12 Must-Play Golf Courses in Devon for 2024

Fancy teeing off amidst beautiful coastal views or challenging yourself on historic links? Devon’s top 12 golf courses for 2024 offer all this and more.

From windswept seaside fairways to tranquil parkland greens, Devon’s diverse golfing landscape promises unforgettable rounds for players of all skill levels.

Let’s embark on a journey through Devon’s finest fairways, exploring why these 12 courses should be at the top of every golfer’s bucket list for 2024.

1. Saunton Golf Club (East Course): Devon’s Crown Jewel

Topping our list is the East Course at Saunton Golf Club, ranked as the #1 course in Devon.

Stretching along North Devon’s stunning coastline, Saunton East is widely regarded as one of England’s finest seaside courses.

What sets Saunton East apart is its challenging layout, featuring eight par fours over 400 yards.

The course demands precision and strategy, rewarding well-executed shots while punishing errant ones.

As you navigate the undulating fairways and expertly placed bunkers, you’ll understand why Saunton East consistently ranks among the UK’s top courses.

Saunton Golf Club’s East course, located on the picturesque North Devon coast, is a classic links layout designed by Herbert Fowler in 1897. Set within the ecologically significant Braunton Burrows sand dunes, it offers a unique golfing experience in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
The course has hosted prestigious events, including the 1997 Boys Amateur Championship won by Sergio Garcia. Its challenging layout, featuring eight par fours over 400 yards and only two par fives, has earned praise from golfing legends like Harry Vardon.
Despite undergoing changes due to World War II and subsequent restoration by C.K. Cotton in the 1950s, Saunton East maintains its reputation as a stern test of golf. Some argue for more variety in its par distribution, but its quality is undeniable.
Combined with the adjacent West course, Saunton offers 36 holes of top-quality links golf, leading many to question why it hasn’t yet hosted The Open Championship. As Bernard Darwin noted, “Saunton looks at first glance like a fine golf course” – an assessment that still holds true for this gem of English links golf.

2. Royal North Devon Golf Club: A Walk Through Golfing History

Step back in time at Royal North Devon Golf Club, affectionately known as Westward Ho!

Established in 1864, it holds the distinction of being England’s oldest golf course and the second oldest links course outside Scotland.

What’s truly remarkable about Royal North Devon is that it still plays on its original fairways, offering a pure, unadulterated links experience.

As you tee off, you’re not just playing a round of golf; you’re participating in a living piece of golfing history.

The course’s natural hazards, including reeds and rushes, add an extra layer of challenge to your game.

Panoramic views of the Devon countryside provide a stunning backdrop to your round, making Royal North Devon a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.

Royal North Devon Golf Club, also known as Westward Ho!, is England’s oldest golf course still playing on its original fairways, established in 1864. It’s also the oldest links course outside Scotland and home to the second oldest ladies’ golf club in the world, founded in 1868.
The course, originally laid out by Old Tom Morris and revised by Herbert Fowler in 1908, has changed little since then. It offers a unique, natural golfing experience on common land, with flat and folded fairways blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
Westward Ho! is known for its challenging play, with reeds and rushes waiting to catch wayward shots. The course has a rich history, having nurtured great players like Horace Hutchinson and J.H. Taylor. A local rule allows free drops from hoof marks, as sheep and horses roam freely on the course.
The clubhouse offers not just great golf, but also a memorable experience with its panoramic views, golfing memorabilia in the museum area, and famous tea service. As Bernard Darwin noted, the tea at Royal North Devon is “worthy of the golf”, making a visit here more than just a game, but a “reverent pilgrimage” to one of golf’s historic sites.

3. Bovey Castle Golf Club: Golfing in Dartmoor’s Heart

For a completely different golfing experience, head to Bovey Castle Golf Club, nestled within the rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park.

This beautifully located parkland course stretches 6,600 yards, offering a perfect blend of challenge and scenic beauty.

What makes Bovey Castle unique is its mix of parkland and moorland holes, each presenting its own set of challenges and rewards.

The course’s crowning glory is undoubtedly its spectacular 18th hole, which treats players to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, Bovey Castle’s diverse terrain and stunning scenery make it a must-play course in Devon.

