Seaside Golf Courses
Coastline hugging fairways, sand dunes & sea views
⏱ 10 min read
Coastline hugging fairways, sand dunes & sea views
⏱ 10 min read
Imagine playing a round of golf on fairways that caress the coastline, with routes skillfully carved between majestic sand dunes. Picture yourself standing on a tee, gazing out at the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
You might think you need to jet off to some far-flung destination to experience such breathtaking beauty, but think again. The British Isles is home to some of the most stunning golf courses in the world, welcoming golfers to their visually striking fairways all year round.
Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring vistas and aesthetically pleasing holes that await you. These courses are not just about the game; they are about creating an unforgettable experience.
The coastal gems of the British Isles will transport you to a world where every hole is a work of art. As you navigate the course, the picturesque surroundings will make you forget any bad shots instantly.
Fife's Coastline - The Home of Golf >>
Golf on the Kent Coast >>
England's Golf Coast - The North West >>
South Coast of Wales >>
Scotland's West Coast >>
The Lothians Coastline >>
North Coast of Wales >>
England's East Coast >>
Scotland's East Coast >>
South West Coast of England >>
Northern Ireland Beauties
North West Ireland Escapes
South West Ireland Coastal Treasures
East Coast of Ireland
Golfing enthusiasts can indulge in a remarkable experience along the picturesque Fife coastline, where a plethora of renowned golf courses await. The Old Course stands as the quintessential birthplace of the game, serving as the epicenter where it all originated. Nowhere else on Earth can one find an ambiance that rivals its enchantment.
The other layouts at St Andrews include the New Course, an exceptional design that would have undoubtedly hosted numerous tournaments across Britain, had it been situated elsewhere. The Jubilee Course is widely regarded as one of the most challenging tests of golf in the area. Positioned at the estuary's point, The Jubilee is particularly susceptible to the elements, which is most evident at the par-3 ninth tee, where players must execute a long iron shot onto a firm and unforgiving green. The Castle Course, being the seventh of the St Andrews Links layouts, stands out as a unique and distinctive offering in the region.
Embarking on a journey away from "the auld grey toon" along the coast, one can further explore the exquisite Torrance course at Fairmont St Andrews. This championship course, designed by Sam Torrance, offers a stunning layout with undulating fairways and challenging bunkers. Golfers can test their skills while enjoying panoramic views of the North Sea and the rugged coastline. A little further along the coast you will find the captivating Kingsbarns. This world-class links course will not only challenge the golfer but also serve up stunning ocean views. The ruggedness of the course is beautifully combined with manicured beauty, creating a truly memorable experience. Another gem along this part of the Fife coastline is the Balcomie Course at Crail. Dating back to 1895, this historic Old Tom Morris course offers a charming and traditional links experience.
As the coastal golfing odyssey continues, golfers will discover Elie Links, a layout that embodies Old Tom Morris's design principles and is a shining example of what makes a golf course engaging and enjoyable to play. Dumbarnie Links has quickly become one of the most talked-about courses in Scottish golf. This Clive Clark masterpiece is truly unique and is sure to be on every golfer's "bucket list" in Scotland. Standout holes include the 4th and 9th, as well as the 13th and 14th, which offer breathtaking coastal views just moments from the beach. Leven Links offers the ultimate test of links golf in all its glory. You'll encounter blind tee shots, spiky gorse, and undulating greens that will truly challenge your skills. The Fife layout of Lundin Links is full of charm and variety. As you play, you'll experience vintage linksland, with the middle section of the course climbing up towards the town.
St Andrews & Fife
Rated 9.8 by 33 golfers (Read reviews of Kingsbarns Golf Links)
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St Andrews & Fife
Rated 9.6 by 51 golfers (Read reviews of The Old Course, St Andrews)
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St Andrews & Fife
Rated 8 by 4 golfers (Read reviews of Crail Golfing Society)
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The golf courses situated along the coastline of Kent are some of the most prestigious and sought-after courses in the world. These courses offer golfers a unique experience, with views of the English Channel and the surrounding countryside. The courses are known for their challenging layouts, which require golfers to use all of their skills and experience to navigate the fairways and greens.
