In search of the finest golfing experiences in Wales, we set out to explore the captivating landscape of this enchanting country. With many stunning parkland and links courses scattered across Wales, we embarked on a journey to unearth the best. From the coast’s rugged beauty to the countryside’s rolling hillsides, our mission was clear – to find the top golf courses that would challenge and inspire every golfer, all while immersing ourselves in the warm Welsh hospitality that makes this place truly special. So join us as we share our exciting discoveries and unveil the hidden gems of the best golf courses in Wales, where every swing becomes an unforgettable journey.
Championship Links Courses
Wales is known for its stunning coastline and boasts some of the best championship links courses in the UK. These courses offer a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience, with breathtaking views of the sea and the rugged Welsh landscape. If you’re looking to test your skills on top-notch links courses, here are three that should be at the top of your list.
Royal Porthcawl Golf Club
Located in Bridgend, Royal Porthcawl Golf Club is widely regarded as one of the best links courses in Wales. With its majestic dunes, undulating fairways, and challenging bunkers, this historic club provides an actual test of golfing ability. As a host to many prestigious tournaments, including the Senior Open Championship 2014, Royal Porthcawl offers a chance to play where some of the world’s finest golfers have competed.
Aberdovey Golf Club
Nestled on the beautiful coastline of Cardigan Bay, Aberdovey Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers a unique links golfing experience. The course boasts stunning views of the sea and the Snowdonia Mountains and is known for its challenging, undulating fairways and fast greens. With its rich history and warm, friendly atmosphere, Aberdovey is a must-play course for any golf enthusiast visiting Wales.
Royal St David’s Golf Club
Royal St David’s Golf Club offers a truly memorable golfing experience in the picturesque town of Harlech. The course is renowned for its challenging layout, featuring blind shots, deep bunkers, and fast greens. Going around this historic links course, with the medieval Harlech Castle as a backdrop, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Royal St David’s is a true gem of Welsh golf with its stunning coastal views and first-class facilities.
Parkland Courses in Wales
While Wales is famous for its links courses, it also offers a variety of excellent parkland courses. These courses are set in lush, green landscapes, surrounded by trees and rolling hills, providing a different golfing experience. Here are three outstanding parkland courses in Wales that are worth a visit.
Celtic Manor Resort
Home to the 2010 Ryder Cup, Celtic Manor Resort is a golfing paradise in Newport. With its three championship courses, including the Twenty Ten Course, which hosted the historic Ryder Cup matches, this resort offers a world-class golfing experience. The courses are immaculately maintained, and the facilities are second to none, making Celtic Manor a must-visit destination for golfers of all abilities.
Vale Resort Golf Club
Set in the picturesque countryside near Cardiff, the Vale Resort Golf Club offers two outstanding championship courses that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The Lakes Course and the Wales National Course provide a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience for players of all levels. The stunning views and excellent facilities make the Vale Resort a top choice for golfers looking for a memorable parkland golfing experience.
Machynys Peninsula Golf & Country Club
Located in Llanelli, Machynys Peninsula Golf & Country Club is a modern championship course that offers a unique blend of parkland and links-style holes. Designed by renowned architect Nicklaus Design, this course provides a challenging round of golf while offering breathtaking views of the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthen Bay. With its luxurious clubhouse and excellent practice facilities, Machynys Peninsula delivers a first-class golfing experience.
Hidden Gems
In addition to the well-known championship courses, Wales is home to several hidden gems that offer a unique and unforgettable golfing experience. These courses may not have the same level of fame as their counterparts, but they make up for it with their beauty, challenge, and warm, friendly atmosphere.
Conwy Golf Club
Situated on the North Wales coast, Conwy Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of the Conwy Estuary and the Snowdonia Mountains. The course is challenging, with tight fairways, strategic bunkering, and undulating greens. The warm welcome and breathtaking scenery make Conwy Golf Club a must-visit for any golfer looking for a hidden gem in Wales.
Nefyn & District Golf Club
Located on the Llyn Peninsula, Nefyn & District Golf Club is known for its unique layout and breathtaking coastal views. The course is perched on the cliffs, offering panoramic vistas of the Irish Sea. With its challenging holes and unpredictable winds, Nefyn & District is an actual test of golfing skill. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make this hidden gem a must-play for any avid golfer.
Ashburnham Golf Club
Situated in Burry Port, Ashburnham Golf Club is a traditional links course that offers a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience. With its undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens, this hidden gem will put your golfing skills to the test. The stunning coastal scenery and warm hospitality make Ashburnham Golf Club a hidden gem that should not be missed.
