10 of the UK’s best golf hotels to stay at in 2023

Up until the Covid-19 pandemic, any talk of a great golfing holiday brought up images of sun-tinged courses in the Costas, the Algarve and Florida. Turkey’s on-the-up Turquoise Coast might have been mentioned. At a push, the Canaries and Cyprus too. But the UK’s rain-lashed golf courses of England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland barely registered on most Brits’ summer travel map.

That’s all changed, of course. Staycations have boomed in the past few years, and are clearly here to stay. For those who love nothing more than tee-ing off after a cooked breakfast, courtesy of a gorgeous hotel, golfers are spoiled for choice, as our fair isles are home to countless first-rate courses, providing fresh air and, more often than not, stunning scenery.

From English seaside clubs to a Scottish island mansion with its own course, the Good Hotel Guide features some great hotels for golfers wanting to combine a break alongside their beloved sport. Here’s a selection of the best.

Location: Mawnan Smith, Cornwall

The Barlow family’s 18th-century manor house, resort and spa hotel stands in parkland that slopes down to the Helford River. Its own nine-hole, 18-tee golf course was designed by five-times Open winner, James Braid, working with the lie of the land. Guests pay no green fees, while summer specials include play at up to two local courses.

Putter off to Falmouth, Truro or Mullion on the cliffs, where AA Milne used to play. When it’s time for a little something, return to the hotel for a Cornish cream tea.