Ever thought about finding the most scenic and challenging golf courses? Look no further than Wales. This hidden gem has top-rated golf clubs, from championship layouts to beautiful seaside resorts.
Wales boasts four courses in Golf Monthly’s top 100 for the UK and Ireland. Plus, eight more are in the Next 100 list. These premier Welsh golf clubs suit all skill levels and preferences.
Royal Porthcawl is the star among Welsh golf resorts. It’s a challenging links course on the south coast. This course has hosted the Senior Open twice and will host the 2025 Women’s Open.
Don’t miss Royal St David’s and Aberdovey, with Nefyn Golf Club offering great clifftop views. Many of these top-rated golf clubs in Wales offer beautiful scenes for a memorable round.
Golf in Wales is also more affordable than in England and Scotland. You can play top Welsh courses for less than 50% the cost of others. This makes Wales golf travel a great choice for budget-conscious golfers.
If you’re looking for an amazing golf vacation or just want to visit beautiful courses in the UK, Wales is perfect. It’s known for its rich history, friendliness, and an unmatched list of famous Welsh golf courses. You’re sure to have an incredible time exploring its golfing scenes.
Key Takeaways
- Wales is home to 4 courses in the Golf Monthly Top 100 and 8 courses in the Next 100 rankings for the UK and Ireland.
- Royal Porthcawl, ranked 22nd, is the best golf course in Wales and will host the 2025 Women’s Open.
- Other top Welsh courses include Royal St David’s, Aberdovey, and Nefyn Golf Club, offering stunning sea and valley views.
- Golf in Wales is more affordable than in England and Scotland, with green fees often less than 50% of those at top courses.
- Wales is an ideal destination for a golf vacation, offering world-class courses, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality.
Table of Contents
- 1 Discover the Finest Golf Destinations in Wales
- 2 Royal Porthcawl: A True Gem Among Welsh Golf Courses
- 3 Royal St David’s: A Hidden Treasure in Harlech
- 4 Aberdovey Golf Club: Where Tradition Meets Spectacular Scenery
- 5 Pennard Golf Club: The Mesmerizing Links in the Sky
- 6 Celtic Manor Resort: Home of the 2010 Ryder Cup
- 7 Nefyn Golf Club: Where the Mountains Meet the Sea
- 8 Ashburnham Golf Club: A Historic Links Gem
- 9 Conwy Golf Club: A Classic Links Challenge
- 10 Southerndown Golf Club: The Unique Limestone Links
- 11 Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club: A Hidden Links Masterpiece
- 12 Tenby Golf Club: Wales’ Oldest Affiliated Club
- 13 Unforgettable Golfing Experiences in Wales
- 14 Exploring Wales’ Top Golf Resorts and Stay & Play Packages
Discover the Finest Golf Destinations in Wales
Wales is a haven for golf lovers. It has many courses at various prices. There are links courses by beautiful coasts and parklands in valleys. With its fair fees and welcoming locals, Wales is perfect for a great golf trip.
Wales’ top golf courses don’t cost a fortune to play. This makes them great for many players. They are more affordable than several UK courses. So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly golf trip, Wales is it.
In Wales, you’ll find some amazing golf courses. Places like Royal Porthcawl and Aberdovey are loved by experts. They offer both challenging play and stunning views, perfect for any golfer.
| Golf Club | Rating | Length (Yards) | Established |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Porthcawl Golf Club | 9.6 (20 golfers) | 7,065 | 1891 |
| Aberdovey Golf Club | 9.4 (16 golfers) | 6,535 | 1895 |
| Pennard Golf Club | 9.2 (27 golfers) | 6,420 | 1896 |
| Royal St David’s Golf Club | 8.8 (62 golfers) | 6,629 | 1894 |
| Ashburnham Golf Club | 9.0 (11 golfers) | 6,910 | 1894 |
| Celtic Manor Resort (Twenty Ten Course) | 8.4 (1065 golfers) | 7,493 | 2007 |
But there’s more to Wales than golf. You can visit castles, enjoy local food and hike in parks. There are also amazing beaches. So, there’s plenty to do for everyone in Wales.
