We've highlighted 70 golf courses that consistently exceed expectations. Each venue has earned top ratings and Service Excellence recognition from thousands of independent Golfshake reviews. Whether you're planning a golf break or researching a your next great round, this list is your go-to guide for trusted, top-tier courses in 2025.
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Playing golf courses for the first time is always a treat, but which layouts are top of your list for the 2025 season? Covering locations in England, Scotland and Wales, these are the golf courses that you really would love to play in 2025! read more ...

Aphrodite Hills is considered to be the leading golf destination in Cyprus. During a recent visit to the island, Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken had the opportunity to experience it for himself. read more ...

As part of his recent golfing odyssey in Cyprus, Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken played the magnificent Minthis Golf Club. You can see what he thought of the venue in this new review. read more ...

The stunning island of Cyprus is a remarkable destination for a holiday and it's becoming truly special for golfers. Andy Picken recently visited and discovered its many delights, from the cuisine to historical sites of interest, not to mention the spectacular courses themselves. read more ...

During a memorable time spent in Cyprus, Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken visited the superb Elea Golf Club, which was designed by a team led by Sir Nick Faldo. Andy describes the venue in this new review. read more ...

Part of his golfing odyssey in Cyprus, Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken had the opportunity to play the spectacular Secret Valley Golf Resort and shares his thoughts in this new review. read more ...

Hidden gem is a term that has long been used in the world of golf, but in the digital age of the internet and social media, it's fair to argue that such places can't really exist nowadays. You might not believe that there are true hidden gem courses in England anymore, but these are probably as close as it gets! read more ...

The picturesque and welcoming Bentham Golf Course in North Yorkshire has reported an impressive increase in membership numbers, with a rise of 12.7% from last year. read more ...

The INFINITUM Resort in Catalonia has revealed more about its ongoing renovations to its acclaimed Hills course, which are set to take this fabulous layout to the next level. read more ...

Portugal has long established itself as one of the premier golf destinations on the planet, but when it comes to drama and spectacle, this place is hard to beat due to its breathtaking landscape that creates unforgettable rounds. read more ...

Tucked down in the heart of the scenic countryside, Hertfordshire is a hidden gem for golfers. With rolling hills, historic estates and fine-tuned fairways, no matter your ability or handicap, Hertfordshire offers a wide variety of accuracy testing courses, perfect for all golfers. Here are some of our most popular golf courses in Hertfordshire. read more ...

Situated in the heart of the North East of England, County Durham is packed with iconic landmarks and famous history - it also houses some of the finest golf courses in the country. From stunning views of the Durham Cathedral to hundreds of acres of picturesque parkland golf, County Durham has it all. Here are some of our favourites. read more ...

What are the most popular locations for a golf break in the UK & Ireland? That is a question that our travel partners Golfbreaks have sought to answer by revealing their best-selling offers that are currently available. read more ...

One particular genre of golf holiday that has grown in stature is that of the all-inclusive variety. But what exactly can you expect from an all-inclusive golf break and why should that option move right to the summit of your wish list? read more ...

We certainly love to visit and experience as many different golf courses as we can during a year - and you might feel exactly the same. That's why we consult the reviews submitted by everyday members of the Golfshake Community to see which venues they recommend above the rest. read more ...

The last two Englishmen to win a major, Matt Fitzpatrick and Danny Willett, are both Sheffield born and bred. Here are some of the courses that forged the two major champions. With some cheap green fees and relaxing rounds, Sheffield is a top-quality golfing city. Have you played any of these before? read more ...

Tucked away in the peaceful South West of England, Somerset is renowned for its scenic countryside of rolling hills and rich heritage - and this extends to its numerous golf courses as well. From stunning views of the never-ending scenery to coastal holes that will satisfy even the pickiest of golfers, here are some of the finest golf courses in the county of Somerset. read more ...

With Mount Etna as its backdrop, the experience offered by Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & SPA, Curio Collection by Hilton, in Sicily has been made even greater following the completion of several course improvements and the opening of the hotel and spa facilities. read more ...

You may be at the stage when you're considering taking a golf break to somewhere warmer. Fortunately, we have so many countries and destinations to choose from, encompassing all manner of budgets and preferences, but one area that has grown significantly in popularity are mid-haul holidays. read more ...

The sensational North Hants Golf Club, one of the most prestigious venues in England, is ready to present an even greater challenge following the completion of a £1.5m course refurbishment. read more ...

Prince’s Golf Club, host of the 1932 Open Championship and one of England's finest venues, has completed a significant clubhouse renovation. With both aesthetic and functional upgrades to the facility in Kent, the newly renovated clubhouse is set to enhance the experience for both members and visitors alike. read more ...

Cambridgeshire is packed with beautiful, picturesque scenery and tonnes of history, as well as some stunning golf courses. There are plenty of highly rated layouts dotted all around the county that are waiting for you to experience them. read more ...

Enhancing its status as Your Mediterranean Home For Golf, the incredible Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca has launched its new brand identity that has been created to draw more golfers to the spectacular island. read more ...

The Algarve is the most famous destination in the country, but four top golf resorts on the Silver Coast in Portugal have sought to change that perception and establish their region as one of the greatest for golf in continental Europe. read more ...

We have some more recommended destinations that other golfers think you should visit. Each of these courses has been rated highly - and particularly so for their conditioning - meaning that they should be in good shape if you're looking for somewhere to begin your 2025 campaign in style. read more ...

