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The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027

📖 2,885 words🗓️ Published Jul 31, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best golf courses in england to play are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Royal Birkdale

The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 1

Royal Birkdale ranks first for combining ten Open Championships, including 2017, with the fairest championship links test in England. Visitor green fees run about £300 for 2027, and the course stretches to roughly 7,150 yards from the championship tees. The par-3 12th is consistently rated among England's finest short holes, and the Art Deco clubhouse is iconic. Fairways thread through flat valleys between towering dunes, punishing wayward shots while rewarding good ones.

This is for the golfer seeking the complete Open experience with honest design and superb conditioning, all within reach of Hoylake and Royal Lytham for a northwest links circuit. It trades the quirky blind shots of Royal St George's for a fairer, more straightforward test. Compared to the number two pick, Birkdale offers more consistent conditioning and a more balanced challenge, justifying its higher fee.

2. Royal St George's

The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 2

Royal St George's ranks second for its untamed, quirky links design and 15 Open Championships, including 2021, making it the only Open venue in southeast England. Visitor green fees run about £295 for 2027, and the course features the deepest bunker in championship golf on the par-4 4th. Huge, rumpled dunes and blind shots reward bold, creative play, with Ian Fleming having set a scene here. It is a characterful old-school links unlike anything else in the south.

This is for golfers who embrace unpredictability and historical quirk over fairness, trading Birkdale's honest valleys for dramatic, blind-shot dunes. It compares to the top pick by offering a more eccentric and visually striking round, though conditioning can be less consistent. Its location near Sandwich forms a superb cluster with Royal Cinque Ports and Prince's, making it ideal for a southeast-England golf base near London.

3. Sunningdale Old Course

The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 3

Sunningdale Old Course ranks third for being the archetypal English heathland course, with a Willie Park Jr. design refined by Harry Colt that flows naturally with no weak holes. Visitor green fees run about £375 for 2027, and Bobby Jones shot a perfect 66 here in 1926 Open qualifying. Heather, gorse, pines, and silver birch line the fairways over sandy soil, and the famous oak by the 18th green is a landmark. It is a perennial top-three England ranking.

This is for the inland golfer seeking peerless heathland design, trading the coastal winds of the top two links for a sheltered, strategic test. It compares to Royal St George's by offering a more refined and less quirky challenge, but at a higher fee. Its location in Surrey places it at the heart of England's golden-age inland golf, within easy reach of London.

4. Royal Liverpool Hoylake

The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 4

Royal Liverpool Hoylake ranks fourth for its deep championship history, having hosted 13 Opens including 2006 and 2023, and its status as one of England's oldest links, founded in 1869. Visitor green fees run about £295 for 2027, and the course is flatter and more exposed than dune courses, defended by internal out-of-bounds and fierce wind. A new short par-3 17th was added for the 2023 Open.

This is for the traditionalist who values history and a stern, wind-affected test over dramatic scenery, trading the heathland beauty of Sunningdale for a more exposed links. It compares to the number three pick by offering a more authentic Open links experience at a lower fee, though with less visual variety. Its location on the Wirral Peninsula makes it a key stop on the northwest-England links circuit.

5. Wentworth West Course

The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 5

Wentworth West Course ranks fifth for its tour pedigree as the home of the BMW PGA Championship and the European Tour headquarters, with a Harry Colt design modernized by Ernie Els. Visitor green fees run about £400 for 2027, the priciest on this list, and the long par-5 18th is a famous, reachable-but-risky finishing hole. Tree-lined and immaculately conditioned, it offers a chance to play a course pros tackle every May.

This is for the golfer seeking a prestigious parkland challenge near London, trading the links authenticity of Hoylake for a manicured, tree-lined estate. It compares to the number four pick by offering superior conditioning and tour atmosphere, but at a significantly higher fee and without Open history. Its location in Surrey places it within the heathland belt, though it plays as a pure parkland course.

