The golf courses in GB&I you need to play this year
If you're anything like us you'll often have conversations with your golf buddies that almost always start with: "Do you know where we should go and play this summer?" So to help you out we've compiled a list of the eight must-play golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland that you absolutely should be adding to your bucket list.
Now we know these courses generally break the bank in terms of green fees, so make sure you come back and check out our rundown of the best affordable golf courses in GB&I.
Must-play golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland: Prestwick
Why go? It's a total mystery why it is not more revered, and a fixture on any discerning American's Scotland itinerary. Has a quieter mid-round section but starts and ends with unique, unforgettable holes and arguably has more history to lap up than anywhere else.
Must-play golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland: Woodhall Spa (Hotchkin)
Why go? Revered architect Tom Doak has taken this heathland to new heights with a huge three-stage woodland management and bunker refurbishment programme. Named No. 54 in the world last year, it is worth every mile of the journey to Lincolnshire.
Must-play golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland: Kilspindie
Why go? The Scottish Open is at the Renaissance Club in East Lothian again the week before the Open, so they'll get another good field. Take in a day watching the pros and then eschew our Fun Top 100 No. 1 North Berwick, the class of Gullane and Luffness et al to play this exquisite links; short, flattering and always entertaining.
Must-play golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland: Prince's
Why go? This historic 27-hole Kent links has never been better thanks to the input of the R&A's preferred architect Martin Ebert. There is now not a weaker nine after the Himalayas was comprehensively upgraded. The club were so taken aback by Ebert’s work that they asked him to stay on and work his magic on the Shore and Dunes nines as well. The work is now complete so this year is the perfect time to pay a visit. With excellent on-site accommodation, it is a no-brainer. Just avoid mid-July when the Open is next door.
Must-play golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland: St Andrews (Old)
Why go? It's the Old course.
Must-play golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland: Royal Portrush (Dunluce)
Why go? The 2019 Open host is now a top five GB&I course thanks to the new holes among the dunes stolen from the Dunluce's sister course the Valley. Oozes "I was there" factor plus World Top 50 quality.
Must-play golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland: Gleneagles (King's)
Why go? It's the best golf resort in the world. Naturally not cheap, but worth it – on and off the course. Treat yourself. And of its three courses, make sure you play the world-class King's.
Must-play golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland: Dumbarnie Links
Why go? Scotland's new links superstar? Well, the Fife course that opened last year has sea views from every hole and is earning rave reviews - including from us. So go and see it for yourself.
Where are you planning on playing this year? Let us know in the comments below, or you can tweet us.
- NOW READ: The best affordable golf courses in GB&I