Clubhouses come in all shapes and sizes, but Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club in the Middle East has offered something truly extraordinary after opening the doors to its new clubhouse. read more ...

Travelling golfers in the know are long familiar with the value for money to be found at the courses of Portugal’s Silver Coast, an hour’s drive north of the capital, Lisbon, which, as Golfshake'd Travel Editor Andy Waple explains, is a wonderful alternative to the Algarve. read more ...

The Masters is always the most captivating of golfing spectacles as the majestic images of Augusta National are beamed into your living rooms each April. But imagine just how intoxicating those visuals would be if you actually saw them with your own eyes. Why not make that a reality in 2026? read more ...

Boasting a perfect Highly Recommended rating of 100%, meaning that the reviewer would either desire to play there again or recommend the destination to others, here are 25 courses in England that you really ought to consider visiting this year as they come suggested and praised by everyday golfers. read more ...

You might not have considered Morocco for a golf break before, but an increasing number of you are making this journey to North Africa and returning with memories to last a lifetime. If you're intrigued to know a little bit more - then please read on! read more ...

Major championships are the peak of competitive golf. These events define the careers of the greatest players in history and draw the most attention each year. Staging a major elevates a venue and its course to an iconic level that stands the test of time, but some truly great courses haven't hosted a professional major. read more ...

The spectacular Dunas Course at Terras da Comporta has been named the number one golf course in Portugal for the second year running. read more ...

Spring is in the air! It's time to dust off your golf clubs, enjoy a couple of sessions at the range, and then head to your nearest course to begin your season in style. But if you want to take a slightly more adventurous route and play somewhere a little different, then we have some recommendations for you to consider this springtime. read more ...

The days are growing longer, the temperatures are slowly creeping up, and there is a whiff of springtime in the air, it's the most exciting time of the year to be a golfer. But if you want to begin your new season in style, we heartily recommend embarking on a golf break to one of the finest venues you could hope to experience in the UK & Ireland. read more ...

Located in the Yorkshire Dales, Bentham Golf Course boasts wonderful scenery and offers a fabulous parkland experience for both members and visitors. Golfshake Ambassador Matt Holbrook recently visited to see just how good this venue is. read more ...

While not always a reflection of a golf course's quality, there is something appealing about playing somewhere that is immaculately conditioned. Hitting from lush fairways and putting on smooth greens makes the experience feel extra special, while even bunkers and hazards seem less punishing when they have been presented in fine fettle. read more ...

There are many things that can make a golf course memorable, but high on the list is the scenery that can stop you in your tracks. Golfshake's Derek Clements describes the most breathtaking courses that he has ever played. read more ...

Celtic Manor has established itself as one of the UK's leading golf resorts, drawing in visitors from across Wales and beyond, with its location being ideal for those travelling in search of a memorable experience. But if you still require convincing - here are some of the best reasons why Celtic Manor should leap to the top when you're next planning a golf break. read more ...

If you're currently putting together a golf calendar for 2025, we have uncovered more courses that are recommended by other golfers, including resort venues, public layouts, and private clubs that go under the radar, making them ideal for affordable rounds of golf to experience this year. read more ...

With spring having finally arrived the thoughts of many of you will surely be turning towards planning a golf holiday. And here is our advice on ensuring that you put together the perfect golf break. read more ...

Picking out more golf courses in the UK & Ireland that were described as bucket list, dream or special by reviewers, here are some wonderful destinations that once played, won't be forgotten. read more ...

We often think of golf countries like Scotland and Ireland, or even golfing counties like Ayrshire, East Lothian, Lancashire and Kent, but what about cities that offer a tantalising connection to the game? Here are just some of the golfing cities that are on our list to experience. read more ...

Golfshake's Derek Clements has played many of the finest golf courses on the planet. But the layouts that stick in his mind are the ones that surprised him. You could even call them his own hidden gems. Here are ten of the best that he thinks you should play. read more ...

Florida boasts more golf courses than any other state in America, which, given its climate, bustling tourist crowd and many resident retirees, is probably unsurprising, but that means it has so much to offer golfers in search of a memorable holiday. We have picked out ten courses that are must plays if you're in search of an unforgettable golf trip to Florida!  read more ...

Which golf course is top of your list to play in 2025? Perhaps it's that iconic layout you've long dreamt about or somewhere that has been recommended by a friend. We have picked out some superb venues in the UK & Ireland that have been described as bucket list, dream or special by reviewers. read more ...

It's time to look forward and start planning the golf courses that you wish to play during this coming season. This is an exercise that many golfers undertake each year, and we are no exception. We can now showcase places throughout the UK and abroad that drew the acclaim of everyday golfers last year. read more ...

Golfers are dreamers at heart. We all have visions of courses we want to play, milestones we hope to accomplish, and even destinations that we're forever keen to experience. Here are ten bucket list golf breaks that you must embark on - why not make it this year? read more ...

Located in Albufeira, just a short drive from Faro Airport, you will find Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort, which is a real hidden gem in the region and benefits from its spectacular, prime seafront position. Oh, and it also boasts its own nine-hole golf course that is surrounded by old pine trees. read more ...

Golfshake Ambassador Matt Holbrook is based in Suffolk and regularly plays at Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club during winter. Matt has shared a new video that showcases all 18 holes, including drone flyovers, and his full round in under 20 minutes, giving you a detailed insight into Felixstowe Ferry and why it's an essential round in winter - and beyond. read more ...

Tucked away in the idyllic countryside of Norfolk, just a short journey from Norwich, lies Barnham Broom, which we reckon must be added on your list to experience this year should you be in search of a rewarding golf break. read more ...