Royal St Georges is the most renowned golf course in the region, having hosted the Open Championship multiple times. The course is known for its challenging layout and wonderful views of the English Channel. Princes Golf Club and Royal Cinque Ports are also esteemed Open Championship courses, with challenging layouts and rich histories. Princes offer three loops of nine hole challenging links-style golf while Royal Cinque Ports is known for its deep bunkers and undulating fairways.
Littlestone is a noteworthy establishment in the region, with a links-style layout that is both challenging and enjoyable. Walmer & Kingsdown is popular with visiting golfers, having a reputation for being one of the most scenic courses in the world, offering superb views of the English Channel and the surrounding countryside. Located on the charming Kent coastline in Broadstairs, conveniently accessible to Margate and the stunning Botany Bay, a round of golf at North Foreland is highly recommended for individuals planning their next golf getaway in this region of Kent.
Kent
Rated 9.2 by 234 golfers (Read reviews of Prince's Golf Club)
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Kent
Rated 9.6 by 27 golfers (Read reviews of Royal St George's Golf Club)
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Kent
Rated 9.4 by 31 golfers (Read reviews of Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club)
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The golf courses along "England's Golf Coast" are not only renowned for their challenging layouts, but also for their stunning coastal views. Situated next to the Irish Sea, these courses not only provide golfers with breathtaking views of the coastline but are also steeped in history, with many of them having hosted major golfing events such as The Open Championship.
Royal Liverpool, also known as Hoylake, is one of the oldest and most prestigious courses in England. The course is known for its challenging links-style layout and its unpredictable weather conditions. Royal Lytham & St Annes is another historic Open course known for its tricky bunkers and undulating greens, which make it a challenging course for even the most experienced golfers. Royal Birkdale is a championship course that is known for its challenging bunkers and its narrow fairways, which require precision and accuracy from golfers.
In addition to these three Open Championship courses, the region boasts several other notable golfing destinations. Wallasey Golf Club is a links-style course that has hosted several amateur championships. St Annes Old Links is a traditional links course that offers stunning views of the coastline. Southport & Ainsdale presents a stunning expanse of undulating links terrain that is seamlessly integrated with Hillside. West Lancsashire is a simple, obvious, flawless design that is known for its fast greens and deep bunkers. Hillside has hosted several amateur championships and a day spent on the fairways here is sure to satisy the senses. Formby Golf Club offers traditional seaside golf and is known for its challenging layout. Caldy Golf Club is a parkland course that looks out over the Dee Estuary. Hesketh Golf Club was established in 1885, making it the oldest golf club in the Southport area. Part of the layout features superb holes that are carved through the towering sand dunes, while the remainder borders the Ribble Estuary.
Southport
Rated 10 by 30 golfers (Read reviews of Royal Birkdale Golf Club)
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Southport
Rated 9.6 by 17 golfers (Read reviews of Hillside Golf Club)
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Cheshire
Rated 8.6 by 14 golfers (Read reviews of Royal Liverpool Golf Club)
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The picturesque South Coast of Wales boasts a plethora of exceptional golfing destinations that cater to the discerning golfer seeking a refined and challenging experience. With their stunning coastal vistas, meticulously manicured fairways, and world-class facilities, these courses offer an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in the timeless sport of golf.
Ashburnham is a traditional Welsh links-style course, nine holes that lead out and nine leading back in. The course boasts rolling fairways, pot bunkers, and blind tee shots, which makes some holes impossible to play without prior knowledge while the greens are some of the finest along the Welsh South coast. Pyle & Kenfig is renowned for its tricky fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens. With panoramic views of the Bristol Channel and a friendly, down to earth feel for its visitors.