6. Saunton East Course

The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 6

Saunton East Course ranks sixth as the Best Value pick, delivering genuine championship links golf for about £135 for 2027, roughly a third of the marquee venue fees. A Herbert Fowler design winding through Braunton Burrows dunes, it has hosted English Amateur championships and Open final qualifying. The vast, dune-backed Braunton Burrows is a UNESCO biosphere reserve, adding to the wild, natural feel. It is regularly ranked among England's top 20 courses.

This is for the value-conscious golfer who wants elite links golf without the premium price, trading Wentworth's tour polish for a remote, traditional test. It compares to the number five pick by offering a more authentic links experience at a fraction of the cost, though with fewer amenities. Its remote North Devon location keeps crowds down, and the club's West Course provides an excellent companion round for a two-course day.

7. Woodhall Spa Hotchkin

The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 7

Woodhall Spa Hotchkin Course ranks seventh for being England's premier inland heathland course outside Surrey, owned by England Golf and famous for its enormous, deep bunkers. Visitor green fees run about £165 for 2027, and some bunkers are so deep players need ladders. The sandy subsoil and heather give it a links-like firmness despite its inland setting. It is a brutal but beautiful test that serves as the home of English amateur golf.

This is for the golfer who enjoys a severe challenge and dramatic hazards, trading Saunton's coastal links for an inland heathland with even deeper bunkering. It compares to the number six pick by offering a more inland, less windswept experience at a slightly higher fee, but with equally firm turf. Its Lincolnshire location provides a quieter alternative to the Surrey heathland belt, with fewer crowds and a national governing body pedigree.

8. Royal Lytham St Annes

The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 8

Royal Lytham St Annes ranks eighth for its dense, strategic bunkering and championship history, having hosted 11 Opens including 2012, and it is defended by more than 200 bunkers. Visitor green fees run about £260 for 2027, and it opens with a rare par-3. Bobby Jones won the 1926 Open here, commemorated on the 17th. It is unusual as an Open links set inland of the sea amid red-brick suburbia.

This is for the golfer who appreciates a demanding, bunker-laden test over scenic dunes, trading Woodhall Spa's inland heathland for a links-style challenge near the coast. It compares to the number seven pick by offering a more traditional Open links experience at a higher fee, though with less dramatic natural beauty. Its Lancashire location places it near Birkdale and Hoylake, making it a strong addition to a northwest-England links trip.

9. Walton Heath Old Course

The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 9

Walton Heath Old Course ranks ninth for being a true heathland links-in-disguise that hosted the 2023 AIG Women's Open and the 1981 Ryder Cup. Designed by Herbert Fowler on high, exposed common land, it plays firm and fast like a links. Visitor green fees run about £295 for 2027, and the heather-lined fairways and elevated, wind-swept position make it one of the most natural inland courses in Britain.

This is for the golfer who wants links-style firmness without the coast, trading Lytham's dense bunkering for a more open, heather-lined challenge. It compares to the number eight pick by offering a more natural, less artificial test at a higher fee, though with a more recent major championship pedigree. Its Surrey location places it within the heathland belt, providing a windier and more exposed alternative to Sunningdale.

10. Ganton Golf Club

The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 10

Ganton Golf Club ranks tenth as a hidden gem, offering a rare inland course with true links character on sandy soil far from the sea, and it hosted the 1949 Ryder Cup. Visitor green fees run about £175 for 2027, and the gorse-lined fairways, firm turf, and deep bunkering give it a coastal feel. Harry Vardon was the club professional here, and it is consistently ranked among England's top 15 courses.

This is for the golfer seeking a less crowded, more affordable championship experience, trading Walton Heath's Surrey prestige for a North Yorkshire setting. It compares to the number nine pick by offering a more secluded and traditional test at a lower fee, though with less recent major exposure. Its location near Scarborough makes it an ideal stop for a northern England golf itinerary, providing links DNA without the sea breeze.

How we ranked these

We measured design pedigree, conditioning, championship history, visitor experience, and 2027 green fees. Weighting favored Open and Ryder Cup venues, architectural significance, and firm, fast playing surfaces. We balanced marquee names against value, using published rankings and club data to ensure each course met a high threshold of quality and playability.