Historic Golfing Destinations
For golfers who appreciate history and tradition, Wales has several historic golfing destinations. These courses have stood the test of time and continue to provide an unforgettable golfing experience steeped in tradition and heritage.
Tenby Golf Club
Founded in 1888, Tenby Golf Club is one of Wales’s oldest and most prestigious golf clubs. With its breathtaking views of Carmarthen Bay and Caldey Island, this historic links course offers a true sense of golfing tradition. The challenging layout, combined with the warm welcome from the friendly staff, makes Tenby Golf Club a must-visit for golfers seeking a slice of Welsh golfing history.
Southerndown Golf Club
Perched high on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, Southerndown Golf Club is a historic links course known for its challenging holes and stunning views. The course offers an actual test of golfing skill, with undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens. The club’s rich history and warm, welcoming atmosphere make Southerndown a favorite among golfers looking to experience Wales’ golfing heritage.
Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club
Located near Bridgend, Pyle, and Kenfig Golf Club is a hidden gem that has been welcoming golfers since 1922. The course features a classic links layout, with rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and stunning views of the South Wales coastline. The friendly members and staff, combined with the challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience, make Pyle and Kenfig a historic destination that should not be missed.
Picturesque Coastal Golf Courses
When it comes to picturesque golf courses, Wales has plenty to offer. With its stunning coastline and breathtaking views, playing golf on a coastal course in Wales is a truly unforgettable experience. Here are three coastal courses that are as visually stunning as challenging.
Machrie Hotel & Golf Links
Situated on the Isle of Islay in Scotland, the Machrie Hotel & Golf Links is a unique coastal course that attracts golfers worldwide. With its rugged dunes, dramatic cliffs, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, this course offers a golfing experience like no other. The warm hospitality and natural beauty of the Machrie Hotel & Golf Links make it a must-play for any golfer seeking a picturesque coastal course.
Pennard Golf Club
I have often referred to it as “the links in the sky.” Pennard Golf Club offers golfers breathtaking views of the Gower Peninsula and Three Cliffs Bay. The course is set on high ground, offering panoramic vistas of the rugged coastline. With its challenging holes and stunning scenery, playing golf at Pennard Golf Club is like playing golf in a postcard.
Porthmadog Golf Club
Nestled on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park, Porthmadog Golf Club offers a unique golfing experience with its blend of links and parkland holes. The course overlooks the Glaslyn Estuary and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With its challenging yet enjoyable layout and stunning scenery, Porthmadog Golf Club is a hidden gem that should not be missed.
Clifftop Golfing Experience
Playing golf on a clifftop course is an exhilarating experience that combines stunning scenery and challenging golf. Wales is home to several clifftop courses that allow golfers to test their skills while enjoying breathtaking coastal views.
Royal West Norfolk Golf Club
Royal West Norfolk Golf Club is a clifftop course providing a true-links golfing experience in Norfolk, England. With its undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and stunning views of the North Sea, this course will challenge even the most experienced golfer. The unique location and rich golfing heritage of Royal West Norfolk make it a bucket-list destination for any golf enthusiast.
Holyhead Golf Club
Situated on the Isle of Anglesey, Holyhead Golf Club is a clifftop course that offers panoramic views of the Irish Sea. The course features challenging holes, with the coastal winds adding an extra element of difficulty. The warm welcome from the friendly members and the stunning coastal scenery make Holyhead Golf Club a must-visit for any golfing enthusiast.
Bull Bay Golf Club
Perched on the edge of the Anglesey coastline, Bull Bay Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers an actual clifftop golfing experience. With its challenging holes, undulating fairways, and breathtaking coastal views, this course is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and stunning scenery make Bull Bay Golf Club a must-play for any golfer seeking a unique clifftop experience.
Affordable Golf Courses
Golf is often seen as an expensive sport, but Wales offers a range of affordable golf courses that still provide an enjoyable and challenging golfing experience. These courses offer excellent value for money without compromising on quality.
Wenvoe Castle Golf Club
Located in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wenvoe Castle Golf Club is an affordable course that offers stunning views of the Bristol Channel and the surrounding countryside. The course provides an enjoyable round of golf for players of all levels, with its challenging holes and well-maintained fairways and greens. The friendly atmosphere and affordable prices make Wenvoe Castle Golf Club a top choice for budget-conscious golfers.
Coed-Y-Mwstwr Golf Club
Nestled in the heart of the Welsh countryside, Coed-Y-Mwstwr Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers a challenging yet affordable golfing experience. The course features tree-lined fairways, fast greens, and panoramic views of the rolling hills. With its warm welcome and affordable green fees, Coed-Y-Mwstwr Golf Club is an excellent option for golfers looking for a budget-friendly round.