The Algarve in Portugal is a well renowned hot spot for golf in the sun. However, what you might not know is how many courses and resorts there are aside from the well-known ones, such as courses around Vilamoura. Following the stunning Atlantic Coast west towards Albufeira, you'll find some stunning world-class courses and resorts perfect for your next golfing holiday. read more ...

Palmares Ocean Living & Golf has underlined its status as one of the leading gems in the Algarve after it was chosen to stage a series of prestigious tournaments this winter. read more ...

If you're a year-round golfer in search of a treat or someone who wants to begin your new season early, then we have exactly what you need! We can reveal even more venues that are recommended by other golfers for this time of year. read more ...

If you're hoping to dust off the golf clubs and give them an outing before the winter is over, then you need to know which courses are most suitable to offer the best possible experience. read more ...

Almost guaranteed sunshine, several world class quality courses and a city packed with excitement and culture, Lisbon is the ultimate golf and city break. Fin Tait takes a closer look at this destination and describes everything that you need to know. read more ...

The famous golf courses of Vilamoura have become iconic, but it's a fresh era for these prestigious layouts as they have unveiled a bold, new identity. read more ...

All golfers flying abroad will be familiar with the hassle that travelling with your golf clubs brings, so Golfshake's Travel Editor Andy Waple shares a few tips to take some of the pain away and allow you to look forward to your trip with less stress. read more ...

Which golf courses are on your list to experience in 2025? Perhaps it's your time to tick off that dream venue or discover a hidden gem or two. Should you require some inspiration, we have some recommendations for you. read more ...

We're already counting down the days to The Masters and the promise of springtime, but we still have several weeks of winter to journey through before then, and if you want to either begin your season early or continue what you've been doing in style, then you need to know where to play - and we have some recommendations for you. read more ...

As we edge closer to March and we get more sunlight, it’s time you start booking your next golf break for this spring. Before the chaos of the summer crowds, spring is the perfect time for you to capitalise on some bargain deals at world class golf venues. Here are some of the best deals we found, courtesy of Golfbreaks. read more ...

Pebble Beach is one of the most iconic and famous golf courses on the planet, but what is it like to play this revered layout? Golfshake's Derek Clements had that experience back in 2008 and he shares his memories of that day. read more ...

What is the most challenging golf course that you have played? Golfshake's Derek Clements has been lucky to play many great ones throughout his life, including some truly tough tests that left an unforgettable impression on him. read more ...

Are you becoming tired of winter weather and would grasp the opportunity to begin your golf season early in a warmer climate? There is still time for you to book a golf break to many spectacular destinations throughout Europe and beyond.  read more ...

Ranking golf courses is a tricky business. Many publications rely on a team of keen experts and reviewers to draw up a list, while at Golfshake, we defer that to the ratings and opinions of the everyday golfers who use our platform, but who is better to judge the qualities of golf courses than those who design them for a living? read more ...

The Algarve is a paradise for golfers who are drawn by the attractive climate and the many superb courses and venues that can be experienced - and Quinta do Lago is arguably the jewel in that crown. read more ...

Golfshake's Derek Clements has found a new favourite golf course in Norfolk. Swaffham Golf Club is an absolute gem, an 18-hole course designed for the purist that will be enjoyed by players of all standards. read more ...

When thinking of golf courses that you want to play this year, you could look at the familiar, glossy rankings and see all the usual names laid out in front of you, or you could seek the opinion of other keen golfers just like yourself. read more ...

The golf industry in the UK & Ireland saw a record high for visitor revenue in 2024, with business growth agency, The Revenue Club, reporting from over 200 clubs to reveal that the average venue generated £170,462 in casual green fee income during the year, an 11% increase on the previous 12 months. read more ...

Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club is one of the finest courses in Suffolk and is a hugely popular winter venue, but its qualities will only become further enhanced as work has started on the building of a new state-of-the-art new golf clubhouse and five luxury villas. read more ...

Rockliffe Hall is a five-star luxury retreat featuring a historic hotel, spa, three restaurants and a Championship golf course. The course is playing host to events of increasing significance as a result of its high quality design and immaculate presentation. Golfshake sent Ambassador Rob Treanor on a short break to discover this gem of the North East. read more ...

As we start the new year, it's time to start thinking about our goals and aspirations for the upcoming year. And for golfers, what better goal to set than making 2025 your best year on the course yet? read more ...

With 2025 upon us, now is the perfect time to plan playing some new golf courses and some special trips to some of the most popular and highly recommended golf courses rated by golfers just like you. read more ...

What makes a great golf course? It is a difficult question to answer and if you asked 100 golfers that question the chances are that you would get 100 different answers. Golfshake's Derek Clements shares his thoughts and describes some of his favourites. read more ...

What makes a great golf course? It is a difficult question to answer and if you asked 100 golfers that question the chances are that you would get 100 different answers. Golfshake's Derek Clements shares his thoughts and describes some of his favourites. read more ...

It's been rewarding to see many members of the Golfshake Community tick off some truly special venues during the past 12 months. If you are searching for inspiration, these are the golf courses that you really should have played in 2024, so why not make that a reality in the New Year! read more ...

Situated on the North Norfolk coastline, Royal West Norfolk Golf Club - or Brancaster as it is often fondly referred to - is a outstanding traditional links course in every sense. And Golfshake Ambassador Matt Holbrook couldn't wait to play this true jewel of English golf. read more ...