Tenby boasts a picturesque setting with breathtaking views of the Carmarthen Bay. The course is the oldest in Wales and features tight fairways, challenging roughs, and strategically placed bunkers. Golfers can enjoy the stunning coastal scenery while navigating the undulating terrain and testing their shot-making abilities. Southerndown, nestled on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, offers a unique blend of parkland and links golf. This challenging course is known for its natural beauty, with rolling fairways, heather-covered hills, and panoramic views of the Bristol Channel. Southerndown provides a memorable golfing experience in a tranquil and picturesque setting.
Pennard, often referred to as the "links in the sky," is perched on the cliffs of the Gower Peninsula. This dramatic course offers breathtaking views of Three Cliffs Bay and challenges golfers with its deep valleys, and towering sand dunes. Pennard is a true gem for golfers seeking a memorable and challenging round of golf. Langland Bay, located near Swansea, offers a parkland course with stunning views of the Gower Peninsula. This picturesque course features tree-lined fairways, strategically placed water hazards, and well-manicured greens. Langland Bay provides a more relaxed golfing experience while still offering a fair challenge for golfers of all abilities.
Swansea
Rated 9.2 by 32 golfers (Read reviews of Pennard Golf Club)
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South Coast & Pembrokeshire
Rated 9.6 by 24 golfers (Read reviews of Royal Porthcawl Golf Club)
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Swansea
Rated 8.6 by 24 golfers (Read reviews of Langland Bay Golf Club)
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The west coast of Scotland boasts a remarkable collection of golf courses that offer a diverse range of playing experiences. From world-renowned championship courses to hidden gems tucked away in picturesque landscapes, golf enthusiasts are spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting a course to play. One of the most iconic golf courses along the west coast is the Ailsa Course at Trump Turnberry. Situated on the Ayrshire coastline, Turnberry offers breathtaking views of the Firth of Clyde and the famous Ailsa Craig. With its challenging fairways and undulating greens, this course has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including four Open Championships.
Moving north along the coast we find Prestwick St Nicholas, a course that exudes history and tradition. Dating back to 1851, this links is a challenge to golfers of all skill levels, with strategic bunkering, undulating fairways, and stunning coastal views. Prestwick Golf Club, often referred to as the birthplace of the Open Championship, is an historic course that has witnessed some of the sport's most memorable moments. Its traditional layout, featuring blind shots, deep rough, and challenging greens, offers a nostalgic journey back to the roots of golf. Talking of The Open next comes Royal Troon, known for its challenging back nine, particularly the famous "Postage Stamp" par-3 hole, the course demands precision and strategic thinking from golfers. A little further along the coast lies Kilmarnock Brassie, a course that showcases the region's rich golfing heritage. With well-manicured fairways, meticulously maintained greens, picturesque surroundings, including mature trees, water features, and stunning views of the Scottish countryside.
Dundonald Links, located near Troon, is another gem that attracts golfers from around the world. Designed by renowned golf architect Kyle Phillips, this links-style course offers a unique blend of traditional Scottish golf and modern design elements. Its strategic bunkering and natural hazards make it a true test of skill for players of all levels. Next to Dundonald is Western Gailes, a hidden gem that often flies under the radar. Offering stunning views of the Isle of Arran and the Ailsa Craig with narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and fast greens, the layout provides a true test of accuracy and shot-making skills. Gailes Links, a classic seaside course that has been in existence since 1892. With its firm fairways, deep pot bunkers, and unpredictable winds, Gailes Links provides an authentic Scottish golf experience. There are very few courses in the British Isles that boast turf better for golf than here.
Irvine, a town steeped in golfing history, is home to a course that has been played on for over 130 years. The Irvine Golf Club, also known as Bogside, offers a classic links experience of challenging fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens, all while taking in the panoramic views of the Ayrshire coastline. Across the Firth of Clyde you will find Machrihanish Dunes, a course that perfectly encapsulates the rugged charm of Scotland's west coast. Situated on the remote Kintyre Peninsula, this links course boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the neighboring islands. The neighbouring course of Machrihanish boasts what is regarded by many as the best opening hole on the planet; standing on the first tee facing a long carry across the bay is without doubt one of golf's great experiences. The Machrie, located on the Isle of Islay, is another gem along the west coast. This historic course blends modern design elements with the traditional links layout. With its sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes, including the famous Machrie Bay, golfers can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region while enjoying a round of golf.
