Top 10 Golf Courses in South Wales
Are you looking for the best golf courses in South Wales? In this post, we’ll guide you through the top 10 golf courses in South Wales.
If you’re hoping to get a hole in one on your holiday, there are few places better than South Wales. With its expansive golf courses, rich heritage, and spectacular scenery, this region is a top choice for both amateur golfers and professionals alike.
South Wales’ reputation for serious golf was confirmed in 2010, when Newport hosted the international Ryder Cup. But from clifftop courses to sheltered woodland, there’s truly something for everyone in the area’s valleys and parks.
1. Royal Porthcawl Golf Course
Where: Mid Glamorgan
Ranked number 1 in Wales, Royal Porthcawl golf course was founded as a 9-hole course in 1891. In 1895, it was upgraded to the 18-hole course which you can play today. The course takes you up onto higher ground, providing breathtaking views across the Bristol channel. This means you’re exposed to the wind, something which cements this course’s reputation as ‘a thinking man’s golf course.’
2. Pennard
Where: Swansea
Pennard golf club is located on the Gower Peninsula and is commonly referred to as ‘the links in the sky’. This is because this cliff-top site towers 200 feet above sea level, where players can enjoy incredible views across Oxwich Bay. The showstopper, however, is undoubtedly the ruins of a 12th century Norman castle which stands less than 6,500 yards from the back tees.
3. Southerndown
Where: Bridgend
Like Royal Porthcawl, Southerndown offers you stunning views over the Bristol Channel. This all-natural course is characterised by bracken, gorse, and even the friendly sheep which graze on the green. It’s hosted a variety of important championships over the years, including the Piccadilly Masters and Martini International. Some of its holes are particularly challenging – look out for the famous 5th hole, or ‘Carter’s Folly’, as it’s known.
4. Twenty Ten
Where: The Celtic Manor Resort, Newport
The Celtic Manor resort was launched in the 1970s with the intention of creating a world-class golfing complex. The golf course itself – named Wentwood Hills – was opened in the 1990s, but it was redesigned in July 2007 in preparation for hosting the Ryder Cup in 2010. The new course, which is named Twenty Ten in honour of the competition, measures 7,493 yards and takes players through the beautiful Usk Valley.
5. Pyle & Kenfig
Where: Mid Glamorgan
It might be next-door to the top-ranked Royal Porthcawl, but it would be a mistake to overlook Pyle & Kenfig. This links course is arranged in two loops of 9, with the back 9 holes spectacularly routed through the dunes. Offering panoramic views over the Gower Peninsula, this is a challenging but fair course which has hosted championships from the Amateur Championship to the Girls Home Internationals.
6. St Pierre
Where: Monmouthshire
The St Pierre resort is situated just across from the Severn Bridge and set in 400 acres of South Welsh countryside. Its clubhouse is a manor house from the 14th century, and the sense of history here is strong. The manor house was home to the Crown Jewels during the battle of Agincourt, while the course takes its name from the Norman church of St Pierre which also stands onsite.
7. Rolls of Monmouth
Where: Monmouth
The first thing you’ll notice on the Rolls of Monmouth golf course is the sprawling manor house, which was once home to Charles Stewart Rolls (the man who co-founded Rolls Royce). The second is its rich woodland and dramatic scenery, which is bordered by the Black Mountains. This is the perfect golf course for anyone who wants to enjoy rewarding holes whilst revelling in gorgeous parkland.
8. Montgomerie
Where: The Celtic Manor Resort, Newport
The Celtic Manor course was designed by Colin Montgomerie and opened in July 2007, alongside its companion course Twenty Ten. It’s taken some of its holes from the original Westwood Hills course and now measures 6,371 yards, with some of its tee shots elevated over the valleys of the natural landscape.
9. Newport Golf Club
Where: Newport, Gwent
Newport Golf Club is known for having one of the best parkland courses in South Wales. Enjoying views from 300 feet above sea level but sheltered snugly within the birch trees of Llwyni Wood, this course provides a welcome break from courses such as Royal Porthcawl and Pennard, both of which can be buffeted by winds from the bays. Just remember that you’ll need to be a member of the Newport golf cub to play this course.
10. The Roman Road
Where: The Celtic Manor Resort, Newport
The Roman Road is the third golf course at the Celtic Manor Resort to make this list. It takes its name from the Roman East-West road which crosses the course, around which the holes have been strategically (and entertainingly) placed. The course was designed in the American style by Trent Jones Senior, and it promises the perfect day out for amateur and advanced golfers alike.
Whether you’re looking for panoramic views, historical clubhouses, or challenging natural courses, golfers in South Wales are spoilt for choice. The question isn’t ‘which course should you pick?’ – it’s ‘how can you fit all 10 into your holiday?’
Nick, your trusted guide to Wales travel and exploration, shares a deep passion for this enchanting land. With years of exploration, Nick offers expert insights into the best of Wales. Join him on a journey through its captivating history, culture, and hidden gems, as he inspires you to create unforgettable Wales travel experiences.
