
A country steeped in golf heritage, England offers a unique blend of championship links, classic heathland layouts and traditional parkland courses. From iconic Open venues set along dramatic coastlines to inland masterpieces surrounded by rolling countryside, England delivers an authentic golf experience unlike anywhere else.
Combine world-class golf with vibrant cities, historic landmarks, traditional pubs and diverse landscapes, and it’s easy to see why England golf holidays remain a favourite for golfers seeking both quality and character.
Check out our top tips and FAQs to help you plan a golf holiday to England that’s seamless, memorable and packed with must-play courses.
Why choose England for a golf holiday?
England offers an exceptional mix of historic courses, variety of playing styles and easy accessibility. With a wealth of championship venues and clusters of top courses across key regions, it’s one of the most rewarding golf destinations in the world.
Highlights of an England golf break include:
- Iconic Open Championship venues
- World-famous heathland courses
- Authentic links golf experiences
- Easy access from the UK and Europe
- Diverse regions with clustered courses
England is ideal for golfers looking for tradition, variety and a truly authentic golf experience and atmosphere.

How many golf courses are in England?
England is home to over 1,800 golf courses, offering incredible depth and variety across the country.
Some of the best golf courses in England include:
- Royal Birkdale – One of England’s most celebrated Open Championship venues, known for its outstanding links layout.
- Royal St George’s – A historic Open host in Kent, delivering a true links challenge.
- Royal Liverpool – A regular Open venue offering strategic, championship golf.
- Sunningdale (Old & New) – Widely regarded as two of the finest heathland courses in the world.
- Walton Heath – A classic heathland layout and former Ryder Cup host.
- Prince’s Golf Club – A traditional links venue with 27 holes on the Kent coast.

Sunningdale Golf Course
Is England good for golf?
Yes, England is widely regarded as one of the world’s best golf destinations. Its heritage, course quality and variety make it a standout choice for golfers of all levels.
You can expect:
- Historic and prestigious golf venues
- A mix of links, heathland and parkland courses
- Championship layouts and playable options
- Traditional club atmospheres and excellent course conditions
When is the best time to play golf in England?
Golf is played year-round in England, but the most popular months are:
- May to September – Peak season with the best course conditions and longest days
- April and October – Excellent value, fewer crowds and strong playing conditions
Links courses remain highly playable throughout the year, making England a great option beyond the summer months.
Top tip: Always check aeration and maintenance schedules when booking.

Walton Heath
Where is best for golf in England?
Each region in England offers a slightly different golf experience.
- England’s Golf Coast - One of the UK’s premier links regions, home to Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool, Hillside and Formby, all within close proximity.
- Kent Coast - A historic links destination featuring Royal St George’s and Prince’s Golf Club, offering traditional seaside golf in the southeast.
- Surrey & Berkshire - The heart of England’s heathland golf, with iconic courses such as Sunningdale, Wentworth, Walton Heath and The Berkshire.
- The Midlands - A central and accessible region, home to The Belfry, famous for its Ryder Cup history and resort-style golf experience.
Are there golf resorts in England?
Yes. England offers a range of golf resorts and stay-and-play options, alongside traditional club-based experiences.
Top England golf resorts include:
- The Belfry - A world-famous golf resort featuring three courses, including The Brabazon, along with excellent accommodation and leisure facilities.
- Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa - A modern resort on England’s Golf Coast offering on-site golf, spa facilities and easy access to nearby links courses.
- The Grove - A luxury countryside resort near London with a championship course, five-star accommodation and outstanding dining options.
- Slaley Hall - Set in Northumberland, this resort offers two championship courses, a full-service spa and a peaceful rural setting.
- Forest of Arden - Located in the Midlands, this popular resort features two courses, including the championship Arden Course, plus extensive leisure facilities.
- Carden Park - A standout resort in Cheshire with two excellent courses, a luxury spa and a wide range of on-site activities.

The Grove
Do I need a handicap to play golf in England?
Many traditional clubs and championship venues require proof of handicap, particularly at courses such as Royal St George’s and Sunningdale. However, there are also more flexible options available, especially at resort-style venues like The Belfry.
We recommend checking requirements at the time of booking.
Can you rent golf clubs and buggies in England?
Most courses offer club and buggy hire, although availability can vary. Buggies are less common on traditional links and heathland courses, where walking is part of the experience, but are widely available at resort venues.
Advance booking is recommended, particularly during peak season.
Is England suitable for couples, groups and non-golfers?
Absolutely! England is a well-rounded destination that caters to all types of travellers.
Non-golf highlights include:
- World-famous cities like London and Liverpool
- Historic landmarks, castles and countryside
- Traditional pubs and modern dining
- Shopping, culture and nightlife

Royal Birkdale
Are England golf courses walkable?
Yes. Many of England’s traditional courses are designed to be walked, and this is often the preferred way to play.
Some venues may have restrictions on buggy use, particularly on links and heathland courses, so it’s best to check in advance.
Can I play tournament golf courses in England?
Yes. England is home to a number of famous tournament venues, many of which are available to play as part of a golf holiday.
Top tournament courses in England include:
- The Belfry (Brabazon Course) - A four-time Ryder Cup host and regular British Masters venue, offering one of the most iconic tournament experiences in the country.
- The Grove - Host of the 2006 World Golf Championship, this championship course delivers tour-level conditioning and a premium playing experience.
- Forest of Arden (Arden Course) - A former English Open venue, known for its challenging layout set among mature woodland.
- Slaley Hall (Hunting Course) - Regularly used for European Tour events, this Dave Thomas design is often referred to as ‘The Augusta of the North’.
Playing these courses gives you the chance to follow in the footsteps of the game’s greats, experiencing the same layouts and conditions that have tested the world’s best players. Discover more about golf tournaments here!
Do England golf courses have practice facilities?
Yes. Most courses offer practice facilities such as driving ranges, putting greens and short-game areas.
Many venues also provide professional tuition, making England a great option for both playing and improving your game.

The Brabazon Course at The Belfry
Planning your golf trip to England
Booking tips:
- The peak season runs from late spring through early autumn, so booking in advance is recommended to secure the most popular courses and tee times.
- Morning tee times are a great option during summer months, offering quieter courses and the best of the day’s conditions.
- Choose your base carefully. Regions like the North West and Kent offer incredible links clusters, while the Midlands and South are ideal for combining top courses with easy travel access.
- Look out for stay-and-play packages at leading resorts, which often provide excellent value and convenience.
- Be prepared for changeable weather and pack accordingly to make the most of your trip.
- Balance your golf with local experiences, from historic cities and countryside pubs to coastal walks and cultural landmarks.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re playing iconic Open venues, experiencing world-class heathland golf or exploring England’s rich history and culture, a golf holiday here offers something truly special. With its unmatched heritage, variety of courses and easy accessibility, England delivers a golf experience that combines tradition, quality and unforgettable moments both on and off the course.

Published 23 March 2026
Head of UK & Ireland Sales
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