A Golfer’s Guide to the Ultimate England Golf Trip

England stands out as a premier golf destination, combining a rich golfing heritage with challenging courses and scenic landscapes. Home to legendary venues such as Royal Birkdale, host of the 2026 Open Championship, and Royal St George’s, the country also offers world-class golf resorts and lesser-known gems nestled throughout its countryside. For any dedicated golfer, an England golf trip is certainly something to experience.

From the rugged links courses that hug the coastlines, to the tranquil parkland layouts and the distinctive charm of heathland tracks, England offers incredible variety for every type of golfer. One of the great advantages of a golf trip to England is the proximity of many of its top courses. Much of the country’s best golf is concentrated across three compact regions, making it possible to visit multiple Open Championship venues in a single trip, with relatively short drives between courses. Tournaments are woven throughout the fabric of England golf, being the centerpiece of many golf trips to the country. In 2027, the Ryder Cup heads to Adare Manor in Ireland, creating an ideal opportunity to combine golf in England and Ireland into one memorable trip.

With such a dense golf region, thoughtful planning is essential to make the most of your golfing journey and ensure you experience the very best this iconic destination has to offer. In this guide, we explore the regions, courses, and experiences that make England an unforgettable destination for golfers, while offering advice to help you plan your itinerary. With extensive experience arranging golf vacations across England, Premier Golf will help you bring your trip together, from selecting the right courses to coordinating accommodation and travel.

Course	Type	Architect	Opened
Royal Birkdale	Links	George Lowe	1889
Royal Lytham & St Annes	Links	George Lowe	1897
Royal Liverpool	Links	Robert Chambers and George Morris	1869
Hillside Golf Club	Links	Frank Pennink	1911
Formby Golf Club	Links	Willie Park Jr	1884

Royal St George’s	Links	William Laidlaw Purves	1887
Prince’s Golf Club	Links	Charles Hutchings and Percy Montagu Lucas	1906
Royal Cinque Ports	Links	Henry McGregor Hunter	1892
Sunningdale Golf Club	Heathland	Old: Willie Park Jr.; New: Harry Colt	1901 (Old) 1923 (New)
Swinley Forest Golf Club	Heathland	Harry Colt	1914
Walton Heath Golf Club	Heathland	Herbert Fowler	1928
St George’s Hill Golf Club	Heathland	Harry Colt	1913
The Berkshire	Heathland	Herbert Fowler	1928

Choosing the Right Destination

When planning a golf trip to England, choosing the right region is key. 

Premier Golf focuses on two top areas: the Golf Coast in North West England, famous for Open Rota links like Royal Birkdale and Royal Liverpool. Then there is London & the South East, where world-class resorts and classic heathland courses like Sunningdale combine with the energy of the capital.

What are the best golf courses in England?

In England, there is no shortage of excellent courses such as Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool, Royal St George’s, Sunningdale, and Royal Lytham & St Annes. From historic Open Championship venues along the coast to renowned heathland layouts inland, these courses are masterclasses in design, championship, pedigree, and history.

The following courses are some of the most prestigious while also maintaining accessibility for visitors.

England’s Golf Coast

The golf coast is one of the most iconic golf regions in England, known for its championship pedigree and stunning links courses.

Royal Birkdale

Since the 1800s, Royal Birkdale has become one of England’s most celebrated championship links. The course was extensively redesigned in the 1900s, paving way for the landscape that has now become so iconic in golf’s tournament history. In July 2026, Royal Birkdale hosted The 154th Open, where New Zealand’s Ryan Fox claimed his maiden major title with a dramatic birdie on the 72nd hole. Its fairways wind through valleys between towering sand dunes, creating a natural stadium for spectators while earning the course a reputation as one of the most difficult challenges in golf.

Opened: 1897
Par: 72
Length: 7,156 yards
Designers include: George Lowe, Fred G. Hawtree (redesign), J.H. Taylor (redesign)
Difficulty: Slope 151 / Rating 76.5

Royal Lytham & St Annes

Royal Lytham & St Annes is one of England’s most iconic links courses, having hosted The Open Championship 11 times since 1926. Unlike many traditional links, the course has no sea views, offering an inland feel despite its coastal location in Lancashire. Its demanding layout is renowned for its numerous bunkers and strategic challenges. The club also offers on-site accommodation at the Dormy House, with comfortable rooms overlooking the first tee.

