The best golf courses in Wales
South Wales
The most popular golfing regions in the UK and holiday hotspot is in South Wales. The most famous course is the 2010 course at Celtic Manor, near Newport. This was specifically designed to host the Ryder Cup and from the back tees it’s offers an unforgettable challenge, especially in windy conditions.
Royal Porthcawl is another bucket list links course that offers incredible views south to Somerset and northwest across Swansea Bay. Another venue that has hosted several professional events is the St. Pierre Resort where there are two stunning courses to choose from.
Other popular courses in South Wales include:
- Ashburnham Golf Club, Llanelli
- Pennard Golf Club, Swansea
- Tenby Golf Club, Tenby
- Southerndown Golf Club, Bridgend
North Wales
Nefyn is the most highly regarded course, which is located in North-West Wales, just a short drive away from Snowdonia National Park. This is a links course, which is situated on the spectacular coastline of the Llŷn Peninsula.
Close by, the Royal St David’s Golf Club in the heart of Snowdonia, is an internationally renowned course, overlooked by the brooding presence of Harlech Castle.
Other popular courses in North Wales include:
- Aberdovey Golf Club, Aberdovey
- Conwy Golf Club, Conwy
- North Wales Golf Club, Llandudno
The best links courses to play
Many of Wales’ most famous golf courses are world renowned links courses, that offer visitors stunning views as they play. Here’s a top 10 list of the links courses that are held in the highest regard:
- Royal Porthcawl
- Tenby
- Pennard
- Aberdovey
- Conwy
- Royal St Davids
- Ashburnham
- Pyle & Kenfig
- Borth & Ynyslas
- Prestatyn
The best golf resorts in Wales
Celtic Manor Golf Resort – Newport, Wales
You can follow in the footsteps of players such as Mcllroy, Poulter and Mcdowell as you discover the resort’s three golf courses, home to the 2010 Ryder Cup. These include the 2010, the Montgomery and the Roman Road. Accommodation options include a four and a five-star hotel on-site with a further stunning property close by. There are also a range of bars and restaurants to unwind in on-site.
Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club – Chepstow, Wales
The Marriot St Pierre, near Chepstow, is one of the UK’s most renowned stay and play venues. Not only is it home to two championship golf courses and a top floodlit driving range, but visitors will also love the immaculate 14th Century Country House style hotel, set in 400 acres of beautiful parkland. An on-site gym and spa make this the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy golf at its best.
Bryn Meadows Golf, Hotel & Spa – Ystrad Mynach, Wales
Bryn Meadows, just a short drive away from Caerphilly and Cardiff, is an ideal location for a luxurious weekend retreat. The superb on-site golf course is a par 71 Championship course. Away from the fairways, you can unwind in a full-service spa, enjoy the nightlife in nearby Cardiff, or simply relax and breath in the fresh air from within 100 acres of beautiful Welsh countryside.
The Vale Resort – Pontyclun, Wales
The four-star Vale Resort in Glamorgan, just a half hour ride from Cardiff, offers two spectacular Championship standard courses. These have played host to numerous Challenge, Senior and EuroPro events on the Wales National Course. The Vale also features a spa and wellness centre and a great on-site bar and restaurant.
A brief history of Welsh golf
Golf was first played in the 1880’s in Wales with the first courses being built in Monmouthshire. Tenby has claims to be the oldest course, having opened in 1875. With many of Wales’ golf courses built on coastal land, the country is a great place to go for those who prefer links golf.
The Celtic Manor Resort, close to Newport, achieved international prominence after it hosted the Ryder Cup in 2010. This tournament was famous for one of the mast captivating finishes in the history of the cup, with Graeme McDowell’s famous victory in the last singles matches.
Four years later, in 2014, Wales went on to host the Senior Open at Royal Porthcawl, which was won by German legend Bernghard Langer.
Our best Wales golf break offers
The team at Glencor Golf are here to help organise the perfect golf holiday in Wales for you, your friends and family.
We source the best offers on hotels and green fees to ensure that your experience of Welsh golf is unforgettable and you get the best value price available for your trip.