Wales is perfect for any golf lover. Whether you want challenging courses or just a fun trip, it’s a great pick. With its beautiful scenery and golf history, Wales welcomes all golfers.
Royal Porthcawl: A True Gem Among Welsh Golf Courses
Located along Wales’s south coast, Royal Porthcawl Golf Club stands out. It’s top-notch in Wales and globally. With views of the Bristol Channel and Atlantic, it’s a dream for golf lovers.
Its tough design includes lots of gorse and great bunkers. Players face Atlantic winds, adding to the challenge. No wonder it ranks 22nd on Golf Monthly’s list for UK and Ireland.
PUTT-A-BOUT Par Three Golf Putting Green (3' x 9')
- Kidney shaped practice putting green
- Measures 3 by 9 feet
- High quality putting surface stays smooth over time
- 3 practice cup cutouts allow you to vary your angles and practice different putt lengths
- Slight incline at the cups helps to develop firmness of stroke
- Built in sand trap cutouts catch missed shots
- Non skid backing
- Easily roll out the mat when ready to putt and roll it back up for compact storage
- Weight: 3.5 Pounds
- Manufactured from PET resin
- Made in the USA
Challenging Layout and Stunning Coastal Views
The course measures up to 7,100 yards from the championship tees. From the whites or yellows, it’s 6,580 or 6,300 yards. The back nine holes are longer, adding to the game’s excitement.
Players enjoy a mix of holes, including two par 3s and 5s each. The 504-yard last par 5 is memorable for its uphill play. Throughout, the sea views are awe-inspiring, stretching to Somerset and the Gower Peninsula.
Host of Prestigious Tournament
Royal Porthcawl has welcomed top tournaments, like the Senior Open Championship, twice recently. And it’s preparing for the Women’s Open in 2025. This cements its place among the UK’s premier golf destinations.
Golfers who’ve experienced Royal Porthcawl praise its quality and layout. They love the course’s condition, design, and variety of holes.
| Reviewer | Rating | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Gary S | 5/5 | Perfect rating |
| Steven F | 5/5 | Perfect score |
| Matt H, Anthony D, Takuya A, Kevin C, Ryan W | 5/5 | Unanimous perfect ratings |
| A Golfer, Robert W, Russell T | 4.5-5/5 | Near-perfect ratings |
A round at Royal Porthcawl will cost you between £150-£220. But the experience is priceless. You’ll love the strategic greens and fast fairways. There’s a reason it’s ranked top in Wales and among the world’s best.
Royal St David’s: A Hidden Treasure in Harlech
In North West Wales, there’s a gem called Royal St David’s Golf Club. It’s in the quiet town of Harlech. Here, you’ll find a top-notch golf course. Majestic Harlech Castle looks over it, guarded by a tall dune on the other side. This scenery just adds to your enjoyment of the game.
Playing at Royal St David’s means mastering careful shots and smart decisions. You’ll face undulating fairways and deep bunkers. Plus, the greens are speedy. Thanks to its windy setting, watch out for those sneaky bounces, especially on the back nine holes.
It might be a bit out of the way, but Royal St David’s is a must-visit golf course. It’s consistently praised, once ranking 45th in the Golf Monthly Top 100. At 6,629 yards, it’s a bit challenging but oh so rewarding. What’s more, its layout is one-of-a-kind.
- Two par 5 holes at 7 & 8
- Shorter par 4 holes at 2 & 6
- Par 3 holes at 4, 9, and 14
- A long par 4 at hole 13, bending right to left
- A short par 4 at hole 16 with a frontal dune offering a world-class view of the sea and Harlech Castle
| Hole | Description |
|---|---|
| 7 & 8 | Par 5 holes |
| 2 & 6 | Shorter par 4 holes |
| 4, 9, 14 | Par 3 holes |
| 13 | Long par 4 bending right to left |
| 16 | Short par 4 with a frontal dune offering stunning views |
Visit Royal St David’s, and you’re in for a treat without breaking the bank. Green fees range from £60 to £135. Plus, up to 9 people can stay at the club’s Dormy House. This makes it perfect for a memorable golfing trip in Wales.