We deliberately ignored courses with restricted public access, such as exclusive private clubs not open to visitors, and excluded courses outside England, including Scottish venues like St Andrews and Muirfield. We also omitted courses with unclear 2027 visitor availability or those undergoing major renovations, ensuring every recommendation is bookable and accurately represented.

What to look for

What matters is matching course character to your trip: links versus heathland, location for clustering, and budget. Royal Birkdale offers Open pedigree and fairness; Saunton delivers links quality at £135. Book early for marquee venues, and consider pairing a splurge like Wentworth with a value gem like Woodhall Spa to balance cost and variety.

The mistake most buyers make is focusing solely on famous names and ignoring logistics and value. They overpay for Wentworth without considering Sunningdale's superior heathland design, or skip Saunton because it's remote. Smart golfers cluster courses by region, book 3-6 months ahead, and mix high-end rounds with hidden gems to maximize experience per pound.

FAQ

How much does it cost to play a top course in England?

Green fees for the courses on this list range roughly from £135 to £400 per round. The most affordable option is Saunton (East Course) at about £135, while marquee Open venues like Royal Birkdale and Royal St George’s can reach £300–£400, depending on the season and tee time.

Do I need a handicap to book a round?

Most of the top-tier clubs require a valid handicap certificate, typically between 18 and 28 for men and 24 to 36 for women, though policies vary. Some heathland courses may be more flexible, but it’s best to check with each club directly before booking.

When is the best time of year to play in England?

Late spring through early autumn (May to September) offers the most reliable weather, with longer daylight hours and firmer fairways. However, links courses are playable year-round, and shoulder months like April or October can provide quieter rounds and lower fees.

Are these courses open to visitors, or are they private members’ clubs?

All courses on this list welcome visitors, though some require advance booking and may restrict tee times on weekends or during competitions. A few, like Sunningdale, have limited visitor slots, so booking weeks or months ahead is recommended.

Can I walk the courses, or are carts mandatory?

Walking is standard at nearly all English golf courses, and most of these venues are designed for walking. Carts are available for those with medical needs at some clubs, but they are not required and often need to be pre-arranged.

How far in advance should I book a tee time?

For top courses like Royal Birkdale or Sunningdale, booking 3 to 6 months ahead is wise, especially for prime weekend slots. Less famous but still excellent courses, such as Saunton, may be bookable 2 to 3 months out, but early planning helps secure the best times.

What is the best value course on the list?

Saunton (East Course) is the best value at roughly £135, offering championship links quality with Open final qualifying history. It provides a genuine links experience at a fraction of the cost of marquee venues, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious golfers.

Which course has the most Open Championship history?

Royal St George's has hosted 15 Opens, the most among English courses, including the 2021 event won by Collin Morikawa. Royal Birkdale and Royal Liverpool have each hosted 10 and 13 Opens respectively, making them equally steeped in championship tradition.

Are there any inland courses with links characteristics?

Yes, Woodhall Spa (Hotchkin) and Ganton are inland but play firm and fast with heather and deep bunkers, mimicking links conditions. Sunningdale and Walton Heath also offer heathland turf that is springy and quick, providing a links-like experience away from the coast.

Can I combine multiple top courses in one trip?

Absolutely. The Lancashire coast clusters Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool, and Royal Lytham within short drives. Kent offers Royal St George's, Royal Cinque Ports, and Prince's. Surrey has Sunningdale, Wentworth, and Walton Heath, allowing efficient multi-course itineraries.

