49 Fantastic Winter Green Fee Bargains in the UK

Nefyn will live long in your society's memories.

49 brilliant places to play across the UK, all with excellent winter green fee offers

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ENGLAND – NORTH 

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1. DUNSTANBURGH CASTLE, NORTHUMBERLAND

Architect: James Braid redesign (1900).
Yardage: 6,039-6,353 (par 70).
Winter deal: Until Mar 31 – Bacon roll and tea/coffee, 18 holes & soup, sandwich and chips for £28 midweek and £30 weekends.

In a nutshell… On the breathtaking Northumbrian coastline, this fair but challenging and somewhat humble links has proudly sat on its Embleton site since 1900 amidst an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, gently curving around the bay’s beautiful golden sands.
To play well you need to… Keep out of the strategicallyplaced pot bunkers and gorse at all times, while being aware of the constantly switching wind direction with the layout bending around the bay and back. The rough shouldn’t be a problem at this time of the year, though the speed of the greens will probably surprise you.
You’ll love the… Value more than anything else, while there’s plenty of on-course highlights and fireworks to be savoured too. Among them would be teeing off on top of a giant sand dune at the dramatic par-4 6th and at the tiny par-3 13th backdropped by the eerie ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. Memorable experiences, and great holiday golf.

01665 576562 www.dunstanburgh.com

2. CALDY, CHESHIRE

Architects: Jack Morris & James Braid (1907/1931).
Yardage: 5,824-6,714 (par 70/72).
Winter deal: 18 holes with a full English breakfast for £32.50 on Mondays and Thursdays till Mar 31.

In a nutshell… A brightly shining clifftop star on the edge of the Wirral Peninsula alongside the River Dee which tends to get overlooked by neighbouring England’s Golf Coast superstars, but undeniably offers a magical and potent mixture of links and inland holes.
You’ll love the… Breathtaking views, specially of the North Wales mountains, and you can not only drink them in out on the course but via the huge clubhouse windows. Great drainage and USGA-spec tees and greens combine to guarantee terrific year-round golf.

0151 6255660 www.caldygolfclub.co.uk

3. KENDAL, CUMBRIA

Architect: Old Tom Morris (founded 1891).
Yardage: 5,552-5,792 (par 70).
Winter deal: 18 holes is £15 (minimum eight players).

In a nutshell… The old course has undergone major changes down the years, including being significantly lengthened and the installation of USGA-spec greens along with a refurbished clubhouse. Beware of the demanding par-4 14th known ‘Coffin Wood.’
You’ll love the… Panoramic views from the Yorkshire Dales to the Lake District and Morecambe Bay.

01539 733708 www.kendalgolfclub.co.uk

4. GANTON, NORTH YORKS

Architects: Tom Chisholm (1891).
Yardage: 6,445-6,998 (par 72).
Winter deal: From Oct 15-Feb 2019 midweek fourball £200 & £220 weekends.

In a nutshell… Heathland classic with bags of history and pedigree. Gary Player once stated that Ganton is the only inland course worthy of staging the Open Championship. Fair point. Of course, it’s already staged the Ryder, Curtis and Walker Cups.
You’ll love the… Setting. Think of Turnberry without the sea and, give or take, you’ve got gorgeous Ganton, the pride of Yorkshire and the handiwork of several leading architects including the great Harry Colt and Alister Mackenzie. Being based on sandy, free-draining soil it’s always playable, always in good condition. Take advantage of the deal above and you won’t regret it.

01944 710329 www.gantongolfclub.com

5. WARRINGTON, CHESHIRE

Architect: James Braid (1903).
Yardage: 6,216 (par 71).
Winter deal: Fourball for £120 from Nov-Mar, £140 with mini all-day breakfast.

In a nutshell… Originally the heathland handiwork of James Braid, Warrington has undergone many changes down the years with extensive alterations being carried out on the front nine in 2005.
You’ll love the…. Fine Pennines and Welsh hills views and winter condition, thanks to fine drainage.

01925 265431 www.warringtongolfclubc.co.uk

6. NORTHENDEN, MANCHESTER

Architects: P Alliss & D Thomas (1973).
Yardage: 6,460 (par 72).
Winter deal: £15 midweek, £17.50 Sundays.

