History of England Golf Courses
Golf's roots trace back to Scotland, but England has a distinguished golfing history that spans several centuries. The spread of golf into England is often linked with the early 17th century when King James VI of Scotland also became James I of England in 1603, bringing the game with him. Some of the earliest documented play in England dates back to the early 1600s, with clubs like Blackheath, established around 1608, often cited as the oldest in the country.
Early golf courses in England were largely influenced by the classic Scottish links-style courses laid out on common lands or coastal areas that mirrored Scotland's terrain. The Royal North Devon Golf Club at Westward Ho! is often regarded as the oldest course still on its original ground, founded in 1864 with design contributions from golf pioneer Tom Morris. The course’s coastal links style reflects the traditional origins of golf, combining natural seaside conditions with minimal landscaping intervention.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, golf’s popularity grew steadily in England, transitioning from exclusive royal and aristocratic circles to wider segments of society. By the late 1800s, numerous renowned clubs and courses appeared, especially along England’s southern coast and major urban centers accessible by railway expansions. Notable early courses include Royal St George’s in Kent, established in the 1880s, and Royal Liverpool Golf Club, which began life partly as a racecourse before evolving into one of England’s premier links venues.
While many of England’s oldest courses follow the seaside “links” tradition, the industrial expansion and urban growth led to the creation of inland golf courses. These courses often required more maintenance due to soil conditions but made the sport more accessible to a broader audience. The inland courses typically offered parkland-style settings, contrasting with the coastal links but equally cherished in the golfing community.
Summary of England Golf Courses
England’s golf courses offer a diverse heritage that combines ancient traditions and modern refinements. The country’s golfing landscape is historically anchored in classic seaside links courses inherited from Scottish influence but also includes a wide range of inland courses designed to meet the needs of growing urban populations. Clubs like Royal North Devon, Royal Liverpool, and Royal St George’s represent milestones in England’s rich golf history, hosting prestigious tournaments and helping shape the sport’s development.
Today, England remains a top destination for golf enthusiasts, with hundreds of courses that blend historic charm and challenging layouts. Whether on natural seaside links where the game was once played on open common lands or in carefully crafted inland parks, England’s golf courses continue to celebrate a long-standing tradition while catering to players of all levels. The enduring appeal of these courses lies in their combination of beautiful landscapes, historical significance, and the legacy of some of golf’s earliest pioneers.