England’s crown golfing jewel
Planning a golf break in South East England? This iconic region is rightly considered England’s crown golfing jewel, offering a rich variety of world-class golf courses and luxury resorts just a short drive from London. From legendary Open Championship venues along the Kent coastline to immaculate parkland layouts in Surrey and Berkshire, South East England is a dream destination for golfers of all levels.
Enjoy unforgettable rounds at customer favourites in East Sussex, or unwind in five-star luxury at premier golf resorts in West Sussex. Whether you're after a coastal links challenge, a tranquil countryside escape, or a top-tier golf getaway near London, South East England has it all.
Why book a golf break to South East England?
- Play European Tour & Open Championship host courses
- Experience a variety of courses, from heathland classics to authentic links
- Visit England’s best & most beautiful rural locations
- Easily accessible, within close proximity to London
What makes a Southeast England golf so special?
Discover the epitome of golfing luxury in South East England at a premier stay & play resort. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, this destination seamlessly blends top-tier accommodation with an exceptional golfing experience.
Discover our curated list of top stay & play golf resorts near London, as well as some excellent accommodation options ideal for a golf tour! Stay & play resorts:
East Sussex National Location: Uckfield | Customer rating: 4.5/5 | Distance from London: 60 miles A long-time favourite for golfers visiting the South East, East Sussex National boasts two championship courses designed by Robert E. Cupp and Sir Nick Faldo. Located just 45 minutes from Gatwick Airport, the resort combines luxury accommodation, modern spa facilities, and panoramic countryside views - ideal for a rejuvenating golf break.
Old Thorns Hotel & Resort Location: Hampshire | Customer rating: 4.4/5 | Distance from London: 50 miles Nestled in the scenic Hampshire countryside, Old Thorns offers a challenging championship course and superb accommodation. Ideal for groups and couples alike, the resort features a wellness spa, top-tier dining, and vibrant après-golf facilities—all just 90 minutes from London.
Donnington Valley Hotel & Spa Location: Berkshire | Customer rating: 4.5/5 | Distance from London: 62 miles Nestled in the Berkshire countryside, Donnington Valley pairs a challenging 18-hole parkland course with luxury spa amenities. It's an excellent base for exploring both golf and nearby historic towns like Newbury and Oxford.
The Oxfordshire Golf, Hotel & Spa Location: Oxfordshire | Customer rating: 4.5/5 | Distance from London: 50 miles Home to a Rees Jones-designed course, The Oxfordshire is a former host of European Tour events. The 7,192-yard layout includes water hazards and sweeping fairways, making it one of the best modern courses in Southern England. With a stately hotel and full-service spa, it’s perfect for a weekend golf escape near London.
Other popular hotels suitable for a golf tour:
Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa Location: Ascot | Golf on-site? No | Distance from London: 30 miles Located near Ascot and Windsor, this elegant Victorian manor offers easy access to top courses like Pine Ridge Golf Club, Sunningdale, and Walton Heath. While not on a golf course itself, Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa is an ideal luxury base for golfers wanting to sample the South East’s most exclusive venues. The award-winning spa and gourmet dining make it a relaxing retreat after a round.
Hilton Woking Location: Woking | Golf on-site? No | Distance from London: 25 miles Modern and stylish, Hilton Woking is ideally situated for golfers looking to explore premier courses in Surrey, including Woking Golf Club, Worplesdon, and West Hill. While the hotel doesn’t have its own course, its central location and upscale amenities make it a convenient and comfortable base for a South East England golf break. Enjoy sleek rooms, rooftop dining, and excellent transport links to both London and the surrounding countryside.
The Lodge at Prince's Location: Sandwich, Kent | Customer rating: 4.6/5 | Distance from London: 80 miles Located on the championship Prince’s Golf Club, The Lodge offers golfers the ultimate coastal retreat on England’s historic Kent coast. With 27 holes of links golf on-site and neighbouring Royal St George’s and Royal Cinque Ports just minutes away, it’s a dream destination for serious players. The contemporary lodge features sea-view rooms, hearty dining, and a relaxed clubhouse atmosphere - perfect for a true links golf escape.
Best-selling golf packages in South East England
Popular golf breaks in the South East
Best golf in South East England
Where to play on your South East England golf break?
Play the best golf clubs in Southeast England
The diverse terrains, ranging from Surrey's sandbelts to the coastlines of Kent and Hampshire, offer unique destinations for golf enthusiasts. To aid you in choosing your next golfing experience, we've compiled a selection of the best golf courses in Southern England for your upcoming golf break.
