Top 10 Best Golf Courses in Wiltshire

A County Made for Golf

With its gentle chalk downland, mature parkland and sweeping rural views, Wiltshire provides some of the most attractive golfing terrain in southern England. The county's courses range from challenging championship layouts to relaxed, family-friendly clubs, offering something for every level of player. Whether you are a low-handicap competitor seeking a demanding test or a newcomer looking for a warm welcome, Wiltshire's golf scene delivers.

In this article we highlight the ten best golf courses across the county, considering course design, condition, facilities and the overall experience they provide.

The Top 10 Golf Courses

1. Marlborough Golf Club sits high on the downs and is renowned for its stunning views and springy turf. Its well-designed layout rewards accurate play and remains a firm favourite among members and visitors alike.

2. Bowood Golf Course occupies a magnificent parkland estate and is widely regarded as one of the finest in the region, offering a championship-standard test amid beautiful surroundings.

3. Salisbury and South Wilts Golf Club features multiple loops and a rich history, providing variety and quality that keep golfers returning throughout the seasons.

4. Cumberwell Park near Bradford-on-Avon is a large, modern facility with several nine-hole combinations, excellent practice areas and a welcoming clubhouse.

5. The Wiltshire Golf Club combines a strong course with spa and leisure facilities, appealing to those seeking a complete day out.

6. Chippenham Golf Club is a classic downland course prized for its fast greens and friendly membership.

7. North Wilts Golf Club offers commanding views and a genuine test of ball-striking on its elevated terrain.

8. Broome Manor Golf Complex in Swindon is an accessible pay-and-play venue ideal for beginners and improvers, with quality tuition available.

9. Erlestoke Golf Club is a scenic parkland and downland mix that provides an enjoyable and varied round.

10. Kingsdown Golf Club near Corsham rounds out the list with a well-established layout and a strong reputation for hospitality.

What Makes a Course Great

The finest golf courses balance challenge with enjoyment. Thoughtful design uses natural contours, strategic bunkering and varied hole lengths to test every club in the bag without becoming punishing. Course condition is equally important; well-maintained fairways, true greens and reliable drainage transform the playing experience.

Beyond the course itself, facilities such as practice ranges, professional tuition, quality catering and a welcoming clubhouse contribute enormously to a club's appeal. The best venues foster a friendly, inclusive atmosphere that encourages players of all backgrounds to feel at home.

Golf and the Wiltshire Landscape

One of the great pleasures of golf in Wiltshire is its setting. Downland courses offer firm, fast conditions and panoramic views, while parkland layouts provide mature trees, water features and a more sheltered environment. This variety means players can enjoy contrasting styles of golf within a short drive, keeping the game fresh and interesting.

The county's relatively mild climate and free-draining chalk soils also mean many courses remain playable year round, a significant advantage for keen golfers.

Trends in the Golf Industry

Golf has enjoyed renewed popularity in recent years, attracting a younger and more diverse audience. Flexible membership options, shorter formats and improved beginner programmes have made the sport more accessible. Many Wiltshire clubs now offer nine-hole memberships, family packages and coaching academies to welcome new players.

Technology is also transforming the game, with launch monitors, GPS course guides and online booking systems becoming commonplace. Sustainability is a growing focus too, as clubs manage water use, encourage wildlife and maintain ecologically sensitive areas of rough.

Tips for Choosing a Course

Consider your ability and goals. Beginners may prefer welcoming pay-and-play venues with strong tuition, while experienced players might seek championship layouts for a sterner test. Think about facilities that matter to you, whether that is a practice range, spa amenities or dining. Visiting green fees vary, so it is worth checking availability and booking in advance, particularly at popular clubs during summer.

Final Thoughts

Wiltshire's golf courses showcase the very best of the county's natural beauty and sporting hospitality. From the elevated splendour of Marlborough to the parkland elegance of Bowood and the accessibility of Broome Manor, there is a course to suit every golfer. Whether you play competitively or purely for pleasure, these ten venues offer memorable rounds in some of the most delightful surroundings the region has to offer.