Opened: 1897
Par: 70
Length: 7,118 yards
Designers include: George Lowe, Harry Colt, and Martin Ebert
Difficulty: Slope 152 / Rating 76.5

Royal Liverpool (Hoylake)

Royal Liverpool is one of England’s most historic links courses and a celebrated host of The Open Championship. The course hosted the 2023 Open, won by Brian Harman, alongside previous champions Tiger Woods (2006) and Rory McIlroy (2014). Set along the Wirral Peninsula, its traditional links layout offers a championship test and is the most convenient Open venue for visitors staying near the city of Liverpool.

Opened: 1869
Par: 72
Length: 7,341 yards
Designers include: Robert Chambers and George Morris
Difficulty: Slope 152 / Rating 77.1

Hillside

Renowned for its dramatic dunes and outstanding back nine, Australian golf legend Greg Norman famously praised the closing stretch after playing the course in 1982, writing to the club that its back nine holes were “the best in Britain.” With a challenging layout and memorable coastal scenery, Hillside is an excellent addition to an England golf tour. Located directly alongside Royal Birkdale, it also makes for an easy pairing when planning multiple rounds in the Southport area.

Opened: 1911
Par: 72
Length: 7,075 yards
Designers include: Frank Pennink
Difficulty: Slope 138 / Rating 75.2

Formby

Set among mature sand dunes and coastal pinewoods, Formby stands apart from many traditional links courses with its pine-lined holes, which frame the fairways and add a woodland character to the rugged coastal landscape. The combination of rolling dunes, strategic bunkering and tree-lined stretches makes Formby a top destination for any England golf tour.

Opened: 1884
Par: 72
Length: 7,128
Designers include: Willie Park Jr.; Redesigns by James Braid and Harry Colt
Difficulty: Slope 142 / Rating 76.6

London & The South East Heathland

The London and South East region is best known for golfers who enjoy a blend of links and heathland courses. It is also perfect for those seeking a premium golf experience near London with easy access to the famous sights and attractions of England’s cultural capital city.

Sunningdale

The Old Course, designed by Willie Park Jr. is celebrated for its natural routing through pine and birch woodland, undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers. The New Course, designed by Harry Colt and opened in 1923, is equally admired for its varied holes, thoughtful design and seamless integration with the surrounding heathland. Many golfers consider the New Course every bit as rewarding as the Old, making a 36-hole day an ideal way to experience both of these classic layouts.

Opened: 1901 (Old) / 1923 (New)
Par: 70
Length: 6,627 yards (Old), 6,716 yards (New)
Designers include: Willie Park Jr. (Old) / Harry Colt (New)
Difficulty: Slope 142 (Old), Slope 138 (New) / Rating 72.6 (Old), 73.3 (New)

Swinley Forest

Designed by Harry Colt and opened in 1909, Swinley Forest is a distinctive heathland course known for its charm and peaceful setting among the pine trees and heather of Berkshire. In contrast to many traditional golf clubs, it offers a quieter, more intimate experience where the natural beauty takes center stage. Visitor access is extremely limited, making a round here a rare opportunity. Premier Golf can help you explore access options and arrange a visit as part of your next trip.

Opened: 1909
Par: 69
Length: 6,431 yards
Designers include: Harry Colt
Difficulty: Slope 136 / Rating 71

Walton Heath

Walton Heath is one of the most renowned clubs in Surrey, celebrated for its expansive landscapes, firm playing surfaces and strategic challenges. Its reputation on the international stage was reinforced when it hosted the 2023 AIG Women’s Open, showcasing the course to a global audience. Combining a rich championship history with the natural character of the Surrey heathland.

Opened: 1928
Par: 72
Length: 7,199 yards
Designers include: Herbert Fowler
Difficulty: Slope 143 / Rating 75.4

The Berkshire

The Berkshire is a classic heathland club set among pine trees, rolling fairways and heather on the Crown Estate. The Red Course is particularly distinctive for its unusual layout of six par 3s, six par 4s and six par 5s, a balanced configuration that brings variety to the round and makes each stretch of holes feel different. With its welcoming approach to visiting golfers and the opportunity to play two highly regarded courses, The Berkshire is one of the more visitor-friendly heathland clubs in the region.

