When golfers dream of playing across the British Isles, Scotland and Ireland usually steal the spotlight. But tucked quietly lies one of golf's greatest hidden treasures - Wales.
With dramatic coastlines, authentic links courses, medieval castles, charming seaside villages, and some of the warmest hospitality you'll find anywhere, Wales delivers a world-class golf experience without the crowds or premium price tag. In fact, many seasoned travelers return home saying Wales was the biggest surprise of their trip.
If you're searching for championship golf, breathtaking scenery, and outstanding value, Wales deserves a place at the very top of your bucket list.
Why Golf in Wales?
One of the things we love most about Wales is its authenticity. While Scotland and Ireland continue to grow in popularity, Wales remains wonderfully uncrowded, allowing golfers to experience spectacular links golf at a slower, more relaxed pace.
The quality of golf is every bit as memorable. Rolling dunes, firm-running fairways, strategic bunkering, ever-changing coastal winds, and panoramic sea views make every round an unforgettable experience. Best of all, you'll often enjoy exceptional accommodations and green fees at a fraction of the cost compared to many of the marquee destinations in Scotland and Ireland.
Whether you're planning your very first links golf adventure or your fifth trip across the Atlantic, Wales offers an experience unlike anywhere else.
Wales' Championship Courses
Royal Porthcawl Golf Club
Widely regarded as the finest golf course in Wales, Royal Porthcawl is the country's flagship links and consistently ranks among the very best courses in the United Kingdom. Every hole offers stunning views across the Bristol Channel, while changing wind directions ensure no two rounds are ever alike.
Its championship pedigree speaks for itself, having hosted the Walker Cup, Curtis Cup, Senior Open Championship, Women's British Open, and numerous prestigious amateur events. Positioning is every bit as important as distance here, making it a true test for golfers of every skill level.
Royal St. David's Golf Club
Set beneath the towering walls of Harlech Castle, Royal St. David's may be one of the most visually stunning golf courses in all of Great Britain.
Towering dunes guard one side of the course while Snowdonia National Park provides an unforgettable backdrop. The back nine is considered one of the strongest stretches of links golf anywhere, demanding thoughtful strategy, precise ball striking, and an appreciation for traditional links architecture.
Aberdovey Golf Club
Nestled between Snowdonia National Park and the Irish Sea, Aberdovey perfectly captures everything golfers love about traditional links golf.
Natural dunes, fast-running fairways, constant coastal winds, and an incredibly welcoming atmosphere have made Aberdovey a favorite among both visitors and locals for generations. It may not host major championships, but many golfers leave believing it delivers one of the purest links experiences anywhere in Britain.
Pennard Golf Club
Known affectionately as "The Links in the Sky," Pennard sits high above Three Cliffs Bay on the beautiful Gower Peninsula.
Ancient castle ruins, rolling dunes, dramatic cliffside views, and rugged natural terrain combine to create one of the most photogenic and unforgettable rounds in Wales. The wind is always a factor, making every club selection an adventure.
Ashburnham Golf Club
Founded in 1894, Ashburnham combines classic links golf with spectacular views across Carmarthen Bay.
The routing transitions beautifully between inland-style opening holes and traditional seaside links, creating a unique rhythm throughout the round. Rich history, outstanding conditioning, and a welcoming clubhouse make this one of Wales' most enjoyable golf experiences.
Tenby Golf Club
As the oldest golf club in Wales, Tenby blends rich history with timeless links golf.
Blind shots, rugged dunes, deep pot bunkers, and natural terrain provide an authentic golf experience that has changed very little over the decades. After your round, the colorful harbor town of Tenby offers wonderful restaurants, pubs, and seaside charm that perfectly capture the spirit of Wales.
More Than Just Golf
One of the greatest things about visiting Wales is that the adventure doesn't stop when the final putt drops.
Explore magnificent castles like Harlech Castle and Cardiff Castle, stroll colorful harbor towns, drive winding coastal roads, hike dramatic cliffs, and enjoy quiet evenings in traditional Welsh pubs. Unlike some of the busier golf destinations across the British Isles, Wales encourages visitors to slow down, soak in the scenery, and truly experience the culture.
It's the perfect destination for golfers who want their trip to be about far more than just great golf.
Insider Tips from Jeff & Hayden
Jeff's Tip:
Experience Both North and South Wales
Many visitors only play one region, but the magic of Wales comes from experiencing both. Combining Royal St. David's, Aberdovey, and North Wales with Pennard, Royal Porthcawl, Pyle & Kenfig, and the South Coast creates an unforgettable golf journey filled with incredible scenery, castles, and charming Welsh villages.
Hayden's Tip:
Slow Down and Explore
Some of our favorite memories in Wales happen away from the golf course. Build an extra day into your itinerary to explore medieval castles, coastal walking paths, local pubs, and historic seaside towns. Wales rewards travelers who take their time.
Wales: Britain's Best-Kept Golf Secret
For golfers searching for authentic links golf, spectacular scenery, exceptional value, and unforgettable hospitality, Wales delivers everything you'd expect from Scotland or Ireland—and often with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace.
It may not always be the first destination golfers consider, but once you've experienced Wales, it's one you'll never forget.
At Royal Links Golf Tours, we've long believed Wales is one of the diamonds in the rough of the British Isles. We think you'll agree after your very first round.