10 golf courses you should play this year

Golf isn't just about the golf.

Some of the most memorable rounds aren't necessarily the ones where you shoot your best score, but the days when everything comes together. The first glimpse of the coastline, a historic town to explore before teeing off, dramatic landscapes surrounding the fairways or simply the feeling that you've discovered somewhere special.While Britain is blessed with world-famous venues, there are countless courses that offer much more than just 18 holes. They provide an experience; a day trip, a weekend escape, or an adventure that begins long before you arrive at the first tee.

Drawing inspiration from highly-rated Golfshake favourites, hidden gems and bucket-list destinations, these are the golf courses you should consider playing this year.

Aberdovey Golf Club, Wales

The Seaside Escape

Set beside the Dyfi Estuary on the Mid Wales coast, Aberdovey is everything golfers hope a traditional links course will be. Natural undulations, firm-running fairways and sea views combine to create a layout that has stood the test of time. Golfshake reviewers frequently praise the course's conditioning, friendly atmosphere and authentic links experience, making it a favourite among those who have made the journey.

The Destination

Set on the edge of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park and overlooking the Dyfi Estuary, Aberdovey offers a wonderful combination of links golf and natural beauty. The surrounding area features expansive beaches, dramatic mountain scenery and a charming seaside village atmosphere, creating a destination that feels both relaxing and distinctly Welsh.

Burnham & Berrow Golf Club, Somerset

Often overshadowed by some of England's more famous links venues, Burnham & Berrow is regarded by many golfers as one of the finest traditional links courses in the country. Consistently excellent conditioning, challenging bunkering and a layout that rewards strategic thinking have earned it a reputation as a true hidden gem.

The Destination

Somerset's coastline provides a fitting backdrop for Burnham & Berrow set within a region renowned for its coastal landscapes and traditional seaside character. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views across the Bristol Channel while exploring a part of England that offers a quieter alternative to some of England's more established golfing destinations.

Silloth-on-Solway Golf Club, Cumbria

The Value Bucket-List Experience

Few courses receive as much praise for value and quality as Silloth-on-Solway. Frequently described as one of England's best-kept secrets, the course delivers championship-calibre links golf with spectacular views across the Solway Firth. Golfshake reviewers regularly highlight the conditioning, warm welcome and memorable layout.

The Destination

Positioned on the remote Solway Coast, Silloth offers a sense of tranquillity and escape that is increasingly rare. The surrounding landscape combines expansive sea views, open countryside and easy access to both the Solway Coast and the wider landscapes of Cumbria, making it an appealing destination for golfers looking to experience a different side of England.

Royal Cromer Golf Club, Norfolk

Perched on the cliffs above the North Sea, Royal Cromer offers one of the most distinctive settings in English golf. The course combines natural beauty with a fascinating history and a layout that remains both enjoyable and challenging. Visitors often speak highly of the condition of the course and the welcoming atmosphere.

The Destination

Few regions combine coastal scenery and traditional English charm quite like North Norfolk. With its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and picturesque villages, the area provides an ideal setting for a golfing getaway, while the views from Royal Cromer itself are among the finest in the country.

Brora Golf Club, Scottish Highlands

The Hidden Gem

Brora remains one of Britain's most enchanting golfing experiences. Designed by James Braid, the course blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings, with golfers sharing the landscape with grazing sheep and stunning views of both sea and mountains. It is regularly described as one of Scotland's greatest hidden gems.

The Destination

Brora is located in one of the most spectacular regions of Scotland. The Highlands offer a remarkable blend of rugged coastline, mountain scenery and open landscapes, creating a golfing experience that feels deeply connected to its surroundings. The area's rich heritage and relaxed pace only add to its appeal.

Parkstone Golf Club, Dorset

The Luxury Day Out

Parkstone is one of England's premier heathland courses and continues to impress visitors with its immaculate conditioning and spectacular views across Poole Harbour. Golfshake reviewers consistently rate it highly, praising both the quality of the layout and the overall experience.

The Destination

Overlooking Poole Harbour and situated close to some of England's most attractive coastline, Parkstone benefits from an enviable location. The surrounding area offers beautiful beaches, vibrant waterfront settings and some of the South Coast's most attractive coastal scenery, making it an excellent destination both on and off the golf course.

Trevose Golf & Country Club, Cornwall

With the Atlantic Ocean visible from much of the course, Trevose delivers a golfing experience that feels uniquely Cornish. The championship links layout is complemented by excellent facilities and a reputation for consistently high standards.

The Destination

Few golfing locations capture the spirit of Cornwall quite like Trevose. Surrounded by Atlantic coastline, dramatic cliffs and picturesque fishing communities, the area offers a distinctive sense of place that has long attracted visitors from across Britain and beyond. It is a setting that perfectly complements the golf.

Cruden Bay Golf Club, Aberdeenshire

Cruden Bay is one of the most distinctive and entertaining links courses in the world. Its dramatic dunes, quirky routing and unforgettable holes have earned it a loyal following among golfers who appreciate courses full of character. Many who visit describe it simply as one of the most enjoyable rounds they have ever played.

The Destination

Cruden Bay enjoys one of the most dramatic settings in Scottish golf. The surrounding coastline is wild, rugged and beautifully unspoilt, while nearby castles, beaches and historic fishing villages provide plenty to explore beyond the fairways. It is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.

Alwoodley Golf Club, Leeds

Designed by Alister MacKenzie, Alwoodley is regarded as one of the finest inland courses in Britain. Its strategic design, exceptional conditioning and rich history continue to attract golfers from across the country. It remains a benchmark for classic heathland golf.

The Destination

Situated in Yorkshire, one of England's strongest golfing regions, Alwoodley offers access to a wealth of golfing heritage alongside vibrant city life and attractive countryside. The combination of world-class golf, historic architecture and renowned Yorkshire hospitality makes the wider destination every bit as appealing as the course itself.

Prince's Golf Club, Kent

Prince's may sit in the shadow of its famous neighbour, but that only adds to its appeal. Host of the 1932 Open Championship, the course has evolved into one of England's most enjoyable and versatile links destinations. With 27 holes split across three distinct nines, golfers can experience a variety of challenges while enjoying superb conditioning and genuine links golf. Golfshake reviewers frequently highlight the quality of the layout, the practice facilities and the overall visitor experience.

The Destination

The Sandwich Bay coastline is one of the most historic landscapes in British golf. Combining expansive beaches, protected coastal habitats and the characterful medieval town of Sandwich, the area provides a rich backdrop to any golfing visit. The region's unique blend of heritage and natural beauty makes it one of England's most rewarding golf destinations.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're searching for a traditional links experience, a luxury golfing escape, a hidden gem tucked away on a remote coastline or simply an excuse to discover a new corner of Britain, these courses offer far more than just great golf.

From the cliffs of Norfolk and the Highlands of Scotland to the beaches of Cornwall and the coastline of Wales, each destination proves that some of the best golf days are about the places you experience as much as the shots you hit.

If you're looking for inspiration for your next golfing adventure, these are ten courses that deserve a place on your list.