Ten of the best golf courses near train stations

Nearest Station: Prestwick (400ft)

At just 400ft, train stations do not sit much closer to a golf course than at Prestwick Golf Club – known as the “Birthplace of the Open Championship”. There aren’t many stretches of golfing terrain that can rival the land that Prestwick sits on. For any discerning lover of links golf, Prestwick is a must play.

Nearest Station: Golf Street (0.1 miles)

With three golf courses to choose from, including The Open hosting Championship Course, the fact Carnoustie is so close to a train station only adds to the positives for those looking to take the rattler to their next golf break. The Championship Course may be the most recognisable course here, but that is not to say that the Burnside Course and the Buddon Links are not exceptional tests in their own right.

Nearest Station: Barassie (0.1 miles)

On the outskirts of Troon, on Scotland’s south west coast, you will find Kilmarnock Barassie Links Golf Club and its traditional, Scottish links layout. Challenging fairways and testing greens create a stern test, especially when you take into account the strong wind off the coast. It is also in ideal location for an unforgettable golfing tour of Troon and Ayrshire.

Nearest Station: Freshfield (0.2 miles)

Running through mature sand dunes and pinewoods, with the combination of well-protected greens, undulating fairways and challenging tee shots, it is without a doubt that Formby is a true championship links course. Each hole here is unique and the beauty of the course will leave anyone who plays it wanting to come back for more.

Nearest Station: Hall Road (0.2 miles)

West Lancashire is a fine example of seaside golf and is also among the ten oldest golf clubs in England, having been founded in 1873. The C. K. Cotton design has stood the test of time, with few courses offer such a tough test combined with stunning vistas, which almost make you forget about your troubles on the course.

Nearest Station: North Berwick Station (0.3 miles)

Located on the Firth of Forth, The West Links Course at North Berwick is a true championship course that has hosted numerous top tier events over the years. The sea comes into play on six of the holes here, but more intriguingly you will find walls in the middle of fairways and in front of one green, adding to the unique challenge just 0.3 miles from North Berwick Station.

Nearest Station: Hillside (0.3 miles)

Arguably one of England’s finest courses, and an Open Championship host venue, it is no surprise the links at Royal Birkdale is on many golfers’ bucket lists. The course is situated on the golden links of the North West coast in Southport and, on top of Open Championships, has hosted Ryder Cups, Women’s British Opens, Senior Opens, Amateur Championships, Walker Cups and Curtis Cups.

Nearest Station: Sheringham (0.5 miles)

Sheringham Golf Club offers a glorious cliff-top golfing experience and is regarded as “one of the best-kept secrets in golf.” Undulating fairways, fast, true greens and stunning views combine to create a truly remarkable test of golf. This course certainly has a unique charm, and you can be guaranteed the staff will do all they can to ensure a memorable experience both on and off the golf course.

Nearest Station: Hillside (0.8 miles)

Situated in the heart of England’s golf coast, and adjacent to Royal Birkdale and Southport & Ainsdale, Hillside Golf Club is one of few clubs regarded as being good enough to host an Open Championship. The opening nine holes wet the golfer’s appetite for the contrast that awaits on the second nine. The closing nine holes were described by Greg Norman as: “The best in Britain.” The legendary Jack Nicklaus was even quoted as saying Hillside is a “wild looking links…within the second nine are some of my favourite holes.”

Nearest Station: Troon (0.9 miles)

Royal Troon is a well-known Open venue, with the 9th hole being a standout hole as the railway line runs alongside the fairway. The Old Course is the Open Championship hosting course, which features deep rough interspersed with gorse and broom, calling for accurate shot-making. The Portland Course is shorter but friendlier, and features a generous helping of Par-3s and Par-5s.

Yes, the above courses are near stations, but for the real rail lovers out there, why not consider one of our Rovos Rail or Blue Train Golf Safari experiences. Rovos Rail is described as “the most luxurious train in the world,” and highlights include numerous championship golf courses, elephant interactions and sumptuous food and wine, as you make your way through South Africa.