Last Updated on October 13, 2023
Golfing, a much-loved leisure activity for numerous in the UK, has long been enjoyed on its verdant hills and picturesque landscapes. With its rolling hills, lush green fairways and incredible scenery, it’s no surprise that there are many golf courses in the UK. From historic clubs to modern designs – there is something for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced player or just starting out, learning about all of the different golf courses available can help you decide where to tee off your next round. In this blog post, we’ll explore how many golf courses are in the UK, the types of courses and some famous ones. So grab your putter, and let’s get started – because with so many options available today, it may be hard to pick just one.
Table of Contents:
- Overview of Golf Courses in the UK
- Types of Golf Courses in the UK
- Famous Golf Courses in the UK
- Conclusion
Overview of Golf Courses in the UK
Recent data from England Golf and Scottish Golf suggests that Great Britain and Northern Ireland have over 2,400 golf clubs registered. This includes both 18-hole and 9-hole courses, as well as driving ranges and putting greens. Of these 2,400+ clubs, 1,900 can be found in England alone – making it by far the most popular region for golfing enthusiasts. Scotland follows closely behind with around 400 clubs, while Wales has about 100 courses available for play.
The types of courses vary greatly throughout each region too. In England, you’ll find everything from classic heathland tracks like Sunningdale Old Course to modern parkland layouts such as Woburn Golf Club’s Marquess Course; all offering something unique that appeals to different players’ tastes and preferences. Meanwhile, Scotland boasts some of the world’s best links venues, including Royal Troon Golf Club on Ayrshire coast or Turnberry Resort on Argyll & Bute coastline, not forgetting its vast selection of traditional inland tracks such as Gleneagles King’s Course, which hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup Matches.
Finally, don’t forget Northern Ireland, where you’ll discover some truly spectacular gems like Royal County Down GC nestled amongst stunning landscapes – perfect if you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life whilst still enjoying a great game.
Types of Golf Courses in the UK
Golf courses in the UK offer a plethora of configurations and idiosyncrasies, each distinctively unique. Links courses are perhaps the most iconic type of golf course found throughout Britain. These seaside layouts feature undulating terrain, deep bunkers, and firm turf that can make them difficult to play on windy days. Parkland courses offer a more traditional golfing experience, with lush fairways lined by trees and strategically placed hazards like ponds or streams coming into play on many holes. Heathland courses provide an even greater challenge for experienced players due to their tight lies and thick roughs, which require precision shot-making skills.
Finally, there are also parkland/heathland hybrid courses which combine elements from both types of course design into one layout; these tend to be some of the most challenging tests of golf available anywhere in the world. No matter what type you choose to play at though, all British golf courses share certain common features, such as small greens that reward accurate approach shots and fast putting surfaces that demand careful reading skills.
Selecting a golf course in the UK necessitates taking into account numerous elements, including proximity, degree of difficulty and expense. With so many different types available across England, Scotland & Wales, there really is something out there for everyone – whether they’re looking for an easy day out or an unforgettable test.
Famous Golf Courses in the UK
The UK is home to some of the most famous golf courses in the world. St Andrews, located in Scotland, is widely regarded as the birthplace of golf and has been played since 1457. The Old Course at St Andrews is one of the oldest continuously-played courses in existence and has hosted numerous Open Championships over its long history. Royal Birkdale Golf Club, also located in England, was founded in 1889 and is considered one of Britain’s finest links courses. It has hosted several major championships, including The Open Championship, nine times between 1954 and 2008.
Royal Troon Golf Club, which dates back to 1878, hosts The Open Championship every eight years or so. Located near Ayrshire on Scotland’s west coast, it boasts a spectacular setting with views out across the Firth of Clyde towards Arran Island and beyond. Turnberry Resort & Spa features two championship golf courses: Ailsa Course (hosted four Opens) and Kintyre Course (hosted three Senior British Opens). With its stunning backdrop overlooking the Irish Sea, this course offers an unforgettable experience for all levels of golfer alike.
Sunningdale Golf Club was established way back in 1901 by five leading professionals from London who wanted to create a club that would be open to everyone regardless of their social class or background – something very unusual for those days. This course has hosted many professional tournaments such as The European Tour’s BMW PGA Championship as well as being chosen for international team matches like Walker Cup Matches between Great Britain & Ireland versus USA teams held here twice already.
Lastly, we have Wentworth Club – this private members club situated near Virginia Water Lake was designed by Harry Colt, whose work can be seen throughout Europe. Wentworth also hosts several prestigious events, such as World Match Play Championships each year, making it a must-visit venue if you are ever lucky enough to get invited there.
Conclusion
The UK is a great place to play golf, with many courses scattered across the country. From championship courses to more relaxed nine-hole layouts, there are plenty of options for players of all skill levels. No matter your level of expertise, you can find a course that fits your needs – be it for an intense game or to appreciate natural beauty. Amidst the vast array of golf courses scattered throughout the UK, it is effortless to locate one that caters precisely to your individual requirements – no matter what level of expertise you possess.
