Golfing in Wales

The TOP TEN locations to go golfing in Wales;

1. Celtic Manor (Twenty Ten) is known for being the first purposely built course to host the Ryder Cup. That not only makes it worth a visit, but it also offers various challenges filled with testing your course planning and skills.

Where to Stay
While playing golf at Celtic Manor, stay at Celtic Manor Hotel and Resort. It is the obvious choice. The resort accommodation varies from a 4-star country house hotel to large five-star country lodges, plus the modern five-star resort hotel. The complex has a chic contemporary hotel, too, a short hop from the main hotel.

2. Known as one of the most distinguished, traditional links courses, Royal St. David’s Golf Club sits in the shadow of stunning Harlech Castle. Here you will put your skills to the test against hidden, astutely positioned bunkers and unexpected bounces. If you like a challenge, this is the ideal setting.

Where to Stay
Probably one of the most unusual places to stay in all of Wales, Portmeirion village is an architectural wonder on the coast. The eccentric Sir Bertram Clough Williams-Ellis created the “Italianate” village from the 1920s to the early 1970s. Accommodation consists of two 4-star hotels and a series of cottages and villas in the village. The golf course is a 20 minutes drive.

3. Aberdovey Golf Club values the unique features of links golf; here, the ever-changing tides and winds make sure that you’re on your A-game, recognized as one of the most outstanding links courses in Wales.

Where to Stay
For family groups, the Dormy accommodation at Aberdovey golf club is temptingly convenient but basic. Plas Nanteos Hotel is an hour away but offers luxury rooms, fine dining, and that mansion house stay experience.

4. Nefyn and District Golf Club is tucked away on a North Wales clifftop; it’s not the most accessible course, but if you make the journey, reward yourself with a striking golf course paired with beautiful sea views. The club has 26 holes in total and gives you the choice of playing the Old or New Course.

Where to Stay
Just 15 minutes drive from Nefyn and District Golf Club, Porth Tocyn Hotel is a delightful family-run hotel short walking to the beach.

5. If you’re on the lookout for a place with a rich history, then Conwy Golf Club is the one. During WW I, the course was occupied for military use, and during WW II, parts of the course were used to construct the pre-built harbours for Operation Overlord. Also known for its gorgeous location along the coast with spectacular views, you’ll be sure to make some ever-lasting memories here.

Where to Stay
Bodysgallen Hall Hotel and Spa is a short drive from historic Conwy. Bodysgallen offers the traditional manor house experience. Choose manor house rooms or modern spa accommodation, which is more suitable for families. Stay in Conwy town centre at The Erskine Arms, a great little gastropub with modern rooms.

6. Bull Bay Golf Club on the Isle of Anglesey offers you a thrilling journey as well as an exciting experience, where you find yourself in a picture-perfect setting with views across Bull Bay. This course is known for its twists and turns, secluded valleys and more; this club demands accuracy and confidence.

Where to Stay
The historic settlement of Beaumaris is 35 minutes away from Bull Bay Golf Club. The town is a little gem; it has a fine medieval castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a pretty harbour. The Bull is at the centre of life in Beaumaris and offers a great menu. Rooms are all a little different, ranging from traditional, retro to farmhouse style.

7. Royal Porthcawl is known for its incredible sea sights over Rest Bay and gusts of wind that make this course one of the most distinguished. Whether you’re looking for a new experience or making everlasting memories, keep this course in mind.

Where to Stay
Royal Porthcawl has basic Dormy accommodation, which is ideal for those first tee times. The club has a dining room and bar area and even has its very own ale. You may prefer to stay in the capital Cardiff, a 1hr 15 minutes drive.

8. If you prefer a diverse and challenging course with high dunes and deep valleys, Pyle and Kenfig is here to stay. Known for being used by the army in WW II, this course has a fascinating history and offers stunning views to its guests.

Where to Stay
Again, Pyle and Kenfig offer to Stay and Play options in Dormy accommodation. Comfortable and basic, but extremely convenient. Cardiff city centre is only 45 minutes drive. 

9. A tucked away, and unique course awaits you in the Vale of Glamorgan; Southerndown Golf Club is one of the driest in Wales, offering a testing experience where natural conditions are essential.

Where to Stay
Southerndown Golf Club recommends several places to stay. Our favourite is The Great House, a small hotel with rooms. The Individually decorated rooms come with a choice of bedsheet materials, silk or cotton, which we think is a little unusual, but good. Again, Cardiff is an option. Southerndown Golf Club recommends several places to stay.

Our favourite is The Great House, a small hotel with rooms. The Individually decorated rooms come with a choice of bedsheet materials, silk or cotton, which we think is a little unusual, but good. Again, Cardiff is an option.

10. Pennard Golf Club might have all the characteristics of a seaside links course, yet it is located high on a clifftop on the Gower Peninsula, which makes for stunning natural beauty as well as a glorious golf course.

Where to Stay
Pennard Golf Club sits surrounded by a series of spectacular beaches and coastal landscapes. Choose Luxury Guesthouses (B&Bs) or stay somewhere a little more unusual. See our Unique Places to Stay page.