Opened: 1928
Par: 72
Length: 6,452 yards
Designers include: Herbert Fowler
Difficulty: Slope 131 / Rating 71.2

St George’s Hill

Designed by Harry Colt and opened in 1913, St George’s Hill is a celebrated heathland course set within the wooded hills of Surrey. Its dramatic elevation changes, undulating fairways and natural contours create a striking layout, with towering pines, silver birch and heather framing the holes. The elevated setting provides panoramic views across the course, while Colt’s thoughtful design makes excellent use of the land’s natural features to create a memorable and varied round.

Opened: 1913
Par: 70
Length: 6,546 yards
Designers include: Harry Colt
Difficulty: Slope 137 / Rating 70.5

Kent Coast

Royal St George’s

In 1894, Royal St George’s became the first course in England to host The Open Championship, with J.H. Taylor claiming the title. More recently, the club welcomed the world’s leading golfers in 2021, when Collin Morikawa won The Open on his debut, adding another memorable chapter to the venue’s championship legacy. Set among the towering dunes of the Kent coastline, the course is known for its undulating fairways, deep bunkers and demanding coastal conditions.

Opened: 1887
Par: 70
Length: 7,204 yards
Designers include: William Laidlaw Purves
Difficulty: Slope 150 / Rating 76.4

Prince’s

This is a historic links golf club on the Kent coast, best known for hosting The Open Championship in 1932, when Gene Sarazen claimed victory. The course has since undergone extensive redevelopment, blending its championship heritage with a modern links layout across three nine-hole loops: Shore, Dunes and Himalayas. With rolling fairways, natural dunes and challenging bunkering, Prince’s offers a varied test of links golf. The club also features on-site accommodation at The Lodge, overlooking Sandwich Bay, making it a convenient option for golfers looking to stay and play.

Opened: 1906
Par: 72
Length: 7,275 yards
Designers include: Charles Hutchings and Percy Montagu Lucas
Difficulty: Slope 149 / Rating 74

Royal Cinque Ports

Also known as Deal, it is a classic links course on the Kent coast with a place in Open Championship history, having hosted the tournament in 1909 and 1920. Set along the shoreline, the course features strategically placed bunkers and the natural challenges of traditional links golf. The back nine is particularly demanding, as it typically plays into the prevailing wind, testing both shot-making and course management.

Opened: 1892
Par: 72
Length: 7,367
Designers include: Henry McGregor Hunter
Difficulty: Slope 148 / Rating 76.9

Which region of England is best for a golf trip?

The best region depends on the main interests of your group. England’s Golf Coast is ideal for golfers seeking Open venues and traditional links golf, with Liverpool or Southport providing convenient bases. For traditional inland golf near the capital, London’s heathland courses offer a collection of renowned clubs, including Sunningdale and Walton Heath. Alternatively, the Kent coast is hard to beat for convenience, with Royal St George’s, Prince’s and Royal Cinque Ports all within approximately 10 minutes of each other.

Other regions are also worth considering, including Woodhall Spa in Lincolnshire, Ganton in Yorkshire, and the South West, where St Enodoc, Saunton and Royal North Devon offer memorable coastal golf.

Accommodation Options

Choosing the right place to stay can elevate your golf trip from good to unforgettable. England offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every golfer’s taste and budget, from indulgent luxury to charming countryside comfort.

Stay & Play Resorts (Best for convenience)

For a hassle-free experience, consider staying at a golf resort, where accommodation and golf are bundled together. While England’s Golf Coast doesn’t have many on-site resorts, the London & South East region has excellent options.

• Pennyhill Park (Surrey) – A five-star golf and spa resort a short distance from London.
• Prince’s Golf Club (Kent) – On-site lodge accommodation near Royal St George’s.
• The Belfry (Midlands) – A legendary Ryder Cup venue with multiple courses and a luxury hotel. The Belfry is outside the main region and will require longer transfer times.

