Searching for that perfect blend of golf and wellness in the UK? Look no further. These are the best places to tee off, then unwind, across the country.
There’s more to golf than greens, grips and gimmes. Though there are plenty of great golf hotels in the UK, these days, many of the country’s most popular golfing destinations are tempting players into some postgame wellness. The ‘golf and spa break’ is booming, tempting sportspeople, their plus ones and even tiny tots into enjoy the relaxing amenities of these luxurious locales. From body scrubs and ice cold plunge pools to fitness centres and tennis courts, these are the places to enjoy golf and spa breaks in the UK.
Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa
Best for: Historic kudos
St Andrews
Boasting some of the oldest courses in the world, Scotland has rightfully earned the reputation as the ‘home of golf’. There are numerous hotels and courses here, but one of the finest is the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa. Having hosted players as far back as the 15th century, the Old Course is regarded by many as the oldest course in the world.
Today, guests can play the Old Course (which is a short drive from the hotel) by booking a Suite Golf package, which provides guaranteed access to the famous fairways (the course itself is managed by the Links Trust). Luckily, there’s also a championship offering on site: The Duke’s, an 18-hole course set among natural heathland and boasting views over the Bay beyond. It’s open year-round and comes with a Clubhouse bar and restaurant, apparel shop, driving range and GPS golf buggies. What’s more, the green fees include a golf buggy (for two) and their ‘Wee Bùth’ Halfway House Menu (consider trying the exquisite afternoon tea as well). The hotel is only a short walk from St Andrews town, where visitors can marvel at the 12-century cathedral, castle ruins and various intriguing museums.
The Kohler Waters Spa is truly indulgent. In 2018 it underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment, bringing its already excellent services up to spec. With thirteen treatment rooms, a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, ice fountain, plunge pool and sauna, it ticks all the boxes for rejuvenating tired muscles after a long day on the green.
Travel tip: Treat yourself to a transfer. The hotel’s concierge can collect you from the airport and bring you to the door, simply request the service when booking.
The Grove
Best for: Escaping the city
Hertfordshire
It would be hard to ignore 2023’s ‘Best Golf Resort in England’ wouldn’t it? So we won’t. You’ll find the owner of this prestigious accolade, The Grove, in Hertfordshire. Its 18th-century manor house is known for its luxurious accommodations, sumptuous decor and manicured gardens, but it’s also earned a reputation for its world-class golf. Set amidst lush green parkland, The Grove’s 18-hole course is all undulating greens and tough bunkers. It’s open to the public, welcoming players of all levels and kept up to USGA standards year-round. Still in doubt? It hosted the British Masters and a WGC event, so is endorsed by some of the best in the industry.
Beyond the greens, tennis courts, an outdoor pool and excellent spa facilities await, making it a great option for a golf and spa break getaway. The Sequoia Spa is highly rated independently of The Grove’s golfing prowess, and offers guests seriously high-end treatments. There are facials, massages and various revitalising rituals, all of which last a generous minimum of 80 minutes. We recommend the Sequoia Signature Massage which fuses techniques from all over the world.
Travel tip: Take your heads off when packing your golf clubs for travel. This will help prevent damage during the journey.
What do the professionals think about UK golf? We asked Caroline Martens, Norwegian professional golfer and European Solheim Cup Team Vice Captain, for her opinion:
“I just absolutely love courses in the UK. The conditions, design and feeling of history is a beautiful combination. Wherever you’re going, I would say try to aim for late spring/early summer wherever you want to visit.”
Gleneagles
Best for: All of the above
Auchterarder
Celebrating its centenary this year, this luxurious countryside pad was recently named the ‘Best Place to Stay in the UK’ by The Times and Sunday Times, and it’s easy to see why. With three courses, eight restaurants and bars and a comprehensive spa, it’s the rural getaway holidaymakers dream of.
For golfers, four courses test players’ mettle over 54 holes. Both the Ryder Cup and the Solheim Cup have been hosted here, and the destination is also home to the PGA Academy in Scotland. Heathland dominates the scenery, particularly the King’s Course, which was designed by five-time Open Championship winner James Braid. The Queen’s Course is all high ridges and water hazards, while the PGA Centenary Course is 7,000 yards of seriously great greens.
