The Ultimate Itinerary Guide for Golf in London
London is often overlooked as a premier golf destination, but this vibrant capital city offers a perfect mix of world-class golf courses and countless famed attractions that appeal to all kinds of travelers.
For experienced golfers looking to play on historic courses and those eager to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife, iconic landmarks, and delicious food scene, London offers something for everyone.
So, why not combine your love for the game with the thrill of exploring one of the world’s most dynamic cities?
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best places to play golf and how to make the most of your trip to London, from relaxing in green spaces to savoring gourmet meals and shopping in style.
Thursday: Arrival
Arrive at Heathrow or Gatwick and transfer to a centrally located hotel, such as The Savoy or The Ned, for easy access to transport and dining. Freshen up and relax after your journey.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy some leisure or sightseeing. For a quick golf fix, visit Swingers London or Urban Golf in Soho. If you’re in the mood for a warm-up on a course, head to Dukes Meadows Golf Club, a 9-hole course just outside central London.
Friday: Play the Royal St George’s Golf Club
Leave early for the 2-hour drive to Royal St George’s Golf Club in Sandwich, Kent via private transfer or rental car. This prestigious Open Championship venue offers a challenging links course with coastal views, deep bunkers, and unpredictable winds. Book an 8:45 AM – 9:30 AM tee slot to finish by early afternoon.
After your round, enjoy a traditional clubhouse lunch, including the famous Royal St George’s pudding, and take a scenic walk along the White Cliffs of Dover or visit Dover Castle on your way back to London.
For dinner, try The Ledbury (Notting Hill), a Michelin-starred favorite, or Sketch (Mayfair), an art-filled venue with inventive dishes.
After dinner, see a West End show like Phantom of the Opera or Les Misérables, followed by a nightcap at The Connaught Bar, one of the best cocktail bars in the world.
Saturday: Explore the City
London’s square mile offers some of the most iconic sights in the world. Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Houses of Parliament (Big Ben) are all within easy walking distance.
Rise early and head to Notting Hill for breakfast. This alternative suburb is famed for its carnival, but the energetic vibe continues year-round. After breakfast, take a stroll through Hyde Park, past Kensington Palace and the Royal Albert Hall, until you arrive at the Mall and the gardens of Buckingham Palace, the setting for so many historic events.
Enjoy afternoon tea at the Ritz, home to the finest delicacies of the most English traditions. Walk off your scones with clotted cream along Piccadilly Circus, be sure to stop at Fortnum and Masons, the UK’s most high-end department store.
This evening, take a sunset boat trip along the Thames and see the city skyline from the water, including a perfect view of Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye.
Dine at the Ivy in the vibrant Covent Garden, and enjoy the entertainment of the talented street performers, before a late-night cocktail atop the ‘Walkie-Talkie’, one of London’s most iconic skyscrapers.
Sunday: Play the Sunningdale Golf Course
Early Morning – Tee-Off at Sunningdale Golf Club
Begin your day with an early breakfast by 7:30 AM, allowing time to depart by 8:00 AM for the scenic 50-minute drive to Sunningdale Golf Club in Surrey. This prestigious club is home to two world-class courses.
The Old Course, often considered a masterpiece of inland golf, boasts tree-lined fairways, fast greens, and stunning heather-covered landscapes. In contrast, the New Course offers a more demanding challenge with narrower fairways and deeper bunkers, ideal for players seeking a test of skill.
Aim to book a tee time between 8:45 AM and 9:30 AM to enjoy a relaxed round and finish by early afternoon.
Lunch – Clubhouse Lunch & Leisurely Return
After your round, unwind with a hearty lunch at Sunningdale’s iconic clubhouse. Their traditional Sunday roast is a favorite among golfers and a fitting way to conclude your weekend of play.
If your schedule allows, consider a short detour to nearby Windsor Castle, just 20 minutes away, for a quick dose of royal history and impressive architecture before heading back to the city.
Afternoon – Return to London & Final Cultural Stops
Expect to arrive back in London around 3:30 PM, leaving you time for a couple of final cultural experiences.
