Finding a good public golf course in London can be tricky. Some places are too crowded, some are expensive, and others just don’t live up to the hype. After playing around London for years and talking to golfers who use these courses regularly, I’ve gathered the ten public (pay-and-play) courses that truly stand out in 2026. These aren’t private memberships. Anyone can book. And they’re perfect whether you’re a beginner, a casual weekend player, or someone visiting London who wants a proper round without paying crazy green fees.
Richmond Park is one of those places you return to over and over. It has two 18-hole courses — Prince’s and Duke’s — so you get two completely different experiences in one location. Because it’s inside a royal park, the atmosphere is peaceful and scenic. You’ll often see deer grazing near the fairway, which is pretty incredible for a London golf course.
Why golfers love it:
Great for all skill levels
Beautiful natural surroundings
Easy booking system
Excellent value for a full 18 holes
- Best for: players who enjoy relaxed, traditional parkland golf.
- Website: Richmond Park Golf Course
2. Trent Park Golf Course
If you want convenience, Trent Park is unbeatable. It’s literally a few minutes’ walk from Oakwood Station (Piccadilly Line), so you can reach the course without a car. The layout is forgiving, the fairways are open, and the course is ideal for social rounds or beginner-friendly games.
What stands out:
Very easy to reach by Tube
Affordable green fees
Full driving range with 34 bays
Lessons, club hire and buggies available
- Best for: beginners, casual players, or anyone who wants a fun, easy day out.
- Website: Trent Park Golf
3. Wimbledon Common Golf Club
This one has a different kind of charm. Wimbledon Common is a historic course dating back to the 19th century, and it feels like traditional British golf. The course sits on common land, so it has a rustic, natural style — nothing overly manicured.
One unique thing:
You have to wear a plain red top while playing so other park users can see you. It’s unusual, but part of the tradition.
Why it’s worth playing:
Traditional golf experience
Affordable visitor fees
Warm, welcoming club environment
- Best for: golfers who appreciate historic courses and unique character.
4. Whitewebbs Park Golf Course
Whitewebbs is a quiet and relaxed 18-hole public course in Enfield. It’s surrounded by woodland, so the setting feels more countryside than city. The course isn’t overly long, which is great if you prefer quicker rounds or are building confidence.
Why players choose it:
Peaceful environment
Good value for money
Great for beginners and casual golfers
Less crowded compared to central courses
- Best for: relaxed social rounds and anyone who dislikes busy city courses.
- Website: Local listing but no official site — you can check details at: Whitewebbs (Course Info)
5. Brent Valley Golf Course
Brent Valley in West London is a community favourite. It’s straightforward, friendly, and very accessible. The fairways are open, and the rounds move fairly quickly, even on weekends. Green fees are some of the best in London.
Why it’s a strong pick:
Very affordable
Easy to walk and beginner-friendly
Nice views over the park
Helpful staff and welcoming environment
- Best for: new golfers or anyone looking for a budget-friendly public course.
6. Lee Valley Golf Course
Lee Valley is one of those quiet, underrated courses that regular players love. The layout is simple but enjoyable, with open fairways and a relaxed environment that works well for beginners or anyone looking to build confidence.
Why it’s worth considering:
Friendly for high-handicap or new players
Affordable green fees
Calm and not overly crowded
Easy to walk — not physically demanding
- Best for: golfers who prefer easier, laid-back rounds.
7. Thamesview Golf Centre
Located in South East London, Thamesview offers a compact but well-designed 9-hole public course. It’s ideal if you don’t have time for a full 18 holes but still want a solid round with proper greens and fairways.
What stands out:
Quick rounds — perfect for busy schedules
Budget-friendly fees
Floodlit driving range & practice bays
Great for beginners and juniors
- Best for: short practice rounds and improving your short game.
8. Beckenham Place Park Golf Course (Reopening Expected)
Beckenham Place used to be one of London’s classic public courses, and although it closed temporarily for restoration of the park, it’s expected to reopen sections over time. Golfers still talk about its spacious layout and friendly local atmosphere.
Why golfers keep an eye on it:
Historically one of London’s best public courses
Large open parkland
Good potential for renewed public golf
- Best for: local South London players once operations resume.
9. Highgate Golf Club (Visitor Access Available)
Highgate isn’t fully public, but visitors can play during designated hours, making it a great semi-public option if you want something slightly more premium. The course is well-maintained, tree-lined, and surprisingly peaceful for North London.
Why it stands out:
Excellent greens and course conditions
Professional-level layout
Visitor tee times available at reasonable rates
Short travel distance from central London
- Best for: golfers wanting a more polished, private-club feel without membership.
- Website: Highgate Golf Club
10. Hainault Golf Club (Two 18-Hole Courses)
Hainault is one of London’s biggest public golf complexes, offering two full 18-hole courses — the Upper and Lower courses. Both offer great variety, elevation changes, and long fairways that appeal to mid-level and advanced golfers.
Why it’s a top pick:
Two full courses to choose from
Good for serious practice
Well-maintained greens for a public course
Offers lessons and a driving range
- Best for: players who want a more challenging public course with consistent conditions.
Final Thoughts
Golf in London doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With so many public courses spread across the city, you can enjoy a proper round without needing a private membership or paying high fees. Whether you want a challenging layout, a peaceful parkland setting, or a quick practice session after work, London’s public golf scene in 2026 has something for every type of golfer.
If you’re new to the sport, start with beginner-friendly courses like Trent Park, Brent Valley, or Thamesview. If you want something more scenic and traditional, Richmond Park or Wimbledon Common offer a classic experience you won’t forget. And when you’re ready to explore beyond the well-known spots, places like Lee Valley and Hainault add even more variety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need a membership to play at public golf courses in London?
No. Public golf courses are pay-and-play, so anyone can book a tee time without needing a membership. Just check the booking availability on the course’s website.
2. How much does it cost to play at a public golf course in London?
Most public courses in London charge between £15–£35 depending on:
the day (weekends cost more)
the season
whether you’re playing 9 or 18 holes
Premium semi-public options like Highgate may cost slightly more.
3. Can beginners play on these courses?
Absolutely. Many public courses — like Trent Park, Brent Valley, Thamesview, and Lee Valley — are designed with beginners and casual players in mind. They also offer lessons and club hire.
4. Do I need to bring my own golf clubs?
Not necessarily. Several public courses offer club hire, including Trent Park and Hainault. If you’re traveling or don’t own clubs yet, renting is a convenient option.
5. Which public golf course is the easiest to reach by public transport?
Trent Park Golf Course is by far the most accessible. It’s only a short walk from Oakwood Station on the Piccadilly Line, making it ideal for golfers without a car.