In a nutshell… You’ll find this 45-year-old Alliss/ Thomas parkland creation on the banks of the River Mersey five miles from Manchester city centre, with the river lurking on the right of the opening six holes!
You’ll love the… Superb USGA-spec greens and the need to display sound course management skills. Smashing new clubhouse too (it opened in 2016).

0161 998 4738 www.northendengolfclub.com

7. DONCASTER TOWN MOOR, SOUTH YORKS

Architect: Unknown (1965).
Yardage: 6,139 (par 69).
Winter deal: Friday special – £10 all day.

In a nutshell… This intriguing parkland is plotted within Doncaster’s famous racecourse, eventually becoming a full 18-hole layout in the mid-1960s. It may be short by today’s standards, but it’s no stroll in the park.
You’ll love the… It is playable year-round. It’s easy walking too, while the greens are good and true.

01302 533167 www.doncastertownmoorgolfclub.co.uk

ENGLAND – MIDLANDS & EAST

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8. COXMOOR, NOTTS

Architects: Tom Williamson & Len White (1913).
Yardage: 6,224-6,719 (par 73).
Winter deal: Dec-Feb: Bacon roll and tea/coffee on arrival, 18 holes, steak & ale pie meal with tea/coffee, cost £45 (midweek).

In a nutshell…. This first-class heathland is right up there with neighbours Hollinwell and Sherwood Forest.
You’ll love the…. Majestic location. One of the highest points in the county – provides panoramic views across the Leicestershire Wolds and Vale of Belvoir.

01623 557359 www.coxmoorgolfclub.co.uk

9. NEWARK, NOTTS

Architect: Tom Williamson (1901).
Yardage: 6,271-6,468 (par 71).
Winter deal: £26 for all-day breakfast & 18 holes (groups of four or more).

In a nutshell… Challenging, easy-walking layout – a parkland/woodland/heathland hybrid – has benefited from significant changes, including new bunkering.
You’ll love the… Caddies. European Tour caddie Steve Brotherhood runs his popular Tour Caddy Experience (www.tourcaddyexperience.co.uk) from here.

01636 626282 www.newarkgolfclub.co.uk

10. BLACKWELL, WORCS

Architects: Herbert Fowler & Tom Simpson (1893).
Yardage: 6,080-6,260 (par 70).
Winter deal: Bacon roll and coffee on arrival & 18 holes cost £45 (Dec 10-Feb 28).

In a nutshell… Parkland heaven. A class act recognised by its prominence within the Top 100 Courses listings. Has staged Open Regional Qualifying.
You’ll love the… Serene setting. It’s dominated by mature woodland, and even though it’s under 6,300 yards off the whites, don’t underestimate it.

0121 445 1994 www.blackwellgolfclub.co.uk

11. THORPENESS, SUFFOLK

Architect: James Braid (1922).
Yardage: 6,421 (par 70).
Winter deal: Coffee/tea & bacon roll on arrival, 18 holes and one-course lunch for £40pp (minimum 12 players).

In a nutshell…. Breathtaking Braid heathland close to the coast. A tremendous variety and combination of holes keeps you on your toes.
You’ll love the…. Impressive cluster of short holes with the 16th, played from a slightly elevated tee over a valley of shrubbery to a hidden green, probably the pick.

01728 452176 www.thorpeness.co.uk

12. HORSLEY LODGE, DERBYS

Architect: Peter McEvoy (late 1980s).
Yardage: 6,112-6,534 (par 71).
Winter deal: £26.50 for 18 holes and homemade curry.

In a nutshell… This fine all-round venue, with plenty of maturing trees and with water sprinkled around, is guaranteed to examine all playing levels.
You’ll love the… Smart hotel on site, so you can tumble out of bed and on to the 1st tee if necessary. It’s playable year-round and benefits from not only USGA-spec greens but fast-draining bunkers.

01332 780838 www.horsleylodge.co.uk

13. ELSHAM, LINCS

Architects: Various (1900).
Yardage: 6,171-6,443 (par 71).
Winter deal: £22.50 for coffee, 18 holes and meal.

In a nutshell… Well established but underrated parkland, though it is the host venue of next year’s English Seniors Men’s Open Amateur Championship.
You’ll love the… Maturity as well as the fact it has a heathland touch and feel about it while it’s gently undulating and easy-walking. Good course management is key.

