Harper Lin
Golf is a popular sport worldwide, with varying levels of popularity in different countries. When it comes to Europe, the sport is well-established and has a significant following in several countries. The United Kingdom, which includes Scotland, Ireland, and England, is known for its strong golf culture, with a high number of registered golf courses and a prominent presence on professional golf tours. Ireland, in particular, stands out as the most popular country for golf globally, boasting some of the world's best golf courses and producing renowned golfers. Germany and France also have a significant number of golf courses, contributing to the sport's popularity in Western Europe. Central and Eastern European countries like Czechia and Poland are emerging golf markets, indicating the sport's growing reach across the continent.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Popularity metrics | Number of players in a country relative to its population, membership on the professional golf tour, TV ratings |
| Most popular country for golf | Ireland |
| Countries with strong interest in golf | Canada, Scotland, England, Japan |
| Countries with emerging golf markets | Czechia, Poland |
| Leading golf markets in Europe with the highest female proportion of players in 2017 | N/A |
| Countries with the most golf courses in Europe | Germany (730), France (607) |
| Europe's most popular golf courses in 2024 | Golf Son Vida (Mallorca), Golfclub Hamburg-Ahrensburg (Hamburg), Golfpark Balm (Usedom), Royal Bled, Golf Course Murhof, Golfclub St. Vigil Seis (Dolomite Alps), Old Head Golf Links (Ireland), West Cliffs (Portugal) |
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What You'll Learn
Ireland's popularity
Ireland has a strong reputation for golf and is considered world-renowned for the sport. The country has over 400 golf clubs, including a third of the world's natural links courses, and a selection of exceptional championship courses in amazing locations.
Ireland's golf courses are known for their spectacular locations, with courses such as Tralee Golf Club, Lahinch Golf Club, Ballybunion, Waterville Golf Links, Old Head Golf Links, and Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg, offering breath-taking views and unique challenges. The country's mild climate and lengthy daylight hours during the peak season (May–September) also make it an attractive destination for golfers, with vibrant and well-maintained courses.
Ireland has produced several world-class golfers, including Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, Darren Clarke, Graeme McDowell, Paul McGinley, Padraig Harrington, and Leona Maguire. These golfers have achieved notable victories, such as Padraig Harrington being the first Irish golfer to win The Open Championship, followed by Rory McIlroy in 2014 and Shane Lowry in 2019.
The country has a rich history of golf, with the sport spreading to Ireland during the mid-19th century when several courses were established. The Royal Curragh Golf Club, founded in 1858, is one of the oldest and most popular clubs from that era. The Golfing Union of Ireland (GUI), established in 1891, is the oldest national golfing union in the world, and the Irish Ladies' Golf Union (ILGU), founded in 1893, is recognised as the oldest Ladies Golf Union globally.
Ireland's golf clubs maintain traditional dress codes, and visitors are advised to adhere to smart casual attire. The country's golf clubs are known for their hospitality, and it is possible for non-members to book tee times and experience the unique atmosphere and challenges of Irish golf courses.
With its combination of world-class golfers, historic golf unions, renowned courses, and favourable climate, Ireland has established itself as a leading golf destination in Europe.
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Golf in Germany and France
Golf is a popular sport in Germany and France, with both countries offering many golf courses for enthusiasts. Germany and France have the second and third greatest number of registered golf courses in Europe, with 730 and 607 official golf courses, respectively.
Golf in France is considered a great value option, with quality courses that rival those in other European destinations. The country boasts over 600 golf courses, including some of the best modern resort courses, such as Terre Blanche in the south. The Paris area, in particular, offers notable courses such as Morfontaine, Fontainebleau, Saint Germain, Chantilly, and the National. Playing golf in France is similar to playing in the UK, as many of the courses were designed by British architects in the early 20th century.
In Germany, golfing has some unique features, such as the requirement of a "Platzreife" license to play on most courses. This license, which can cost at least $300, is obtained by passing a series of written and practical tests on golf rules and etiquette. This requirement is seen as a way to control who gets to play and prevent unskilled players from disrupting others' games. However, it has also faced some criticism for potentially limiting the sport's accessibility.
Despite this requirement, Germany offers a range of excellent golf courses. TripAdvisor highlights courses with beautiful settings, such as those overlooking Lake Starnberg and the Alps, or the remote yet highly-rated course with dynamic pricing. Golf courses in Germany often feature excellent restaurants, although food and drinks may not be available until noon.
Both Germany and France offer a variety of golf experiences, from challenging courses to scenic destinations, contributing to the popularity of the sport in these countries.
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Europe's top courses
Golf is incredibly popular in the United Kingdom, which includes Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and England—all of which are heavily represented on the PGA and European tours. The sport is also gaining traction in other parts of Europe, such as Central and Eastern European countries like Czechia and Poland.
When it comes to Europe's top golf courses, the options are vast. Here is a curated list of some of the finest courses the continent has to offer:
United Kingdom
Scotland, Ireland, and England are renowned for their exceptional golf courses. Links courses, in particular, have seen a surge in popularity, with classics such as Portmarnock (Championship), Prestwick, and Cruden Bay. Tom Doak's St. Patrick's Links at Rosapenna, which opened in 2021, is a more recent addition that has already made its mark.
