The UK is home to some of the world’s best golf courses. The famed Scottish courses of St Andrews and Royal Dornoch, Royal County Down in Northern Ireland and England’s Royal St George’s are revered the world over.
And that’s just tip of the iceberg. The country has more than 2,500 courses which has seen golf tourism flourish. Here at Skyscanner, we know that finding a great golf hotel can really make your trip. So, pack up your golf clubs and check out the best golf hotels in the UK. .
Rusucks at St Andrews
Steeped in tradition
One of the oldest, best-loved and most famous courses in the world, St Andrews has it all. Whether you want to watch one of the tournaments or you want to have a go on the course yourself, you’ll want a nearby hotel.
You can’t get much closer than Rusucks, a hotel that overlooks the Home of Golf. If there’s a tournament on, you’ll be able to watch parts of it from the comfort of your own room. And if you’re playing, you can afford a sleep in while you avoid the commute.
Because of its popularity, not everyone is guaranteed a tee time. To have a chance of playing on the Old Course, you need to enter an online ballot. Ballots open two days ahead of play – so to give yourself the best chance of winning, you should book as long a stay at Rusucks as you can. On those days when your name doesn’t get drawn, there are plenty of other highly regarded golf courses in St Andrews. The nearby Kingsbarns Golf Links is one of the most expensive golf courses in the world and is ranked in the top 50 of the “World Top 100” courses.
“St Andrews is by far the place to play, with the history and the old course, it’s just the best.”
Dame Laura Davies, professional golfer and TV commentator and analyst.
Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort
A luxury experience
A five-star mansion set in a 240-acre woodland resort doesn’t sound too bad, especially when you throw in an on-site golf course. The 70-par Earl of Mar course was designed by legendary golfer and course architect Dave Thomas. It sits beside the River Clyde and is adorned by trees more than two centuries old.
You can book golf days, golf packages or golf lessons to fill your stay or simply relax in the spa and gorge on the daily afternoon teas. On your off days, take a trip into Glasgow and experience a football match, visit Kelvingrove art museum or wander around in awe gazing at some of the terrific gothic architecture.
Celtic Manor Resort
Relax and unwind
Newport is Wales’s third biggest city and home to one of its best golf hotels. And Celtic Manor Resort is home to not one, not two, but three 18-hole courses. In that trio is the Twenty Ten course which was specifically designed for the Ryder Cup. What better way to compare yourself to the top pros?
The hotel itself is a five-star offering set in a 19th century manor house. As well as the golf courses, there’s an award winning spa to wind down in and a choice of five restaurants, as well as cafes and bars. One of those bars is situated at the halfway point of the Twenty Ten course, should you need a refreshment.
Away from the hotel, Newport has a lot to offer. Visit the ancient Roman fortress at Caerleon, explore the wetlands or see the Newport mediaeval ship project.
East Sussex National Hotel
A great all-rounder
Found on the edge of the South Downs, East Sussex National Hotel is home to two challenging courses. The East Course has twice hosted the European Open so, again, this golf hotel has been graced by some of the biggest names in the game. And soon, maybe yours.
As well as the courses, there’s a driving range and a golf academy in the hotel grounds to help finesse your game. Away from the golf, relax in the indoor pool, jacuzzi and sauna. Or just sit by your window and take notes of the others playing the courses.
You’ll find a range of dining options and the hotel has a well-known extensive wine list. If you want to try something different, take the half hour trip to Brighton and eat at one of the many highly-rated restaurants. While you’re there, take time to visit the unique shops in The Lanes, Brighton Palace Pier and the famous beach.
“Where do I not like to play in the UK? I just absolutely love courses in the UK. The conditions, design and feeling of history is a beautiful combination.”
Caroline Martens, professional golfer and 2024 European Solheim Cup Team Vice Captain
The Belfry Hotel
Home of the British Masters
If you’re looking for the best golf hotel in the UK, you might not be able to top the Belfry.
The Warwickshire hotel boasts three courses: The Brabazon, PGA National and The Derby. The first two courses are both 72-par, while The Derby is slightly smaller at 70-par.
The Belfry has hosted the Ryder Cup more than any other golf resort and it’s the current home of the British Masters. The 2024 event is set to be held from 29 August to 1 September. Kiwi Daniel Hillier won the 2023 event.
The hotel also has a PGA Academy, an indoor pool and an extensive spa system. And entertainment and dining is provided in cafes, bars, restaurants and a nightclub. On days away from the course, Birmingham is just a 20-minute drive away. Take a tour of the Cadbury Factory, join a guided walk of the city’s historic sites or visit the speciality Coffin Works museum.
Thinking booking a golf hotel in the UK? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car hire deals for your next trip.