01652 680291 www.elshamgolfclub.co.uk

14. ROYAL CROMER, NORFOLK

Architect: Old Tom Morris, advisory role (1888).
Yardage: 6,290-6,528 (par 72).
Winter deal: £35 midweek, £40 weekends.

In a nutshell… Clifftop classic dramatically overlooking the Norfolk coast and somewhat harshly overshadowed by the county’s top links, Hunstanton and fellow ‘Royal’ West Norfolk. Has come a long way since setting out as a modest nineholer rented from the Suffield family at the back end of the 19th century.
To play well you need to… Drive the ball well. At just over 6,500 yards off the whites, it isn’t the longest but it can be a beast when the wind is blowing which is usually the case. Make sure you’re in the best position off the tee – go left on the short par-4 3rd and you’re in trouble, slice it on the SS1 ‘Cliff Hanger’ 6th and you’re beached and miss the fairway left on the stunning ‘Lighthouse’ 14th and you’re dead, too.
You’ll love the… Coastal views from 300ft above the North Sea. It’s an absolute joy to play all year and has been significantly improved in recent times with the striking new pot bunkers giving it a more linksy feel. So many memorable holes, though our favourite is ‘Wembley’ – the stunning par-3 9th played from an elevated tee to a green surrounded by bunkers.

01263 512884 www.royalcromergolfclub.com

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ENGLAND – SOUTH EAST 

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15. BURHILL (OLD COURSE), SURREY

Architect: Willie Park Jnr (1907).
Yardage: 6,195-6,479 (par 70).
Winter deal: £55 midweek, £65 w/e (after noon).

In a nutshell… Historic venue, where the Old Course, a gorgeous parkland layout, is the chief attraction. The tree-lined fairways, on the whole, are fairly generous. However, the sloping greens are tough and usually very fast.
To play well you need to… Have a good strategy. The Old is on the short side, but shouldn’t be underestimated. While the fairways are generally spacious, it might be prudent to leave the driver in the bag on some holes. You also need to be pretty precise with approaches to avoid three-putting.
You’ll love the… Halfway hut, which offers cold beer and homemade sausage rolls. Make a day of it and play the neighbouring New Course which opened in 2001 and finishes with a glorious par-3 over the River Mole. The stunning Georgian mansion clubhouse will blow you away, too.

01932 227345 www.burhillgolf-club.co.uk

16. ASHRIDGE, HERTS

Architects: CK Hutchison, Sir Guy Campbell & SV Hotchkin (1932).
Yardage: 6,045-6,678 (par 72).
Winter deal: Coffee/tea & bacon roll on arrival, 18 holes (in the morning) and two-course carvery lunch for £76pp (minimum 12 players).

In a nutshell… When you’re talking about the best courses in the Home Counties, this lovely layout should feature prominently. It’s set within 350 gorgeous acres on the edge of the Chilterns and is simply a joy to play. Sheer class.
You’ll love the… It’s steeped in history. Three-time Open champion Henry Cotton was the club’s professional in the late 1930s. The standout hole, the short par-4 9th played over a valley to a plateau green, is named after him. And you won’t find any temporary tees or greens here.

01442 842244 www.ashridgegolfclub.ltd.uk

17. HAYLING, HAMPSHIRE

Architects: JH Taylor & Tom Simpson (1883).
Yardage: 6,264-6,498 (par 71).
Winter deal: Nov-Mar £49pp for coffee on arrival, 18 holes & pie of the day meal (minimum eight players).

In a nutshell… The only true links, west of Rye, along the south coast, doesn’t get the credit and attention it deserves. But we can assure you it’s well worth a visit.
You’ll love the… Easy-walking layout plotted on mountains of sand, so there’s brilliant natural drainage and it’s always in great condition.

02392 464446 www.haylinggolf.co.uk

18. ROYAL ASHDOWN FOREST (OLD COURSE), SUSSEX

Architect: Archdeacon Scott (1888).
Yardage: 6,238-6,502 (par 72).
Winter deal: Midweek fourball £45pp.

In a nutshell…. Inland golf doesn’t get much better than this heathland classic, which was handed Royal recognition by Queen Victoria 45 years after opening. It might be on the short side, and there are no bunkers to negotiate, but with slender fairways, banks of heather, hollows and streams, it will test you all the way round.
You’ll love the… Everything about this Open Regional Qualifying venue, including the glorious North Downs views from the spectacular elevated 11th tee staring down at the 249-yard par 3. The 125-yard 6th Island hole is another classic short hole, while the rustic old clubhouse is a great spot to unwind.