Glasgow & Ayrshire
Rated 9.6 by 207 golfers (Read reviews of Trump Turnberry Golf Resort 5*)
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Glasgow & Ayrshire
Rated 9.2 by 33 golfers (Read reviews of Dundonald Links)
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Glasgow & Ayrshire
Rated 9.6 by 20 golfers (Read reviews of Prestwick Golf Club)
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The Lothian coastline boasts some of the finest golf courses in Scotland, many of which were designed by the renowned Old Tom Morris. The courses embody the picturesque image that golfers often envision when contemplating the essence of traditional Scottish links golf. Muirfield is firmly established among the upper echelon of global golfing venues, proudly showcasing one of the most exceptional links courses to be found within the British Isles. The unique challenge presented at Muirfield distinguishes it from many other links golf courses, as the front 9 is skillfully navigated in a clockwise loop, while the back 9 is artfully played in an anti-clockwise loop.
Kilspindie, established in 1867, is a traditional links course that showcases stunning views of the Firth of Forth. With its undulating fairways, challenging bunkers, and unpredictable sea breezes, Kilspindie provides a true test of skill and strategy for golfers of all levels. Gullane Golf Club boasts three championship courses, offers a golfing haven for players seeking a variety of challenges. The renowned Gullane No. 1 course, features dramatic changes in elevation and is impeccably presented. Dunbar is another must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts. This traditional links course, established in 1856, offers a thrilling golfing adventure amidst rugged dunes and panoramic views of the North Sea. North Berwick is a true golfing paradise, boasting one of the oldest golf courses in the world. The West Links provides a unique blend of challenging holes, including the famous "Redan" and "Perfection" par 3's. Luffness New Golf Club, nestled between Gullane and Aberlady, is a hidden gem that should not be overlooked. This traditional links course offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens.
Craigielaw boasts a stunning location with panoramic views of the River Forth and North Sea, making it an ideal golfing retreat. Despite being a recent addition to Scotland's 'Golf Coast', it has already hosted the Scottish Senior Open in 2018 and is ranked among the top 80 courses in the country. Glen Golf Club is renowned as a highly sought-after coastal golf course in Scotland. Its origins trace back to the year 1906, when the esteemed golf architects Ben Sayers and James Braid were entrusted with the task of expanding the original nine-hole layout into a championship-worthy 18-hole course, which remains intact to this day. Situated along the East Coast, the course boasts breathtaking vistas of the Firth of Forth and the Bass Rock, home to the largest colony of northern gannets in the world.
East Lothians
Rated 9.2 by 48 golfers (Read reviews of Gullane Golf Club)
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East Lothians
Rated 9.4 by 11 golfers (Read reviews of North Berwick Golf Club)
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East Lothians
Rated 9.6 by 6 golfers (Read reviews of Dunbar Golf Club)
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The region encompassing the northern coast of Wales boasts a remarkable collection of golf courses, each offering a unique and captivating experience for golf enthusiasts. One such course is the renowned Royal St. David's, this historic course is set against the backdrop of the majestic Harlech Castle and offers panoramic views of the Snowdonia National Park. Its challenging layout, with undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers, provides a test for even the most skilled golfers.
Moving further along the coast, Nefyn Golf Club awaits, perched on the picturesque cliffs of the Llŷn Peninsula. This course is renowned for its unique layout, featuring a famous "Point" hole that requires players to navigate a narrow strip of land surrounded by the sea. Conwy Golf Club, situated in the Conwy Valley, offers a challenging yet rewarding game. This championship links course is known for its fast greens, deep bunkers, and strategic water hazards, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Conwy Castle.