Meanwhile, the Spa at Gleneagles is designed to perfection. After decompressing in a tropical plant-wreathed waiting area, guests are whisked off to art deco inspired treatment rooms. Everything’s on offer, from acupuncture and deep tissue massages to signature skin treatments by Dr. Barbara Strum. The latter feature a variety of facials as well as treatments for men. There’s also two indoor pools, an outdoor thermal pool and a well-stocked gym.
Eating options are endless, but definitely allocate time to devour the special Centenary Afternoon Tea. Menus are inspired by the 1920s and feature delectable offerings including Gleneagles terrine with caviar and a smoked lobster sandwich.
Travel tip: Gleneagles is equidistant between Glasgow and Edinburgh (about an hour’s drive away), so check both airports when searching for flights.
Celtic Manor Resort
Best for: Great value tee times
Newport
Host of the 2010 Ryder Cup, the Celtic Manor Resort in Wales is one of the top golf and spa break destinations in the UK. Set within the beautiful green environs of the Usk Valley, there are three world class championship courses to choose from, as well as a golf academy and two clubhouses.
The Twenty Ten course was designed specifically for the Ryder Cup, and is a risk and reward course perfect for those seeking a challenge. The Roman Road course is a 70 par course designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior with beautiful views across Somerset and Devon. Meanwhile the Montgomerie course (named after designer Colin Montgomerie) tests players’ strategic nouse. It’s easy to book tee times and some spots are as little as £31 each, making it a very affordable weekend away.
The Forum Spa is part of a comprehensive Health Club offering everything from wellness therapies to saunas, steam rooms and afternoon tea. Not to mention a 20-metre swimming pool. Using luxury Elemis products, therapists here will soothe away your stress in no time. We love the Elemis Intensly Cleansing Salt Scrub, an indulgent and invigorating experience sure to leave you feeling lighter and your skin softer. Hotel guests get 10% off, so book in advance to make the most of the savings.
Travel tip: Keep an eye out for seasonal deals and offers. Enjoying your favourite sport and spa combo doesn’t have to cost the world.
Rockliffe Hall, Golf Hotel & Spa
Best for: Indulgent gastronomy
County Durham
This imposing brick pile in County Durham (part of the PoB Collection) is a home away from home for avid golfers. Their ‘Golf Break Package’ ensures everything is taken care of from the moment you arrive. Guests can stay overnight, access the onsite spa and enjoy breakfast in the Clubhouse Kitchen & Bar. The 18-hole course is one of the longest in the UK for gold tees and offers players five different positions at each hole.
A highlight of any stay here however, is the gastronomy. Fine dining rules at The Orangery, where delectable British dishes are designed by Head Chef Paul Nicholson. Above the spa, Nu Sana offers casual dining with asian flavours, while the Clubhouse, cocktail bar and afternoon tea options ensure there’s refreshments for every occasion.
It’s Rockliffe’s 50,000 square foot spa that secured it’s place on this list though. As well as the prerequisite salt steam room, sauna, hot tubs and a generously-sized pool, the spa also includes an igloo, infrared room and tepidarium. Not tuckered out from all that golf? A range of exercise classes are available in the gym, along with outdoor tennis courts.
Travel tip: Don’t limit yourself. Pack some tennis rackets to break up the golf games.
Thurlestone Hotel & Spa
Best for: Family-friendly vibes
Devon
This family-owned hotel opened in Devon in 1896. While it houses its own, excellent par-3 course, it also has a partnership with the nearby Thurlestone Golf Club. Here, a Harry Colt-designed course blends links and dramatic terrain, providing players with stunning scenery and views of Thurlestone Rock and the Avon Estuary. It’s a friendly course perfect for those looking for a holiday break without too much of a challenge. That said, the coastal winds can vary, adding an unknown element to play that keeps it feeling fresh.
A two-night “golf break” package provides visitors with the best access to the property’s luxurious amenities, including the modern Voyage Spa and its plethora of indulgent treatments. Body wraps, scrubs, facials, massages and beautifying options including manicures and pedicures ensure you leave feeling revitalised from head to toe. There are even bespoke therapies for pregnant guests, as well as reflexology and signature rituals.
Travel tip: Always pack extra golf balls; they can be expensive to replace on site.
Thinking of booking a golf and spa break? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car hire deals for your next trip.
