As a seasoned golfer who has played countless courses across the globe, I must say that my recent journey to the Berkshire Golf Club and London Golf Club in the United Kingdom has left a lasting impression.
Playing golf consistently within a city isn’t typically for casual players. Unless you belong to the rare few who can take time off work at will, it involves considerable planning and lots of commuting time – whether that’s waiting for trains or navigating through traffic congestion. Thus, spotting someone carrying golf clubs in the city center indicates a strong passion for the game.
Of course not all cities are created equal. Some, like Los Angeles for example, are blessed with a variety of low cost options within city limits. London is not one of those. But what it does have going for it is a significant network of trains servicing areas replete with world famous golf clubs that you can actually play. See, one thing that differentiates golf in the UK from golf in the US is that even though iconic British courses like Sunningdale, Carnoustie and Muirfield are members clubs in name, they still welcome the public on most days of the week if you’re willing to pay the hefty green fees.
Despite London’s train network and certain areas being more car-friendly than others, leaving the city can still be a challenge. Given London’s climate, there are numerous days when spending extended periods outside, like four hours or more, is less than appealing. This is why new businesses have emerged that strive to bring the social and skillful aspects of golf indoors, making it easily accessible for urban dwellers.
As a golf enthusiast who’s had the pleasure of visiting London multiple times, I’ve had the chance to discover my top 18-hole golf courses and indoor golfing spots, along with some splendid accommodations to round off the experience.
Where to Practice
Pitch Soho
After touching down in London on a late-night flight, our upcoming golf game was just around the corner, making a few hours at an indoor simulator the ideal choice to unwind. Blending elements of Soho House and an indoor golf facility, Pitch delivers a premium indoor golf experience as a member-exclusive club, with multiple locations expanding across London. As you step into the Soho location from the street, a single flight of stairs leads you down to the main entertainment zone, evoking a secret hideaway atmosphere complemented by a softly lit bar. While Pitch primarily caters to members, it also warmly welcomes guests during off-peak hours.
Pitch Soho
12 Meard St
London, UK W1F 0EQ
Pitch Wharf
The upcoming collaboration between Pitch and TRENDYGOLF, set to debut at their newest venue, will merge an indoor golf facility with a clothing store. You might recall TRENDYGOLF making waves in the fall of 2023 with their Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low G release, where they ran a special contest at Pitch Soho’s simulators. To win a pair, participants had to attend in person and display their golfing skills. The expanded location in Canary Wharf will offer more space for TRENDYGOLF and Pitch to develop additional collaborations that foster the London golf community, making these experiences even more accessible.
Urban Golf
Over the past couple of decades, simulator golf has gained significant traction and substantial financial backing. However, Urban Golf, established 20 years ago, has been a pioneer in this field. James Day, the founder, graciously shared insights into how Urban Golf has catered to London’s golf enthusiasts for two decades. The facility boasts 11 hitting bays, but what sets it apart is the club fitting studio hidden at the back, adorned with classic golf memorabilia. This decor underscores the team’s deep-rooted respect and admiration for the sport’s history.
Urban Golf
12 Smithfield St
London, UK EC1A 9LA
Swingers Crazy Golf – West End
Instead of typical mini golf venues filled with kids, Swingers offers a refreshing twist tailored for adults. All locations are indoors, featuring several 9-hole courses designed around unique themes like the 1920s seaside lifestyle at Swingers West-End. Alongside the golf, you’ll find fully-stocked bars, street food stalls, and additional games such as down-the-clown and skeeball.
Swingers Crazy Golf – West End
15 John Prince’s St
London, UK W1G 0AB
Where to Play
Wentworth Club
Upon arriving at Wentworth Club, where luxury cars like Porsches and Range Rovers dominated the entrance, our Uber driver seemed a bit self-conscious driving an ordinary vehicle. As we retrieved our golf clubs from the trunk, we spotted former Chelsea player John Terry practicing on the putting green, and later, Theo Walcott graced a tee box nearby. Ahead lay 36 holes of pristine fairways and greens, surrounded by woodlands and elegant residences, once you manage to focus past all the intriguing sights.
Wentworth Club
Wentworth Dr
Surrey, UK GU25 4LS
The Berkshire Golf Club
There’s nothing more heartwarming than observing an elderly man embark on 18 rounds of golf, accompanied by his loyal cocker spaniel. At the Berkshire Club, this scene is quite common because unlike most American courses, dogs are welcomed and even appreciated. The club has two courses – Blue and Red – each boasting fields of untamed heather that change color with the seasons. A piece of advice: don’t forget to drop by the food stand when making the turn for a sausage roll, a British equivalent to a hot dog or pretzel.
The Berkshire Golf Club
Swinley Rd, Winkfield Row
Ascot, United Kingdom SL5 8AY
London Golf Club
Even though we haven’t visited the London Golf Club personally, we have confidence in our associates at MANORS, who have organized several events at this 36-hole venue situated in Kent. Established in 1994, London Golf Club is a relatively new establishment; however, it has swiftly gained notoriety as the venue for DP World Tour tournaments. Boasting two Jack Nicklaus-designed courses, one exclusive to members, the club offers panoramic views, golden fescue, and an abundance of water features.
London Golf Club
Stansted Lane, New Ash Green
Sevenoaks, UK TN15 7EH
Where to Stay
Pennyhill Park
One night at Pennyhill Park will make you feel five years younger. At least that’s how we felt when checking out. Located in the suburb of Surrey, Pennyhill is close to many of the best London area courses and is actually affiliated with Berkshire as part of the exclusive collection. The 123 acres of rolling estate has winding footpaths and the award winning spa is blessed with eight pools, thermal cabins and a variety of treatment offerings. The dining experience is highlighted by Latymer, a Michelin star restaurant serving a tasting menu, but we went for Hillfield which is the more casual option prioritizing local ingredients.
Pennyhill Park
London Rd
Bagshot, UK GU19 5EU
1 Hotel Mayfair
Following our delightful experience at the 1 Hotel in sunny Los Angeles, blending indoor and outdoor areas seamlessly, we were curious to observe how their eco-focused design would adapt to a city not typically associated with warm climates. To our surprise, it worked quite effectively. Nestled in London’s prestigious Mayfair shopping district, this 9-story hotel greets its guests with a check-in counter crafted from a 200-year-old oak tree. Green Park, home to Buckingham Palace, is right across the street, and Hyde Park, a vast expanse, isn’t far either.
1 Hotel Mayfair
3 Berkeley St
London, UK W1J 8DL
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2024-10-08 19:27