The Best Golf Courses to Play in Winter

It's that time of the year when you've replaced shorts on the golf course with a snood, but that doesn't mean that you should stop playing despite the frequently cold conditions. 

We know that winter golf can sometimes be a difficult sell, but the key is finding places that offer the best possible experience. 

Studying the many thousands of reviews that have been submitted to the Golfshake Course Section during the winter months in previous years, we have been able to identify venues that other golfers have praised throughout the low season.

Whether that be due to their condition, the facilities available or the service provided, these courses must be on your list to play before the springtime.

Should you be in search of a winter treat, these are the golf courses that you need to play!

Gleneagles

Location: Gleneagles, Perth & Kinross

Golfshake Rating: 4.88

2024 Winter Rating: 5.00

Review Comment: "Absolutely beautiful. Every golfer should play here at least once. The scenery is stunning and the course was immaculate despite a lot of recent heavy rain."

Oundle Golf Club

Location: Oundle, Northamptonshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.56

2024 Winter Rating: 5.00

Review Comment: "I was asked if I'd like to play Oundle by a friend, so glad I did, what a joy, quirky layout (but a joy from the norm), so well presented, greens run true and quick and everyone was so helpful, a joy to play Northant's hidden gem."

London Golf Club

Location: Ash, Kent

Golfshake Rating: 4.82

2024 Winter Rating: 4.93

Review Comment: "The golf course was in pristine condition despite the large amount of rain over these past weeks. The greens were lightning quick and very receptive."

Formby Golf Club

Location: Formby, Merseyside

Golfshake Rating: 5.00

2024 Winter Rating: 4.90

Review Comment: "What great condition, a credit to the green staff. One of the best courses I`ve played."

Bowood Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort

Location: Calne, Wiltshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.55

2024 Winter Rating: 4.90

Review Comment: "A great round, despite the recent weather the course was in superb condition. A very enjoyable round and great pace of play."

Prince's Golf Club

Location: Sandwich, Kent

Golfshake Rating: 4.92

2024 Winter Rating: 4.89

Review Comment: "Quite possibly the best course I've ever played. People at the club were helpful and not in any way pretentious. The three separate nine hole courses offered lots of variety and different tests. The accommodation and food and drink supplied was of a good standard."

Turnberry Resort

Location: Turnberry, Ayrshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.95

2024 Winter Rating: 4.88

Review Comment: "Lived up to all the hype. Amazing place. Course just immaculate and testing but fair. People make this also. The staff are just brill!"

Nefyn & District Golf Club

Location: Pwllheli, Gwynedd

Golfshake Rating: 4.61

2024 Winter Rating: 4.86

Review Comment: "Fabulous again. Second time playing in winter and the course was immaculate once again, loved it."

Chartham Park Golf Club

Location: East Grinstead, West Sussex

Golfshake Rating: 4.59

2024 Winter Rating: 4.85

Review Comment: "Course was in great condition, greens were fabulous. A lovely course to play with easy walking, not too hilly, just a few slopes. Some very interesting holes. A delight to play."

Royal Cromer Golf Club

Location: Cromer, Norfolk

Golfshake Rating: 4.82

2024 Winter Rating: 4.83

Review Comment: "A real challenge on a top class course with fantastic views. Very well kept, and making constant improvements."

Thornbury Golf Centre

Location: Bristol, Gloucestershire

Golfshake Rating: 4.19

2024 Winter Rating: 4.83

Review Comment: "The course was in great shape - the fairways are wide open and the greens are top class. It's also physically manageable, which is great. The club is always extremely welcoming to visitors and members, and they're always there to help you out."

Woburn Golf Club

Location: Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.95

2024 Winter Rating: 4.82

Review Comment: "This is a special course, it's pricey but an unforgettable experience and thoroughly worth a visit. Everything was spot on and The Marquess was in amazing condition."

Silloth-on-Solway Golf Club

Location: Wigton, Cumbria

Golfshake Rating: 4.96

2024 Winter Rating: 4.80

Review Comment: "Absolute must for any golfer. This course is superb. Every hole is unique and offers different challenges. The condition was excellent, the greens rolled lovely and every aspect was immaculate."

Enville Golf Club

Location: Stourbridge, Staffordshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.86

2024 Winter Rating: 4.80

Review Comment: "Put both these courses up with some of the best in Surrey, it's pure golfing joy. Some great holes and the condition for February was fantastic. Do not know which course I would choose over the other when I get to play it again."

Fulwell Golf Club

Location: Hampton Hill, Greater London

Golfshake Rating: 4.48

2024 Winter Rating: 4.80

Review Comment: "Always enjoy playing here. Course was in excellent condition as usual. Very flat so an easy walk but otherwise a good test. Nice food pre and post round. Clubhouse refurb also nice. Will be back next year."

Rufford Park Golf & Country Club

Location: Newark, Nottinghamshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.26

2024 Winter Rating: 4.77

Review Comment: "Great course, in good condition, very enjoyable round, friendly staff. The 17th hole is so daunting and hard to judge in a cross wind."