Luxury Hotels & Country Estates (Best for premium experience)

If you’re looking for a high-end stay near top courses, there are several historic country estates and boutique hotels that cater to golfers:

• The Dormy House at Royal Lytham & St Annes – On-site accommodation at this historic Open Championship venue.
• The Grove (Hertfordshire) – A five-star hotel with a top-ranked inland course and excellent facilities.

Value accommodation:

For those prioritizing golf over luxury accommodation, there are plenty of charming B&Bs, hotels, and self-catering options near top courses:

• Southport (England’s Golf Coast) – A hub for affordable stays near Royal Birkdale, Formby, and Hillside.
• Sandwich (Kent) – Budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses near Royal St George’s and Princes.
• Liverpool & Manchester – Great for groups looking for nightlife and easy access to Royal Liverpool and the golf coast.
• Larger rental homes near major golf destinations (e.g., near Formby or Surrey) – These offer flexibility and cost-sharing benefits for groups.

How do you get tee times at England’s top courses?

Teeing off at some of England’s legendary golf courses takes more than just showing up, especially if you’re eyeing iconic names like Royal Birkdale, Royal St George’s, or Sunningdale.

The most important step in planning is booking tee times in advance, especially for high-demand courses like Royal Birkdale, Royal St George’s, and Sunningdale. Fortunately, Premier Golf will handle this step for you completely.

Green fees vary widely by course and season. While championship courses command a premium, twilight rates and mid-week discounts are available at many clubs, offering substantial savings if you’re flexible.

Prestigious clubs often enforce strict dress codes (collared shirts, tailored shorts or trousers, no denim) and may require proof of handicap, generally 18 or below for men and 24 for women. Premier Golf will assist with verifying all handicap requirements prior.

We highly recommend that our guests purchase travel insurance before travel.

• Travel Insurance: Covers cancellations and lost luggage, especially for long-distance travelers.
• Check Refund Policies: Some courses allow rebooking if weather causes closures.
• Flexible Tee Times: Avoid booking courses back-to-back to allow for travel delays.
• Backup Course Options: Have alternative courses planned in case of bad weather (inland courses tend to be more playable in wet conditions).

Course	Men’s Handicap Maximum	Women’s Handicap Maximum
Royal St. George’s	18.4	18.4
The Berkshire	18	24
Sunningdale	18.4	24.4
Formby	28	36

Premier Golf will manage all tee time reservations, green fee payments, and club-specific requirements. All you have to do is show up and swing.

How much does a golf trip to England cost?

The cost of an England golf tour depends on your itinerary, time of year, accommodation and the experiences you choose to include. A 6-night sample tour along England’s Golf Coast starts from $5,148 per golfer, while a 7-night sample tour through London and the South East starts from $8,828 per golfer. Each itinerary is tailored to your preferences, allowing our team to create a trip that suits your budget and golfing ambitions.

How do you get around on an England golf trip?

Getting from one course to another is a key part of planning your golf trip, especially when you’re chasing tee times at several top clubs across a region. Here’s how to make travel smooth and stress-free.

Driver vs. Self-Drive vs. Public Transport

• Driver (Recommended)
  • Premier Golf provides drivers in luxury coaches or smaller minivans.
  • Highest cost, but the most convenient and effortless experience.
  • Removes any issues of driving on a foreign road, or limitations e.g. not drinking.
• Renting a Car (Best value option)
  • The best way to access multiple courses, especially on England’s Golf Coast or in Surrey/Kent.
  • Recommended for groups to split costs.
  • Automatic transmission cars may cost more, so book early if needed.
• Public Transport (Limited but Viable in Some Areas)
  • South East: Some courses like Walton Heath and Sunningdale are accessible by train from London.
  • North West: Royal Birkdale and Hillside are near Birkdale Station, with connections from Liverpool.
  • Taxis/Ubers: Useful for short distances but unreliable in remote areas.

Driving in England: If you’re visiting from the US, remember that traffic in the UK drives on the left-hand side of the road, and roundabouts are common. Driving in central London can be busy, so consider using public transport while exploring the city. If you’re planning to rent a car for your golf trip, book an automatic transmission well in advance, as availability can be limited.