Sources

flowchart TD S["The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to"] S --> N0["1. Royal Birkdale"] N0 --> N1["2. Royal St George's"] N1 --> N2["3. Sunningdale Old Course"] N2 --> N3["4. Royal Liverpool Hoylake"]

flowchart LR C["The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to"] C --> H0["9. Walton Heath Old Course"] C --> H1["10. Ganton Golf Club"] C --> H2["How we ranked these"] C --> H3["What to look for"]

Related on PULSE

[More golf courses in england to play rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best golf courses in england to play are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Royal Birkdale

![The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/cl0016-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to"]
  S --> N0["1. Royal Birkdale"]
  N0 --> N1["2. Royal St George's"]
  N1 --> N2["3. Sunningdale Old Course"]
  N2 --> N3["4. Royal Liverpool Hoylake"]
```


Royal Birkdale ranks first for combining ten Open Championships, including 2017, with the fairest championship links test in England. Visitor green fees run about £300 for 2027, and the course stretches to roughly 7,150 yards from the championship tees. The par-3 12th is consistently rated among England's finest short holes, and the Art Deco clubhouse is iconic. Fairways thread through flat valleys between towering dunes, punishing wayward shots while rewarding good ones.

This is for the golfer seeking the complete Open experience with honest design and superb conditioning, all within reach of Hoylake and Royal Lytham for a northwest links circuit. It trades the quirky blind shots of Royal St George's for a fairer, more straightforward test. Compared to the number two pick, Birkdale offers more consistent conditioning and a more balanced challenge, justifying its higher fee.


## 2. Royal St George's

![The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/cl0016-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to"]
  C --> H0["9. Walton Heath Old Course"]
  C --> H1["10. Ganton Golf Club"]
  C --> H2["How we ranked these"]
  C --> H3["What to look for"]
```


Royal St George's ranks second for its untamed, quirky links design and 15 Open Championships, including 2021, making it the only Open venue in southeast England. Visitor green fees run about £295 for 2027, and the course features the deepest bunker in championship golf on the par-4 4th. Huge, rumpled dunes and blind shots reward bold, creative play, with Ian Fleming having set a scene here. It is a characterful old-school links unlike anything else in the south.

This is for golfers who embrace unpredictability and historical quirk over fairness, trading Birkdale's honest valleys for dramatic, blind-shot dunes. It compares to the top pick by offering a more eccentric and visually striking round, though conditioning can be less consistent. Its location near Sandwich forms a superb cluster with Royal Cinque Ports and Prince's, making it ideal for a southeast-England golf base near London.

## 3. Sunningdale Old Course

![The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/cl0016-b3.jpg)


Sunningdale Old Course ranks third for being the archetypal English heathland course, with a Willie Park Jr. design refined by Harry Colt that flows naturally with no weak holes. Visitor green fees run about £375 for 2027, and Bobby Jones shot a perfect 66 here in 1926 Open qualifying. Heather, gorse, pines, and silver birch line the fairways over sandy soil, and the famous oak by the 18th green is a landmark. It is a perennial top-three England ranking.


This is for the inland golfer seeking peerless heathland design, trading the coastal winds of the top two links for a sheltered, strategic test. It compares to Royal St George's by offering a more refined and less quirky challenge, but at a higher fee. Its location in Surrey places it at the heart of England's golden-age inland golf, within easy reach of London.

## 4. Royal Liverpool Hoylake

![The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/cl0016-b4.jpg)


Royal Liverpool Hoylake ranks fourth for its deep championship history, having hosted 13 Opens including 2006 and 2023, and its status as one of England's oldest links, founded in 1869. Visitor green fees run about £295 for 2027, and the course is flatter and more exposed than dune courses, defended by internal out-of-bounds and fierce wind. A new short par-3 17th was added for the 2023 Open.


This is for the traditionalist who values history and a stern, wind-affected test over dramatic scenery, trading the heathland beauty of Sunningdale for a more exposed links. It compares to the number three pick by offering a more authentic Open links experience at a lower fee, though with less visual variety. Its location on the Wirral Peninsula makes it a key stop on the northwest-England links circuit.

