Famous Golf Courses in the UK

Arguably, some of the best and the most famous golf courses are in the United Kingdom. Fans of golf can rest assured to find several Championship links located on the Kent coast and others on the rolling sand dunes of Southport.

The dramatic and natural terrain that the country of Scotland is blessed with will leave one with the impression that it was designed solely for the purpose of having golf courses of unparalleled challenge and beauty. Below you can find some of the most famous golf courses in the UK.

The Royal County Down Golf Club is one of the best golf courses in the UK. Ranked 1^st on Golf Digest’s biennial ‘World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses’ in 2016 and 2018, this golf course needs no introduction. It’s perfectly nestled in the Murlough Nature Reserve and flanked by some of the most breathtaking Mountains of Mourne. It’s one of the most striking golf courses in the world.

We couldn’t compile a list of the famous golf courses in the UK without mentioning St. Andrews Old Course. The moment you set foot here, you’ll immediately feel how special and iconic the place is. Many golf legends have played at the St. Andrews Old Course, and by far, it’s one of the most iconic golf courses in the UK.

Having successfully hosted The Open 9 times, we can all agree that Royal Birkdale Golf Club is as iconic as it gets in the world of golf. Besides hosting the Open, this golf club boasts a multitude of several other golf tournaments, such as the Women's British Open and the Walker Cup. The magnificence and the class of Royal Birkdale isn't something to be overstated, and without a doubt, it’s the crown jewel of English golf.

Potentially one of the most stunning golf courses in the United Kingdom, if you happen to be here on a sunny day, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable experience. The Ailsa course located at Turnberry is a sight to behold. Watched over by the Turnberry Lighthouse, The Ailsa has a rich history along with phenomenal views. Four Open Championships have previously taken place here, one of the most memorable being the 'Duel in the Sun' between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson.

The Royal Portrush is the only golf club situated outside of mainland Britain. It's the first golf course ever to host The Open Championship. It's an honour bestowed to the Royal Portrush, especially after some of the famous golfers in the world battled on the course's rough links terrain in The Open in 2019. Royal Portrush's already unforgiving terrain presents fresh challenges to beginners and pros alike.

Two new holes were recently added in the course for one of the most exciting majors of the year, making an already excellent course even better.