The reputation of Costa Navarino has been gradually evolving, but it went to another level in 2024, which has become a landmark year for the venue as it secured a range of coveted global accolades. read more ...

When you reflect on your past year playing golf, the quality of the courses you visited will be among your instant thoughts. Did you uncover a true gem or finally tick off that dream layout that you had long been desperate to experience? Here are the places that our team managed to visit throughout 2024, all of which you should consider playing yourself. read more ...

Vilamoura is a highly popular destination in the central Algarve and will soon have even more to offer regular holiday golfers, with upgrades to its courses going on with more to come. Golfshake's Travel Editor Andy Waple recently visited the area and describes what you need to know. read more ...

The well-known Victoria course in Vilamoura, Portugal, is to reopen next year as the centre piece of a private members only club under the Els Club banner. read more ...

When golfers start talking about the golf of their dreams, iconic courses come to mind, often links, but when you move inland, it doesn't get better than the heathland layouts of Surrey and Berkshire, as Kevin Diss found out during a recent visit. read more ...

If you are considering a proper golf vacation and you want to follow in the shadow of giants, then Scotland should be right at the very top of your list. In case you need convincing, here are some of the courses that you need to play. read more ...

If you are looking for ideal courses to play during the winter months, you will likely be searching for those places that remain in superb condition, retain something resembling a full layout, and offer some excellent deals. read more ...

Earlier this season, the Golfshake Team visited the stunning Quinta do Lago Resort in the Algarve region of Portugal to sample everything that the resort had to offer - including its many restaurants and bars. Ryan Rastall provides a full overview of the many great dining options to discover. read more ...

Part of the Details - Hospitality, Sports & Leisure group, the newly rebranded PGA Aroeira Lisboa is becoming an even stronger destination for golfers following fresh investment and developments. Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken describes them for us. read more ...

Quinta do Lago is undeniably one of Europe's greatest golf resorts, as we discovered during a visit earlier this year, but its offering is only going to become more impressive into the future following its acquisition of Conrad Algarve. read more ...

Have you stayed at The Grove? Well, if you have, then you have experienced England's newly crowned Best Golf Hotel, following the World Golf Awards in Madeira, Spain, last month. read more ...

It's that time of the year when you've replaced shorts on the golf course with a snood, but that doesn't mean that you should stop playing despite the frequently cold conditions. We know that winter golf can sometimes be a difficult sell, but the key is finding courses that offer the best possible experience. read more ...

When golfers visit and play a golf course, a priority in their mind will be the condition of the place. Everyone appreciates quality tees, fairways, bunkers and greens, which are presented immaculately and leave a positive impression. read more ...

Portugal is home to many incredible golf resorts and venues, so it was quite a moment when Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort was named Portugal’s Best Golf Hotel at the 2024 World Golf Awards, an honour received following a period of large investment into the hotel’s facilities. read more ...

If you've been reading Golfshake for a while, you'll probably be aware that Dundonald Links is among our favourite places, and that opinion was backed up at the 2024 World Golf Awards with the venue being named Scotland’s Best Golf Hotel for the second year in a row. read more ...

What is the best golf course that you haven't played? You probably haven't thought of this place before, as it hasn't been around for long, but it might just be The Dunas Course at Terras da Comporta. read more ...

Halfway houses are a common feature at both historic golf courses and resort venues, and many of them have gone down in legend, but there is a new kid on the block at La Hacienda Links Golf Resort, whose halfway house was named the World's Best at the 2024 World Golf Awards just 15 months after it opened. read more ...

We have been looking at recommendations to see which destinations throughout the UK should be on your list to experience in 2025. From venues with championship history to tranquil and scenic corners of the country that you hadn't considered before, whether it be in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, you have our guarantee that there will be a place to whet your appetite. read more ...

Designed by legendary architect Harry Colt, Edgbaston Golf Club is located in the heart of Birmingham and offers an experience that comes Highly Recommended on Golfshake. Andy Picken recently had the opportunity to see what the hype is all about. read more ...

Last week's Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship was a thriller and the players unanimously praised the condition of the stunning Yas Links golf course. read more ...

Those of you looking to play some iconic bucket list golf courses or be thrilled by fantastic sporting events should take a look at Dubai, the best-known of the United Arab Emirates. read more ...

If you have a dream list of courses that you want to play, you might be put off by their cost throughout the peak months of the season, but in winter, venues typically slash their green fees - often dramatically - making them significantly more affordable to visit. read more ...

Joining Castle Stuart Golf Links near Inverness, the Cabot Collection has confirmed that the Tom Doak designed Old Petty, the much-anticipated new course at the venue, is set to open for preview play at Cabot Highlands on August 1st, 2025. read more ...

It's surely time to start planning where you're going to play golf in 2025. We all have courses that we'd love to experience and destinations that we'd relish discovering, and thinking of these is enough to get us all dreaming. read more ...

Should you consider playing golf in Tunisia? The answer is a resounding yes, as there are ten courses in the country with more planned for construction. Located in North Africa and resting alongside the Mediterranean Sea, the climate here is known for its hot summers and warm winters, meaning that it could be the ideal destination to visit during the cooler months back home. read more ...

Most golfers are dreamers at heart, always hoping that every round and their next shot could be the best they've played. But that's also true of the courses that we visit, as we all have lists in our minds of layouts that we'd love to experience. Have you played any of these bucket list golf courses? read more ...

Now that we're entering the apparent darkness of winter, you might think it's the moment to pack away the golf clubs for a few months, but that would be a mistake, especially when you consider the exceptional value for money breaks that you can book at this time of the year. read more ...

