Public vs Private: Where to Book a Golf Round in London
London’s golf scene can feel confusing. Do you need to be a member? Can you just book a tee time? And what’s the real difference between public and private golf courses?
Here’s a clear guide to public vs private golf in London, plus where to book depending on what you’re looking for.
🏌️ What’s the Difference Between Public and Private Courses?
Public Courses
Open to anyone (pay and play)
Affordable green fees (£15–£45 typical)
Book online without membership
Beginner-friendly atmosphere
Examples: Richmond Park Golf Course, Trent Park, Dukes Meadows
Private Courses
Members-only (with guest access in some cases)
Higher fees (£800–£2,000+ annually)
Stricter dress codes and traditions
Often better-maintained facilities and fewer crowds
Examples: Sunningdale (Ascot), Royal Mid-Surrey (Richmond), Coombe Hill (Kingston)
👉 If you’re new, start public. You’ll play more often, meet more people, and avoid heavy costs.
📍 The Best Public Golf Options in London
Public and pay-and-play venues are where most beginners and casual golfers get started:
Richmond Park Golf Course – Two 18-hole layouts in stunning parkland
Dukes Meadows – Beginner-friendly par 3 course in Chiswick
Fairlop Waters – Council-run, affordable, easy to book
Addington Court – Croydon-based, relaxed, accessible
Thamesview Golf Centre – 9 holes with a range, East London
👉 For more ideas, check out our guide: 18 Public Golf Courses in London You Can Book Right Now.
🎩 Private Clubs: What You’re Paying For
Private clubs in and around London are known for:
Tradition, prestige, and exclusivity
Larger, well-maintained courses
Member-only competitions and societies
Dining, coaching, and events
But they come with barriers: high fees, waiting lists, and less flexibility.
If you’re new, you don’t need this. Public courses give you all the golf you need while you learn the ropes.
💡 Where Alba Fits In
Golf should be about people, not politics.
That’s why we built Alba: a social golf app that helps you:
Meet golfers at your level and vibe
Play at public courses across London without worrying about club rules
Organise and split payments easily
Whether you want to start at a public pay-and-play or test the waters at a private guest round, Alba connects you with partners to make it happen.
🙋 FAQs
Q: Can I book a private club in London as a non-member?
Sometimes. Many allow guests, but you’ll need to know a member or use a third-party booking service.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to play golf in London?
Public and council-run courses like Fairlop Waters or Perivale Park are the most affordable.
Q: Do I need to join a club to improve?
Not at all. With ranges, simulators like The Golf Rooms, and social rounds on Alba, you’ll improve through play.