Sapey Golf & Country Club

Location: Worcester, Worcestershire

Golfshake Rating: 4.72

2024 Winter Rating: 4.76

Review Comment: "We all thought the course was superb. A nice mix of challenging different holes and an easy walk. The greens were fantastic! As were the fairways. All in all a very enjoyable course and the food was top notch. We will be returning."

Kington Golf Club

Location: Kington, Herefordshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.47

2024 Winter Rating: 4.75

Review Comment: "Played here Boxing Day, had a great reception and the course was in incredible condition given all the rain we have had."

Orsett Golf Club

Location: Grays, Essex

Golfshake Rating: 4.33

2024 Winter Rating: 4.71

Review Comment: "Nice course in very good condition. Long rough so balls off the fairway easily lost! Greens in very good condition and running true. Staff and members very welcoming."

Doncaster Town Moor Golf Club

Location: Doncaster, South Yorkshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.25

2024 Winter Rating: 4.71

Review Comment: "Considering the rain we've had and the time of the year, the course was very good. A true challenge, and looking very well. Clubhouse after was very good value. And very welcoming."

Woolley Park Golf Club

Location: Wakefield, West Yorkshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.16

2024 Winter Rating: 4.71

Review Comment: "Stunning setting, beautifully manicured course and a real test for every level of golfer."

Dundonald Links

Location: Gailes, Ayrshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.94

2024 Winter Rating: 4.70

Review Comment: "This was an amazing experience! The course was in excellent condition, with great fairways and greens that were well kept. The practice area was also great, and the clubhouse facilities were first-class. The layout and stadium feel of the course was great. All in all, it was an excellent day with friends and an exceptional course. Highly recommended!"

Leckford Golf Course

Location: Stockbridge, Hampshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.58

2024 Winter Rating: 4.70

Review Comment: "A little gem! Very enjoyable and challenging old course."

Conwy Golf Club

Location: Conwy, Gwynedd

Golfshake Rating: 4.56

2024 Winter Rating: 4.70

Review Comment: "Been wanting to play here for a good few years and finally took the chance. Weather wasn't great but that didn't detract from how much I enjoyed playing here and how good the course is. Typical links with bunkers very penal but also very good. Teeing areas were top drawer. Fairways were as you would expect in fantastic condition and the greens were just so pure. If you want to challenge yourself and play one of the best links courses you'll find at a decent price then Conwy is the place to go. I for one will definitely be returning."

Moor Park Golf Club

Location: Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.46

2024 Winter Rating: 4.70

Review Comment: "Nicely laid out, quite hilly and played on a very wet day. Fairways very sticky but greens still true and remarkably fast. Must be very difficult in summer!"

Shifnal Golf Club

Location: Shifnal, Shropshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.27

2024 Winter Rating: 4.70

Review Comment: "The 9th and 18th holes were my favourite and the greens were exceptional. The entire course was in great condition and I would highly recommend it to anyone."

Thorpeness Golf Club & Hotel

Location: Aldeburgh, Suffolk

Golfshake Rating: 4.13

2024 Winter Rating: 4.68

Review Comment: "The course was in really good condition considering the vast amount of rain fall recently, obviously good drainage. The course is challenging and very enjoyable. The food and service is top class and the staff are very welcoming. Highly recommended this golf course and venue."

Great Barr Golf Club

Location: Birmingham, Staffordshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.51

2024 Winter Rating: 4.67

Review Comment: "The course is pretty affordable, and the layout is great - especially for the time of year (November). The greens are really good too. It's become more relaxed than it was before, which is nice. Overall, I'd say it's a great course and definitely worth checking out."

John O'Gaunt Golf Club

Location: Sandy, Bedfordshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.25

2024 Winter Rating: 4.67

Review Comment: "Without doubt the best course I've played this year when it comes to condition. Running fairways and really quick greens. Nothing to complain about at all. Clubhouse staff friendly and attentive too. Some lovely looking holes, tree lined but always able to find your ball."

Belton Woods

Location: Grantham, Lincolnshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.07

2024 Winter Rating: 4.65

Review Comment: "Two great championship courses on site in a lovely hotel complex. Both courses fairly similar in terms of traditional parkland but equally enjoyable. If you're looking for a weekend golf stay or two rounds in one day it's a great choice."

The Manor House Golf Club

Location: Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.64

2024 Winter Rating: 4.64

Review Comment: "Amazing course in superb condition, shame my golf did not do it justice. Great welcome in the pro shop and very friendly staff."

Abridge Golf Club

Location: Abridge, Essex

Golfshake Rating: 4.26

2024 Winter Rating: 4.64

Review Comment: "Great course, amazing condition and exceptional greens. Very friendly and helpful staff. Food was outstanding quality and generous portions. Definitely worth a visit."

Chiltern Forest Golf Club

Location: Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.17

2024 Winter Rating: 4.64

Review Comment: "What a place! Beautiful course, with amazing views. Really well maintained and great value."

