1. Royal County Down Golf Club
It's a great day to play some golf! The Royal County Down Golf Club has been around for more than 100 years and it is known as one of Ireland’s premier courses. If you're looking forward an unforgettable experience, this perfect spot will not disappoint.
It is considered by many to be one of the best links courses in the world. It has beautiful sea views and an unforgettable opening hole that starts from an elevated tee and runs along the coastline.
Located: Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland
Founded: 1889
Designed by: Old Tom Morris; George Combe; Harry Vardon and Harry Colt
Length: 7186 yards
Par: 71
Green Fees: £150 - £300
2. St Andrews Old Course
It is one of the most iconic golf courses in the world, the Old Course at St Andrews is a must-play for any serious golfer. Founded in 1552, it has been the site of many major championships and is widely considered the birthplace of the sport. The course itself is a classic links layout, with windswept dunes and fast-running fairways.
Located: St Andrews, Scotland
Founded: 1552
Designed by: Daw Anderson, Old Tom Morris
Length: 7305 yards
Par: 72
Green Fees: £135 - £295
3. Muirfield
Another of Scotland's great golfing institutions, Muirfield is one of only two courses (the other being St Andrews) to have hosted The Open 16 times. Designed by Old Tom Morris, it is a traditional seaside links with deep pot bunkers and fast greens.
It is a true test of golf, and one that many players consider to be the ultimate challenge.
Located: Gullane, East Lothian, Scotland
Founded: 1891
Designed by: Tom Morris Sr.
Length: 7245 yards
Par: 72
Green Fees: £125 - £310
4. Royal Birkdale Golf Club
Royal Birkdale Golf Club is a world-renowned golf club located in the United Kingdom. Founded in 1889, the club has hosted many prestigious tournaments over the years, including the Ryder Cup, the British Open, and the Amateur Championship. Royal Birkdale is also one of the few golf clubs to have been awarded the status of "Royal" by both the UK and US golf associations. Situated on the beautiful coastline of Southport, Royal Birkdale offers visitors stunning views of the Irish Sea as they enjoy a round of golf. With its rich history and beautiful setting, Royal Birkdale is truly a world-class golf club.
Located: Southport, England
Founded: 1889
Designed by: Frederick G. Hawtree, J.H. Taylor
Length: 7156 yards
Par: 70
Green Fees: £185 - £320
5. Royal Portrush Golf Club
Royal Portrush Golf Club is one of the best golf courses in the UK. It is located in Northern Ireland and has two world-famous eighteen hole championship courses, Dunluce Links and Valley Links. Royal Portrush also has a nine-hole beginners course called The Drift. The club has hosted many championships over the years, including The Open Championship, Irish Open, and Amateur Championship. In 2019, it will host The Open Championship for the first time since 1951. Royal Portrush is a private club but visitors are welcome to play on weekdays if they are accompanied by a member.
Located: Portrush, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Founded: 1888
Designed by: Harry Colt.
Length: 7337 yards
Par: 71
Green Fees: £100 - £255
6. Trump Turnberry - Ailsa Course
The Ailsa Course at Trump Turnberry is one of the most iconic and challenging golf courses in the world. Situated on the picturesque shores of the Firth of Clyde in Scotland, the course has hosted four Open Championships, most recently in 2009 when Stewart Cink prevailed in a playoff over Tom Watson. The Ailsa Course is a true test of golf, requiring accuracy and precision off the tee, as well as a deft touch around the greens. With its dramatic seaside setting, the Ailsa Course is also one of the most beautiful courses in the world. In 2017, the course underwent a major renovation led by famed architect Martin Ebert. The result is a modern classic that is sure to challenge and delight golfers of all skill levels for years to come.
Located: South Ayrshire, Scotland
Founded: 1906
Designed by: Willie Fernie
redesigned by: Mackenzie Ross
Length: 7448 yards
Par: 71
Green Fees: £90 - £150
7. Sunningdale Golf Club
Although it doesn't have quite the same history as some of the other courses on this list, Sunningdale's Old Course is widely regarded as one of the best inland courses in UK. Founded in 1900, it was designed by legendary golf architect Harry Colt and features beautiful heathland scenery.
Located: Sunningdale, Berkshire, England
Founded: 1900
Designed by: Willie Park Jr.
Length: 6672 yards
Par: 72
Green Fees: £380 - £420
8. Formby Golf Club
Formby Golf Club is located in the small town of Formby, England. The club was founded in 1884 and has been a popular destination for golfers ever since. The course is situated on a sandy stretch of coastline, and the sea breezes make for challenging conditions. Formby is also home to a large number of red squirrels, which are often seen scurrying around the course. In recent years, the club has undergone extensive renovations, and it now boasts a modern clubhouse and state-of-the-art facilities. With its picturesque setting and well-maintained course, Formby Golf Club is an ideal place to enjoy a round of golf.
Located: Gullane, East Lothian, Scotland
Founded: 1891
Designed by: Tom Morris Sr.
Length: 7245 yards
Par: 72
Green Fees: £125 - £310
9. Carnoustie golf Links
Carnoustie is one of the world's most historic and prestigious golf clubs. Founded in 1842, it has hosted the British Open on seven occasions, most recently in 2021. Carnoustie is renowned for its challenging links course, which has been described as the "toughest in Britain". The club also has a rich tradition of producing world-class golfers, including three-time Open champion Gary Player. Today, Carnoustie remains one of the sport's most coveted venues, and its championship course is widely regarded as one of the best test of golf. Whether you're a passionate golfer or simply a fan of the game, a visit to Carnoustie is an unforgettable experience.
Located: Carnoustie, Scotland
Founded: 1842
Designed by: Allan Robertson and Old Tom Morris;
Length: 7245 yards
Par: 68
Green Fees: £192 - £270 Adults & £67.5 - £135 Juniors
10. Sunningdale - New Golf Club
One of the most significant changes to Sunningdale in recent years has been the introduction of the new golf club. The club has been designed to provide a challenging and enjoyable experience for all levels of player, from beginners to experienced professionals. The course is situated in the heart of Sunningdale, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. The club provides an excellent variety of facilities, including a pro shop, driving range, and putting green. In addition, the club offers a wide range of membership options, making it an affordable option for everyone. Whether you're looking for a challenging game of golf or a leisurely round with friends, Sunningdale's new golf club is the perfect choice.
Located: Sunningdale, Berkshire, England
Founded: 1923
Designed by: Harry Colt
Length: 6729 yards
Par: 70
Green Fees: £380 - £470