder Cup pedigree with resort amenities
• Royal Portrush provides dramatic links golf on an Open Championship venue
• Spring and autumn deliver the best balance of conditions, availability, and value
• Book championship courses months ahead and pack for variable weather