Art and design lovers might enjoy a quick visit to the Victoria & Albert Museum, while those looking to stretch their legs can take a peaceful stroll through Hyde Park, one last scenic moment in the heart of London.
Evening – Farewell Dinner & Departure
Wrap up your trip with a memorable farewell dinner. For an elegant yet relaxed Italian meal, consider The River Café in Hammersmith. Alternatively, Duck & Waffle in Bishopsgate offers incredible panoramic views of the city and a modern menu perfect for your last night.
After dinner, transfer to your departure airport, Heathrow (30–45 minutes away) or Gatwick (around 1 hour), and bid farewell to your London getaway.
Alternate London Golf Course Recommendations
For those looking to explore beyond Royal St. George’s and Sunningdale, here are some excellent alternative courses worth considering.
St. Georges Hill Golf Club (Red & Blue Courses)
Set within a private estate in Weybridge, St. George’s Hill is one of England’s most visually stunning courses. Designed by the legendary Harry Colt, the Red and Blue nines are the premier combination, offering rolling fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and spectacular views.
Walton Heath Golf Club (Old Course)
A classic heathland course steeped in history, Walton Heath’s Old Course has hosted the Ryder Cup and several Open Qualifiers. With its wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and fast greens, it offers a pure golfing experience and is a favorite among traditionalists and pros alike.
The Berkshire Golf Club (Red Course)
Another Harry Colt gem, The Berkshire’s Red Course features a unique layout with six par 3s, six par 4s, and six par 5s. The beautiful woodland setting and flowing terrain make this course both scenic and strategic. It’s particularly well-regarded for its conditioning and playability.
The Addington Golf Club
A hidden gem just outside central London, The Addington is known for its dramatic ravines, elevated tees, and sweeping views of the city skyline. Recently restored to its original architectural brilliance, it’s a bold and exciting course that rewards creativity and shot-making.
Worplesdon Golf Club
One of the most charming and unpretentious courses in Surrey, Worplesdon offers a peaceful setting and a classic heathland layout. Known for its firm fairways and subtle green complexes, it’s a joy to walk and provides a traditional experience reminiscent of early 20th-century English golf.
West Hill Golf Club
Tucked beside Worplesdon and Woking, West Hill is a compact yet challenging heathland course. Though relatively short by modern standards, its tight fairways, strategic bunkering, and fast greens ensure a tough but enjoyable round.
Knole Park Golf Club
Located within a deer park and part of the Knole House estate in Kent, Knole Park offers a unique blend of parkland and downland golf. The course weaves through ancient trees and rolling terrain, with stunning vistas and historic ambiance at every turn.
London Golf Trip Tips
Transportation:
London’s extensive public transport system, featuring the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate the city efficiently and affordably. However, when heading to golf clubs outside of central London (such as Sunningdale or Walton Heath), private transfers are often the most convenient option.
Premier Golf will book private transfers for you to provide a seamless experience.
Dress Code & Equipment:
We always recommend confirming each club’s dress code before your visit. Most golf clubs uphold strict dress codes, both on the course and within the clubhouse. Generally, collared shirts, tailored trousers or shorts, and golf shoes are standard.
Denim, athletic wear, and non-golf-specific footwear are often prohibited. Some clubs may also require a jacket and tie for dining areas, especially during Sunday lunch or special events.
If you’d prefer not to travel with your golf clubs, many premier clubs offer high-quality rental sets, but availability can be limited, so be sure to book rentals in advance.
Local Insights:
To elevate your golf getaway, keep an eye on local event calendars for special golf tournaments, exhibitions, or club open days that may align with your travel dates.
Weather Preparedness:
London weather is famously unpredictable, even in summer. Morning sunshine can quickly give way to midday showers or cool winds, especially out on the open fairways. To stay comfortable, pack lightweight, breathable layers, and be sure to include a reliable waterproof jacket.
Things to do in London
London offers a wide range of activities, dining options, tours, and sightseeing experiences, it truly has something for everyone.
