Top 10 Best Golf Courses in Hastings

Golfing Around Hastings

Hastings sits between the dramatic coastline of the English Channel and the rolling hills of the High Weald, offering golfers an excellent variety of courses within a short drive. Golfers can enjoy parkland layouts framed by ancient woodland, clifftop views and some of the finest links golf in southern England at nearby Rye and Littlestone.

The region's mild climate allows year-round play, although coastal winds can add an extra challenge. The ten courses below were selected for their design, condition, scenery, facilities and welcome to visitors and members alike.

The Top 10 Golf Courses Near Hastings

1. Beauport Park Golf Course

Located on the edge of Hastings, Beauport Park is a well-established parkland course set among mature trees. It offers an enjoyable test for golfers of all abilities, with tree-lined fairways and well-maintained greens. Its proximity to the town makes it a popular choice for local golfers.

2. Rye Golf Club

Rye Golf Club is one of the most celebrated links courses in England, renowned for its natural dunes, firm fairways and challenging winds. It is famous for hosting the President's Putter. Its traditional character and demanding layout attract golf enthusiasts from far and wide.

3. Cooden Beach Golf Club

Cooden Beach Golf Club, near Bexhill, offers a seaside course with a mix of links and parkland characteristics. Its gentle terrain and sea breezes create an enjoyable round. The friendly clubhouse atmosphere makes it a favourite among visitors.

4. Highwoods Golf Club

Highwoods Golf Club in Bexhill is a well-regarded parkland course with mature trees, strategic bunkering and well-kept greens. It provides a fair yet challenging test. The club is known for its welcoming membership and strong social programme.

5. Sedlescombe Golf Club

Sedlescombe Golf Club offers a relaxed atmosphere and an enjoyable course set in beautiful countryside. It is ideal for golfers seeking a friendly round without the formality of some traditional clubs. Its facilities include practice areas and a welcoming clubhouse.

6. Dale Hill Hotel and Golf Club

Dale Hill, near Ticehurst, features two courses, including one designed with input from a major championship winner. The resort setting offers luxury facilities, including a hotel and spa. It is an excellent choice for golf breaks and corporate events.

7. Royal Eastbourne Golf Club

Royal Eastbourne Golf Club sits at the foot of the South Downs, offering panoramic views and a challenging layout. Its historic status and well-maintained course make it a popular destination. The club welcomes visitors and hosts regular competitions.

8. Littlestone Golf Club

Littlestone Golf Club, on the Kent coast near New Romney, is a classic links course with firm fairways and testing greens. It has hosted important amateur championships and is admired for its natural design. Golfers from Hastings often make the trip for a true links experience.

9. Willingdon Golf Club

Willingdon Golf Club offers a downland course with dramatic undulations and stunning views over Eastbourne and the sea. Its challenging terrain rewards accurate shot-making. The friendly club atmosphere makes it a popular choice for visiting golfers.

10. Eastbourne Downs Golf Club

Eastbourne Downs Golf Club provides a scenic course on the South Downs with sweeping views. Its firm turf and natural contours offer a distinctive downland golf experience. It is known for good value and a welcoming approach to golfers of all abilities.

Golf Trends in the Hastings Area

Golf has enjoyed renewed popularity, with more people taking up the sport as a way to stay active outdoors. Clubs are offering flexible memberships, beginner coaching and family-friendly programmes. Technology such as launch monitors and booking apps is also enhancing the golfing experience.

Sustainability is increasingly important, with courses adopting environmentally friendly maintenance practices and creating wildlife habitats. Many clubs in the area are investing in ecological improvements while maintaining excellent playing conditions.

Tips for Golfers Visiting Hastings

Book tee times in advance, especially at popular links courses. Check dress codes and handicap requirements for visitors. Be prepared for wind on coastal courses and bring layers for changeable weather.

Consider combining a round with exploring the area, such as the historic town of Rye or the Old Town in Hastings. Many clubs offer reciprocal arrangements or society days, making it easy to play multiple courses.

Links, Parkland or Downland: Which Suits You?

One of the great advantages of golfing from Hastings is the variety of course types within reach. Links courses such as Rye and Littlestone are built on sandy coastal ground, with firm fairways, deep bunkers and wind as a constant factor. They reward low, controlled shots and creative play around the greens. Parkland courses such as Beauport Park and Highwoods are framed by trees, with softer turf that favours accurate driving and high approach shots.

Downland courses on the South Downs, including Willingdon and Eastbourne Downs, sit on chalk hills with dramatic undulations and long views. They drain quickly, making them excellent options in wetter months. Trying each style is a rewarding way to develop your game and appreciate the diverse landscapes of Sussex and Kent.

Conclusion

Hastings is a fantastic base for golfers, with a superb selection of courses offering variety, challenge and stunning scenery. From historic links to tranquil parkland, the ten courses above provide something for every golfer. Pack your clubs and discover the beauty of golf on the Sussex and Kent coast.