Much-loved for its sprawling, dramatic coastline, pretty seaside towns and villages and untouched countryside, Cornwall’s lesser-known jewels are a well-kept secret by those in the know – its gorgeous golf courses.
Aficionados (and even royalty) have known for over a century how great Cornwall is for golf (the oldest course in Hayle dates back to 1889), and for good reason. With rolling dunes creating the perfect natural links overlooking the sea and lush green parkland tucked away in hidden valleys untouched by the modern world, there are some truly spectacular places to play that draw the great and the good from the golfing world, from Jack Nicklaus to Harry Holt.
Whether you like yours beautifully natural or something modern and top-of-the-range, there’s a golf course for everyone, from the true beginner to the ultimate pro. So pack your clubs and your best golfing get-up and take a holiday in Cornwall to find out why this captivating county is a must for an unforgettable game.
North Cornwall
Trevose Golf Club, Padstow
Set near the picturesque seaside town of Padstow, Trevose Golf Club has a three-links layout set right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The Championship Course, crafted by Harry Colt in 1926 and considered one of the top links courses in the UK, involves 7,172 yards of technically challenging golf, with bunkers and dunes adding a dash of risk to the day. At times running parallel to the beach, the course has stunning views over the sea, the sandy shoreline of Booby’s Bay, and across to the cliffs of Trevose Head.
The Headland Course boasts stunning views too, but is slightly easier for when you want a more relaxed game with those of mixed abilities (there’s no need to book to play on this course). Finally, there’s the Short Course, a quick 9-hole game that’s perfect for kids, families or those who want a quick round without booking ahead. With a superb restaurant onsite, you can dine oceanside after your game.
St Enodoc Golf Club, Rock
Lauded as one of the best courses in Britain, this extraordinary spot boasts the Camel Estuary and the Atlantic Ocean as its neighbours, with views all the way across to Padstow in the distance - quite the distraction from the game at hand! St Enodoc Golf Club in Rock is officially the 11th best course in England, and 74th best in the world, so most definitely a must-try for any golf connoisseur visiting Cornwall.
Designed in the classic James Braid style, the Church Course is not particularly long at 6,557 yards, but its tricky, undulating landscape through the dunes and narrow fairways, not to mention the ever-changing coastal weather and sea winds, means it’s no easy game here. The course requires concentration and no small amount of skill, but it’s well worth the challenge for its unique setting and beautiful scenery. There is a second course, the Holywell Course, which is shorter and less demanding should you be looking for something a little easier. Afterwards, why not head into Rock for dinner at The Mariners, one of Cornwall’s oh-so-tempting restaurants to feature in the Michelin Guide.
Perranporth Golf Club, Perranporth
Head further west along the coast and you’ll find the spectacular course at Perranporth Golf Club. Perched above the cliffs overlooking the seaside town of Perranporth, Perran Bay, and its sandy beaches, this 6,700-yard course was designed by James Braid in 1927, now placing it among the top 50 courses in the UK.
Skilfully integrating the natural features and contours of the coastal landscape, there’s no doubt this course is a challenge with seven blind drives and several blind/semi-blind approach shots. First-time visitors would do well to have a planner with them as the course winds its way this way and that. For all the course’s challenges, it is a fantastic choice whatever your skill level, from beginners looking to step out of their comfort zone to seasoned players wanting to experience a unique setting amongst stunning scenery.
The Point at Polzeath, Polzeath
Set within 230 acres of gorgeous parkland with views over the Pentire headland and Newland Island, The Point at Polzeath lies between Pentire Point and Trevose Head, just above the Camel Estuary. Offering an 18-hole course and measuring just under 6,300 yards, it benefits from the perfect pairing of views over the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding parkland.
Due to a recent redesign with new tees added, strategic placement of bunkers, a modern driving range, and covered bays, the award-winning course is accessible to all abilities, from the pro to the eager newcomer. There are plenty of challenges for those seeking to improve their play, too, such as the ‘playful’ Atlantic winds! Meticulously cared for year-round, The Point at Polzeath is a stunning course that benefits from modern design, and although not the largest of courses, it feels very spacious due to the sprawling parkland that surrounds you. This is a great place to play as a family.
Pair your visit with a meal at The Bear, or perhaps even a steam in the sauna - perfect for keeping loose after a day on the green.