France
Les Bordes in France is a course that is generating a lot of buzz. Designed by Hanse and Jim Wagner, it features engaging par-threes and is sure to offer a challenging and exciting experience. Another notable French course is Golf de Chantilly, located in the Ile de France region, which is known for its glorious setting and delightful playing experience.
Spain
Spain boasts a variety of impressive golf courses. The Dutch Open has been hosted on three occasions by Utrecht de Pan Golf Club, located in the Ile de France region. This strategic course demands thoughtful play and offers a unique experience. Another notable Spanish course is the Royal Hague (Koninklijke Haagsche Golf & Country Club), which provides an exacting layout across undulating land.
Portugal
Portugal is home to the new Dunas course at Terras de Comporta, designed by David McLay Kidd. This course, located just an hour south of Lisbon, is a welcome addition to the country's growing list of impressive golf destinations.
Finland
For a stereotypical Finnish experience, the No.1 course in Finland is a stellar choice. Designed by Canadian Thomas McBroom, this course showcases the beauty of Finland's lakes and forests while providing a challenging round of golf.
Norway
The Lofoten Links course in Norway is a spectacular 18-hole course situated along the rugged coast of the island of Gimsøya. Its remote location and resemblance to the British coastline make it a unique and memorable playing experience.
The above list offers a glimpse of some of Europe's top golf courses, but there are many more hidden gems scattered across the continent, each offering its own unique blend of scenery, challenges, and golfing memories.
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Golf's global appeal
Golf is a popular sport worldwide, with a strong appeal in many regions and countries. While its popularity can be subjective, there are some objective metrics that indicate its global reach. One of the most popular countries for golf is Ireland, which boasts some of the best golf courses globally, including the Royal Dublin Golf Club, Cruit Island Golf Club, and Adare Manor. Ireland's rich history of golf and the accessibility of its courses have contributed to its top ranking.
The United Kingdom, including Scotland, England, and Wales, is also a significant hub for golf. With a strong representation on the PGA and European tours, the UK has a vibrant golf culture. Scotland, in particular, is known as the historic home of golf, with St Andrews widely considered the birthplace of the sport.
Outside of the UK and Ireland, golf has a solid presence in other European countries. Germany and France have the second and third-highest numbers of registered golf courses in Europe, with 730 and 607 courses, respectively. Central and Eastern European countries like Czechia and Poland are emerging golf markets, showcasing the sport's growing popularity in the region.
Golf is also gaining traction in Asia, with South Korean golfers dominating the LPGA Tour in recent years. Japan, with its long history of golf, has more courses than the UK, and players like Hideki Matsuyama have inspired a new generation of Japanese golfers.
Canada is another country where golf thrives, with "Golf Canada" representing a substantial number of golfers and member clubs. The country offers a mix of private and public courses, with some of the best private courses located in the Toronto area.
The global appeal of golf is further evidenced by the existence of world-class golf courses in various locations. From the scenic Royal Bled in Europe to the challenging West Cliffs seaside links, and from the historic Old Head Golf Links in Ireland to the unique Golfclub St. Vigil Seis in the Dolomite Alps, golf has captivated enthusiasts worldwide, creating a diverse and passionate golfing community.
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Measuring popularity
Popularity is a relative term that does not represent a specific number. However, there are a few objective metrics that can be used to measure the popularity of golf in Europe.
One way to measure the popularity of golf in Europe is to calculate the number of registered golf players in each country compared to its total population. For example, in 2020, it was forecasted that approximately 42% of registered golf players in France, Germany, Spain, Sweden, and the Netherlands would be over 60 years old, with 24% between 50 and 60 years old. Additionally, the majority of golfers across Europe are male, with Liechtenstein having the highest proportion of female golfers at 36%.
Another way to measure popularity is to look at the number of golf courses in each country. Germany and France have the second and third greatest number of registered golf courses in Europe, with 730 and 607 courses, respectively. Other popular golf destinations in Europe include Mallorca, Sicily, and Vienna.
The popularity of golf in a country can also be determined by the number of professional golfers it produces. Ireland, for example, has produced many well-known professional golfers, such as Darren Clarke, Rory Mcllroy, and Padraig Harrington. As a result, Ireland is considered the most popular country for golf, despite Scotland being the birthplace of the sport.
Lastly, the popularity of golf in Europe can be gauged by the number of golf-related searches online. Ireland, for instance, has been ranked as the most popular country for golf based on the frequency of online searches for the term.
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Frequently asked questions
Golf is popular in Europe, especially in the United Kingdom, which includes Scotland, Ireland, and England. Ireland is considered the most popular country for golf, with many world-class courses and professional golfers.
Germany and France are among the European countries with the most registered golf courses, with 730 and 607 courses, respectively.
Some of the most popular golf courses in Europe include the Old Head Golf Links in Ireland, Golf Son Vida in Mallorca, and Royal Bled in the Alps.
Yes, Czechia and Poland are considered the largest emerging golf markets in Central and Eastern Europe.
