England has its famous links, the Royal clubs that host the Open Championship, but some of its most rewarding seaside golf is found at clubs that rarely make the headlines. These courses fly under the radar, yet they offer a serious challenge, a warm welcome and the kind of round you talk about for years. Here are seven to seek out.
Cleveland Golf Club, North Yorkshire
Founded in 1887 at Redcar in the Tees Valley, Cleveland has design input from Old Tom Morris, Harry Colt and Donald Steel, yet it remains a relative unknown. For decades it sat in the shadow of a steelworks. With that gone, the quality of this genuine championship links shines through.
Seacroft Golf Club, Lincolnshire
Established in 1895 at Skegness, Seacroft is a hidden gem that combines charm with real challenge, and it is known for its friendly atmosphere. It is also a short drive from Woodhall Spa, so it fits neatly into a trip to one of England’s great inland courses.
Littlestone Golf Club, Kent
Kent is famous for Royal St George’s, but Littlestone is a lesser-known treasure. Founded in 1888, it is a traditional links with 36 holes, shaped over the years by Alister MacKenzie and James Braid, and it has a handsome, historic clubhouse.
Hayling Golf Club, Hampshire
The most southerly links on England’s south coast, Hayling has an old-fashioned links feel and fits naturally into the landscape. Its Art Deco clubhouse looks out over the Solent to the Isle of Wight, and there are several genuinely memorable holes.
Perranporth Golf Club, Cornwall
Calling Perranporth undiscovered may be a little out of date, as it has rightly been attracting attention. It is now a must-play on any Cornish trip, and it sits comfortably alongside its better-known neighbours Trevose and St Enodoc.
Silloth on Solway Golf Club, Cumbria
Often voted the best value golf course in the country, Silloth is hardly a secret, but it does take some effort to reach in the far north-west corner of England. It is here as a reminder that it is completely worth the journey.
Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club, Northumberland
Dunstanburgh may be one of the biggest surprises of your golfing life. The modest green fee does not prepare you for what awaits: links golf beneath the ruins of a medieval castle, with views along pristine, empty beaches.
Why they stay hidden
Remote locations and understated clubhouses have kept these courses out of the spotlight for years. That is exactly what makes them special. Add one or two to your next trip and you will wonder why you had not heard of them sooner. Ready to plan? Tell us about your trip and we will put you in touch with a trusted tour operator.