01342 822018 www.royalashdown.co.uk

19. THE HAMPSHIRE, HANTS

Architect: Unknown (1993).
Yardage: 6,145-6,393 (par 71/72).
Winter deal: £16, £19 w/e (after midday, online).

In a nutshell… Delightful downland layout set within 240 acres of Test Valley countryside. It’s a fair and enjoyable test and, thanks to free-draining chalk, provides year-round golf and great value.
You’ll love the… Threat and challenge posed by the demanding par-4 7th, a right-to-left dogleg and arguably the toughest hole on the course.

01264 357 555 www.thehampshiregolfclub.co.uk

20. CAVERSHAM HEATH, BERKS

Architect: David Williams (2000).
Yardage: 6,652-7,151 (par 73).
Winter deal: Fourball £80 (weekends, after midday).

In a nutshell… Set in the grounds of the historic Mapledurham Estate, this is a modern heathland layout built to USGA specifications.
You’ll love the… Serious examination on offer, with a terrific combination of holes that drains superbly so it is always in good nick. And in this part of the world, if offers fantastic value for money.

0118 947 8600 www.cavershamgolf.co.uk

21. CHART HILLS, KENT

Architect: Sir Nick Faldo (1993).
Yardage: 5,891-7,132 (par 72).
Winter deal: Christmas Classic on Friday, Dec 7 & Thursday, Dec 13: Team entry £160, including tea/ coffee & bacon roll, 10am shotgun start (in teams of four) and two-course traditional Christmas dinner.

In a nutshell… Big, burly Faldo layout littered with over 100 bunkers. It’s a great challenge from the right tees.
You’ll love the… £1.5m course refurbishment carried out by new owner Kings Resorts.

01580 292222 www.charthills.co.uk

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ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST 

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22. PERRANPORTH, CORNWALL

Architect: James Braid (1927).
Yardage: 6,296 (par 71).
Winter deal: Until Mar 31 (Mon, Thurs & Fri mornings, min. 4 players) – coffee/tea, bacon roll, 18 holes and lunch from Winter Warmer menu, £40pp.

In a nutshell... A totally different links amidst the spectacular towering dunes perched high above the coast and overlooking the popular seaside town of the same name. It’s wildly undulating and is packed with twists, turns and surprises. Like Marmite, you’ll either love or loathe it… and we absolutely love it.
To play well you need to… Expect the unexpected. Perranporth is quirky in the extreme. You’re asked to hit a number of ‘blind’ drives so make sure you take careful aim and trust the marker posts sitting on giant dunes in front of you! Taking an extra club should help you find more greens with several of them sitting atop the dunes.
You’ll love the… It’s not a ‘normal’ links and you should drink in its unique feel and personality as well as the spectacular coastal views. You’ll encounter several memorable holes – Perranporth doesn’t do ordinary – and par-3s don’t come any scarier or more demanding than the 4th, played to a slender green on a dune ledge 197 yards away.

01872 572454 www.perranporthgolfclub.co.uk

23. BOVEY CASTLE, DEVON

Architect: J F Abercromby (1930).
Yardage: 5,695-6,299 (par 70).
Winter deal: 18 holes and breakfast for £37.50.

In a nutshell… Outstanding undulating parkland on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. A terrific variety of holes overlooked by the five-star mansion house hotel.
You’ll love the… Spectacular start. The downhill driveable 1st is closely guarded by the River Bovey, which is in play on several holes, including the dog-leg par-4 2nd and par-3 3rd with virtual island green.

01647 445009 www.boveycastle.com

24. ST ENODOC, CORNWALL

Architect: James Braid (1907).
Yardage: 6,108-6,557 (par 69).
Winter deal: Nov 1-Mar 31 (weekdays, min. 8 players) – 18 holes, coffee, bacon bap, two-course meal, £50pp.

In a nutshell… One of the country’s top links. This classic,if at times quirky, layout weaves its way around the 11th century church – after which it takes its name.
You’ll love the… Countless highlights, from the 70ft high Himalaya bunker over the 6th green to the drive at the 10th and stunning par-5 16th beside the estuary.