Bovey Castle Golf Course is located within the picturesque Dartmoor National Park, offering a quintessential English golfing experience. The course was originally designed by John F. Abercromby in the 1920s for the Manor House Hotel, which was formerly owned by Lord Hambledon.
The course is known for its strategic use of the River Bovey, which comes into play on multiple holes. As Bernard Darwin humorously noted, the river seems “ubiquitous,” challenging players throughout their round and adding a unique element to the course’s layout.
After falling into disrepair, the course underwent a significant renovation in the early 2000s under the ownership of Peter de Savary. Golf architects Donald Steel and Tom Mackenzie were involved in the redesign, which saw the course stretch to an impressive 6,600 yards from the back tees.
One of the most notable changes in the renovation was the transformation of the 18th hole, where a section of hill was excavated to improve playability and aesthetics. The course now offers a blend of challenge and beauty, living up to Darwin’s description as “the ideal course to have at the end of the garden,” perfect for a “cheerful foursome” with its strategic options and stunning views.

4. Saunton Golf Club (West Course): The Perfect Complement

Returning to Saunton, we find the West Course, a worthy sister to the renowned East Course.

Also designed by Herbert Fowler, the West Course shares many characteristics with its sibling but offers its own unique challenges.

Weaving through dunes and undulating links terrain, Saunton West requires strategic play and careful shot selection.

While it may live in the shadow of the East Course, many golfers find the West to be equally challenging and rewarding.

Its slightly more forgiving nature makes it an excellent choice for those looking to warm up before tackling the East Course.

Saunton Golf Club’s West Course is located on the picturesque North Devon coast, nestled among the Braunton Burrows – one of England’s largest sand dune systems. Originally laid out in the mid-1930s by Herbert Fowler as a short holiday track, it was revived by Frank Pennink and opened for play in 1975 after lying dormant for over 40 years due to World War II.
The West Course, while slightly shorter than its sister East Course, still presents a formidable challenge at nearly 6,600 yards from the back tees. It has hosted several prestigious events, including County Championships and the EGU Seniors Championship, proving its ability to test even the most skilled golfers.
The course layout is unique, particularly on the back nine, featuring an unusual configuration of three consecutive par fours in the middle, bookended by a mix of par threes and fives. Narrow streams (or ‘burns’) and numerous doglegs add to the strategic challenge, while the terrain varies from towering dunes on the opening hole to more undulating links land for the remainder.
Recent renovations by Tom Mackenzie in 2016 aimed to elevate the West Course’s standing, with the addition of drive bunkers, realignment of ditches, and new tees. While some consider it second to the East Course, others argue it’s equally impressive, making Saunton Golf Club a top-tier venue with two outstanding links courses.

5. East Devon Golf Club: Golf with a View

Perched 400 meters above sea level, East Devon Golf Club offers some of the most spectacular views in British golf.

This top 100 course in England boasts panoramic vistas of Lyme Bay, set within the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Golf legend Peter Alliss famously described the 16th tee shot as “The best view in golf” – high praise indeed!

Despite its relatively short length of 6,200 yards, East Devon packs a punch in terms of challenge and strategy.

The course’s elevated position means wind often plays a significant role, adding an extra dimension to your game.

East Devon Golf Club is absolutely enchanting, situated on high ground, 400 feet above the sea, near the clifftops. It offers some of the most spectacular views in golf, with a sweeping panorama of Lyme Bay and, on clear days, the Isle of Portland jutting out into the English Channel.

The fairways are cut through a profusion of gorse and heather, creating a picturesque and spacious seaside heathland course. Originally laid out by retired army officer Robert Tosswill and opened in March 1902, the course has seen enhancements by notable designers like James Braid, Herbert Fowler, and Harry Colt over the years.

Measuring just over 6,200 yards with a par of 70, East Devon is not championship material but offers a challenging and attractive test of golf. Notable holes include the record-breaking 9th hole, the stunning 10th par three, and the 16th tee, which Peter Alliss described as “The best view in golf.”

Despite being relatively unknown, East Devon is an elegant and enjoyable course worth visiting. In 2019, Frank Pont was appointed to conduct a research study aimed at developing future restoration plans for the course, ensuring its charm and challenge are preserved for years to come.

6. Thurlestone Golf Club: Coastal Golf at its Finest

Founded in 1897 and later extended by the renowned Harry Colt, Thurlestone Golf Club is a cliff-top links course that offers a true test of golf.

Situated along Bigbury Bay, Thurlestone treats players to dramatic coastal views throughout their round.

The first 12 holes provide a genuine links experience, with firm fairways and challenging pot bunkers.

As you reach the finishing stretch, you’ll encounter some of the course’s finest holes, each offering a unique challenge.