Padeswood and Buckley Golf Club
Situated in the picturesque Flintshire countryside, Padeswood and Buckley Golf Club is a beautiful parkland course that provides an affordable golfing experience. The course features lush fairways, well-manicured greens, and stunning views of the Welsh landscape. The friendly staff and reasonable green fees make Padeswood and Buckley Golf Club a top choice for golfers on a budget.
Top Golf Resorts in Wales
For golfers looking for a complete golfing experience, Wales has several top golf resorts offering world-class courses, luxurious accommodations, and excellent facilities. These resorts provide everything you need for a memorable golfing getaway.
The Vale Golf Resort
Located in Hensol, the Vale Resort is a golfing paradise with two championship courses, a luxurious spa, and exquisite dining options. The Wales National Course and the Lake Course are known for their challenging but rewarding layouts, providing an enjoyable round of golf for players of all levels. With its stunning surroundings and top-notch facilities, the Vale Resort is an ideal golf retreat destination.
Celtic Manor Resort
Home to the 2010 Ryder Cup, Celtic Manor Resort is one of the UK’s premier golf destinations. With its three championship courses, luxurious accommodations, and world-class amenities, this resort offers a golfing experience. The Twenty Ten Course, Roman Road Course, and Montgomerie Course provide a variety of challenges and breathtaking views. You’ll be treated to the highest service and hospitality from the moment you arrive, making your stay at Celtic Manor unforgettable.
Ffrith Beach Festival Gardens
Situated in Prestatyn, Ffrith Beach Festival Gardens is a unique golf resort offering an enjoyable golfing experience and family-friendly attractions. The traditional links course provides a challenging round of golf, while the nearby family entertainment complex offers a range of activities for all ages. With its affordable green fees and variety of amenities, Ffrith Beach Festival Gardens is the perfect choice for golfers looking to combine their passion for golf with a family holiday.
Family-Friendly Golf Courses
If you’re a golf enthusiast with a family, finding a golf course that caters to everyone’s needs can be challenging. Fortunately, several family-friendly golf courses in Wales offer a welcoming atmosphere and activities for golfers of all ages.
Rhuddlan Golf Club
Located in Denbighshire, Rhuddlan Golf Club is a family-friendly course that offers a warm welcome to golfers of all abilities. The course features a mix of parkland and links-style holes, providing a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf. The friendly staff and excellent facilities, including a driving range and practice area, make Rhuddlan Golf Club a top choice for families looking to enjoy a day on the golf course.
Rhyl Golf Club
Situated on the North Wales coast, Rhyl Golf Club is a family-friendly course that offers stunning views of the Irish Sea and the surrounding countryside. The course provides a challenging round of golf with its undulating fairways and well-manicured greens. The club offers a range of activities for junior golfers, including coaching programs and junior competitions, making Rhyl Golf Club an ideal choice for families looking to introduce their children to the game.
Abergele Golf Club
Nestled in the heart of the Conwy Valley, Abergele Golf Club is a scenic course that caters to golfers of all ages and abilities. The course offers stunning views of the Welsh countryside and the nearby Clwydian Range. In addition to the challenging round of golf, Abergele Golf Club offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including a clubhouse with a bar and restaurant, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a complete golfing experience.
Inland Golf Courses
While Wales is known for its stunning coastline, it also offers fantastic inland golf courses. These courses are set in beautiful parkland settings, surrounded by rolling hills and lush green landscapes. Here are three outstanding inland courses in Wales that are worth a visit.
Llanwern Golf Club
Situated near Newport, Llanwern Golf Club is an inland course that offers a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf. The course features mature trees, meandering water hazards, and well-manicured fairways and greens. The friendly atmosphere and breathtaking surroundings make Llanwern Golf Club a top choice for golfers seeking an inland golfing experience.
Pontnewydd Golf Club
Located in Cwmbran, Pontnewydd Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil and picturesque golfing experience. With its tree-lined fairways and stunning views of the nearby mountains, this course provides a delightful round of golf for players of all levels. The warm welcome from the friendly members and the affordable green fees make Pontnewydd Golf Club a top choice for golfers looking for an inland golfing getaway.
Blackwood Golf Club
Nestled in the beautiful valleys of South Wales, Blackwood Golf Club is a scenic parkland course that offers a challenging layout and stunning vistas. The course features rolling fairways, strategic bunkering, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. With its warm welcome and challenging holes, Blackwood Golf Club is a hidden gem no golfing enthusiast should miss.