## 5. Wentworth West Course

![The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/cl0016-b5.jpg)


Wentworth West Course ranks fifth for its tour pedigree as the home of the BMW PGA Championship and the European Tour headquarters, with a Harry Colt design modernized by Ernie Els. Visitor green fees run about £400 for 2027, the priciest on this list, and the long par-5 18th is a famous, reachable-but-risky finishing hole. Tree-lined and immaculately conditioned, it offers a chance to play a course pros tackle every May.


This is for the golfer seeking a prestigious parkland challenge near London, trading the links authenticity of Hoylake for a manicured, tree-lined estate. It compares to the number four pick by offering superior conditioning and tour atmosphere, but at a significantly higher fee and without Open history. Its location in Surrey places it within the heathland belt, though it plays as a pure parkland course.

## 6. Saunton East Course

![The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/cl0016-b6.jpg)


Saunton East Course ranks sixth as the Best Value pick, delivering genuine championship links golf for about £135 for 2027, roughly a third of the marquee venue fees. A Herbert Fowler design winding through Braunton Burrows dunes, it has hosted English Amateur championships and Open final qualifying. The vast, dune-backed Braunton Burrows is a UNESCO biosphere reserve, adding to the wild, natural feel. It is regularly ranked among England's top 20 courses.


This is for the value-conscious golfer who wants elite links golf without the premium price, trading Wentworth's tour polish for a remote, traditional test. It compares to the number five pick by offering a more authentic links experience at a fraction of the cost, though with fewer amenities. Its remote North Devon location keeps crowds down, and the club's West Course provides an excellent companion round for a two-course day.

## 7. Woodhall Spa Hotchkin

![The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 7](/assets/qa/cl0016-b7.jpg)


Woodhall Spa Hotchkin Course ranks seventh for being England's premier inland heathland course outside Surrey, owned by England Golf and famous for its enormous, deep bunkers. Visitor green fees run about £165 for 2027, and some bunkers are so deep players need ladders. The sandy subsoil and heather give it a links-like firmness despite its inland setting. It is a brutal but beautiful test that serves as the home of English amateur golf.

This is for the golfer who enjoys a severe challenge and dramatic hazards, trading Saunton's coastal links for an inland heathland with even deeper bunkering. It compares to the number six pick by offering a more inland, less windswept experience at a slightly higher fee, but with equally firm turf. Its Lincolnshire location provides a quieter alternative to the Surrey heathland belt, with fewer crowds and a national governing body pedigree.


## 8. Royal Lytham St Annes

![The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 8](/assets/qa/cl0016-b8.jpg)


Royal Lytham St Annes ranks eighth for its dense, strategic bunkering and championship history, having hosted 11 Opens including 2012, and it is defended by more than 200 bunkers. Visitor green fees run about £260 for 2027, and it opens with a rare par-3. Bobby Jones won the 1926 Open here, commemorated on the 17th. It is unusual as an Open links set inland of the sea amid red-brick suburbia.

This is for the golfer who appreciates a demanding, bunker-laden test over scenic dunes, trading Woodhall Spa's inland heathland for a links-style challenge near the coast. It compares to the number seven pick by offering a more traditional Open links experience at a higher fee, though with less dramatic natural beauty. Its Lancashire location places it near Birkdale and Hoylake, making it a strong addition to a northwest-England links trip.


## 9. Walton Heath Old Course

![The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 9](/assets/qa/cl0016-b9.jpg)


Walton Heath Old Course ranks ninth for being a true heathland links-in-disguise that hosted the 2023 AIG Women's Open and the 1981 Ryder Cup. Designed by Herbert Fowler on high, exposed common land, it plays firm and fast like a links. Visitor green fees run about £295 for 2027, and the heather-lined fairways and elevated, wind-swept position make it one of the most natural inland courses in Britain.

This is for the golfer who wants links-style firmness without the coast, trading Lytham's dense bunkering for a more open, heather-lined challenge. It compares to the number eight pick by offering a more natural, less artificial test at a higher fee, though with a more recent major championship pedigree. Its Surrey location places it within the heathland belt, providing a windier and more exposed alternative to Sunningdale.


