Top 10 Best Golf Courses in Elmbridge

Elmbridge and the Surrey Golfing Belt

Surrey is widely regarded as one of the finest inland golfing regions in the world, and Elmbridge sits squarely within it. The sandy heathland soil that runs through Weybridge, Cobham, Oxshott and Esher drains exceptionally well, producing firm, fast fairways and genuinely year-round playability — a rarity in the British climate.

That geology, combined with Victorian and Edwardian course design heritage, gives the borough an extraordinary density of quality golf. Within a short radius, players can experience championship heathland, mature parkland, historic private clubs and accessible pay-and-play facilities.

The Top 10 Golf Courses in and Around Elmbridge

1. St George's Hill Golf Club, Weybridge — A revered Harry Colt heathland design set within the exclusive St George's Hill estate. Dramatic elevation changes, heather-lined fairways and pine and silver birch framing make it one of the most admired inland courses in the country.

2. Burhill Golf Club, Hersham — A distinguished club with two contrasting eighteen-hole courses, the Old and the New. The Old Course offers classic parkland character around a historic mansion clubhouse, while the New provides a more modern, water-influenced test.

3. Silvermere Golf Club, Cobham — A parkland course built around a large lake, with a signature closing stretch that demands accurate water carries. It also operates one of the region's busiest driving ranges and golf retail operations.

4. Oxshott Golf Course — A heathland course in a quiet, wooded setting, valued for its natural character and relaxed atmosphere. A good option for golfers who prefer a shorter, strategic round over raw length.

5. Coombe Hill Golf Club, nearby Kingston — Another Colt-influenced heathland gem within easy reach of Elmbridge. Undulating terrain, heather and outstanding green complexes give it a reputation as a genuine shotmaker's course.

6. Foxhills Club & Resort, Ottershaw — A resort venue with two championship courses plus a par-three layout, complemented by hotel, spa and extensive leisure facilities. Popular for golf breaks and corporate days.

7. Walton Heath Golf Club, nearby Tadworth — A celebrated Open Qualifying venue with two heathland courses of exceptional quality. A bucket-list round for serious golfers living in the borough.

8. Moore Place Golf Club, Esher — A compact nine-hole parkland course ideal for beginners, juniors and quick rounds. Its accessibility makes it an important entry point into the sport locally.

9. Hersham Village Golf Facilities — Community-oriented practice and short-course facilities supporting coaching programmes, junior development and low-cost participation.

10. Sandown Golf Centre, Esher — Located within the Sandown Park site, offering a nine-hole course, floodlit driving range and pay-and-play access. One of the most convenient places in Elmbridge to practise regularly.

Heathland Versus Parkland

Understanding the difference helps golfers pick the right day out. Heathland courses sit on free-draining sandy soil with heather, gorse, pine and birch. They play firm, reward strategic positioning and tend to remain open through wet winters. Parkland courses feature richer soil, mature deciduous trees and often water features, producing a softer, greener, more target-oriented game.

Elmbridge is unusual in offering both in abundance, which allows local golfers to vary their game considerably without travelling far.

Facilities and Membership

Facilities across the borough range from historic private clubhouses with full dining and locker services to modern academy centres with launch monitors and covered bays. Membership structures have diversified significantly: alongside traditional full membership, clubs now offer flexible, off-peak, corporate, junior and points-based options.

Coaching provision is strong. PGA professionals across the borough use video analysis, launch monitor data and custom fitting, and group coaching for beginners has expanded substantially as clubs work to broaden participation.

Trends in Local Golf

Participation patterns have shifted. Shorter formats — nine holes, par-three courses and simulator sessions — are growing faster than traditional eighteen-hole rounds, driven by time pressure and younger players. Elmbridge venues with floodlit ranges and simulators have benefited most.

Sustainability is also reshaping course management. Reduced irrigation, wildflower and heather restoration, electric maintenance machinery and habitat corridors are now standard practice at leading clubs. Heathland restoration in particular has improved both ecology and playing character across Surrey.

Finally, clubs have modernised their culture. Relaxed dress codes, family-friendly programming and improved women's and junior pathways are steadily replacing more restrictive traditions.

Tips for Playing in Elmbridge

Book heathland courses in advance, especially at weekends, as visitor slots are limited at the most prestigious clubs. Check dress and handicap requirements before arriving at private clubs. In winter, prioritise the sandy heathland courses, which drain far better than parkland alternatives.

For beginners, start at a nine-hole or academy facility, take a short block of lessons before playing a full course, and use the borough's floodlit ranges during darker months to maintain progress.

Final Thoughts

Few boroughs anywhere in the UK offer golf of this quality and variety within such a small area. From world-class heathland at St George's Hill to accessible practice facilities at Sandown, Elmbridge caters to every level of player. Match the course to your ability and the season, and the borough will keep your game interesting all year.