Newquay Golf Club, Newquay
Set high over the cliffs with views across the famous surfing beach of Fistral, Newquay Golf Club dates back to 1890, with links courses redesigned by Harry Colt in 1908. At 6,141 yards with a par of 69, it offers a strategy-rich game with distractingly beautiful surroundings, making it a perfect place to visit for any golf lover on holiday in Cornwall.
An 18-hole course built on the dunes that slope away from the clubhouse, it’s renowned for having some of the best greens in the county (you can see the Atlantic from every hole), with well-placed pot bunkers offering a challenging game. While the first nine holes may lull you into thinking the course will be a breeze, beware: the last nine holes will test your skill, accuracy, and strategic thinking before a testing finish. A fabulous, historical course that’s a must-visit for golfers.
West Cornwall
West Cornwall Golf Club, Hayle
Cornwall’s oldest golf course, West Cornwall Golf Club in Hayle began life in 1889 when it was created by the Reverend R.F Tyacke. This fabulous classic links course weaves its way over 5,850 yards through the natural dunes of Porthkidney, alongside the River Hayle and with stunning views over St Ives Bay, Hayle Estuary, and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.
With shifting winds and sands, this is a course very much affected by the elements, which only adds to its appeal as no games are ever the same. The starting point of some well-known, celebrated golfers (such as World Golf Hall of Fame member ‘Long’ Jim Barns), this golf course is perfect for beginners looking to cut their teeth with a challenge, or for seasoned players wishing to play in such a beautiful setting while enjoying a traditional links course. When the clubs are packed away, head into St Ives for a jaw-dropping array of restaurants, whether you seek historic pubs or sleek eateries with sprawling sea views.
Mullion Golf Club, Mullion
Set in the farthest reaches of Cornwall on the Lizard Peninsula just a hop, skip and a jump from Britain’s most southerly point, Mullion Golf Club is a gorgeous 6,000-yard, 18-hole course offering fantastic links golf. Making the most of its beautiful but often challenging terrain, you’ll find the course drops steeply towards the cliffs, giving you breathtaking sea and coastal views across Mounts Bay along the way. Church Cove and the historic 13th-century church of St Winwaloe are particularly arresting and well worth a pause to admire.
The course location adds to the game too, with its clifftop location ensuring the sea winds will bring their own challenges even with the softest of sea breezes. Founded in 1895, the course is often described as ‘short but sweet’ but also tricky in places, making it rewarding for those who like to be tested in their game. Interestingly, the 17th hole has been described as the warmest spot in England!
South Cornwall
Carlyon Bay Golf Club, St Austell
Nestled on the south coast, the 18-hole championship golf course at Carlyon Bay Golf Club is over 100 years old and stretches 6,500 yards across stupendous clifftops, offering majestic views over the English Channel before turning back into parkland for the back stretch. Beautifully maintained with rolling fairways, clean-cut greens and well-kept hazards, this par 72 course is a joy to play, with the ever-moving southerly coastal winds adding to the challenge as you go.
A mix of parkland and links golf, it sits above St Austell Bay and comes complete with a six-acre practice area, two putting greens, and a nine-hole approach course suitable for golfers of all levels. Much-visited in the past by Edward VIII (the Prince of Wales at the time), the course still attracts many famous visitors drawn by the course’s breathtaking views, aesthetic charm and welcome naturally occurring challenges.
St Mellion Estate, Saltash
Earning accolades from Jack Nicklaus himself and enjoying a £20 million refurbishment in 2010, St Mellion Estate, set in 450 acres of breathtaking scenery, is a prestigious, luxurious, and award-winning course that started life back in the mid-1970s. Set in Saltash and immaculately kept and designed as a twelve-time European Tour venue should be, the Nicklaus Signature Course extends to just over 5,600 yards, playing to a par of 70, and is a test not for the faint-hearted with elevated tees (and excellent views), fast greens, bunkers, water hazards and rough cuts.
The Kernow Course, complete with its water hazards, interesting design, and framed freeways, makes it a great game for golfers of all levels. Regularly voted as one of the best golf resorts in the UK and Ireland, it boasts state-of-the-art amenities, a beautiful setting, and a course that’s as beautiful as it is challenging.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our beautiful holiday cottages in Cornwall and start planning your golf-themed getaway today.