The Grove

Location: Chandler's Cross, Hertfordshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.93

2024 Winter Rating: 4.62

Review Comment: "Great course, well renowned with some stunning yet difficult holes. Long course and with wind is difficult."

Royal St David's Golf Club

Location: Harlech, Gwynedd

Golfshake Rating: 4.87

2024 Winter Rating: 4.60

Review Comment: "Great weekend in early November, course in great condition after all the rain the previous weekend, greens a little slow, but will be back, love it."

Oakdale Golf Club

Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.67

2024 Winter Rating: 4.60

Review Comment: "Great day was had by all. The course provides a really good challenge and is presented in impeccable condition. Food, service and facilities in the clubhouse were excellent."

Dyrham Park Golf & Country Club

Location: Barnet, Hertfordshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.59

2024 Winter Rating: 4.60

Review Comment: "Stunning, and great fun! Absolutely brilliant course, unique and interesting at every turn. Mature tree lines, plenty of water, and the course was in excellent condition. Best greens I’ve played so far this year! The staff in the pro shop were lovely too, will certainly be back."

Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club

Location: Alnwick, Northumberland

Golfshake Rating: 4.41

2024 Winter Rating: 4.60

Review Comment: "Really friendly club, course in fantastic condition with lovely fast greens. Not long but some small undulating greens, lucky to play when there was not much wind. Great value. Excellent bacon rolls and coffee post round."

Weybrook Park Golf Club

Location: Basingstoke, Hampshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.37

2024 Winter Rating: 4.60

Review Comment: Great course especially given the rain over the last few days. Condition of greens was excellent with fairways in exceptional condition.

Tidworth Garrison Golf Club

Location: Tidworth, Wiltshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.35

2024 Winter Rating: 4.60

Review Comment: "Challenging course on well draining chalk with very fast greens. Varied holes up and down the hillside mean players have to calculate how much to take off or add on to distances. The greens need to be read carefully, downhill putts can race past the hole, pace was faster than my home course. An enjoyable visit."

St Andrews Links

Location: St Andrews, Fife

Golfshake Rating: 4.93

2024 Winter Rating: 4.58

Review Comment: "I often play the Eden Course in St Andrews. I have played it regularly over the last 20 years and it’s one of my favourites. It has many interesting and challenging holes. It’s not too long but you have to be on your game to score well."

Saunton Golf Club

Location: Braunton, Devon

Golfshake Rating: 4.91

2024 Winter Rating: 4.58

Review Comment: "Fantastic course and club, course in great condition for this time of year."

The Belfry

Location: Sutton Coldfield, Warwickshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.84

2024 Winter Rating: 4.58

Review Comment: "Always a pleasure to play. Great venue and setup and three fantastic courses in their own rights depending on what you are looking for in terms of the challenge, layout, conditioning and price point. Can't wait to return and stay once the new development is complete."

Cottrell Resort

Location: Cardiff, South Glamorgan

Golfshake Rating: 4.39

2024 Winter Rating: 4.58

Review Comment: "Both the Mackintosh and Button are constantly cared for. All 36 holes are interesting and forgiving, offering a challenge for golfers at most amateur levels. Visitors are made to feel welcome by the staff in both the clubhouse reception area and bar."

Seacroft Golf Club

Location: Skegness, Lincolnshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.13

2024 Winter Rating: 4.58

Review Comment: "I absolutely love this course. The redesign is now complete and it looks amazing and is playing brilliantly. The catering is second to none, fabulous food and reasonably priced. Very good bar service. Great value for groups and individuals. Highly recommended."

Remedy Oak Golf Club

Location: Woodlands, Dorset

Golfshake Rating: 4.92

2024 Winter Rating: 4.57

Review Comment: "Excellent course. Great condition, superb greens. Extremely challenging for high handicap golfers but well worth playing."

Woodhall Spa Golf Club

Location: Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.90

2024 Winter Rating: 4.57

Review Comment: "This course is really blooming hard but I love a challenge, and this course definitely provides one. The fairways are excellent, there are lots of bunkers and the greens were superb. Its perfectly maintained and stunning layout make it a real joy to play."

Brett Vale Golf Club

Location: Ipswich, Suffolk

Golfshake Rating: 4.63

2024 Winter Rating: 4.57

Review Comment: "We played after heavy rainfall while most courses were closed. We had a great day out, bar staff were very friendly, food was great and the gold course is a very interesting layout with a good variety of holes. Great value."

Test Valley Golf Club

Location: Basingstoke, Hampshire

Golfshake Rating: 4.42

2024 Winter Rating: 4.56

Review Comment: "This course is built on chalk, so it drains well. It's a really challenging course with good facilities and a great clubhouse."

The Rolls of Monmouth Golf Club

Location: Monmouth, Gwent

Golfshake Rating: 4.59

2024 Winter Rating: 4.55

Review Comment: "Good course with a wide variety of challenging holes. Was in very good condition when we played and the staff and facilities on site are perfect."

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