Playing winter golf at home can be rewarding, but there is no denying the temptation to embark on a holiday to warmer and more pleasant surroundings. If you would like to plan an escape from the depths of winter in the UK, then we can share ten offers that you can book right now! read more ...

Aroeira has long been considered among the jewels of golf in Portugal, and the iconic Lisbon venue is embarking on a significant rebrand after been given the new identity of PGA Aroeira Lisboa. read more ...

Not many golfers from the UK venture to South West France, but Golfshake's Travel Editor Andy Waple explains why you should, following his break to the region, where he visited some fine cities, notably Biarritz and Bayonne, and smart towns such as Hosseger, and played three superb golf courses. read more ...

Spain has long been a huge draw with golfers from across Europe and beyond - there are around 400 courses to choose from - with the climate, accessibility and quality of its layouts being attractive to those who want to play immaculately conditioned designs in superb weather. But what are the best regions in the country to experience? read more ...

Mauritius is a true paradise, renowned for its tropical climate, spectacular landscapes, tranquil beaches, beautiful lagoons, and, increasingly, its stunning golf courses. Should you wish to discover it all for yourself, our travel partners Golfbreaks have recommended Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa as the perfect starting point. read more ...

If jaw-dropping scenery, excellent accommodation, wonderful locally-sourced food and superb golf facilities are your thing you should be checking out Cowdray Golf Club. Golfshake's Derek Clements reviews the venue for us. read more ...

Rockliffe Hall is a five star luxury retreat featuring a historic hotel, spa, three restaurants and a Championship golf course. The course is playing host to events of increasing significance as a result of its high quality design and immaculate presentation. Golfshake sent Ambassador Rob Treanor on a short break to discover this gem of the North East. read more ...

Heacham Manor near Hunstanton in Norfolk has recently opened an incredible new multi-storey clubhouse called The Pavilion. Golfshake dispatched Ambassador Rob Treanor to discover whether this was now the perfect venue for a golf break on the North Norfolk Coast. read more ...

We hate to admit it, but winter is creeping towards us, but that doesn't mean your golf season has to end! Our travel partners Golfbreaks have picked out a range of venues across the UK that you can play at this time of year, with exclusive savings being available to offer you tremendous value for money. read more ...

The Ailsa Course at Turnberry is on the bucket lists of many a golfer, and the next few weeks represent your last chance to play this incredible layout before it undergoes a significant £1million refurbishment. read more ...

The best golf courses are always looking for ways to improve themselves, and it's not something that goes unnoticed by visitors when they reflect on their experiences at the venue. Here are a selection of golf courses that should now be on your list to play! read more ...

During a recent visit to Durham, Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken played Bishop Auckland Golf Club, which features a unique and distinctive layout. You can see his detailed thoughts by reading this new review. read more ...

Brancepeth Castle Golf Club was designed by the world-renowned golf course architect Harry Colt in 1924 - and Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken was excited to play it. This is what he thought. read more ...

You will likely be familiar with the spectacular Crans-sur-Sierre golf course situated in the Swiss Alps, but how much do you know about the town itself, Crans Montana? Following a recent visit, Golfshake Ambassador Matt Holbrook describes everything you need to know. read more ...

The Open de Espana is one of the most historic tournaments in the game, having been established back in 1912. But have you played any of the layouts on which the event has been staged? We've counted 28 venues during its long history, many of which are among the most celebrated golf courses to be found in Spain. read more ...

How much time have you spent in Scotland? Golfshake's Derek Clements has recently fallen back in the love with the nation of his birth, returning to experience Rosneath Castle Park in the west of the country, which could be an unlikely base for golf and more. read more ...

Golfshake's Derek Clements has played golf everywhere, but it's Carden Park near Chester that recently blew him away. Derek provides a detailed review of the venue, describing the facilities, courses and service that you could enjoy there. read more ...

Many golfers get a thrill from playing a course that has staged a professional tournament, and for those of you who love taking on that challenge, there is no shortage of options in the UK & Ireland. Have you played many golf courses that have hosted events on the European Tour? read more ...

Has Heacham Manor become the best destination for a golf break in Norfolk? We dispatched Golfshake Ambassador Rob Treanor to experience the venue for himself to discover the answer to that very question. read more ...

We have recently seen courses like The Hirsel and Torrance Park close their doors, but Perthshire's Murrayshall Country Estate is bucking the trend in Scotland, having reported a 16% increase in new members this year and a rise in the number of rounds played. read more ...

Wentworth is synonymous with European Tour golf, but what is it like to play this highly exclusive venue as a visitor? We have received several reviews during the past few years from lucky members of the Golfshake Community who have experienced the place. These fortunate people describe it all for us. read more ...

As golfers, we all love to rank courses, listing our favourites in a particular order, while many of us also keep a note of the places that we most want to play. Being a little different, at Golfshake, we leave all of that up to you, the keen golfers who submit thousands of reviews each year to our popular Course Section. read more ...

Irish golf writer, photographer and blogger, Kevin Markham wrote this review of Royal County Down on Golfshake in November 2013, which we are republishing now to coincide with the Irish Open in 2024. This will give you an insight into a golf course that many believe is the finest in the world.  read more ...

The Algarve is a magnet for golfers from across Europe and beyond, but where should you start? Tivoli Marina Vilamoura overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and offers genuine, five-star luxury and our travel partners Golfbreaks recommend it to be the perfect base for a golf holiday in southern Portugal. read more ...

