With its rolling hills, spectacular scenery and varied courses, North Devon is an excellent spot for a golfing break. Whether you’re an experienced golfer, an enthusiastic beginner or a family looking to try a new activity together, we’ve rounded up the best golf clubs in and around Woolacombe and No.9 Putsborough.
Mortehoe & Woolacombe Golf Course
Best for: A quick, affordable round
Handicap: None required
This course is situated on a coastal hill in the rather lovely village of Mortehoe, creating the perfect vantage point for fantastic countryside and sea views. The 9 hole course with a par of 66 over 18 tees of shortish play provides an excellent option if you just want a quick round or if your golf is a little below par!
Where? 5 minutes’ drive
Visit their website: Mortehoe & Woolacombe Golf Club
Ilfracombe Golf Club
Best for: See the sea from every tee
Handicap: Preferred
Situated on top of the rugged cliffs of the North Devon coast, every tee has an awe-inspiring view over the sea to the Welsh Coast, Lundy Island and as far as the eye can see on the Atlantic horizon. The 18-hole course is said to be a truly unique course, with the 1st tee hugging the edge of the coastline. Catering for golfers of all standards, visitors can expect a warm welcome, regardless of handicap.
Where? 10 minutes’ drive
Visit their website: Ilfracombe Golf Club
Saunton Sands Golf Course
Best for: Elite golfers
Handicap: Handicap Certificates not required but common golf etiquette needs to be adhered to
Set in the UNESCO protected sand dunes of Braunton Burrows, Saunton Golf Club offers two championship links courses, East and West. The East course is considered to be Saunton’s best; the West is slightly shorter than its older sister course but combined this make this an outstanding venue for a golf day. Saunton’s courses are not for beginners and a reasonable standard of play is required to enjoy the courses.
The club offers an abundance of facilities with two practice putting greens, a short game practice area, a covered range for iron play only, and a long practice ground.
Where? 20 minutes’ drive
Visit their website: Saunton Golf Club
Royal North Devon Club
Best for: Stepping back in time
Handicap: Preferred
Royal North Devon Golf Club is a nostalgic and monumental links course which fits firmly into the “must-play” category. In 1864, Westward Ho! opened for golf and it remains the oldest course in England still playing along its original fairways.
There are no trees or hedges, except if you count the brambles alongside some of the fairways. There are, however, plenty of reeds and rushes waiting to catch the wayward shot. With a warmly welcoming clubhouse, restaurant and on-site golf museum, the club also has its own tailored coaching programme, making it a great spot for beginners to take up a new sport.
Where? 40 minutes’ drive
Visit their website: Royal North Devon Golf Club
The Combes Golf Park
Best for: Competitive families
Handicap: None
Not technically a golf course, but one which we couldn’t miss off our list of recommendations for a touch of family fun.
Sadly their the state-of-the-art 22 bay driving range (where the latest launch monitors and video analysis systems helped you to perfect your swing) is being rebuilt after a recent fire. However, for the humble novice, their foot golf or disc golf allows the whole family to kick or throw their way around the defined holes set in 10 acres.
There’s also a licensed sports bar, soft drinks and snacks. Guaranteed smiles all round!
Where? 5 minutes’ drive
Visit their website: The Combes Golf Park
No.9 Putsborough is so close to the best golf courses and clubs in the area; after a round or two, what better way to relax then with a glass of something special on our private balcony. So, grab your clubs and swing into spring with a stay at No.9 Putsborough.
