World-Class Golf Without the Private Club Barrier
England may be home to some of the world’s most exclusive private clubs, but it also offers a wealth of exceptional public golf courses that deliver elite-level experiences without requiring membership. From historic Open Championship venues to inland treasures set among heathland and pine, these public-access gems are open to anyone willing to book ahead, lace up their shoes, and tee off.
This guide rounds up the best public golf courses in England — courses that combine accessibility with serious pedigree. Whether you’re planning a golf holiday or just looking for your next great round, these courses deserve a spot on your list.
1. Royal Birkdale Golf Club – Southport, Lancashire
A Legend on the Lancashire Coast
- Prestige: 10-time Open Championship venue
- Why It’s Special: Universally regarded as England’s best Open venue
- Access: Visitor tee times available year-round
Royal Birkdale’s dramatic dunes and championship routing offer a pure links experience for golfers of all levels. The layout is fair, firm, and visually stunning.
2. Royal St George’s Golf Club – Sandwich, Kent
Historic, Quirky, and Utterly Iconic
- Prestige: Open Championship host
- Why It’s Special: Rich in history, full of blind shots and personality
- Access: Public tee times available on select days
One of the oldest and most unpredictable Open venues. Royal St George’s offers a thrilling ride for those who love traditional links golf.
3. Woodhall Spa (Hotchkin Course) – Lincolnshire
The Crown Jewel of Inland Golf in England
- Prestige: Consistently ranked among the world’s best heathland courses
- Why It’s Special: Strategic design, natural setting, stunning bunkering
- Access: Open to the public with excellent visitor services
With deep bunkers, fast-running fairways, and a remote countryside vibe, Woodhall Spa’s Hotchkin Course is a must-play for those who love golf architecture.
4. Princes Golf Club – Sandwich, Kent
A Strong, Scenic Neighbour to Royal St George’s
- Prestige: Host of the 1932 Open Championship
- Why It’s Special: 27 holes of championship links
- Access: Fully public with online booking
Princes is often overlooked but offers some of the best value links golf in England. It’s challenging but playable for all skill levels.
5. Saunton Golf Club (East Course) – Devon
A Coastal Gem in the Southwest
- Prestige: Highly ranked but under-the-radar
- Why It’s Special: Championship-ready, with wild dunes and classic links feel
- Access: Public access with flexible tee time booking
It may not have hosted an Open, but Saunton East is often considered one of the best courses never to do so.
6. Alwoodley Golf Club – Leeds, West Yorkshire
A MacKenzie Masterpiece
- Prestige: Designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, of Augusta National fame
- Why It’s Special: Pure heathland, fast-running turf, elegant routing
- Access: Public visitor access available with advance booking
One of the finest examples of inland golf design in the country, and still widely playable by the public.
7. Ganton Golf Club – North Yorkshire
A Blend of Links and Heathland
- Prestige: Ryder Cup host in 1949, Walker Cup venue
- Why It’s Special: Bunkering is strategic and unforgiving, terrain is pure
- Access: Visitors welcome throughout the year
Located inland but with a links-like feel, Ganton is challenging and beautifully preserved — an excellent test of golf.
8. Formby Golf Club – Merseyside
Where Links Meets Pine Forest
- Prestige: Ranks consistently among England’s best
- Why It’s Special: A unique blend of links and parkland
- Access: Visitor tee times readily available
Formby delivers variety, shot-making, and a tranquil setting — a rare combination that keeps golfers coming back.
9. Hollinwell (Notts Golf Club) – Nottinghamshire
A Championship Test Off the Beaten Path
- Prestige: Host of numerous elite amateur events
- Why It’s Special: Vast, quiet, and expertly routed
- Access: Bookable by visitors most days of the week
This under-the-radar gem offers both space and strategy, with plenty of room to swing — and think.
10. Brancepeth Castle Golf Club – County Durham
Northern Charm with Historic Flair
- Prestige: Not as widely known, but highly respected
- Why It’s Special: Routed through castle grounds with quirky, engaging holes
- Access: Open to visitors and extremely welcoming
Brancepeth combines old-world charm and fun design with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Conclusion
England’s best public golf courses are not just playable — they’re prestigious, well-kept, and loaded with championship pedigree. Whether you’re walking down historic fairways once trodden by Open Champions or discovering a heathland gem hidden in the countryside, there’s no shortage of remarkable experiences awaiting everyday golfers.
With careful planning and a little wanderlust, you can explore the finest English courses without needing a member’s badge or a black card. These courses prove that world-class golf in England is as accessible as it is unforgettable.
FAQs
- Are all the courses listed truly open to the public?
Yes. While some are private clubs, all offer public or visitor tee times with advance reservations. - Do these courses require handicap certificates to play?
Some championship venues like Royal Birkdale may request a handicap certificate, but many are flexible with visitors. - When is the best time to play golf in England?
Late spring to early autumn (May–September) offers the best weather and playing conditions. - Are caddies or buggies available at these courses?
Yes. Many courses offer both, though walking is often encouraged for the traditional experience. - How far in advance should I book tee times?
At least 3–6 months in advance is recommended for the most prestigious venues, especially during peak golf season.