Northern Ireland is home to some of the finest golf courses that you will find on these islands. There is no doubt that there is a stunning collection of gems to be played here, and there is an attractive sense of variety too, whether you experience those famed links or the scenic parklands of Belfast and its surrounding counties. read more ...

Norway's Lofoten Links has developed quite a reputation for itself - with its unique location and dramatic scenery captivating golfers around the world, and that status will be further enhanced now that the Cabot Collection, renowned for its portfolio of luxury resort and residential golf destinations, has announced a strategic investment in the venue. read more ...

The superb Lakes course at INFINITUM in Spain has now reopened following the completion of an exciting €800,000 renovation project, which has taken this acclaimed layout to another level ahead of it once again hosting the DP World Tour’s Qualifying School Final Stage in November. read more ...

What is the best golf course on the planet? For many, Royal County Down, host of the 2024 Irish Open, is the answer, but that question might just be impossible to answer definitively. read more ...

We absolutely love nine-hole golf courses - they are fun, accessible, varied, and are quite often located amid truly spectacular surroundings. Here are some nine-holers that you simply have to play! read more ...

Former Ryder Cup player, Peter Dawson, who represented Great Britain & Ireland in 1977, continues his series of reviewing golf courses for Golfshake, this time visiting Hayling Golf Club. read more ...

If you haven't heard of Robinson Quinta da Ria, then you are definitely missing out, as this should be a place at the forefront of your mind when planning a golf break to the Algarve. read more ...

Do you run a golf society? Are you part of a golf society? You may already be planning where to stop next season, but if you want to find an additional element of variety, why not visit somewhere new in 2025? read more ...

A jewel in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic has become a hugely popular holiday destination, drawing in thousands of people each year worldwide, many of whom are there to play some of the 26 golf courses that you will find here. Following his visit to the country in May 2024, Golfshake's Travel Editor Andy Waple describes some of the best. read more ...

Occupying 15,000 acres of prime land near the airport, the upscale gated beachside residential and holiday venue of Puntacana Resort & Club has absolutely everything a visitor could ask for. Here are some of the essential reasons to experience this fantastic destination in the Domincan Republic. read more ...

The tropical haven of the Dominican Republic has been luring tourists seeking fabulous beaches, a relaxed vibe and great resorts since the 1930s. Golf is of huge importance and the Dominican Republic now boasts 26 courses, most of them featuring awesome Caribbean backdrops. Golfshake's Travel Editor Andy Waple describes them for us. read more ...

The beauty of golf is best expressed through the variety of landscapes that we play the game on - and nine-hole courses are often the finest examples of that wonderful diversity. You may not be familiar with some of these places, but we reckon there is a good chance that you will have experienced a few of them. read more ...

Having just one special golf course makes a venue worth visiting, but possessing two tremendous layouts on-site is something that can take a club or resort to another level entirely. read more ...

Have you been on a golf break this year? If you haven't, then now is your opportunity, and if you have, then why not try to squeeze in another one?! We have taken a look through the many venues and destinations available from our travel partners Golfbreaks, who have revealed a range of packages that you can enjoy during the next six weeks. read more ...

The prospect of winter doesn't have to be terrifying, as you could extend your season and escape for some sunshine and warmth by embarking on a winter golf holiday. We take a look at some of the best places that you could visit this winter - and describe what magic you can expect from them! read more ...

Like any other business, golf clubs should always be seeking to improve themselves and the quality of service they offer to both members and visitors, but how do we know which places have made a positive difference? Comparing the average ratings that were posted in 2021 with those that were entered in 2023, we have been able to see which courses in England have improved the most in the eyes of keen golfers. read more ...

Former Ryder Cup player, Peter Dawson, who represented Great Britain & Ireland in 1977, continues his series of reviewing golf courses for Golfshake, this time visiting The Minchinhampton Old Course in the Cotswolds. read more ...

Former Ryder Cup player, Peter Dawson, who represented Great Britain & Ireland in 1977, continues his series of reviewing golf courses for Golfshake, this time visiting Leckford Golf Course in Hampshire. read more ...

Portugal is one of the most popular golf destinations on the planet - and for very good reason - but have you considered combining both the Algarve and the capital city of Lisbon? read more ...

There is no doubt that it can be prohibitively expensive to play many of the greatest and most celebrated courses in England, but golfers shouldn't despair, as the sheer depth of quality throughout the nation is vast and unparalleled, meaning there are a significant number of venues out there that offer a fabulous experience at a fraction of the cost seen elsewhere.  read more ...

Peter Dawson, the first left-hander to play in the Ryder Cup, gives his verdict on Blackmoor Golf Club, a golf course offering something special for all golfers and having recently gone through an extensive course improvement project. read more ...

IN THE latest of his series exploring golf courses around Surrey offering something a little different, former Ryder Cup player Peter Dawson visits the magnificent Reigate Heath Golf Club.  A fantastic 9 hole golf course with a green fee under £50. read more ...

We thought it would be a good idea to shift the spotlight to the many non-links layouts you can play in Scotland - and there are many exceptional ones. If you're looking for an alternative trip or a round away from the seaside, then here are some Highly Recommended places to consider! read more ...

There's been a lot happening in Vilamoura lately, with various developments and enhancements being made to the acclaimed local golf courses, and its status as one of Europe's finest destinations has only been further validated following the opening of 83 immaculate apartments. read more ...

