Top 10 Best Golf Courses in South Hams

Golf in South Hams

South Hams offers some of the most scenic golf in England. Courses perched on headlands overlook the English Channel, while others wind through rolling Devon countryside and wooded valleys. The mild climate allows golf for much of the year, and the district's combination of championship-quality layouts and friendly members' clubs appeals to golfers of every ability.

Whether you are a local resident looking for a new club, a visitor planning a golfing break or a beginner hoping to take up the game, the courses below represent the best that South Hams and its immediate surroundings have to offer.

How We Ranked These Courses

We considered course design, condition, scenery, clubhouse facilities, welcome for visitors and value for money. We included the finest courses within the district along with a few outstanding venues just beyond its borders that are easily reached by South Hams golfers.

The Top 10 Golf Courses for South Hams Golfers

1. Thurlestone Golf Club

Thurlestone is one of the most spectacular coastal courses in the South West. Set on cliffs overlooking Bigbury Bay and the famous Thurlestone Rock, it offers breathtaking sea views on almost every hole. Firm, fast fairways and coastal breezes provide a genuine test of skill.

2. Bigbury Golf Club

Bigbury enjoys stunning views across the Avon estuary and towards Burgh Island. The course is well maintained and welcoming, with a mix of challenging holes and generous fairways that suit golfers of all levels.

3. Dartmouth Golf and Country Club

Located near Blackawton, Dartmouth Golf and Country Club features a highly regarded championship course along with a shorter course, making it ideal for both experienced players and developing golfers. Its leisure facilities make it a popular all-round destination.

4. Wrangaton Golf Club

Wrangaton sits on the southern edge of Dartmoor near South Brent. Its unique blend of moorland and parkland holes offers sweeping views and a distinctive character, with grazing ponies occasionally adding to the charm.

5. Churston Golf Club

Just across the border near Brixham, Churston is a classic clifftop course with views over Tor Bay. Its excellent greens and historic clubhouse make it a favourite with golfers from the eastern side of South Hams.

6. Dainton Park Golf Club

Dainton Park near Ipplepen is a well-designed parkland course known for its excellent condition and friendly atmosphere. Its practice facilities are particularly strong, making it popular with players working on their game.

7. Elfordleigh Golf Club

Nestled in a wooded valley near Plympton, Elfordleigh offers a peaceful parkland setting close to Ivybridge. Its tree-lined fairways and on-site hotel make it a convenient choice for golf breaks.

8. Staddon Heights Golf Club

Staddon Heights sits on high ground overlooking Plymouth Sound. The course offers dramatic views across the water and is a historic part of the region's golfing heritage.

9. Yelverton Golf Club

Yelverton is a traditional moorland course on the edge of Dartmoor. Its natural terrain, firm turf and open landscape provide a refreshing and authentic golfing experience.

10. Stover Golf Club

Stover near Newton Abbot is a mature, tree-lined parkland course with water features that add strategic interest. It is consistently praised for its condition and is well worth the short journey from South Hams.

Why South Hams is Ideal for Golf Breaks

The district combines great golf with outstanding hospitality. After a round, golfers can enjoy fresh seafood in Salcombe or Dartmouth, explore the shops of Totnes or relax in a country pub. The variety of courses means a week-long break can include clifftop links-style golf, moorland challenges and classic parkland layouts.

Golf Trends in the Region

Golf has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, with more young players and women taking up the sport. Clubs across Devon are offering flexible memberships, beginner coaching and shorter formats to attract new golfers. Sustainability is also a growing focus, with courses adopting wildlife-friendly management, reduced chemical use and water conservation measures that suit the area's protected landscapes.

Tips for Visiting Golfers

Book tee times in advance, particularly in summer and at the most popular coastal courses. Check dress codes and handicap requirements before arriving. Be prepared for changeable weather and coastal winds, which can dramatically affect play. Many clubs offer reduced green fees in quieter months, making autumn and spring excellent times to visit.

Membership Options and Getting Started

Golf clubs across South Hams offer a variety of membership options to suit different lifestyles. Full memberships provide unlimited play, while flexible, points-based and country memberships suit those who play less often or live further away. Many clubs run beginner academies, junior sections and taster sessions for newcomers, often with equipment provided. Professional coaching is widely available and can rapidly improve technique and enjoyment. For visitors and holiday makers, open competitions and society days offer a chance to experience these courses alongside local members and enjoy the friendly atmosphere for which Devon golf is known.

Conclusion

From the dramatic clifftops of Thurlestone and Bigbury to the moorland charm of Wrangaton and the championship challenge of Dartmouth, South Hams offers golf in some of the most beautiful settings in England. Whether you play every week or are planning your first golfing holiday in Devon, these courses deliver unforgettable experiences.