Don’t stop at Royal St David’s. Enjoy other great golf courses nearby too. Aberdovey Golf Club, Nefyn & District Golf Club, and Conwy Golf Club are all close. Each offers a different challenge and fantastic views. They round out the perfect golf outing in Wales.
Aberdovey Golf Club: Where Tradition Meets Spectacular Scenery
Aberdovey Golf Club sits in Gwynedd, Wales, by the beautiful Cardigan Bay. Since 1892, it has been a favorite for its unique links course. Famous designers like James Braid and Harry Colt have shaped its rugged, natural look.
Unique Links Experience in the Heart of Gwynedd
This course in Gwynedd spans 6,445 yards, with a par of 71. It offers a true links golf challenge. It’s ranked 78th by Golf Monthly for its design and stunning views.
Unforgettable Holes and Breathtaking Views
Aberdovey Golf Club’s fairways and bunkers offer a unique game. Holes like the 3rd, with a punchbowl green, and the challenging 12th are memorable. The par-3 12th has a green on a sand dune overlooking the beach.
| Package | Details | Price per Person |
|---|---|---|
| The Royal Ship | 2 Nights B&B, 2 Rounds of Golf | £345 |
| The Royal Sportsman Hotel | 2 Nights B&B, 3 Rounds of Golf | £385 |
Aberdovey Golf Club offers great value with its green fees. It’s a favorite for golfers like Ian Woosnam for its beauty and challenge. You can play here and enjoy its rich history.
Recent testimonials highlight quality services at Aberdovey and Wales Golf Holidays. Visitors love everything from golf to hotels and the warm welcome in Wales. They appreciate the effort in planning their trips.
Visit Aberdovey Golf Club for a unique experience where great golf meets breathtaking views. It’s a place where the game’s tradition and beauty harmonize, creating lasting memories.
Pennard Golf Club: The Mesmerizing Links in the Sky
On the beautiful Gower Peninsula in South Wales sits the Pennard Golf Club. Known as the “links in the sky,” it’s a course like no other. This course stands out with its clifftop views and stunning beauty.
Dramatic Clifftop Setting Overlooking the Gower Peninsula
Pennard Golf Club stands 200 feet up. It features a limestone outcrop and unique heathland vegetation. These elements offer beautiful views and exciting changes in the course.
It was designed by famous architects James Braid and CK Cotton. Their work has made Pennard Golf Club both challenging and beautiful. Impressively, it’s ranked 98th in the Golf Monthly Top 100 list.
Unforgettable Golfing Experience with Stunning Vistas
At Pennard Golf Club, playing golf feels special. The wind makes the game tougher but more rewarding. You’ll see views that go as far as the Bristol Channel and the Atlantic Ocean.
| Hole | Par | Yards | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 4 | 403 | A challenging par 4 with a blind tee shot over a hill, leading to a fairway that slopes towards the sea. The green is perched on a cliff edge, demanding accuracy and nerve. |
| 16 | 3 | 211 | A breathtaking par 3 that plays across a deep ravine to a heavily bunkered green. Club selection is crucial, as the wind can wreak havoc on even the best-struck shots. |
A game here costs between £75-£85. This makes Pennard Golf Club a great choice for golf lovers. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Wales, whether you’re a beginner or a pro.
Celtic Manor Resort: Home of the 2010 Ryder Cup
In Newport, South Wales, is the beautiful Celtic Manor Resort. It’s famous for hosting the 2010 Ryder Cup. The resort covers 2,000 acres and has 400 rooms, 32 suites, and five elegant restaurants.
The highlight of the resort is the Twenty Ten Course. It was made for the Ryder Cup by architect Ross McMurray. This 7,493-yard course offers challenging holes with water obstacles on half of them.
There are two more great courses at Celtic Manor: the Roman Road and the Montgomerie. The Montgomerie, at 6,371 yards, was designed by golf legend Colin Montgomerie. It has beautiful views and is tough but fun to play.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 3.5 |
| Course Conditions | 2.9 |
| Value | 3.5 |
| Layout | 4.6 |
| Friendliness | 4.5 |
| Pace | 3.6 |
| Amenities | 4.9 |
The resort started in 1982 with the Celtic Manor Hotel. It has grown a lot since, adding rooms and a bridge to the golf courses.
