Top 10 Best Golf Courses in Rushmoor

Golf in the Heart of Heathland Country

Rushmoor enjoys a privileged location for golf. The borough sits on the edge of the famous Surrey and Hampshire heathland belt, where sandy soils, pine trees, heather and gorse create some of the most beautiful and playable courses in Britain. Free-draining ground means many courses remain in excellent condition throughout the year, a major advantage in a region known for wet winters.

Within a short drive of Aldershot and Farnborough, golfers can find everything from championship-standard layouts to relaxed pay-and-play venues ideal for beginners. Note that Farnborough's former Southwood Golf Course has closed and been transformed into Southwood Country Park, so local golfers now enjoy the many excellent clubs nearby. Here are ten of the best.

1. Army Golf Club, Aldershot

Founded in the late nineteenth century, the Army Golf Club is one of the oldest clubs in the area and a genuine part of Aldershot's military heritage. Its heathland layout offers tree-lined fairways and well-protected greens. While historically associated with service personnel, the club welcomes civilian members and visitors, offering an excellent test of golf with a rich sense of history.

2. North Hants Golf Club, Fleet

North Hants Golf Club is a classic heathland course just a short drive from Farnborough. It is widely known as the home club where Justin Rose developed his game as a junior. The course features heather-lined fairways, strategic bunkering and fast greens, and it regularly hosts important amateur championships.

3. Hankley Common Golf Club

Hankley Common, near Tilford, is one of the most admired heathland courses in England. It has hosted Final Qualifying for The Open, reflecting its championship quality. Wide expanses of heather, dramatic bunkers and a famous closing hole make it a bucket-list destination for serious golfers in the region.

4. Camberley Heath Golf Club

Designed by the legendary Harry Colt, Camberley Heath is a beautiful heathland course with rolling terrain and pine-framed holes. Its thoughtful design rewards strategy over power. The elegant clubhouse and superb course conditioning make it one of the most enjoyable places to play near Rushmoor.

5. Pine Ridge Golf Centre, Frimley

Pine Ridge is a popular pay-and-play venue with a welcoming atmosphere and a floodlit driving range. It is ideal for beginners, casual golfers and those who prefer flexibility over formal membership. Coaching programmes and practice facilities make it a great place to learn or sharpen skills close to Farnborough.

6. Farnham Golf Club

Farnham Golf Club, located at The Sands, offers a mix of heathland and parkland character. Its varied holes and well-maintained course make it a favourite among golfers from Aldershot and the Surrey border. The club has a friendly reputation and a strong junior and ladies' section.

7. Hartley Wintney Golf Club

Hartley Wintney Golf Club provides a relaxed parkland experience with mature trees and gentle terrain. It is well suited to golfers of all abilities and offers a warm, community-minded club environment. Its accessible location makes it a convenient option for Rushmoor residents looking for a sociable membership.

8. Worplesdon Golf Club

Worplesdon is another celebrated heathland course, renowned for its natural beauty and classic design. Famous for its historic mixed foursomes competition, the club combines tradition with outstanding course quality. Its challenging yet fair layout rewards accurate play and thoughtful course management.

9. West Hill Golf Club

West Hill, near Woking, is a narrow, tree-lined heathland course that demands precision. Its rugged character and immaculate presentation have earned it a place among the region's elite courses. Golfers who enjoy a strategic challenge will find West Hill both demanding and rewarding.

10. Puttenham Golf Club

Puttenham Golf Club sits on the edge of the Hog's Back and offers a mix of heathland and woodland holes with lovely views. It is known for its friendly welcome and value for money. The course suits golfers of varying abilities, making it a popular choice for societies and groups from Rushmoor.

What Makes Heathland Golf Special

Heathland courses combine natural beauty with strategic challenge. The sandy base ensures firm, fast conditions, while heather and gorse punish wayward shots. Pine and birch trees frame holes and provide shelter, and the ever-changing colours of the heather make every round visually memorable. This style of golf is unique to only a few regions of the world, and Rushmoor golfers are fortunate to have so many examples nearby.

Choosing the Right Golf Course

Consider your ability, budget and how often you plan to play. Pay-and-play venues such as Pine Ridge suit beginners and casual players, while members' clubs offer handicap competitions and a strong social life. Many clubs offer flexible or points-based memberships, junior programmes and discounted rates for younger adults. Visiting as a guest before joining is a great way to experience the course and club culture.

Golf Trends in the Region

Golf participation has grown in recent years, with more women, juniors and families taking up the game. Clubs are embracing flexible memberships, shorter formats and improved practice facilities with launch monitors and simulators. Environmental stewardship is also a priority, with heathland restoration projects supporting rare wildlife and protecting these precious landscapes.

Conclusion

From the historic Army Golf Club to championship venues such as Hankley Common, Rushmoor golfers are spoilt for choice. Whether you are a seasoned player or picking up a club for the first time, the heathland courses surrounding Aldershot and Farnborough offer memorable golf in some of England's most beautiful settings.