Golfers will be aware of the legendary Carnoustie, home to the fearsome Championship Course, which is one of the finest and most testing layouts in the UK. But there is far more to golf in this part of Scotland, as you will quickly uncover other classic seaside designs in Angus alongside parkland courses that are dotted around further inland. read more ...

We wanted to pick out the best golf courses that are located near an Open venue. This means that if you can't play the main attraction, you could always have a memorable experience close by! read more ...

Peter Dawson enjoys a rare place in history after becoming the first left-hander to participate in the Ryder Cup. Now in his 70s, Peter still loves the game, and he reviewed the exceptional Isle of Purbeck Golf Club for us. Located in Dorset, this venue is Highly Recommended on Golfshake. read more ...

Dom Pedro Golf Vilamoura is currently overseeing a major renovation of its iconic Old Course to ensure that it remains one of the finest layouts to play and best venues to experience in Portugal. read more ...

We have studied the Golfshake Course Section to uncover venues that have been renowned for their suitability towards senior golfers or have received review comments that specify that they are flat and straightforward to navigate your way around.  read more ...

Located in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside within the grounds of Ingestre Hall, you will find Ingestre Park Golf Club, which is renowned for its tranquility and the picturesque collection of trees that frame the holes. Having first reviewed this venue in 2017, Golfshake Ambassador Mel Davies returned to see what had changed. read more ...

You may not consider Norfolk as a county that is home to some of the country’s best links courses - you should think again. There are several tremendous layouts here, as Golfshake's Derek Clements discovered. read more ...

Completing his tour around Bridgend in Wales, Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken played a round at Maesteg Golf Club, which was among the highlights of a memorable trip. read more ...

Following his unforgettable round at the incredible Royal Porthcawl, Golfshake's Andy Picken continued his tour around Bridgend in Wales by paying a visit to Pyle & Kenfig Golf Club. read more ...

Having played Coed-y-Mwstwr Golf Club as part of his golf tour of Bridgend, Golfshake Andy Picken next had the opportunity to experience the acclaimed Royal Porthcawl, which has hosted the Senior Open three times and will stage the AIG Women's Open in 2025. read more ...

Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken charts his unforgettable golf trip throughout the Bridgend area of Wales, playing superb courses and sampling local culinary delights. Andy begins his journey with a review of Coed-y-Mwstwr Golf Club. read more ...

With so many golf courses available to play it can be difficult to venture outside what you know, what you are used to playing and what others tell you to go and play. This time we take a look at 15 golf courses you might not have heard of before, that all come highly recommended. read more ...

The very best golf courses are the product of imagination, ingenuity and craftsmanship. But like any industry, you should always search for improvements, as the finest venues are those that evolve with time, making little tweaks along the way to keep themselves ahead of the curve. And these destinations are taking positive strides to get better - which makes them worthy of your attention! read more ...

The West of Ireland is among the least visited by golfing tourists yet it encapsulates the very best anybody can want from a golfing trip. Golfshake's Andy Waple played Enniscrone, Carne and Westport to find out what makes this region is so special. read more ...

Cornwall is one of the most beautiful parts of the country - and never more so than when the weather is warm and sunny. It is also a county of surprises. And none more so than Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club in Camelford - as Golfshake's Derek Clements discovered. read more ...

If you're a keen traveller with a thirst for special golf courses, then it's a banquet for you out there these days! There are so many destinations and resorts to choose from throughout Europe and beyond, ensuring that there is something for everyone. read more ...

If you're someone who values great views, interesting layouts and a bit of history over pristine greens, immaculate tee boxes and everything manicured, then you might fancy walking in the footsteps of Golfshake Ambassasdor Richard Moore who recently played Cocks Moor Woods Golf Club just outside Birmingham. read more ...

The Algarve is a golfing jewel that draws thousands of visitors each year, but where should you start? Members of the Golfshake Team had the opportunity to stay and play at Quinta do Lago, where they took on the South, North and Laranjal courses, which come together to make for a fantastic short break to this stunning corner of Portugal. read more ...

Everyone loves a bargain - but you may feel like those are harder to find when playing golf these days. That is undeniably a factor when you're looking to secure a tee time at one of the most revered courses in the country. However, instead of forking out £350 for a round of golf, why not consider visiting somewhere that you could play seven or eight times for the same price? read more ...

Every year, thousands of golfers seek out to play special courses for the opportunity to experience somewhere truly unforgettable. And we can now share many distinguished places located throughout the UK & Ireland, covering a variety of styles and reputations, but all united in coming especially advocated by everyday golfers just like you! read more ...

As part of a major renovation project, Chart Hills Golf Club has revealed the completion of its Sir Nick Faldo designed six-hole par three golf course. read more ...

Whether it's imprinted on a piece of paper or resides prominently in your mind, every golfer has a list of courses that they most want to play, and many of them feature because of a recommendation that someone else gave you. Whatever the origin of this inspiration, there are venues out there that we should all aspire to sample during our golfing lifetimes. read more ...

Promoting Turkish hospitality worldwide, the Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup has seen 8,000 players competing in 117 qualifying tournaments across 73 different countries, with the finalists to be flown business class to compete in the Grand Final, which will be held at Gloria Golf Club, Belek, in December. read more ...

Argyll and Bute is one of Scotland's largest and most expansive council areas, located in the west of the country and spanning dozens of islands, rural landscapes, mountains, and spectacular lochs. It's also a place that is full of golf courses, and these are some of the best. read more ...

The Herefordshire Golf Club was founded in 1896 and was later described by legendary course designer James Braid as being the Gleneagles of the Midlands. Golfshake Ambassador Mel Davies went to see exactly why that is. read more ...

