How to Find a Golf Society Near You

What Actually Is a Golf Society?

A golf society is basically a group of people who get together regularly to play golf at different courses. They're usually organised by one or two people who sort out the bookings, collect the money, and pick the venues.

Some societies are tied to a workplace, a pub, or a group of mates. Others are open to anyone who wants to join. The main draw is that you get to play courses you might not visit on your own, often at group rates that are cheaper than walking in as an individual.

Why Join One?

There are a few really good reasons:

• Better rates. Courses offer discounts for groups, especially midweek. A society day might cost you 30 to 40 quid for 18 holes, a meal, and a competition. Try getting that on your own.
• Play new courses. Most societies rotate venues throughout the year. You'll play places you'd never think to visit otherwise.
• Meet people. If you've just moved to an area, don't have many golfing mates, or just want to widen your circle, societies are brilliant for that.
• Competitions. Most society days include some kind of competition. Stableford, best pairs, Texas scramble. It adds a bit of edge to the day without being too serious.
• No commitment. Unlike a club membership, most societies let you pick and choose which events you attend. No pressure to play every month if life gets busy.

How to Find One

This is the bit that's historically been a pain. Societies tend to operate through word of mouth, Facebook groups, or a mate of a mate. There's no central directory and most don't have websites.

Here's how to track one down:

Ask at Your Local Course

The pro shop or bar staff will usually know which societies play at their course. They might even have a noticeboard with contact details. This is still the most reliable method.

Check Facebook

Search for "[your area] golf society" on Facebook. There are loads of them. Some are well-run with proper schedules and handicap tracking. Others are more casual. Have a scroll through their posts to get a feel for the vibe before you join.

Ask at Work

You'd be surprised how many workplace golf societies exist. Ask around the office. Even if there isn't one, you might find enough interest to start your own.

Use Golf Match UK

We're building a society finder right here on Golf Match UK. You can browse societies by area, see what events they've got coming up, and request to join. It's still early days but we're adding new groups regularly.

What to Expect on a Society Day

If you've never been on a society day before, here's the rough format:

1. Arrive early. Get there 30 to 45 minutes before your tee time. Check in, grab a coffee, and warm up if there's a range.
2. Groups are pre-arranged. The organiser will have sorted out who's playing with who. You might not know your playing partners but that's half the fun.
3. Play your round. Most society days are 18 holes. The format will be announced beforehand. Stableford is the most common.
4. Food afterwards. A lot of society days include a meal. Could be a bacon roll on arrival and a carvery after, or just a sandwich. It depends on the package.
5. Prize giving. The organiser tallies up the scores and hands out prizes. Usually vouchers, balls, or bottles. Nothing too serious.

Starting Your Own Society

If you can't find one that fits, start your own. It's easier than you think:

• Get 8 to 12 people together
• Pick a name
• Set up your society on Golf Match UK so RSVPs and payments are handled for you
• Book your first venue
• Collect the money upfront (online payment tools make this painless)

You can list your society on Golf Match UK to attract new members. We handle the listing and make it easy for people to find you.

The Bottom Line

Golf societies are one of the best things about the game. Great value, good company, and courses you'd never play otherwise. Whether you join an existing one or start your own, it's worth doing.

Browse societies near you on Golf Match UK.