Harrogate, a picturesque spa town renowned for its natural beauty and historical charm, is also a haven for golfers. 

The town and its surroundings are home to some of Yorkshire’s most prestigious golf clubs, each offering a unique blend of challenging play, stunning scenery, and rich heritage. 

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the best golf courses in Harrogate. 

We showcase what makes each club a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the pinnacle of golf in this beautiful region.

The best golf courses in Harrogate

All the golf courses below can be reached within a 30 minutes drive from Harrogate town centre. 

You can also search our golf course database by postcode for more inspiration to compare more golf courses in the area. Otherwise, let’s get into the list.

1. Oakdale Golf Club

Oakdale Golf Club finds itself nestled in a serene valley, surrounded by picturesque Yorkshire countryside. 

The club boasts an 18-hole course that presents a harmonious balance between challenge and playability. The course is characterised by its strategic layout, incorporating features such as streams, ponds, and mature woodland. 

The signature 18th hole encapsulates the essence of Oakdale with its demanding approach and rewarding views. It makes it one of Britain’s finest finishing holes!

2. Harrogate Golf Club

As Harrogate’s oldest golf club, established in 1892, Harrogate Golf Club carries a heritage of golfing tradition. 

The course unfolds as a picturesque parkland landscape over gently undulating wooded terrain, featuring a design that includes two returning circuits of nine holes.

Its fairways are bordered by mature, majestic trees and the course is known for its Mackenzie-style greens and strategically placed bunkers.  

Measuring 6198 yards, the course provides a genuine test of golfing skill without being overly long by modern standards. Maintained to impeccable standards, you’re guaranteed superb conditions if you book a round here.

3. Rudding Park Golf

Rudding Park Golf provides an unparalleled golfing experience near Harrogate with its diverse offerings. 

The venue includes the 18-hole Hawtree Course and the 6-hole Repton Short Course amidst the beautiful parkland of an 18th-century estate . 

The Hawtree Course offers a challenging golf experience. The course is renowned for its ‘Amen Corner,’ offering a nod to the iconic Augusta experience. 

Praised for its well-maintained greens and fairways, Rudding Park’s Championship Hawtree Course is designed to test golfers of all abilities, complemented by excellent facilities and a friendly atmosphere.

4. Pannal Golf Club

Pannal Golf Club stands out as one of the best golf courses in Yorkshire.

Established in 1906, this championship course is a unique blend of heathland and moorland. It offers spectacular views and a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience. 

Its status as a top-ranked course is well-deserved, with a history of hosting significant events like the Open Championship Regional Qualifiers and the English Amateur Championship.

Complemented by a luxurious clubhouse, top-quality food, and a warm welcome, Pannal Golf Club epitomises the best of Yorkshire golf.

5. Scarcroft Golf Club

Scarcroft Golf Club, nestled in the outskirts of Leeds, is celebrated for its beautifully undulating 18-hole course set in magnificent parkland. 

This club combines the charm of scenic beauty with a challenging round of golf, making it a favoured destination for golfers of all levels.

The course is praised for its superb condition and true fast greens. The layout takes full advantage of the natural landscape, offering not only a challenging round but also an enjoyable walk through tranquil surroundings.

Outside of the golf, the club provides modern clubhouse facilities to match its high-quality golf course.

6. Moor Allerton Golf Club

Moor Allerton Golf Club, with its 27-hole championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., stands as a one of the premier golf clubs near Leeds. 

The club has a rich history, having hosted many famous players on its fairways. The likes of Seve Ballesteros, Nick Faldo and Greg Norman have graced Moor Allerton when the European Tour used to have a stop here. 

The course itself offers a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience across beautifully crafted parkland holes, set in stunning Yorkshire countryside.

Each loop of 9 holes presents its unique challenges, with undulating fairways, strategic bunkering, and tricky greens that demand skill and creativity. 

Outside of the golf, the club is known for its friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Golfers of all abilities are welcome to practise, play, or enjoy quality food and drink with views of the course. 

Final Thoughts

Harrogate’s golf courses exemplify the rich tradition and captivating beauty of golf in the region. 

Each course brings its unique charm and challenges, making Harrogate a distinguished destination for golfers.

If you want to compare out more options nearby, check out our full directory of golf courses in Yorkshire. Otherwise, we’ll leave you with our favourites below.

• Oakdale Golf Club
• Harrogate Golf Club
• Rudding Park Golf Club
• Pannal Golf Club
• Scarcroft Golf Club
• Moor Allerton Golf Club