Sunningdale Golf Club (Old & New)
Ranked the no.2 & 3 courses in England by Top 100 Golf Courses
Just 30 miles from London, Sunningdale is a quintessential English heathland experience. The Old Course (1901) by Willie Park Jr., and the New Course by Harry Colt, consistently rank among the top 10 in the UK. Expect firm turf, strategic bunkering, and elegant tree-lined fairways - a masterclass in classic golf architecture.
Where to stay? Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa, Ascot
Royal St George's
Ranked the no.1 course in England by Top 100 Golf Courses
A true Open Championship icon, Royal St George’s is a world-class links course set along the windswept coast of Sandwich Bay. With deep bunkers, rolling dunes, and a distinctive figure-eight layout, it delivers one of the most thrilling tests in golf - a must-play for purists, just two hours from London by train.
Where to stay? The Bell Hotel, Sandwich
Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club
Ranked the no.10 course in England by Top 100 Golf Courses
Just down the coast from Royal St George’s, Royal Cinque Ports (Deal) is a historic Open Championship venue known for its rugged beauty and relentless challenge. This classic links course features tight fairways, deep bunkers, and some of the toughest closing holes in British golf, especially when the wind is up.
Where to stay? The Bell Hotel, Sandwich
St George’s Hill Golf Club
Ranked the no.9 course in England by Top 100 Golf Courses
Another Harry Colt gem, St George’s Hill is an elite private club near Weybridge. The Red and Blue nines are world-renowned for their stunning elevation changes, sweeping fairways, and timeless charm. A must-play for serious golfers, and easily accessible from central London.
Where to stay? Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa, Ascot
Walton Heath Golf Club
Ranked the no.15 course in England by Top 100 Golf Courses
With two historic courses and Ryder Cup pedigree, Walton Heath is one of England’s most celebrated inland layouts. The Old Course (1903) hosted the 2018 British Masters and was designed by Herbert Fowler, famed for its challenging bunkers and windswept heathland. Located just 20 miles from London, it’s ideal for a day trip or part of a multi-round itinerary.
Where to stay? Hilton Woking, Surrey
Travel information for South East England & London golf trips Getting there:
- Most top golf destinations—such as Ascot, Woking, and Sandwich—are within 1–2 hours’ drive from central London via major motorways (M3, M25, M20, M2).
- London Heathrow and Gatwick airports are both under an hour’s drive from most South East golf resorts, with good train and car hire options.
Best time to travel Late Spring to Early Autumn (May–September) This is the best window for golf in South East England, offering:
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Mild to Warm Weather: Temperatures range from 15°C in spring to 25°C in peak summer.
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Longer Days: More daylight hours mean relaxed tee times and late finishes.
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Dryer Conditions: Summer months are typically drier, with optimal course conditions.
Golf travel tips for South East England
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Off the course
A golf break offers more than just exceptional courses; you are free to explore the rich tapestry of the Southeast. Join us as we guide you through not only the finest golf experiences but also the hidden gems, picturesque towns, and cultural wonders that await beyond the golf course.
Discover Canterbury's Heritage Explore the historic city of Canterbury, known for its medieval charm and iconic cathedral. Wander through cobbled streets, visit the UNESCO-listed Canterbury Cathedral, and experience medieval life at The Canterbury Tales attraction. Immerse yourself in history and culture, complementing your golf holiday.
Whitstable's Coastal Charms Escape to Whitstable, a seaside town with pebble beaches and a vibrant arts scene. Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront, savour fresh seafood at local restaurants, and indulge in Whitstable's famous oysters.
New Forest Outdoor Retreat Experience the natural beauty of the New Forest, with charming villages like Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst, just a stone's throw away from Barton-on-Sea Golf Club and Bournemouth. Take a walk or cycle through scenic landscapes, encounter free-roaming ponies, and relish a traditional cream tea. This outdoor haven provides a refreshing break from golf amidst serene woodlands and heathlands.
Brighton's Regal Elegance Visit Brighton and explore the Royal Pavilion, a unique 18th-century palace with exotic architecture. Roam The Lanes for shopping, stroll along the pier, or relax on Brighton's pebble beach. Immerse yourself in culture and elegance, adding a dynamic touch to your southeast England golf break.
Windsor's Royal Grandeur Just a short drive from many of South East England’s best golf resorts, Windsor is home to the world-famous Windsor Castle - an official residence of His Majesty The King. Enjoy a river cruise along the Thames, wander through elegant parks, and dine in historic pubs. Windsor perfectly blends royal heritage with riverside charm.
Oxford's Academic Prestige Step into the storied city of Oxford, where centuries of academic history meet stunning architecture. Tour the University of Oxford’s historic colleges, explore the Ashmolean Museum, or go punting along the River Cherwell. This city offers intellectual depth and beauty - a cultured contrast to the fairways.
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