- Buckingham Palace – Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- Tower of London – See the Crown Jewels and explore the city’s medieval history.
- The Shard View – Enjoy panoramic views from London’s tallest building.
- Westminster Abbey & Big Ben – Iconic London landmarks.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral – Climb to the dome for spectacular city views.
- The British Museum – Home to the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies.
- National Gallery – A must-visit for art lovers, featuring Van Gogh, Monet, and da Vinci.
- Victoria & Albert Museum – Design, fashion, and decorative arts.
- Tate Modern – Contemporary art in a converted power station.
- Churchill War Rooms – Walk through history in Winston Churchill’s underground HQ.
- Borough Market – Sample gourmet street food and artisanal produce.
- Sketch (Mayfair) – Michelin-starred dining in a quirky, art-filled setting.
- Dishoom (Covent Garden) – Bombay-inspired café with excellent Indian food.
- Rules (Covent Garden) – London’s oldest restaurant, serving classic British cuisine.
- The Connaught Bar – One of the world’s best cocktail bars.
- Hyde Park – Rent a boat on the Serpentine or take a relaxing walk.
- Regent’s Park – Visit the rose gardens or the open-air theatre.
- Greenwich Park – Great views of London’s skyline and home to the Prime Meridian.
- Hampstead Heath – Stunning city views from Parliament Hill.
- Kew Gardens – Beautiful botanical gardens with exotic plants and glasshouses.
- Bond Street & Mayfair – Luxury shopping (Gucci, Chanel, Burberry).
- Covent Garden – Boutiques, street performances, and great cafes.
- Carnaby Street – Iconic fashion and independent stores.
- Portobello Road Market – Famous for antiques and vintage finds.
- Camden Market – Alternative fashion, art, and global street food.
- West End Theatre Show – Watch a world-class musical or play (e.g., The Lion King, Les Misérables).
- Jazz at Ronnie Scott’s – A legendary jazz club in Soho.
- Comedy at The Comedy Store – Top British stand-up comedy.
- Thames River Dinner Cruise – Fine dining with a view.
- Casino Night at The Hippodrome – A stylish casino with live entertainment.
- Emirates Cable Car Ride – A scenic ride over the Thames.
- Helicopter Tour – See London from the sky.
- Hidden London Underground Tour – Explore abandoned Tube stations.
- Harry Potter Studio Tour – A must for movie fans.
- Jack the Ripper Walking Tour – Explore London’s dark history.
London is more than just a stopover, it’s a dynamic blend of championship golf, rich history, and vibrant city life. From the storied fairways of classic courses to the energy of its neighborhoods, every moment offers something unique.
With every detail expertly arranged, tee times, accommodations, dining, and local experiences, it’s easy to enjoy the best of both worlds: world-class golf and an unforgettable city escape. Premier Golf ensures a seamless, elevated experience from start to finish, allowing the focus to remain on the game and the journey.
FAQs
The ideal time to plan a golf weekend in London is between May and September, when the weather tends to be at its most reliable—mild temperatures, longer daylight hours, and a lower chance of rain make for excellent playing conditions.
That said, April and October can also be great choices, particularly for travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value on accommodations and tee times. Just remember, the UK’s weather can be famously unpredictable year-round, so it’s always wise to pack a light waterproof layer, just in case.
Royal St. George’s is about 2 hours from Central London and Sunningdale is about 50 minutes.
For a smooth and stress-free experience, Premier Golf can arrange private transfers. These can take you directly to and from the golf courses, ensuring comfort, convenience, and timely arrivals—especially helpful when traveling with clubs or in groups.
For a golf weekend in London, pack weather-appropriate golf attire—think layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Include golf shoes, gloves, and your preferred clubs if you’re bringing your own (check airline or train policies if traveling).
Don’t forget rain gear, such as a lightweight waterproof jacket and an umbrella. Off the course, bring smart-casual clothing for dining or exploring the city, and comfortable shoes for walking. A few extra golf balls and tees never hurt either!
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