Aside from golf, there’s a spa and fitness center. The resort keeps getting better, bringing more jobs and luxury for guests.
Looking for a challenging game or a relaxing getaway? The Celtic Manor Resort is perfect. It’s known for great service, luxury, and its golfing legacy.
Nefyn Golf Club: Where the Mountains Meet the Sea
Perched on North Wales’ stunning Llyn Peninsula, Nefyn Golf Club promises an unforgettable golf outing. It stands where majestic mountains meet the sparkling Irish Sea. This stunning location puts Nefyn Golf Club among the world’s top golf spots.
27 Holes of Spectacular Golf Along the Llyn Peninsula
Discover 27 holes at Nefyn Golf Club, set in three loops of nine. Each loop, like the Front, Old, and New, has unique features and challenges. Thanks to the work of famed architects J.H. Taylor and James Braid in the 1930s, the course is a timeless masterpiece.
Unforgettable “Point” Holes Overlooking the Irish Sea
A must-play is the Old Course at Nefyn Golf Club. It may be short at 2,508 yards, but it’s filled with exciting and unique features. The cliff-side holes offer stunning views of the Irish Sea, making your round unforgettable.
There are exceptional holes on the Front/New Course, measuring 6,520 yards from the back tees. The first four holes promise a memorable start to your round. Nefyn guarantees an experience that excites any golfer.
| Course | Yardage | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Old Course | 2,508 yards | 4 par threes, 1 par five, 1 spectacular par four, and some easier par fours |
| Front/New Course | 6,520 yards (back tees) | Starts with 4 exceptional holes |
Nefyn Golf Club, though beautiful, challenges all golfers. The weather can change drastically, adding to the difficulty. Those who persevere are rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime golf experience.
Adding Nefyn Golf Club to your bucket list is essential, whether you’re a pro or play for fun. Its historic background, beautiful setting, and brilliant design by James Braid and J.H. Taylor show why Welsh golf is truly magical.
Ashburnham Golf Club: A Historic Links Gem
In the center of Carmarthenshire, South Wales, Ashburnham Golf Club has entranced players since 1894. It’s a beloved gem in Welsh golf, providing a unique challenge for all. This historic links course is a must-play for those who love the game.
Starting with a memorable par 3, the course shows what classic links golf is all about. It continues in a straight line, with bumpy fairways, sneaky pot bunkers, and hidden tee shots. These features truly capture the spirit of links golf.
If you tend to slice, you might find this course tough. But don’t let that stop you. With its long history and captivating beauty, Ashburnham is a place every golfer should see. It’s a tough course, stretching over 6,910 yards, that will test your skills.
| Hole | Par | Yards | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 169 | Unique opening par 3, setting the tone for the round |
| 3-15 | – | – | Showcases the course’s finest features, a true test of links golf |
| 16 | 3 | 169 | Downhill par 3 into the wind, to one of the smallest, shallowest greens |
| 18 | 4 | – | Challenging finish, playing up and down a hill |
Ashburnham Golf Club is also great value. Green fees range from £50-65 for 18 holes, lunch, and a souvenir. At around 7,000 yards, it’s a true championship course. It’s filled with a mix of holes and challenges, making it top-notch in Wales.
The club’s heritage is rich, with an annual competition dating back to 1895. This event, the Tenby Putter, brings together Ashburnham and Tenby members for a prestigious challenge.
After your game, relax in the historic clubhouse. Enjoy local Welsh beer from Felinfoel. The club, though not often in the limelight, stands as one of the nation’s best. Ashburnham Golf Club is a hidden treasure facing the sea west of Llanelli in Wales.
Conwy Golf Club: A Classic Links Challenge
Conwy Golf Club sits in the beautiful north coast of Wales. Established in 1890, it offers a classic links layout. This historical course has faced many changes yet remains beautifully maintained. It is considered one of the top links courses in the region.