## 10. Ganton Golf Club

![The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027 — figure 10](/assets/qa/cl0016-b10.jpg)


Ganton Golf Club ranks tenth as a hidden gem, offering a rare inland course with true links character on sandy soil far from the sea, and it hosted the 1949 Ryder Cup. Visitor green fees run about £175 for 2027, and the gorse-lined fairways, firm turf, and deep bunkering give it a coastal feel. Harry Vardon was the club professional here, and it is consistently ranked among England's top 15 courses.

This is for the golfer seeking a less crowded, more affordable championship experience, trading Walton Heath's Surrey prestige for a North Yorkshire setting. It compares to the number nine pick by offering a more secluded and traditional test at a lower fee, though with less recent major exposure. Its location near Scarborough makes it an ideal stop for a northern England golf itinerary, providing links DNA without the sea breeze.


## How we ranked these

We measured design pedigree, conditioning, championship history, visitor experience, and 2027 green fees. Weighting favored Open and Ryder Cup venues, architectural significance, and firm, fast playing surfaces. We balanced marquee names against value, using published rankings and club data to ensure each course met a high threshold of quality and playability.

We deliberately ignored courses with restricted public access, such as exclusive private clubs not open to visitors, and excluded courses outside England, including Scottish venues like St Andrews and Muirfield. We also omitted courses with unclear 2027 visitor availability or those undergoing major renovations, ensuring every recommendation is bookable and accurately represented.

## What to look for

What matters is matching course character to your trip: links versus heathland, location for clustering, and budget. Royal Birkdale offers Open pedigree and fairness; Saunton delivers links quality at £135. Book early for marquee venues, and consider pairing a splurge like Wentworth with a value gem like Woodhall Spa to balance cost and variety.


The mistake most buyers make is focusing solely on famous names and ignoring logistics and value. They overpay for Wentworth without considering Sunningdale's superior heathland design, or skip Saunton because it's remote. Smart golfers cluster courses by region, book 3-6 months ahead, and mix high-end rounds with hidden gems to maximize experience per pound.

## Related questions

### What are the best golf courses in Scotland to play in 2027?

Scotland offers St Andrews Old Course, Muirfield, Carnoustie, and Royal Dornoch, all with Open history and dramatic links terrain. Fees range from £100 to over £300. Book Old Course ballots months ahead. These venues complement an England trip, providing the full British links experience.

### What are the best golf courses in Wales to play in 2027?

Wales features Royal Porthcawl, a top links with Open qualifying history, and Celtic Manor's Twenty Ten course, host of the 2010 Ryder Cup. Fees are moderate, around £150-£250. These courses offer strong value and distinct coastal or parkland challenges.

### What are the best golf courses in Ireland to play in 2027?

Ireland's best include Royal County Down, Ballybunion, and Portmarnock, all world-class links. Green fees range from £150 to £300. These courses are known for dramatic dunes and firm, fast conditions, ideal for a dedicated links golf holiday.

### What are the best golf courses in the Pacific Northwest to play in 2027?

Top picks include Chambers Bay, Bandon Dunes, and Gamble Sands. These courses offer links-style play with dramatic coastal or desert scenery. Fees vary from $100 to $400. They provide a modern take on traditional links golf, with excellent conditioning and walkability.

### What are the best golf courses in Spain and Portugal to play in 2027?

Valderrama, Sotogrande, and San Lorenzo in Portugal are top choices. These courses feature parkland and links hybrids, with year-round playability. Fees range from €150 to €300. They offer warm weather, excellent service, and championship pedigree, ideal for a winter golf getaway.

### What are the best golf courses in Canada to play in 2027?

Cabot Cliffs, Cabot Links, and Highlands Links are premier. These courses offer cliff-top and coastal links golf with stunning views. Fees range from CAD 200 to 400. They provide a rugged, natural experience comparable to the best British links.

### What are the best golf courses in Asia and the Middle East to play in 2027?

Top venues include Mission Hills in China, The Els Club in Dubai, and Sentosa in Singapore. These courses are luxurious, with impeccable conditioning and desert or tropical settings. Fees range from $150 to $500. They offer a high-end, modern golf experience.

