Golf enthusiasts, prepare to be captivated by the ultimate bucket list of courses that will leave you in awe and eager to tee off. These courses, renowned for their exceptional quality and breathtaking experiences, come with a price tag that may make your wallet cry, but trust me, it's worth every penny. From the historic St Andrews to the breathtaking Old Head of Kinsale, each course offers a unique blend of history, challenge, and natural beauty. Let's dive into the top 14 golf courses that will make your golfing dreams come true, even if they cost a pretty penny.
St Andrews
St Andrews, the home of golf, is a must-play for any golfer. Walking the Old Course, you'll feel like you're treading in the footsteps of golf legends. The iconic first tee, followed by the famous 17th hole and the crossing of the Swilcan Bridge, will leave you in awe. While peak season green fees can soar to £355, the winter rate of £180 offers a more affordable experience, albeit with fairway mats in use. It's an investment in a truly timeless golf adventure.
Old Head of Kinsale
Ireland's Old Head of Kinsale is a golfer's paradise. Stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean, this course offers breathtaking views and a challenging layout. The high season fee of €550 might seem steep, but it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Non-peak months bring the fee down to €275, making it more accessible, but the memories it creates are priceless.
Royal Dornoch
Venture into the heart of Scotland's Highlands and discover Royal Dornoch, a golfer's paradise. The Championship Course, beloved by golf legends Tom Watson and Ben Crenshaw, can be played from £200 in winter, with summer fees rising to £390. The twilight rate of £235 adds an extra layer of excitement. This course is a true testament to the beauty and challenge of the Scottish golf experience.
Kingsbarns
Kingsbarns, a modern masterpiece, showcases stunning visuals and memorable holes. The par five 12th and the regularly photographed par three 15th will test your skills. With 2027 green fees set to reach £524, it's an expensive affair, but for those with the means, it's a dream come true. The course's reputation as one of the world's best is well-deserved.
Sunningdale
Sunningdale, one of England's most storied golf clubs, offers two celebrated courses. The Old and New courses, each costing £485 in 2027, provide a true golf aficionado's experience. For the ultimate challenge, playing both layouts on the same day for £850 is a golfer's dream come true.
Carnoustie
Carnoustie's Championship Course is a golfer's ultimate test. Legends like Ben Hogan, Tom Watson, and Padraig Harrington have lifted the Claret Jug here. While peak season fees in 2027 are set to rise to £450, it remains a bucket list experience for many. The course's rich history and challenging layout make it a must-play.
Royal Birkdale
Royal Birkdale, a resplendent course, hosted the 154th Open Championship. With tee times between May and October costing £495 and April fees at £450, it's a premium experience. The course's reputation, bolstered by the world's best golfers, makes it a sought-after destination.
Royal Portrush
Royal Portrush, a restored Open Championship venue, offers the Dunluce Links. Green fees this season were £420, but a special Golf Ireland rate for groups of four is available upon request. The course's beauty and the thrill of playing on a historic major venue make it a memorable experience.
Machrihanish
Machrihanish, located at the southern tip of the Kintyre peninsula, is a golfer's paradise. While it may require a lengthy journey, the Old Tom Morris creation is a natural and authentic golf experience. Peak months offer tee times from £160, while winter rates drop to £95, making it an affordable yet memorable adventure.
North Berwick
North Berwick's West Links is a timeless course, influential and copied worldwide. Part of Scotland's Golf Coast, it offers an organic design that has stood the test of history. 2027 green fees start from £260 in March to £360 from April to October, with a discounted rate of £160 for Scottish residents.
Silloth-on-Solway
Silloth, once England's best course under £100, has crossed into the three-figure mark. Its summer rate of £120 still offers strong value for money on the Solway Coast. Golfers recommend this links course for its undoubted quality and memorable experience.
Saunton
Saunton Golf Club, part of North Devon's coastline, boasts two exceptional courses, East and West. Winter green fees start from £125, rising to £175 in summer, with twilight rates making it more affordable. The courses' reputation as England's finest is well-deserved.
Cruden Bay
Cruden Bay, in Aberdeenshire, offers unique terrain and a cult-favorite status. Weekday rounds in peak season cost £205, with weekends at £220. The 36-hole rate of £265 is appealing, and cheaper fees in April and October make it an even more attractive option.
Brora
Brora, a James Braid gem in the Highlands, captivates golfers with its livestock-filled course. UK golf club members can play from £90 in winter to £120 in peak months. The course's brilliance and unique charm make it a golfer's dream, even with its higher fees.
While these courses may not be accessible or affordable for everyone, the experiences they offer are truly worth the expense. So, if you have a golfing bucket list, it's time to turn those dreams into reality and embark on these unforgettable golf adventures.