Thurlestone’s blend of history, challenge, and natural beauty makes it a standout among Devon’s golfing offerings.

Thurlestone Golf Club was founded in 1897 on a massive rabbit warren covered with scrub, brambles, and gorse. Peter Alliss in the Good Golf Guide mentioned how it was almost ideal for golf once fairways and greens were established. A unique device in the clubhouse stamped members’ initials on golf balls, and lost balls could be bought back for a fee of twopence.

Thurlestone is known for its edge-of-cliff location with breathtaking coastal views, a salty sea breeze, and a downland track designed by nature. Kevin Lee in The Golfers Guide to the West Country highlighted these features, adding to the course’s charm and challenge.

Nominated as a gem by David in November 2006, Thurlestone has now earned a coveted ranking position. Compared favourably to Pebble Beach by Peter Alliss, the first twelve holes are magnificent, with thick, springy turf that encourages a good strike. The course was extended and modified by Harry Colt, enhancing its dramatic coastline routing along Bigbury Bay.

The par 33 front nine, originally a 9-hole course, measures 2,640 yards and features challenging par fours. The par 38 back nine is 3,500 yards, with a quartet of par fives providing scoring opportunities despite being one too many. Besides golf, the club offers three beaches and a dozen tennis courts, ensuring non-golfers have plenty to enjoy during their visit.

7. Exeter Golf & Country Club: Parkland Perfection

For those who prefer parkland golf, Exeter Golf & Country Club offers an 18-hole course designed by the legendary James Braid.

Set within the grounds of a Georgian mansion, the course winds through ancient oak, lime, and redwood trees, providing a serene golfing experience.

Braid’s design features 60 strategically placed bunkers, ensuring that accuracy is key to scoring well.

The course’s finishing stretch is particularly challenging, providing a fitting end to your round.

With its combination of history, strategic design, and beautiful surroundings, Exeter Golf & Country Club is a must-play for any golfer visiting Devon.

Exeter Golf and Country Club is located on the southern edge of Exeter, one of England’s oldest cities. Set within the ancient Wear Park Estate dating back to the 13th century, the club’s impressive Georgian mansion clubhouse rivals Moor Park’s Palladian mansion in stature.

Designed by five-time Open Champion James Braid in 1929, the parkland course at Exeter Golf & Country Club measures a modest 6,018 yards. Fairways are cleverly routed through stately trees, and around sixty bunkers are thoughtfully positioned, making low scoring a challenge.

Highlights include the 2nd hole with its strategically placed bunker at the dogleg’s elbow, and the uphill 5th hole, often considered the hardest on the course. The 7th features a blind tee shot, reminding players of the Golden Age of golf course design. Birdies are possible at the short par fours of the 13th and 14th, but the long par four 15th and the signature par five 18th provide a tough finish.

A major re-routing by Mackenzie & Ebert in 2015 addressed the impact of new housing, adding several new tees and greensites. The work, including reversing four holes and altering the routing sequence, was completed seamlessly, enhancing the course while maintaining its historical charm.

8. Teignmouth Golf Club: A MacKenzie Masterpiece

Golf course architecture enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to play Teignmouth Golf Club, designed by the legendary Dr. Alister MacKenzie.

MacKenzie, famous for designing Augusta National (home of The Masters), brought his signature style to this South Devon coastal course.

Situated 800 feet above sea level, Teignmouth offers spectacular views of the sea and nearby moors.

Classic MacKenzie features, including multi-tiered greens, are evident throughout the course.

The exposed location adds an extra layer of challenge, with winds often playing a significant role in club selection and shot-making.

Teignmouth Golf Club is situated on a high plateau more than 800 feet above the Victorian seaside resort of Teignmouth. On a clear day, the views from the golf course and clubhouse terrace are breathtaking, stretching from Portland Bill to the east and Dartmoor to the west.

The course was laid out in 1924 by Dr Alister MacKenzie, famed architect of Augusta National. For a modest sum of £3,500, MacKenzie created a challenging and beautiful course in South Devon, which remains largely unchanged since its inception.

The course is routed across Haldon Moor, which many considered impractical for golf in the 1920s. MacKenzie’s design features his signature sloping, multi-tiered greens, and the course measures 6,082 yards with a par of 69. The exposed plateau and frequent winds make for a challenging round despite the modest yardage.