01208 863216 www.st-enodoc.co.uk

25. TALL PINES, BRISTOL

Architect: T. Murray (1989).
Yardage: 6,067 (par 70).
Winter deal: Until Mar 31 (min. 10 players, midweek) – coffee, bacon roll and 18 holes, £28.

In a nutshell… Fast maturing, undulating parkland with a good mix of holes and a serious examination despite its relatively short yardage.
You’ll love the… Sweeping Bristol Channel views into Wales and the 168-yardspar-3 finale…provided you’ve avoided the bunkers short and right and the rear OB!

01275 472076 www.tallpinesgolf.co.uk

26. ISLE OF WEDMORE, SOMERSET

Architect: Terry Murray (1992).
Yardage: 5,850-6,057 (par 70).
Winter deal: Until Feb 28 (weekdays) – coffee & bacon roll, 18 holes & meal of the day, £20.

In a nutshell… Little known parkland off the M5. The back nine features three consecutive par 5s. A good yearround venue and boasts a state-of-the-art simulator!
You’ll love the… Breathtaking panoramic views of the Mendip Hills, Cheddar Valley, Glastonbury Tor and the Somerset Levels, specially from the greens at 11 and 12.

01934 712452 www.wedmoregolfclub.co.uk

27. TEIGNMOUTH, DEVON

Architect: Alister MacKenzie (1924).
Yardage: 5,883-6,082 (par 69/71).
Winter deal: From £35 (up to 50% for groups of 10+).

In a nutshell… Something of a hidden gem despite its creator. It’s magical moorland plotted close to the coast 800ft above sea level and featuring 11 two-tier greens.
You’ll love the… Panoramic coast and moors views. On a clear day, you can see as far as Portland Bill and Dartmoor. Six splendid par-3s too with two over 200-yards, including the 229-yards finale.

01626 777070 www.teignmouthgolfclub.co.uk

28. THE DORSET GOLF RESORT, DORSET

Architect: Martin Hawtree (1991).
Yardage: Lakeland – 3,306 (par 36); Parkland 3,309 (par 36); Woodland 2,512 (par 33).
Winter deal: Two nights, three rounds (Dec/Jan) £125pp.

In a nutshell… Home to 27 contrasting holes across its three loops and a variety of accommodation options, including luxury lodges. Has come on leaps and bounds.
You’ll love the… Parkland’s very own Amen Corner and the USGA-spec tees and greens. It’s also incredibly tranquil and great for wildlife lovers.

01929 472244 www.dorsetgolfresort.com

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IRELAND 

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29. ST MARGARET’S G&CC, COUNTY DUBLIN

Architects: Tom Craddock & Pat Ruddy (1992).
Yardage: 6,344-6,914 (par 73).
Winter deal: Winter Open competitions on Mondays and Wednesdays €25pp.

In a nutshell… The sort of quality parkland you don’t expect to find within a mile of Dublin airport. It is beautifully presented and the hole shapes promise an easy rhythm that lasts throughout the round, and throws in some enchanting holes.
To play well you need to… Stay fully focused to the bitter and challenging end. There are some demanding holes out there which warrant your undivided attention, none more so than the tough par-4 finale played to a two-tier green closely guarded by water on the right and sand on the left.
You’ll love the… Compactness of it all. There are no big walks and only gentle rises and falls as you wander the countryside. So it’s easy on the eye and easy on your feet, too.

003531 864 0400 www.stmargaretsgolf.com

30. WOODENBRIDGE, COUNTY WICKLOW

Architect: Patrick Merrigan (founded 1884).
Yardage: 6,060-6,341 (par 71).
Winter deal: €25 (Mon-Fri); €35 (Sat-Sun).

In a nutshell… There are few prettier places for a parkland than the wooded valley that is home to Woodenbridge. It’s enchanting, and the course maintains that atmosphere.
You’ll love the… Holes where water comes in to play. The par-3 8th is the start of it, with a gorgeous shot over the Avoca river.

0053 402 35202 www.woodenbridge.ie

31. WATERFORD CASTLE, COUNTY WATERFORD

Architect: Des Smyth (1992).
Yardage: 6,814 (par 72).
Winter deal: Winter Open competitions every Thursday, includes burger & chips. €30pp.