### What are the best golf courses in South Africa to play in 2027?

Leopard Creek, Fancourt, and Gary Player Country Club are top. These courses feature bushveld and parkland designs, often with wildlife. Fees range from R1000 to R3000. They offer unique scenery and challenging layouts, with excellent value for international visitors.

## FAQ

**How much does it cost to play a top course in England?**

Green fees for the courses on this list range roughly from £135 to £400 per round. The most affordable option is Saunton (East Course) at about £135, while marquee Open venues like Royal Birkdale and Royal St George’s can reach £300–£400, depending on the season and tee time.

**Do I need a handicap to book a round?**

Most of the top-tier clubs require a valid handicap certificate, typically between 18 and 28 for men and 24 to 36 for women, though policies vary. Some heathland courses may be more flexible, but it’s best to check with each club directly before booking.

**When is the best time of year to play in England?**

Late spring through early autumn (May to September) offers the most reliable weather, with longer daylight hours and firmer fairways. However, links courses are playable year-round, and shoulder months like April or October can provide quieter rounds and lower fees.

**Are these courses open to visitors, or are they private members’ clubs?**

All courses on this list welcome visitors, though some require advance booking and may restrict tee times on weekends or during competitions. A few, like Sunningdale, have limited visitor slots, so booking weeks or months ahead is recommended.

**Can I walk the courses, or are carts mandatory?**

Walking is standard at nearly all English golf courses, and most of these venues are designed for walking. Carts are available for those with medical needs at some clubs, but they are not required and often need to be pre-arranged.

**How far in advance should I book a tee time?**

For top courses like Royal Birkdale or Sunningdale, booking 3 to 6 months ahead is wise, especially for prime weekend slots. Less famous but still excellent courses, such as Saunton, may be bookable 2 to 3 months out, but early planning helps secure the best times.

**What is the best value course on the list?**

Saunton (East Course) is the best value at roughly £135, offering championship links quality with Open final qualifying history. It provides a genuine links experience at a fraction of the cost of marquee venues, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious golfers.

**Which course has the most Open Championship history?**

Royal St George's has hosted 15 Opens, the most among English courses, including the 2021 event won by Collin Morikawa. Royal Birkdale and Royal Liverpool have each hosted 10 and 13 Opens respectively, making them equally steeped in championship tradition.

**Are there any inland courses with links characteristics?**

Yes, Woodhall Spa (Hotchkin) and Ganton are inland but play firm and fast with heather and deep bunkers, mimicking links conditions. Sunningdale and Walton Heath also offer heathland turf that is springy and quick, providing a links-like experience away from the coast.

**Can I combine multiple top courses in one trip?**

Absolutely. The Lancashire coast clusters Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool, and Royal Lytham within short drives. Kent offers Royal St George's, Royal Cinque Ports, and Prince's. Surrey has Sunningdale, Wentworth, and Walton Heath, allowing efficient multi-course itineraries.

## Sources

- https://www.golfmonthly.com/top-100-courses/england
- https://www.randa.org/
- https://www.golfdigest.com/golf-courses/rankings
- https://www.top100golfcourses.com/
- https://www.englandgolf.org/
- https://www.europeantour.com/dpworld-tour/
- https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/

## Related on PULSE

- [More golf courses in england to play rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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The 10 Best Golf Courses in England to Play in 2027

1. Royal Birkdale

2. Royal St George's

3. Sunningdale Old Course

4. Royal Liverpool Hoylake

5. Wentworth West Course

6. Saunton East Course

7. Woodhall Spa Hotchkin

8. Royal Lytham St Annes

9. Walton Heath Old Course

10. Ganton Golf Club

How we ranked these

What to look for

Related questions

What are the best golf courses in Scotland to play in 2027?

What are the best golf courses in Wales to play in 2027?

What are the best golf courses in Ireland to play in 2027?

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