Negotiating the six par threes is crucial for a good score at Teignmouth, with none of these holes yielding an easy par. The 16th hole, known as “Hell’s Mouth,” is the shortest par three at 125 yards. It requires precise play to avoid a downhill putt, which often leads to a bogey or worse.

9. Ilfracombe Golf Club: Clifftop Challenge

For a truly breathtaking golfing experience, look no further than Ilfracombe Golf Club.

Set atop cliffs in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Ilfracombe offers golfers stunning views of the Bristol Channel and Lundy Island.

While relatively short, the course’s exposed location means wind is often a significant factor, adding challenge to every shot.

Ilfracombe is particularly enchanting during summer evenings, making it perfect for those seeking a memorable twilight round.

The combination of challenging play and unparalleled views makes Ilfracombe a hidden gem in Devon’s golfing landscape.

Ilfracombe Golf Club is situated on the rugged cliffs of the North Devon coast. The course offers stunning sea views from every tee, a feature that has been enjoyed since the club was founded above Hele Bay in 1892.

The course measures a modest 5,796 yards from the back tees, with a par of 69 (35 out, 34 in). Notable features include four par threes on the front nine, three of which are played consecutively from the 2nd to the 4th, and old-fashioned crossing fairways at holes 7 and 8, and 10 and 12.

The par five 1st hole, “Up ‘N Over,” hugs the coastline, offering a scenic and challenging start. The par five 8th hole, “Out of Sight,” doglegs to the right, demanding strategic play. The par four 13th hole, “Safety First,” is rated stroke index 1, marking it as the course’s toughest hole. The par three 18th hole, “Sanctuary,” plays to the home green positioned right in front of the clubhouse, providing a memorable finish.

Despite its modest yardage, the course’s layout and design offer a challenging round. The coastal winds and strategic hole placements demand careful play, making every round at Ilfracombe Golf Club a unique and enjoyable experience.

10. Woodbury Park Golf Club: A Golfing Haven

Woodbury Park Golf Club offers a 27-hole parkland complex in the heart of Devon’s picturesque countryside.

The main attraction is the 18-hole “The Oaks” course, a par 73 stretching 7,314 yards.

For those seeking a quicker round or looking to improve their short game, the 9-hole “Acorn” course provides an excellent alternative.

Long rolling fairways lined with mature trees characterize both courses, offering a true parkland golf experience.

Woodbury Park’s excellent facilities, including a spa and restaurants, make it an ideal venue for a golf break or society trip.

In 1994, two years after winning the Formula 1 World Championship, Nigel Mansell visited the newly opened Woodbury Park Golf and Country Club. Impressed by the 500-acre site, Mansell decided to buy the club in its entirety. He has since sold the property, which is now part of The Club Company portfolio.

The Oaks at Woodbury Park is configured in two returning loops of nine, with holes 1 to 9 encircling the inward half. This parkland course is notably hilly and extends to a challenging 7,314 yards from the championship tees. The standard scratch score is two strokes more than the par of 73, with the regular gents’ tees playing almost 750 yards shorter.

Golfers face intimidating tee shots at two of the three par threes: hole 3 (“Kingfisher”) and hole 18 (“The Splash”), both fronted by ponds. The third par three, “Little Badger” (hole 15), measures over 200 yards from the front tee markers and presents its own challenges.

The Oaks at Woodbury Park offers a testing round of golf, with its significant length and strategic water hazards. The combination of hilly terrain and well-placed obstacles ensures that golfers of all levels find the course both challenging and enjoyable.

11. Dartmouth Golf & Country Club: Golf for All

Dartmouth Golf & Country Club boasts a 27-hole complex with stunning views of the surrounding Devon countryside.

The 18-hole Championship Course, designed by Jeremy Pern, offers a stern test for golfers of all abilities.

Water hazards feature prominently throughout the course, adding both beauty and challenge to your round.

For beginners or those seeking a quick game, the 9-hole Dartmouth Course provides an excellent alternative.

With its comprehensive facilities and varied golfing options, Dartmouth Golf & Country Club caters to all golfing needs.

Dartmouth Golf and Country Club is a friendly and relaxed resort situated in Devon’s sheltered South Hams. It is located four miles from the historic town of Dartmouth, known for its stunning estuary views and narrow streets filled with restaurants and shops.

The Championship course, designed by British architect Jeremy Pern, opened in 1992 and spans 225 acres of rolling, sometimes hilly countryside. Pern, now based in France, is renowned for designing numerous courses in Europe, including the Wadi course at the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai, now called the Faldo course.