Similar to numerous links courses established during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Aberdovey follows a distinct out and back layout, profoundly influenced by the prevailing weather conditions. The wind emanating from the bay exhibits a wide spectrum, ranging from a gentle zephyr to a fierce gale, thereby significantly altering the course's character. The sandy soil at Abersoch is highly conducive to golf, and the exceptional course designed by Harry Vardon in 1907 effectively incorporates the natural terrain. The coastal winds typically present comparable obstacles throughout the layout and can prove to be quite challenging when the wind intensifies.
Located in Morfa Bychan, Porthmadog Golf Club is a must-visit on any North Wales Golf Tour. Established in 1905, the club boasts a friendly and welcoming membership, perfect for visiting golfers. The James Braid-designed course is truly exceptional, with the back nine holes being particularly memorable thanks to their stunning surroundings. This traditional links course offers both a friendly atmosphere and a challenging game, with breathtaking views of the Cardigan Bay coastline and Snowdonia mountain range.
North West & Harlech
Rated 9.4 by 95 golfers (Read reviews of Nefyn Golf Club)
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North West & Harlech
Rated 9.6 by 20 golfers (Read reviews of Aberdovey Golf Club)
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North West & Harlech
Rated 8.8 by 77 golfers (Read reviews of Royal St David's Golf Club)
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Goswick Links was established in 1890 and is a true seaside links situated along the stunning Northumberland Coastline. This remarkable course offers awe-inspiring views of the North Sea, Holy Island, and the majestic Bamburgh Castle. Stepping onto the first tee at Goswick is the beginning of an immersive journey through a vast natural landscape, featuring undulating fairways, greens, natural bunkers, sweeping shorelines, and panoramic vistas. Situated in the industrial region of Teesside, Seaton Carew is a renowned gem that boasts five distinct course layouts, each utilizing varying combinations of its 22 holes. As Donald Steel aptly observed, this course presents a rare challenge that deserves close scrutiny, with its slender strip of undulating ground.
Moving south to Norfolk, a region with over 90 miles of coastline, golf enthusiasts can enjoy great golfing experiences. Sheringham, situated in a remarkably picturesque location, is particularly renowned for its extensive par 4 holes and breathtaking views from atop the cliffs. It holds a special place in the hearts of numerous golf enthusiasts. Hunstanton, a historic Norfolk links golf course, offers a distinctive character and excellent playability throughout the year, with its fast and firm playing surface during the summer months.
The seclusion and magnificence of Royal West Norfolk creates a sense of unity with the course itself, focusing one's attention on the imminent challenge. While the links design occasionally exhibits eccentricities, paying homage to the course's historical origins, the surroundings are truly awe-inspiring, especially after passing the fifth hole, where the coastal vistas become breathtaking.
Royal Cromer's layout has undergone numerous enhancements by renowned golf course architects such as James Braid, JH Taylor, and most recently, Frank Pennick. These enhancements have resulted in the exceptional layout that the course boasts today. The signature 14th hole is a testament to the course's unique character and design. Moving into Suffolk we find Thorpeness, when considering the aspects of difficulty, ambience, and design it is unparalleled in the area. The esteemed Braid design boasts a multitude of truly remarkable holes.
Norfolk
Rated 9.6 by 18 golfers (Read reviews of Royal Cromer Golf Club)
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Norfolk
Rated 9 by 2 golfers (Read reviews of Royal West Norfolk Golf Club)
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Northumberland
Rated 10 by 6 golfers (Read reviews of Goswick Links Golf Club)
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Golfing along the eastern coast of Scotland, spanning from Dundee to Aberdeenshire and extending towards the majestic Highlands, offers an exquisite experience from a plethora of meticulously designed golf courses, each with its own unique charm and challenges.
The coastal town of Carnoustie contains the world-famous Carnoustie Links, where golfing legends have battled against the elements and tested their skills on its treacherous bunkers and unforgiving roughs. Panmure Golf Club boasts an exceptional golfing experience, characterized by the presence of invigorating swirling winds that serve as a natural shield, embracing the picturesque dunes. A visual representation of the essence of links golf would closely resemble the captivating landscape of Panmure. At Montrose, one can effortlessly envision the landscape as it existed centuries ago, prior to the meticulous trimming of grass and the establishment of defined greens and tees. These seem to be the only alterations that have occurred since 1562.
