Glorious Greens: Exploring The History Of UK Golf Courses

The UK is home to some of the world’s most celebrated golf courses, starting with the birthplace of golf at St Andrews in Scotland. If you are a golf enthusiast, what could be more glorious than a golf tour where all your travel and itinerary is arranged beforehand, including luxury coach hire. 

Whether you want to make a local journey to play a round with a group of friends or as part of corporate hospitality, watch a tournament, or treat yourself to a UK-wide golfing holiday to experience some of the best courses in the country, we’ve got you covered. We can provide a tailored package to suit your requirements, with a range of executive options. 

To whet your appetite, here’s a look at the history and evolution of golf courses in the UK.

Scotland: where it all teed off

The story of golf begins in the Scottish city of St Andrews, on the eastern coast of the country. Players originally began in the 14th century by using sticks to hit pebbles around sand dunes. In fact, it became such a popular sport that the Scottish Parliament banned it in 1457, for fear that it would distract men from their military training.

However, the ban was not strictly reinforced, and by 1502 the game was given the royal stamp of approval as it was taken up by King James IV of Scotland. The game grew in popularity, first in England and then travelling across continental Europe. 

According to Historic UK, the term ‘caddie’ derives from the French word ‘cadet’, which was the term Mary Queen of Scots used to describe her French military aides. The first official golf club was formed in Leith, near Edinburgh in 1744, but the recognised birthplace of golf is St Andrews, where the Royal & Ancient club was established in 1834.

The Old Course is the oldest and most famous golf course in the world, with iconic features such as the Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker. It has hosted all the major tournaments and world golfing champions over the years, but it remains open to the public. You will need to have a maximum handicap of 36, and a certificate of proof to show the starter on the day.

The evolution of golf course design

The earliest golf courses were often formed from natural landscapes, such as coastal sand dunes (coastal golf courses are called ‘links.’) The early 19th century saw more formal golf courses developed, with more challenging layouts designed to stretch golfers’ abilities. 

Designers such as Old Tom Morris and Wille Park Jnr sought to combine beautiful natural locations such as Montrose Golf Links near Dundee with classical layouts. Many golf courses are in scenic coastal or countryside areas, and are designed to combine splendid views with the challenge of the game.

By the late 19th and early 20th century, golf course design was elevated into an artform by landscape architects such as Harry Colt and James Braid. There are dozens of magnificent courses still in full operation from this era, such as Royal Birkdale, Sunningdale, and Royal St Georges.

Modern-day golf courses

Golf continues to thrive as both an amateur passtime and a competitive international sport. Modern innovations mean that it is possible to play all year round, such as wireless soil sensing technology. Many courses have now implemented environmental and sustainability practices, such as water conservation measures and wildlife preservation schemes. 

The modern golf course tends to be larger, as professional golf players now have much longer ranges. Most golf course architects will aim to create a course that is aesthetically beautiful and also creates a strategic challenge for the players. This might include undulating greens, steep sided slopes, strategically placed fairway bunkers, rough terrain and water.

Putting it all together

Here at A Class, we can put together a bespoke golf tour package that encompasses some of the most prestigious golf courses in the UK, including Walton Heath, Alwoodley, Hunstanston. Eymouth, Sunningdale, Swinley Forest, Formby, Berkshire, Royal Birkdale, Wentworth, Royal West Norfolk and Dunbar.

All of our coaches and minibuses have ample storage capacity to carry your golfing equipment, and are furnished with mod cons including HD entertainment systems and WiFi, so you can undertake your journey in comfort and style.