What Makes a Great Golf Course in 2025

Guest Article by Phil Grice, Head of Venues, Custodian Golf

The definition of a great golf course is evolving. Today’s golfers demand more than pristine fairways and challenging greens, they seek an experience that resonates with their lifestyle. Technology, inclusivity, and sustainability are shaping modern course design and management, while flexibility is becoming non-negotiable. As we look ahead, it’s clear that the golf clubs thriving in 2025 will be those that adapt to these shifting expectations.

The traditional concept of a great golf course focused heavily on the physical elements: the design of the course, the quality of the greens, and the aesthetic appeal. While these remain important, the modern golfer’s priorities extend beyond the game itself. Time constraints, lifestyle changes, and technological advancements have redefined what players expect from their golfing experience.

Demand For Shorter Formats

One major shift is the demand for shorter formats of play. Many golfers no longer have the time for an 18-hole round, which can take up to five or six hours once travel and post-game socialising are factored in. Increasingly, clubs are adapting their layouts to allow for nine- or 12-hole rounds, or even shorter loops. These formats make it easier for players to fit golf into their busy schedules, providing a more accessible entry point for newcomers. As highlighted in Rebecca West’s insights for Custodian Golf, the ability to offer shorter, well-designed loops within existing courses is crucial for meeting this demand.

Embracing Digital Technology

Digital transformation is also key to creating a great golf course in 2024. Booking tee times through apps, tracking scores with digital tools, and even playing virtual rounds on simulators are becoming integral parts of the golfing experience. Yet, many clubs remain slow to adapt. "The whole world has digitalised," I often say. "Golf can’t afford to lag behind." Forward-thinking clubs are leveraging technology to streamline operations and enhance the customer journey. For instance, some courses now use GPS trackers to give players real-time updates on pace of play, ensuring a smoother experience for all.

Inclusivity

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Inclusivity is another defining feature of a great golf course. Historically seen as exclusive spaces, many clubs have struggled to shed this reputation. Yet inclusivity isn’t just a moral imperative, it’s a business opportunity. Clubs that welcome diverse memberships, including women, young players, and families, are finding they attract a broader and more loyal customer base. Creating a welcoming atmosphere means rethinking traditional structures, from tee time allocation to membership tiers. It’s about making every visitor feel valued, whether they’re seasoned players or newcomers testing the waters.

Sustainability

Sustainability is also transforming the definition of greatness. Golf courses occupy large swathes of land, and their environmental impact is under increasing scrutiny. Water usage, energy consumption, and biodiversity are all critical issues. Modern courses are addressing these challenges through smart irrigation systems, renewable energy installations, and native planting schemes. As the R&A’s Golf Course 2030 initiative shows, these practices not only reduce environmental impact but also appeal to a generation of players who prioritise sustainability (R&A Sustainable Golf).

The financial sustainability of clubs is equally important. Too many clubs operate on outdated business models, relying on narrow revenue streams like membership fees. A truly great golf course offers more than just golf, it becomes a community hub. Facilities like cafés, gyms, and event spaces attract a broader audience and generate additional revenue. As I’ve often pointed out, "Value is price minus the experience. If the experience is good, people will happily pay for it." Successful clubs know how to create an experience that feels worth every penny, from immaculate greens to a welcoming clubhouse.

Looking at examples like Potters Resorts Five Lakes Golf Club in Essex, which transitioned to a points-based membership system, it’s clear that innovation pays off. By offering flexible options for when and how members play, the club dramatically increased its membership base while maintaining a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. This kind of adaptability is a hallmark of a great golf course.

Ultimately, what makes a golf course great in 2025 is its ability to evolve. The best clubs recognise that they’re more than just places to play, they’re places to belong. Whether through shorter formats, cutting-edge technology, inclusive policies, or sustainable practices, the courses that thrive will be those that understand and meet the needs of the modern golfer.

As I often say, it’s not about revolution; it’s about evolution. Golf doesn’t need to abandon its traditions, but it must build on them. A great golf course honours the past while embracing the future, creating an experience that players will love today and tomorrow. The question is not whether clubs can change, it’s whether they will. And for those that do, the opportunities are boundless.

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