Moving north into Aberdeenshire we find Royal Aberdeen, widely recognized as not only one of the premier golf courses in Scotland, but also the world. Initially crafted by the Simpson brothers, Robert and Archie, hailing from Carnoustie, the course has undergone modifications by James Braid and has played host to many professional tournaments including the Scottish Open & the Walker Cup. The establishment of Murcar Links dates back to 1909, when it was founded by the esteemed golf professional from the neighboring Royal Aberdeen. Subsequently, the renowned James Braid contributed his expertise to enhance the course. The landscape of this links course is adorned with vibrant gorse, whins, and strategically placed bunkers, which add a challenging element to the game. The Trump International Golf Links resort boasts an acclaimed links golf course, is it the best in the world? Maybe not but it could be one day.
Continuing north through Aberdeenshire is Cruden Bay, renowned for its dramatic landscape and challenging layout. Nestled between towering sand dunes and overlooking the North Sea, this traditional links course provides a thrilling and unforgettable golfing experience. Peterhead offers a diverse and well-maintained course suitable for players of all abilities. The tranquil setting and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal choice for both casual players and serious golfers looking for an enjoyable round. Fraserburgh boasts stunning coastal views, undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers, demanding precision and skill from players of all levels.
As coastline ventures towards Inverness we pass the courses of Moray, a short but charming layout that is simple, brilliant and unpretentious. The layouts of Nairn & Nairn Dunbar are the sort of courses any golfer should play at least once. Cabot Highlands also fits that label, an essential destination for individuals seeking to relish the breathtaking links golf in the Scottish Highlands. The course, crafted by Mark Parsinen and Gil Hanse, amalgamates contemporary design with the conventional links golf encounters that are characteristic of the finest links courses. Fortrose & Rosemarkie holds the esteemed distinction of being recognized as the 15th oldest golf club worldwide. Over the years, this venue has played host to numerous Scottish amateur championships, further attesting to the formidable challenge of the course.
Moving on up the coast into the Scottish Highlands resides the championship course of Royal Dornoch, consistantly ranked in the Top 20 courses of the world, containing challenging terrain alongside undulating fairways and greens that require precision and skill. Golspie is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by visitors, set against a backdrop of the Sutherland hills the course offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Brora, located just north of Golspie, is another championship course that is known for its fast greens and tight fairways and is considered one of the best links courses in Scotland, a must-play for any serious golfer.
Aberdeenshire
Rated 9 by 10 golfers (Read reviews of Royal Aberdeen Golf Club)
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Aberdeenshire
Rated 9 by 11 golfers (Read reviews of Cruden Bay Golf Club)
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Aberdeenshire
Rated 9.6 by 16 golfers (Read reviews of Trump International Golf Links)
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The South West coast of England offers exceptional golfing opportunities, the courses provide a challenging and picturesque setting for golf enthusiasts, showcasing the natural beauty of the region while offering a range of courses suitable for players of all skill levels.
Perranporth provides a challenging yet rewarding game for players of all skill levels. With its undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and breathtaking views, this course promises an unforgettable golfing adventure. Further along the coast lies Trevose, a prestigious course that has gained international recognition. Boasting three championship courses, Trevose offers a variety of playing options to suit every golfer's preferences. The Championship Course, designed by the legendary Harry Colt, presents a formidable challenge with its tight fairways and well-guarded greens. St Enodoc is home to one of the finest links courses in Cornwall, the course, a James Braid design carved through enormous dunes, overlooks the Estuary with Padstow in the distance.