The Inspiration is a new club within sight of central London that welcomes visitors to enjoy a new experience - an 18 hole urban links course. Golfshake's Andy Waple had the opportunity to play this unique and fascinating layout that offers something truly memorable. read more ...

Thousands each year flock to golfing paradises like Fife, Kent, Merseyside, East Lothian, Ayrshire or Surrey, but we fancy something a little different, perhaps off the beaten track. Here are some UK trips that you might not have considered before. read more ...

Greetham Valley, which is Highly Recommended on Golfshake and has featured in several recent articles, has been acquired by the UK's largest country club operator, The Club Company. read more ...

If you're a club member, you may fancy the occasional day out to experience another layout, while the nomadic golfers among you are always looking for somewhere recommended to discover. Therefore, it's fitting that we are back with some more venues that have been rated positively in the past year by members of the Golfshake Community.  read more ...

Costa Navarino has become one of the most celebrated destinations in Greece and it's been an exciting year for the facility, which welcomed the Olympic Flame in April, and will host an NBA Basketball School this summer for youngsters. But for us, it's the golf that is the highlight here, and the Legends Tour will make its way to the location for a new event. read more ...

Following an exciting project spanning two years that has seen numerous holes remodelled, Portmarnock Resort can finally declare that it has completed the renovation to its rebranded Jameson Golf Links, which has already drawn significant acclaim. read more ...

Located near Worksop in north Nottinghamshire, College Pines Golf Club is a heathland layout that sits on a swath of sandy soil, meaning its drainage defies even the wettest of winters, so much so that the club prides itself as being open every day, on full greens and tees. read more ...

You don't need us to tell you that it can be expensive to play some of the more acclaimed layouts in your area. But for golfers in England - the County Card is a pathway to make these roaming rounds as a visitor somewhat less expensive and more attractive to book. read more ...

Standing as a remarkably impressive destination in southwest Tuscany, the Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort is a real jewel of Italy, which has only been further enhanced by its exclusive collection of holiday villa rentals that are located across over 70 hectares of unspoilt nature reserve on the Monte Argentario promontory. read more ...

It's understandable why thousands of golfers flock to the Algarve each year - it's an incredible destination - but there is a convincing argument to be made that the region in and around Lisbon should be considered the hottest ticket in Portuguese golf. read more ...

When you're looking around for different courses to play, one thing that many of us will do is ask other golfers whose perspective we value for their opinion. And that's exactly what we've done. We have studied more reviews that have been submitted to the Golfshake Course Section to identify 20 English Golf Courses That You Need to Play in 2024. read more ...

When you think of golf courses to play, you may categorise them in terms of the challenge they offer, the scenery, or the style of the architecture, but we're rather drawn to those little corners of paradise that are genuinely unique, standing a little bit apart from everything else on the menu. read more ...

Golfshake's Derek Clements had driven past Diss Golf Club on the Norfolk-Suffolk border many times, but he had never played the course. Well, he recently put that right and shares his thoughts on the place in this review. read more ...

Dom Pedro Golf Vilamoura has long been considered one of the very finest destinations in the game, and that has continued since DETAILS took control of its management as the acclaimed venue was named Golf Resort of the Year in Portugal at the 2024 International Association of Golf Travel Operators Awards. read more ...

Ryder Cup icon Sergio Garcia has been expanding his portfolio by unveiling his first major golf course design project, which will open next year in Portugal at Terras da Comporta. read more ...

You might currently have the inclination to embark on a golf break, but where should you visit? Well, the Golfshake Community is always a reliable resource to consult, and we asked them to name the best golf venue that they stayed at in 2022 or 2023. read more ...

If you're looking for a memorable golf break in Scotland that won't break the bank, then Golfshake's Derek Clements has just experienced something special in the beautiful heart of the nation that gave us the game. read more ...

Aldeburgh Golf Club is widely considered to be one of England's best and most challenging golf courses. Golfshake Ambassador Matt Holbrook is a huge fan of the layout here and he reviews the acclaimed Suffolk venue for us. read more ...

When you think of Egypt you are likely to bring to mind images of pyramids, pharaohs, camels and deserts. It may not seem an obvious destination for a golf break but it may be time to think again. And the place to start just might be the Steigenberger Golf Resort El Gouna, which is one of the country’s top five-star golf resorts. read more ...

Golfshake's Derek Clements lives in Norwich and recently visited Eaton Golf Club on the edge of the city for an experience that surpassed all expectations. Derek shares his new review, explaining why this is a must play for anyone in the Norfolk area. read more ...

Perhaps you're a nomadic golfer looking to draw up a list of places to experience this summer, or maybe you're a club member who enjoys the occasional excursion to play somewhere different. We have something for you, as we are thrilled to reveal 20 English Golf Courses That You Have to Play in 2024, all of which come Highly Recommended on Golfshake. read more ...

Names like St Andrews, Carnoustie and Troon roll off the tongue, but there is far more to golf in Scotland than those revered venues that have hosted The Open Championship, the sport's oldest major. We have studied the Golfshake Top 100 to pick out 25 hotbeds of links golf that haven't crowned the Champion Golfer of the Year with the iconic Claret Jug. read more ...

The golf season is finally here and it's time that you started planning exciting excursions to play some fabulous courses. When it comes to choosing where you should visit, golfers always value paying a fair price for the experience offered by a venue, and here are 18 places that have been regularly mentioned as offering great value for money. read more ...