Beautifully Maintained Fairways and Greens
The moment you step on the first tee at Conwy Golf Club, you’ll notice the pristine fairways and greens. The club’s groundskeeping team keeps the turf lush and even.
The fairways may be flat but they offer a fair challenge. The greens roll smooth and true, perfect for putting.
Rich History Dating Back to 1890
The club has a rich history starting in 1890. Originally known as Caernarvonshire Golf Club, it’s been part of Welsh golf for over a century. It has hosted many important events and remains a top pick for golfers of all levels.
Conwy’s history includes hosting the 41st Curtis Cup in August 2021 and various amateur championships.
| Hole | Par | Yardage | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 359 (yellows) | Stroke Index 13 |
| 2 | 3 | 143 | Deep pot bunkers |
| 5 | 4 | 435 | Long par 4 |
| 9 | 5 | 521 | Challenging par 5 |
| 13 | 3 | 168 | Signature hole, gorse-surrounded green |
| 14 | 5 | 484 | Downwind par 5, recently renovated |
| 16 | 4 | 353 | Player favorite, dogleg right, gorse-lined fairways |
| 17 | 4 | – | Tightest hole, challenging |
Conwy Golf Club challenges its players with its 6,910-yard course. It’s a par 72 layout featuring holes like the signature 13th and the demanding 17th. The Irish Sea often brings strong winds but adds to the challenge and fun for players of all skills.
This destination combines beautiful coastal views with a rich golfing history. It’s a great place for both experienced players and those looking for a fun round. This gem in North Wales warmly welcomes all visitors.
Southerndown Golf Club: The Unique Limestone Links
In the lovely village of Ogmore, near Bridgend, Southerndown Golf Club stands out. It mixes limestone, heathland, and links golf perfectly. The course sits on a high limestone outcrop. This spot is great for plants like bracken and gorse, loved by acid soil, and also keeps the course well-drained.
At Southerndown Golf Club, the first eight holes feel very different. You’ll notice a classic coastal course vibe because of the sand from the nearby shore. This limestone-heathland-links blend is both beautiful and unforgiving. It’s sure to challenge even the best golfers.
The course is known for its top shape and tough design. It has dry stone walls and tricky greens that need careful and smart play. Among the bracken and gorse, you’ll see how the rugged limestone outcrop mixes with a classic links style.
| Hole | Par | Yards | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 408 | Elevated tee shot, dry stone wall along the right |
| 5 | 3 | 173 | Challenging par 3 with a heavily contoured green |
| 12 | 4 | 436 | Blind tee shot, gorse-lined fairway |
| 18 | 4 | 403 | Uphill approach to a well-protected green |
Playing here offers amazing views of the Welsh countryside. It makes the playing experience truly memorable. Its unique mix of golf styles, along with the beautiful setting, guarantees a special day playing golf.
For seasoned pros or casual players, Southerndown Golf Club is an amazing experience like no other. Discover the excitement of this limestone-heathland-links course. Enjoy the stunning views of Ogmore’s countryside as you play.
Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club: A Hidden Links Masterpiece
In South Wales, Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club stands out. It’s a hidden gem, providing an amazing links golf experience. Despite being less known than some, this course is perfect for those looking for a challenge.
Challenging Layout Designed by Harry Colt
This course has two sets of nine holes, each with its charm. The first nine, by Harry Colt, might seem easier, but it’s a test. It has tricky bunkers and greens, making accuracy vital.
Stunning Dunes and Coastal Scenery
The back nine, by Philip Mackenzie Ross, takes you through beautiful dunes. The course is tough, yet awe-inspiring. It’s a challenge perfect for skilled golfers.
The course is challenging throughout, especially the ending holes. These long par 4s need accurate shots to avoid trouble. The landscape and design will test your skills and your sightseeing abilities.
Pyle and Kenfig offers more than golf. It’s set in a stunning coastal area, making every round gorgeous. Its quiet, hidden location adds to its magic, giving a feeling of serene escape.
For any type of golfer, Pyle and Kenfig is unforgettable. It combines beauty, challenge, and the work of famous course architects. It’s a must-visit in Wales.
