England’s crown golfing jewel
Planning a golf getaway in Southeast England? This iconic region is rightly considered England’s crown golfing jewel, offering a wealth of world-class courses and luxury resorts just a short drive from London. From legendary Open Championship venues along the Kent coastline to pristine parkland layouts in Surrey and Berkshire, Southeast England is a dream destination for golfers of every level.
Tee it up at customer favorites in East Sussex, or relax in five-star luxury at premier golf resorts in West Sussex. Whether you’re chasing the challenge of coastal links, seeking a peaceful countryside escape, or looking for a top-tier golf experience near London, Southeast England has it all.
Why book a golf trip to South East England?
- Play European Tour & Open Championship host courses
- Experience a variety of layouts, from heathland classics to authentic links
- Explore some of England’s most beautiful rural locations
- Enjoy easy access, all within close reach of London
What makes a Southeast England golf so special?
Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, South East England seamlessly blends top-tier accommodation with an exceptional golfing experience.
Just a short distance to London, some of our most popular accommodation options include:
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.
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.
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 help you choose your next golfing experience, we've compiled a selection of the best golf courses in Southern England for your upcoming golf trip.
Sunningdale Golf Club (Old & New)
Ranked the no.2 & 3 courses in England by Top 100 Golf Courses
Just 30 miles from London, Sunningdale offers 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 finishing 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 perfect 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 Fall (May–September) This is the prime season for golf in South East England, offering:
-
Mild to Warm Weather: Temperatures range from the low 60s °F in spring to the upper 70s °F in peak summer.
-
Longer Days: More daylight hours mean relaxed tee times and late finishes.
-
Dryer Conditions: Summer months are typically drier, with optimal course conditions.
Off the course
A golf getaway offers more than just world-class courses - you’ll have the chance to explore the rich tapestry of Southeast England. Join us as we guide you through not only the finest golf experiences but also the hidden gems, charming towns, and cultural wonders waiting beyond the fairways.
Discover Canterbury's Heritage Step into history in the medieval city of Canterbury, renowned for its cobbled streets and iconic cathedral. Visit the UNESCO-listed Canterbury Cathedral, explore The Canterbury Tales attraction, and immerse yourself in centuries of culture. It’s the perfect historical complement to your golf trip.
Whitstable's Coastal Charms Unwind in Whitstable, a seaside town known for pebble beaches, a vibrant arts scene, and its famous oysters. Take a stroll along the waterfront, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, and soak up the laid-back coastal vibe.
New Forest Outdoor Retreat Experience the natural beauty of the New Forest, home to quaint villages like Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst, just minutes from Barton-on-Sea Golf Club and Bournemouth. Hike or cycle through scenic landscapes, encounter free-roaming ponies, and savor a traditional cream tea. This outdoor haven offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure away from the course.
Brighton's Regal Elegance Head to Brighton to explore the Royal Pavilion, an extraordinary 18th-century palace with exotic architecture. Wander The Lanes for boutique shopping, enjoy the iconic pier, or relax on Brighton’s pebble beach. With its mix of culture, seaside charm, and vibrant energy, Brighton adds a lively twist to your golf getaway.
Windsor's Royal Grandeur Just a short drive from many of Southeast England’s top golf resorts, Windsor is home to the world-famous Windsor Castle - an official residence of His Majesty The King. Take a river cruise along the Thames, stroll through elegant parks, or dine in historic pubs. Windsor blends royal heritage with riverside charm for a truly majestic stop on your journey.
Oxford's Academic Prestige Discover the timeless city of Oxford, where centuries of academic tradition meet stunning Gothic architecture. Tour the University of Oxford’s historic colleges, explore the Ashmolean Museum, or try your hand at punting along the River Cherwell. Oxford provides an intellectual and cultural dimension to balance your time on the fairways.