In a nutshell… The only course in Ireland that requires a ferry to reach it. Dense woods are scattered about, but this feels like an open course.
You’ll love the… Ferry ride! It gives you the sense of discovering an unknown treasure. The 3rd is a beauty, with two lots of water threatening.

00 353 51 871633 www.waterfordcastleresort.com

32. MOYOLA PARK, COUNTY LONDONDERRY

Architect: Don Patterson (1980).
Yardage: 6,094-6,517 (par 71).
Winter deal: Senior Open comps on Monday. £18pp.

In a nutshell… For such a beautiful parkland it is hard to believe Moyola Park is so little known. Spacious and drenched in towering oak trees, the centrepiece is a wooded hill with a river flowing around it.
You’ll love the… Par-3 17th, which will live long in the memory. It drops between tight trees to a green surrounded by more trees and the river beyond.

02879 468468 www.moyolaparkgolfclub.co.uk

33. FAITHLEGG, COUNTY WATERFORD

Architect: Paddy Merrigan (1993).
Yardage: 6,335-6,666 (par 72).
Winter deal: Winter Open competitions on Monday, Wednesday, Friday. €20pp.

In a nutshell… A gentle resort course around a hotel. The house/hotel dates back to 1783, so you know the trees will be old and imposing. Even so, it remains spacious and bright as holes head out to the River Suir.
You’ll love the… Easy pace of the course. Faithlegg is playable for all levels of golfer.

00353 51 380 587 www.faithlegggolfclub.com

34. LEE VALLEY G&CC, COUNTY CORK

Architect: Christy O’Connor Jnr (1993).
Yardage: 6,800 (par 72).
Winter deal: Winter offers include a series of mixed open events (Scramble, Singles, etc.) every Tuesday, for €25, and Golf, Drink & Burger, Mon-Fri, for €35.

In a nutshell… An easy-on-the-eye parkland. Big greens present sweet targets and the thousands of trees that were planted at the start are maturing nicely.
You’ll love the… Big greens and the big welcome. You can’t beat a family affair like this. Lodges here make a great base.

00353 21 733 1721 www.leevalleygcc.ie

35. KIRKISTOWN CASTLE, COUNTY DOWN

Architects: GL Bailie & James Braid (founded 1902).
Yardage: 5,917-6,167 (par 69).
Winter deal: Winter Open comps every Tuesday. £15pp.

In a nutshell… A little-known, low-running links on the eastern coastline of Northern Ireland, not much has changed over the decades.
You’ll love the… Ridge. Yes, one large ridge slices across the course and it is home to tees and greens alike… as well as old stone turrets. All the holes here are of the sweet links variety.

028 427 71233 www.linksgolfkirkistown.com

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SCOTLAND 

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36. FAIRMONT ST ANDREWS (KITTOCKS), FIFE

Architects: Bruce Devlin & Denis Griffiths (2002).
Yardage: 6,327-7,192 (par 72).
Winter deal: Golf on Kittocks, bacon roll & coffee, hand warmers & miniature whisky, cost £35pp from Dec 1-Feb 28 (Mon-Fri). Ref: FSATGO.

In a nutshell… The Torrance may be the no.1 layout at the classy clifftop resort just outside St Andrews, but the Kittocks, which opened in 2002 following significant input from the legendary Gene Sarazen, is an outstanding course in its own right. In fact it arguably provides even more fun and drama, with a good slice of the latter taking place at dynamic clifftop par 4 duo, the 15th and 17th.
To play well you need to… Firstly, play from the tees suitable for your own game so probably best to keep away from the back tips, over 7,100-yards and a brute when the wind is blowing. You also need to carefully avoid the collection of deep pot bunkers and, unusually for a coastal layout, a couple of man-made lakes. Finally, make sure you’re aiming at the right pin when firing into the double greens!
You’ll love the… Awesome panoramic North Sea and Home of Golf views, the fact that it’s just down the coast from St Andrews itself, the impressively refurbished on-site hotel and, being a resort venue, you can choose to play from four different tees which gives everyone a fair chance.

01334 837000 www.fairmont.com/st-andrews-scotland/

37. HADDINGTON, EAST LOTHIAN

Architect: Unknown (1865).
Yardage: 6,038-6,403 (par 71).
Winter deal: £20 till Mar 31.