Saunton Golf Club proudly hosts two of the finest links courses in England. You can really get some great golf photos around this course, with the various elevated tee-positions and framing of the dunes. Burnham & Berrow is an exceptional club with a rich history dating back to 1891, when it first opened as a nine-hole course. Subsequently expanded to 18 holes overseen by a succession of renowned architects such as Herbert Fowler, Harry Colt, Harold Hilton, and Dr. Alister Mackenzie, the designer of Augusta National. Royal North Devon proudly holds the distinction of being the oldest golf course in England that continues to utilize its original fairways. Commonly referred to as Westward Ho!, owing to its location in the eponymous town, its reputation as one of the most coveted courses in the country is firmly established.
Devon
Rated 8.4 by 16 golfers (Read reviews of Royal North Devon Golf Club)
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Devon
Rated 9.4 by 35 golfers (Read reviews of Saunton Golf Club)
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Cornwall
Rated 9.2 by 16 golfers (Read reviews of St Enodoc Golf Club)
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Northern Ireland is home to world-class golf courses and some of the very best links golf the UK & Ireland has to offer. Each course offers unique beauty and challenges, utilising the lush landscapes this famous golfing destination is known for.
Situated in the quaint town of Newcastle is Royal Country Down, consistently ranked at the summit of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the world, with its rugged coastal terrain and unrivalled views of the Mourne Mountains.
Ardglass Golf Club, located on rugged cliffs overlooking the Irish Sea, offers a unique coastal experience with its historic course dating back to 1896. Royal Portrush Golf Club, home to the renowned Dunluce Links, will host The Open Championship for a third time in 2025, and will once again showcase its blend of natural beauty and outstanding quality.
Journeying along the northern coast, Castlerock Golf Club beckons with its pristine and challenging links layout, set amidst rolling sand dunes and coastal breezes. Ballycastle Golf Club, situated at the gateway to the Glens of Antrim, charms golfers with its picturesque setting and challenging layout. Finally, Royal Belfast Golf Club, steeped in history dating back to 1881, offers a timeless golfing experience amidst lush parkland surroundings and is one of only 4 “royal” courses in Ireland.
Antrim
Rated 9.8 by 19 golfers (Read reviews of Royal Portrush Golf Club)
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Northern Ireland
Rated 8 by 12 golfers (Read reviews of Castlerock Golf Club)
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Northern Ireland
Rated 8.8 by 7 golfers (Read reviews of Royal Belfast Golf Club)
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The rugged and unspoiled beauty of North West Ireland, known for stunning scenic coastlines, castles and huge mountain ranges, is the perfect setting for a golf trip.
One of the very best in the region is County Sligo Golf Club. Nestled between the Benbulben mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the panoramic views at County Sligo match the outstanding championship course designed by Harry Colt. More westward but with equally eye-catching views is Narin & Portnoo Links, set along the stunning Wild Atlantic Way. A little way along the coast lies Donegal Golf Club, or Murvagh as it's commonly known, offering a championship links experience on the shores of Donegal Bay, with strategic bunkering and windswept fairways adding to the challenge.
Located in the beautiful corner of Donegal you will find Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Links set between two stunning beaches with its three championship golf courses. Portsalon Golf Club, nestled along the shores of Lough Swilly, offers sweeping panoramic views and immaculate fairways. Further north lies Ireland’s northernmost golf club, Ballyliffin, where windswept dunes of County Donegal surround two outstanding courses, a must visit when going on an Ireland golf trip.
Galway Bay Golf Resort, nestled along the shores of Galway Bay, combines stunning scenery with a challenging course, making it a must-play destination for golfers visiting the region. Connemara Golf Links, set against the backdrop of the Twelve Bens mountain range, offers a unique links experience amidst rugged terrain and stunning natural beauty.
Carne Golf Links, situated amidst the remote splendour of County Mayo, showcases the architectural genius of Eddie Hackett, using the untamed landscape and ocean views to provide a setting typical of the North West region. Finally, Enniscrone Golf Club, affectionately referred to as "The Dunes," boasts one of Ireland's finest links layouts, with towering sand dunes and rolling fairways that provide an exhilarating golfing experience along the shores of Killala Bay.
