As the birthplace of golf, the United Kingdom boasts some of the finest and most iconic golf courses in the world. Every golfer, from the greenest amateur to the most seasoned professional, can find a course to challenge and inspire them in the UK. In this blog post, we’re going to delve into the top 10 best golf courses the UK has to offer, detailing their rich histories, unique features, and the reasons they’re revered by players worldwide.
Top 10 Golf Courses the UK Has to Offer
#1 Royal St. George’s
No list of top UK golf courses would be complete without Royal St. George’s, a course that has hosted more than a dozen Open Championships. Located in Sandwich, Kent, it offers a challenging, undulating links course that requires precise shot-making. Its beautiful coastal setting, combined with its prestigious history, makes it a must-visit for everyone who enjoys golf. Read more about the hobby of playing golf to prepare yourself for the course.
#2 St Andrews Old Course
Located in Fife, Scotland, the Old Course at St Andrews is often referred to as “the home of golf.” With a history dating back to the 1400s, it’s one of the oldest golf courses in the world. The Old Course is renowned for its unique, double greens and Swilcan Bridge, making it a treasured icon in the world of golf.
#3 Formby Golf Club
Nestled among towering sand dunes and pines in Merseyside, Formby Golf Club offers an exceptional links course that is as challenging as it is picturesque. Its strategic bunkering and firm, fast fairways require both precision and creativity. The club’s commitment to sustainability makes it a haven for local wildlife, adding another layer of charm to the course.
#4 Royal Birkdale
The Royal Birkdale in Southport, England, is known for its fair and challenging play, offering a premier links experience. Its dune-filled landscape provides natural amphitheatres, making it one of the best walking and spectating courses. Known for hosting the Open Championship, it’s a course that’s seen some of the most memorable moments in golf history.
#5 Ganton Golf Club
Ganton Golf Club in North Yorkshire stands out as one of the few inland courses in the UK to offer a genuine links-like experience. Its challenging layout features fast-running fairways, undulating greens, and deep bunkers. A rich heritage and exceptional course maintenance have kept Ganton at the top of golfers’ bucket lists for years. Whether you are a veteran player or are starting to learn how to swing a club, you will love it on this course.
#6 Royal Birkdale Golf Club
While it shares the name with our number 4 spot, the Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England, holds its own in terms of prestige and quality. It’s a challenging links course that tests even the best golfers but remains accessible and enjoyable for amateurs. Its combination of beautiful scenery and well-maintained fairways make it a firm favourite.
#7 Tralee Golf Club
Though technically in Ireland, Tralee Golf Club, designed by Arnold Palmer, is too fantastic to exclude. It’s set on the rugged Atlantic coast, and each hole offers incredible sea views. Tralee is known for its stunning aesthetics and challenging links play, making it a must-play course for any serious golfer visiting the British Isles.
#8 Alwoodley Golf Club
Alwoodley Golf Club, located in Leeds, England, is a heathland masterpiece designed by renowned architect Dr Alister MacKenzie. It’s known for its strategic layout, natural beauty, and stunning vistas. With its pristine fairways, challenging greens, and the overall quality of the golfing experience, it’s one of England’s top golfing destinations.
#9 Sunningdale (New)
The New Course at Sunningdale, Berkshire, is often deemed to be the equal of its older sibling. A quintessential heathland course that moves beautifully through rolling terrain, it’s characterized by its challenging par threes and picturesque scenery. Sunningdale (New) represents an embodiment of golf’s tradition while offering an enjoyable challenge for all golfers.
#10 Royal Lytham & St. Annes
Royal Lytham & St. Annes in Lancashire, England, has a rich championship history and is considered one of the finest links courses in the world. Despite its lack of sea views, the course is renowned for its tight, undulating fairways, small greens, and over 200 bunkers, demanding accuracy and tactical play.
Conclusion
The UK is steeped in golfing history and home to an abundance of world-class golf courses. Each course on this list offers a unique and memorable experience, featuring challenging layouts, impressive designs, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking to test your skills or an avid fan of the sport’s history, these ten courses represent the pinnacle of golf in the UK.