Travel Distances Between Courses

Region	Distance
Englands Golf Coast: Royal Birkdale, Formby, Hillside, Royal Liverpool	Within a 1-hour drive of each other
London & the South East: Sunningdale, Swinley Forest, Walton Heath, and The Berkshire	About 45 minutes of central London
Kent: Royal St George’s, Prince’s, and Royal Cinque Ports	Within 10 minutes of each other

How many days do you need for a golf trip to England?

We recommend spending 6–7 nights on England’s Golf Coast and 7–9 nights exploring London and the South East. This allows plenty of time to play the region’s iconic courses while enjoying the surrounding destinations, attractions, and experiences. Explore recommendations for individual and combined tours of England’s golf:

5-Day England’s Golf Coast: Five rounds across England’s celebrated northwest links courses.

6-Day London Heathland and Kent Coast: A combination of classic inland golf and historic coastal links.

10–12-Day Ultimate England: A comprehensive golf tour combining both regions, with time to explore beyond the courses.

When is the best time to play golf in England?

Mid-summer (June-August) typically offers England’s warmest weather and long daylight hours, making it an excellent time to enjoy a full schedule of golf. However, this coincides with peak travel season, when popular courses, hotels and tee times can be in high demand. May and September often provide an appealing balance, with generally pleasant playing conditions, fewer crowds, and greater flexibility when planning your itinerary. Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on your preferred courses, budget, and the experience you want from your trip.

What else is there to do on an England golf trip?

A great golf trip isn’t just about the fairways — it’s also about soaking in the sights, flavors, and culture of England. Whether you’ve got a free afternoon or are planning a few days off the course, there’s plenty to discover beyond the green.

Best Golf Clubhouse Dining & Bars

Some golf clubs in England have world-class clubhouses with excellent food and drink options:

• Sunningdale’s Clubhouse – Famous for its breakfast bacon rolls and classic post-round dining.
• Royal Birkdale’s Clubhouse – Traditional fine dining with views over the course.
• Formby’s Clubhouse – A hidden gem known for its pint of ale and seafood dishes.

Best Local Pubs & Restaurants Recommendations Near Golf Courses

• The Sparrowhawk (Formby) – A golfer-friendly pub near England’s Golf Coast.
• The Sportsman (Seasalter, Kent) – Michelin-starred dining near Royal St George’s.

Sightseeing & Cultural Activities

For non-golfing companions or rest days, consider these top attractions:

• Liverpool (Near Royal Liverpool & England’s Golf Coast) – The Beatles Story, historic docklands, and vibrant nightlife.
• Canterbury (Near Royal St George’s & Princes) – Famous cathedral and medieval charm.
• Windsor (Near Sunningdale & The Berkshire) – Visit Windsor Castle and historic sites.

Spas & Wellness (For Relaxation After Golf)

• Pennyhill Park Spa (Surrey) – Perfect for golfers playing Walton Heath or Sunningdale.
• Formby Hall Spa (Near Royal Birkdale & Hillside) – A great option on England’s Golf Coast.
• The Belfry – A luxury spa hotel near Birmingham

What should you pack for golf in England?

A well-packed golf bag and suitcase can make a huge difference, especially when playing multiple courses.

Golf Equipment & Clothing

• Waterproofs & Windproofs: Essential for English weather, especially on England’s Golf Coast and Kent’s links courses.
• Multiple Gloves: Rain gloves can be a lifesaver in wet conditions.
• Soft-Spike Golf Shoes: Required at most premium courses.
• Power Bank: Many courses don’t have charging points, so a power bank is useful for phones.
• Adapter Plug: Many of England’s plugs require a voltage converter for U.S. devices.
• Golf Towel & Umbrella: A must for links golf. A wind-resistant umbrella is highly recommended.

Start Planning Your England Golf Trip

England is a dream golf destination, offering legendary courses, stunning scenery, and rich tradition. From iconic Open venues to hidden countryside gems, it has something for every golfer. Planning an England golf trip is easier with the right expertise. As specialists in England golf travel, Premier Golf will create an itinerary tailored to your preferred courses, travel style, and budget. From securing tee times and arranging accommodation to coordinating private transport, caddies, and access to exclusive private clubs where available, our team takes care of the details so you can focus on enjoying England’s exceptional golf.

Let Premier Golf handle the details, from tee times to travel, and book your ultimate England golf trip with ease.

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