Golf in Devon

Devon is one of the most underrated golf counties in England. Two Top 100 courses sit on the North Devon coast within a short drive of each other: Saunton, one of England's finest links, and Royal North Devon at Westward Ho!, the oldest links course in England. The setting — Atlantic coast, Braunton Burrows, Exmoor nearby — makes this a golf break destination that delivers well beyond the golf itself.

Devon's Top UK Golf Courses

Saunton (East Course) — Rank #43

Saunton sits on the southern edge of Braunton Burrows — one of the largest sand dune systems in England and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The East Course runs through these dunes in long, sweeping fairways with Atlantic views throughout and blind tee shots that reward local knowledge.

It has hosted multiple amateur championships and is consistently ranked among the best ten links courses in England. The West Course (a separate 18 holes on the same site) offers a solid companion round for those making a full day of it.

Visitor access is straightforward. Green fees are reasonable for the quality on offer. The clubhouse has good facilities and the drive in past the dunes sets the tone well.

Royal North Devon — Rank #85

Westward Ho!, 12 miles north of Saunton. Founded in 1864, Royal North Devon is the oldest links course in England and carries that history in every aspect of how it plays. The course crosses common land — shared with cattle and wild ponies — with rushes and ridges that have barely changed since the Victorian era.

It is not a pristine championship venue. It is something better: a genuine links in the oldest tradition, played in all weathers across land that belongs to the community. Tom Morris helped lay it out. Rudyard Kipling played here. The Pebble Ridge separating the course from the beach is one of golf's great natural backdrops.

Play it knowing what it is — historic, exposed, characterful — and it's one of the most rewarding rounds in English golf.

Golf Lessons in Devon

North Devon

PGA professionals are based at both Saunton and Royal North Devon. Private coaching, beginner packages, and short game clinics are available at both clubs. For visitors wanting a lesson during a break, either club can accommodate single sessions with notice.

Ilfracombe Golf Club and Barnstaple Golf Club also have teaching professionals and are more suited to complete beginners who want a lower-pressure introduction.

South Devon and Exeter

South Devon is less notable for top-ranked courses but has a solid coaching infrastructure. Exeter Golf & Country Club has a PGA professional and a practice facility. Thurlestone Golf Club on the south coast has one of the most scenic settings in the county.

For visitors staying in Torquay, Dartmouth, or Plymouth, there are courses within easy reach throughout the year.

Planning a Devon Golf Break

North Devon (2–3 days): Saunton East + West, Royal North Devon. Stay in Croyde, Saunton, or Braunton. Add Exmoor and the coast path.

Budget guide:

When to Go

Spring (April–May): Best conditions for links golf — firm turf, fewer visitors, good weather odds. Saunton is particularly good in spring before the summer crowds.

Summer (June–August): Peak tourist season in Devon. Book tee times and accommodation well ahead. Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends.

Autumn (September–October): Excellent. Saunton and Royal North Devon are both at their best in September — good conditions, reduced crowds, and the North Devon coast at its most dramatic.

Gifting a Devon Golf Experience

A Swyng voucher covering a round at Saunton (East Course) or Royal North Devon makes a strong experience gift for a golfer who hasn't played either. Pair it with a note about the specific course or the North Devon trip it could form part of.

For a non-golfer buying for a golfer, Saunton is the safer gift — more accessible, better facilities, slightly more forgiving for first-time visitors. Royal North Devon suits the golfer who wants history and character over comfort.

See also: best golf courses in England, golf in Cornwall, links golf guide UK.

Browse Devon golf experience vouchers on Swyng or use our Gift Finder for a recommendation.