Tenby Golf Club: Wales’ Oldest Affiliated Club
In the beautiful county of Pembrokeshire, you’ll find Tenby Golf Club, established in 1888. It’s the oldest affiliated golf club in Wales. The course was designed by the famous James Braid. It has charmed players for more than a hundred years.
At Tenby Golf Club, your first shot is a tough 474-yard par 4. This course is 6,373 yards long and plays to a par 68. It challenges you to be precise and strategic. The terrain is rugged with contoured greens.
The par-4 3rd hole, known as “Dai Rees,” is a standout. It honors the Welsh Ryder Cup star. The hole is tough, with dunes and rough on the right. The green is sloping and on a plateau, testing even top golfers.
| Hole | Par | Yards |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 474 |
| 3 (Dai Rees) | 4 | 428 |
| 12 (Y Ddau Gwm) | 3 | 175 |
The par-3 12th hole, named “Y Ddau Gwm,” is also special. It has an elevated green over two valleys. It demands accuracy off the tee. You’ll face challenging obstacles and natural rough, kept that way for its ecosystem.
Visiting Tenby Golf Club costs between £36-45. It’s a great deal for a piece of Welsh golf history. Visitors of all skill levels are welcome. Handicaps from 0.1 to 19.8 are common.
Reviews from December 2019 to May 2024 praise the course highly. They love the conditions, layout, and friendly vibe. The average rating is between 7.8 and 9.5 out of 10.
After your game, admire the coastline view at Tenby Golf Club. Think about the course’s rich history. Tenby offers a timeless and unforgettable golf experience. It’s perfect for anyone looking for authentic Welsh golf at its oldest club.
Unforgettable Golfing Experiences in Wales
Find the best golf courses in Wales to challenge your skills amid stunning backdrops. From Royal Porthcawl’s wind-swept links to Nefyn Golf Club’s clifftop views, Wales’ golf legacy will hold you spellbound.
Stunning Landscapes and Challenging Courses
Wales offers a wide range of top-rated golf clubs with unique tests and beautiful views. For instance, Royal Porthcawl impresses legends like Tom Watson and Fred Couples described it as ‘absolutely spectacular.’ You will find challenging and scenic courses all across Wales.
Warm Welsh Hospitality and Rich Golfing Heritage
You can also expect a friendly welcome which shows how deep the passion for golf is in Wales. Every time you step into a clubhouse or resort, you’ll feel surrounded by golf’s history. These experiences range from Tenby Golf Club, the oldest in Wales, to Machynys’ modern Nicklaus-designed course.
| Golf Club | Unique Feature |
|---|---|
| Llanymynech Golf Club | Bisects Offa’s Dyke, marking the boundary between Wales and England |
| Porthmadog Golf Club | Includes both undulating heath on the front nine and pure coastal links on the back nine |
| Rolls of Monmouth Golf Club | Features lake-dotted fairways and wood-lined surrounds, offering a refined parkland golf experience |
| Cardigan Golf Club | Provides a blend of links and parkland, offering stunning views over Cardigan Bay |
If you’re thinking about a Wales golfing trip or just want to explore, Wales has much to offer. So, get your clubs ready and discover the amazing golf Wales has in store.
Exploring Wales’ Top Golf Resorts and Stay & Play Packages
Wales has some of the best golf resorts and deals for those wanting a great golf holiday. These spots pair fancy places to stay with top-level golf courses. They promise a memorable time for anyone who loves golfing.
Celtic Manor Resort: Luxury Accommodation and Championship Golf
The Celtic Manor Resort in Newport stands out as a top pick, having hosted the 2010 Ryder Cup at its Twenty Ten Course. It features the Roman Road and Montgomerie courses alongside. With its luxury rooms and top golfing spots, it’s perfect for a golf trip.
Marriott St Pierre: Elegant Lodgings and Two Exceptional Courses
In Chepstow, the Marriott St Pierre mixes fine rooms with two great golf courses. The Old Course and the Mathern Course offer an exciting match. Their packages let you enjoy the beautiful area and top services.
