Golf Courses in Kent: A Complete Guide

Why Kent?

Kent has always been one of the strongest golfing counties in England. You've got proper links courses along the coast, beautifully maintained parkland layouts inland, and everything from Open Championship venues to wallet-friendly pay and play options. Whether you're planning a weekend trip or just looking for somewhere new to play, Kent has something for every golfer.

The county sits right on the doorstep of London too, which makes it a realistic day trip if you're based in the south east. Most courses are within an hour of the M25, and once you're off the motorway the roads are pretty straightforward.

The Big Names

Royal St George's, Sandwich

This is the headline act. A genuine Open Championship venue with a links layout that will test every part of your game. The undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and unpredictable coastal wind make it one of the toughest courses in the country. Getting a tee time isn't easy and it's not cheap, but if you're serious about golf, this is a bucket list course.

Good to know: Book well in advance. Visitor days are limited and they fill up fast.

Royal Cinque Ports, Deal

Another links gem just down the coast from Sandwich. Royal Cinque Ports has hosted the Open Championship twice and it's a proper test. The front nine runs along the coast and the wind can be brutal. The back nine is slightly more sheltered but no less interesting. A fantastic day out for any golfer.

Good to know: Check for visitor availability. They're welcoming but it's a busy club.

Prince's Golf Club, Sandwich

Right next door to Royal St George's, Prince's offers 27 holes of links golf across three nine-hole loops. It's slightly more accessible than its famous neighbour and the green fees are more reasonable. The quality is still excellent and on a windy day it's a proper challenge.

Good to know: The three-loop format means you can mix up your round each visit.

Excellent Mid-Range Options

Chart Hills, Biddenden

Designed by Nick Faldo, Chart Hills is a stunning inland course that consistently ranks among the best in Kent. The design is thoughtful, the conditioning is excellent, and there are some holes here that'll stick in your memory long after you've finished. The signature island green on the 17th is genuinely spectacular.

Good to know: Green fees are mid-range for this quality. Worth every penny.

London Golf Club, Ash

Two Jack Nicklaus-designed courses in the Kent countryside. The Heritage course is the standout, with big, bold design features and some seriously challenging holes. The International course is also excellent. If you want a premium experience without the stuffiness, London Golf Club is hard to beat.

Good to know: They host European Tour events here, so the conditioning is always top-notch.

Leeds Castle Golf Course

Set in the grounds of the famous Leeds Castle, this is one of the most scenic courses in Kent. The course itself is well maintained and the views of the castle from several holes are genuinely special. It's popular with visitors to the castle as well as regular golfers, so the vibe is relaxed and welcoming.

Good to know: Combine it with a castle visit for a proper day out.

Best Value Courses

Birchwood Park, Wilmington

A solid pay and play course with fair green fees and decent conditioning. Nothing flashy, but reliable and good value. The layout has some interesting holes and the drainage is good for winter golf.

Pedham Place, Swanley

Close to the M25 and easy to get to from London. Pedham Place is a parkland course with reasonable green fees and a friendly atmosphere. They welcome visitors and the course has improved a lot in recent years.

Broke Hill, Halstead

An affordable option near Sevenoaks with a hilly layout that gives you a proper workout. The views from the higher holes are lovely on a clear day. Green fees are competitive and it's rarely overcrowded midweek.

Courses by the Coast

Kent's coastline gives you access to some proper links and coastal golf:

• North Foreland, Broadstairs is a clifftop course with sea views and a layout that rewards accuracy over distance
• Littlestone Golf Club on the Romney Marsh is an underrated links course that's well worth the trip
• Westgate & Birchington is an affordable seaside option near Margate

Planning Your Trip

If you're coming to Kent for golf, a few tips:

• Stay in Canterbury or Sandwich for easy access to the links courses on the east coast
• Play midweek for the best rates and quieter courses
• Book early for the Open venues. Royal St George's and Royal Cinque Ports have limited visitor access
• Try the lesser-known courses too. Some of the best value in Kent is at the courses that don't make the magazine lists

Find Kent Courses on Golf Match UK

Browse all golf courses in Kent on Golf Match UK. You can check green fees, see ratings from other golfers, and find society packages. If you're planning a Kent golf trip and want a playing partner, post an open game and see who's around.