The course creatively uses the undulating terrain, with water hazards and long drives adding to the challenge. The 3rd hole, a dramatic drop par three, requires a daunting tee shot across a lake to a long green, often leading to three-putts. The 4th hole, the toughest on the course, is a 533-yard par five with a stream on the left and a steep bank on the right, demanding precise shots to avoid out-of-bounds and hazards.

The Championship course stretches to almost 7,200 yards from the back tees, offering excitement and challenge for golfers of all levels. With long and steep walks between greens and tees, the course is set up for carts, and the club has numerous buggies for hire. No two holes are the same, and the course requires strategic play, making it a fun and memorable experience for all golfers.

12. Yelverton Golf Club: Moorland Magic

Rounding out our list is Yelverton Golf Club, a moorland course located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.

Natural hazards, including gorse, bracken, and granite outcrops, add character and challenge to the course.

Yelverton rewards accurate play, with well-placed shots essential to navigate the course’s unique terrain.

The combination of challenging golf and stunning natural beauty makes Yelverton a fitting finale to our tour of Devon’s top courses.

Yelverton Golf Club is hailed as one of the finest courses in the West of England, with Peter Alliss praising it in his 1986 book, The Good Golf Guide. The club was established in 1904, originally as a nine-hole course, and expanded to 18 holes after World War I, designed by the renowned architect Herbert Fowler.

Situated on the southern slopes of Dartmoor, Yelverton features heathland fairways with panoramic views of seven Dartmoor Tors. The course, known for its high standard of heathland golf, is often compared to Walton Heath but without trees and at 600 feet above sea level. Key features include challenging long par threes, strategic ravines, and dramatic hazards created by historical tin mining activities.

The course starts with a long par three and a tough par four, followed by birdie opportunities at holes like the short par five 5th and par three 6th. Unique hazards include the Devonport Leat on the 8th hole and the historical Drake’s Leat, affecting play at holes 9 and 10. The most daunting hazard is a deep ravine near the 18th green, where a misstep can ruin a scorecard at the final hurdle.

Yelverton Golf Club co-hosted the English Senior Men’s Open Amateur Championship in 2006 and is home to the South West of England Open Winter Foursomes. The course’s design and location allow for year-round playability, with competitions continuing regardless of the weather, highlighting its robustness and appeal.

FAQs About Golfing in Devon

When is the best time to golf in Devon?

While Devon’s mild climate allows for year-round golf, the best time is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September).

This period offers the most favourable weather conditions and longer daylight hours for extended play.

However, some golfers enjoy the challenge of winter golf, when courses are less crowded and offer different playing conditions.

Are these courses suitable for beginners?

While many of these courses present significant challenges, most are suitable for players of all skill levels.

Courses like Woodbury Park and Dartmouth Golf & Country Club offer shorter alternatives ideal for beginners.

It’s always advisable to check with the club beforehand and perhaps consider booking a lesson with a local pro to get the most out of your experience.

How much does it cost to play these courses?

Green fees vary widely depending on the course, time of year, and whether you’re playing as a visitor or with a member.

Expect to pay anywhere from £40 to £100+ for a round at the more prestigious courses.

Many clubs offer twilight rates and off-season discounts, so it’s worth checking their websites or calling directly for the best deals.

Can I rent clubs at these courses?

Most of these clubs offer club rental services, but it’s always best to check in advance.

Prices and availability can vary, especially during peak season.

Some clubs may require advance booking for rentals, so plan ahead if you need this service.

Are there accommodation options near these courses?

Many of these golf clubs, such as Bovey Castle and Woodbury Park, offer on-site accommodation.

For others, there are numerous hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering options in the surrounding areas.

Consider staying in larger towns like Exeter or Torquay for easy access to multiple courses.

Conclusion: Devon’s Golfing Paradise Awaits

Devon’s top 12 golf courses for 2024 offer an unparalleled variety of golfing experiences.

From the historic links of Royal North Devon to the parkland perfection of Bovey Castle, there’s something for every golfer.

Whether you’re planning a dedicated golfing holiday or looking to squeeze in a round during your Devon visit, these courses promise unforgettable experiences amidst some of England’s most stunning scenery.

So grab your clubs, book your tee times, and prepare to discover why Devon is fast becoming one of the UK’s premier golfing destinations.

With its combination of challenging play, breathtaking views, and warm hospitality, Devon’s golfing scene is truly a hole-in-one!