In a nutshell… Well-established parkland and previously part of the Earl of Wemyss country estate. With walled surroundings and skirted by the River Tyne (in play on the 11th and 15th), it’s a pleasantly testing layout.
You’ll love the… Excellent value. Plus, it’s just a short drive from Edinburgh and the fabled East Lothian links of Muirfield, North Berwick & Co.

01620 822727 www.haddingtongolf.co.uk

38. DRUMOIG, FIFE

Architect: Dave Thomas (1996).
Yardage: 6,472-6,956 (par 73).
Winter deal: 1 night’s B&B & 2 round, £65pp.

In a nutshell… A challenging parkland covering rolling Fife countryside and located midway between the world-famous links of St Andrews and Angus. It’s the home course of Connor Syme, whose father is head pro.
You’ll love the... It’s a splendid parkland alternative to the nearby fabled links for a fraction of the price. Great value on-site accommodation, too.

01382 541800 www.drumoiggolfhotel.com

39. PRESTWICK ST NICHOLAS, AYRSHIRE

Architects: John Allan & Charlie Hunter (1892).
Yardage: 6,044 (par 69).
Winter deal: Tues & Fri fourball £100 (until Mar 23).

In a nutshell… Unheralded Ayrshire links plotted on sandy, free-draining soil and heavily defended by undulating greens, gorse bushes and deep bunkers and, of course, the elements. OB features on a dozen holes!
You’ll love the… History: Old Tom Morris was a founding member of the 26th oldest golf club in the world. The ‘Salt Pan’ buildings behind the 1st date back to 1790.

01292 477608 www.prestwickstnicholas.com

40. GULLANE NO. 1, EAST LOTHIAN

Architect: Unknown (1884).
Yardage: 6,075 (par 70).
Winter deal: Until Mar 31 – £75 weekday between 10.48-midday).

In a nutshell… One of the many seaside stars of East Lothian and Scotland’s Golf Coast which has seen Scottish Open action twice in the past three years, South African Brandon Stone being the latest victor. A serious links test and ably supported by the neighbouring No.2 and No.3 layouts.
You’ll love the… Stunning views from a course draped across Gullane Hill. The 7th tee vistas of Edinburgh one way and the Firth of Forth the other are virtually worth the green fee alone. The challenge of avoiding 124 bunkers, eight of them guarding the classic par-3 9th, is among the many you’ll face.

01620 842255 www.gullanegolfclub.com

41. DUNBAR, EAST LOTHIAN

Architects: Old Tom Morris, James Braid & Ben Sayers (founded 1856).
Yardage: 6,597 (par 71).
Winter deal: Nov-Feb (Mon-Wed) £50.

In a nutshell… Hosted the first European Tour PGA Championship in 1968 and links courses don’t get any more challenging when the wind is blowing than this dynamic Open final qualifying layout. The well-defined holes stretch across a narrow strip of land between the old red sandstone deer park wall and the rocky shoreline.
You’ll love the… Terrific set of short holes. This shining star on the East Lothian trail is a top test of seaside golf – there’s just nowhere to hide from the wind highly likely to be blowing. The 173-yard 3rd, played to a downhill green guarded by bunkers, slopes, hollows, OB and, with the clubhouse and pro shop close by, is a highlight!

01368 862 317 www.dunbargolfclub.com

42. BLAIRGOWRIE (LANSDOWNE), PERTHSHIRE

Architects: Peter Alliss & Dave Thomas (1979).
Yardage: 6,408-7,007 (par 71/72).
Winter deal: £25 (fairway mats in use).

In a nutshell… One of the best courses created by the dynamic duo of Alliss and Thomas. Celebrates its 40th anniversary next year and is probably even more strategic and testing than neighbouring Rosemount.
You’ll love the… True Championship nature, which can play to 7,000-yards plus as it weaves between clusters of pine and silver birch trees.

01250 872622 www.theblairgowriegolfclub.co.uk

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WALES

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43. ROYAL ST DAVID’S, GWYNEDD

Architects: Finch-Hatton/William Henry More (1894).
Yardage: 6,226-6,629 (par 69).
Winter deal: One night stay & one round – £75.

