Top 10 Best Golf Courses in North Devon

A Golfing Destination With Heritage

North Devon holds a special place in English golf history. The region is home to the oldest links course in England, dramatic dune-land layouts beside the Atlantic and peaceful parkland courses set in rolling countryside. Combined with spectacular coastal scenery and a relaxed pace of life, it is no surprise that golfers travel from across the country to play here.

Whether you are a seasoned golfer seeking a championship challenge or a beginner looking for a friendly course to learn the game, North Devon offers options for every level. This guide ranks ten of the best golf courses in the region.

What Makes a Great Golf Course

We considered course design, condition, scenery, facilities, welcome for visitors and overall experience. Links courses offer firm, fast turf and challenging winds, while parkland courses provide tree-lined fairways and sheltered play. Many clubs in the area also offer practice facilities, lessons and clubhouses with food and drink.

The Top 10 Golf Courses in North Devon

1. Royal North Devon Golf Club

Located at Westward Ho!, Royal North Devon Golf Club is the oldest golf course in England still playing over its original land, founded in the 1860s. Its natural links layout across Northam Burrows, complete with grazing sheep and ponies, offers a truly authentic experience. The famous sea rushes and ever-changing winds make it a memorable test.

2. Saunton Golf Club, East Course

Saunton's East Course is widely regarded as one of the finest links courses in England. Set among the vast dunes of Braunton Burrows, it demands accurate shot-making and rewards strategic play. It has hosted numerous prestigious amateur championships.

3. Saunton Golf Club, West Course

The West Course at Saunton provides a slightly different but equally rewarding challenge through the dunes. Together, Saunton's two courses make it one of the best 36-hole links venues in the country.

4. Ilfracombe Golf Club

Perched high above the Bristol Channel, Ilfracombe Golf Club offers breathtaking clifftop views across to Wales. Its undulating layout provides a varied challenge and a friendly welcome for visitors.

5. Libbaton Golf Club

Located near High Bickington, Libbaton is a parkland course with water features and tree-lined fairways. It is known for its friendly atmosphere, good condition throughout the year and excellent value.

6. Highbullen Hotel Golf Course

Set in beautiful countryside near Chittlehamholt, Highbullen combines a scenic parkland course with hotel and spa facilities, making it a popular choice for golf breaks.

7. Portmore Golf Park

Close to Barnstaple, Portmore Golf Park offers an accessible and welcoming environment, including a parkland course, a par-three course and a driving range. It is ideal for beginners, families and those looking to practise.

8. Torrington Golf Club

Torrington Golf Club is a well-kept course offering sweeping views across the Torridge valley. Its friendly members and relaxed atmosphere make it an enjoyable round.

9. Holsworthy Golf Club

Holsworthy Golf Club offers a pleasant parkland layout on the western edge of the region, with a welcoming clubhouse and good-value green fees.

10. Hartland Forest Golf Club

Nestled near the dramatic Hartland Peninsula, this course offers a peaceful round surrounded by woodland and countryside, providing a quieter alternative to the busier coastal courses.

Golf Trends in North Devon

Golf tourism remains strong, with visitors combining rounds at Royal North Devon and Saunton with stays in local hotels and holiday cottages. Clubs are investing in sustainable course management, including reduced chemical use, water conservation and protection of the rare wildlife that thrives in dune systems. Braunton Burrows, for example, forms part of the North Devon UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Participation in golf has grown in recent years, with clubs offering flexible memberships, junior programmes and women's golf initiatives. Technology such as launch monitors and GPS course guides is also helping golfers improve their game.

Tips for Playing Golf in North Devon

Book tee times in advance, especially at the most popular links courses during summer. Check handicap requirements, as some championship courses ask visitors to hold an official handicap. Pack waterproofs and layers, as coastal weather can change quickly, and be prepared for strong winds on links courses. Consider playing in spring or autumn for quieter courses and good value green fees.

Links golf also rewards a different approach. Keep the ball low in the wind, use the ground to run approach shots onto greens and accept that the weather will play a part in your score. Embracing these conditions is half the fun of golf on the North Devon coast.

Conclusion

From the historic links of Royal North Devon to the magnificent dunes of Saunton and the scenic parkland courses inland, North Devon is a genuine golfing destination. Whether you are planning a golf break or looking for a new home club, these courses offer outstanding golf, warm hospitality and some of the most beautiful scenery in England.