Sligo
Rated 9.6 by 4 golfers (Read reviews of County Sligo Golf Club)
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Donegal
Rated 9.6 by 4 golfers (Read reviews of Donegal Golf Club)
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North West Ireland
Rated 9 by 2 golfers (Read reviews of Carne Golf Links)
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The South West of Ireland arguably has the most concentrated batch of first-class championship venues, an impressive feat in a country known for its quality and stunning settings when it comes to golf.
Starting with Waterville Golf Links, nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Ring of Kerry, golfers can experience the rugged coastline, rolling dunes, and challenging winds that have tested the skills of golfers for generations. Lahinch Golf Club, situated on the shores of Liscannor Bay, is home to a timeless links layout and natural hazards, set against the stunning backdrop of the Clare coastline.
Dooks Golf Club, tucked away on the scenic Dingle Peninsula, is arguably slightly less known than other courses in the region, but is definitely one of the prettiest. Founded in 1885, Dooks’ undulating fairways and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean make for an unforgettable golfing experience. Ballybunion Golf Club, revered as one of the finest links courses in the world, beckons with its towering dunes, dramatic coastline, and challenging layout that continues to captivate golfers. Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Doonbeg, situated along the rugged shores of County Clare, offers a luxurious retreat combined with a championship course designed by Greg Norman, providing a memorable blend of challenge and indulgence.
Further along the coast, Dingle Golf Links invites players to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, where stunning views and exhilarating golf await amidst the wild Atlantic scenery. Tralee Golf Club, perched on the edge of Tralee Bay, captivates golfers with its breathtaking views and challenging design by Arnold Palmer, ensuring a round of golf that is as rewarding as it is memorable.
Finally, Old Head Golf Links, perched on a dramatic peninsula overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most spectacular links courses, where every shot is played against the backdrop of sheer cliffs and crashing waves.
County Clare
Rated 9.6 by 8 golfers (Read reviews of Lahinch Golf Club)
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South West Ireland
Rated 9.4 by 23 golfers (Read reviews of Ballybunion Golf Club)
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South West Ireland
Rated 9.6 by 17 golfers (Read reviews of Tralee Golf Club)
1 Night, 2 Rounds
Exploring the golfing landscape of the East of Ireland unveils a rich heritage of courses, each offering its own blend of history, challenge, and natural beauty.
Beginning with Seapoint Golf Links, situated along the scenic coastline of County Louth, golfers are treated to sweeping views of the Irish Sea and a challenging links layout that has played host to Ireland’s most prestigious tournaments. Moving further south to Portmarnock, revered as one of Ireland's greatest links courses, golfers can enjoy a timeless experience, characterised by undulating fairways, towering dunes and the sound of crashing waves. Nearby Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links offers a luxurious retreat combined with a championship course designed by Bernhard Langer, nestled against the backdrop of Dublin Bay.
Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club, with over a century of tradition, provides a links-style challenge amid the dunes of County Meath, with strategic bunkering and stunning coastal views. Royal Dublin Golf Club, founded in 1885 and located on Bull Island in Dublin Bay, boasts a rich heritage and a challenging links course that has hosted numerous prestigious events. Travelling further south, the European Club, crafted by renowned architect Pat Ruddy, offers a true test of golf amidst dramatic dunes and rugged terrain, earning its reputation as one of Ireland's most challenging courses.
County Louth Golf Club, affectionately known as Baltray, offers a classic links experience with its natural sand dunes and fast-running fairways, making it a well-renowned favourite. Finally, The Island Golf Club, nestled between the estuary of the Malahide River and the Irish Sea, makes the most of the natural beauty.
East Ireland
Rated 8.6 by 7 golfers (Read reviews of Seapoint Golf Links)
1 Night, 2 Rounds
Dublin
Rated 9.6 by 12 golfers (Read reviews of Portmarnock Golf Club)
1 Night, 2 Rounds
Wicklow
Rated 9.2 by 7 golfers (Read reviews of The European Club)
1 Night, 2 Rounds