In a nutshell… Top links overlooked by the intimidating Harlech Castle up on the hill. Even though it’s laid out on fairly flat land and offers few glimpses of the sea, it’s always interesting, always classy… and definitely challenging whenever you elect to pitch up to play it.
To play well you need to… Finish strongly to combat the ultra-demanding and potentially penal final five holes. You need to get to grips with several lengthy par 4s which can make or break a round here as can the handful of par 3s, especially bearing in mind the latter vary in both length and direction, a significant challenge in the inevitable winds. As always on links courses, the off-shore breezes must be carefully judged at all times, otherwise disaster awaits…
You’ll love the… Natural rigour of the site, the history attached to the venue plus the firm, fast, gently undulating fairways, some overlooked by towering dunesland. Royal St David’s also has a great set of greens plus a stirring closing stretch of holes, and unusually signs-off with a 200-yard par-3 finale. Regularly prominently features in most Top 100 UK listings.

01766 780361 www.royalstdavids.co.uk

44. CLYNE, SWANSEA

Architect: Harry Colt (1920s).
Yardage: 5,943-6,432 (par 72).
Winter deal: Nov-Mar – £15 Mon (golf only) and £24 Tues-Sun for 18 holes and a one-course meal.

In a nutshell… Splendid moorland venue with the challenging Harry Colt course laid out on the high ground of Clyne Common about 400ft above sea level at the entrance to the Gower Peninsula.
You’ll love the… Stunning panoramic vistas which take in the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons.

01792 402094 www.clynegolfclub.com

45. BUILTH WELLS, POWYS

Architect: Unknown (founded 1923).
Yardage: 5,238-5,444 (par 66).
Winter deal: Until Mar 31 – 18 holes and a meal for £18.

In a nutshell… Scenic Mid-Wales parkland layout converted from nine to 18 in 1986. With an assortment of trees, ponds and the River Chewfri running through it, it should be afforded plenty of respect.
You’ll love the… Solitude and the clubhouse, an extended 15th Century Welsh longhouse. Lovely putting surfaces too.

01982 553296 www.builthwellsgolf.co.uk

46. PYLE & KENFIG, BRIDGEND

Architect: Harry Colt (1919).
Yardage: 6,194-6,860 (par 71).
Winter deal: Nov 1-Feb 28, Fourball Special includes coffee & bacon rolls on arrival and 18 holes – £100 Mon-Fri & £200 on Sat.

In a nutshell… You can make a score on the relatively open original outward nine but the back nine, mainly played through dominant dunes, grabs your attention.
You’ll love the… Back nine, arguably up there among the best back nines in Britain. Great clubhouse too.

01656 783093 www.pandkgolfclub.co.uk

47. NEFYN & DISTRICT, GWYNEDD

Architect: James Braid (1907).
Yardage: Front 9 3,164 (par 35); Old 2,508 (par 33); New 3,356 (par 36).
Winter deal: Nov-Dec 18, 27 or 36 holes for £25 Sun- Fri & £29 on Sat.

In a nutshell… Home of some of the most spectacular holes in the UK. The Old Course is dramatically perched on a peninsula towering high above the coastline.
You’ll love the… The Old Course’s par-4 4th, a 200-yard carry over a chasm and a green bang on the cliff-edge.

01758 720966 www.nefyn-golf-club.co.uk

48. WELSHPOOL, POWYS

Architect: James Braid (founded 1894).
Yardage: 5,513-5,700 (par 70).
Winter deal: Nov 1-Mar 31 (Tues to Fri), 12 holes, homemade casserole with rustic roll and a pint for £20.

In a nutshell… Serene parkland just across the border from England. Likened to Gleneagles, legendary golf writer Bernard Darwin said: “It’s a course of dreams.”
You’ll love the… Welsh hillside backdrops, especially at the par-3 14th where you’re trying to find a slender two-tiered green.

01938 850249 www.welshpoolgolfclub.co.uk

49. COTTRELL PARK, CARDIFF

Architect: Robert Sando (1996).
Yardage: Button Gwinnett – 5,841-6,180 (par 71); Mackintosh – 6,113-6,450 (par 72/71).
Winter deal: Nov-Mar (min. 8 players): tea/coffee and bacon roll, 18 holes & chef’s dish of the day, £26.

In a nutshell… Great all-round venue with contrasting 18-holers (Mackintosh and Button Gwinnett), backedup by new self-catering Coach House accommodation.
You’ll love the… Great views of the Brecon Beacons and across the Bristol Channel to the Mendips.

01446 781781 www.cottrellpark.com