After two tense days in the Netherlands, in which we saw match play at its glorious best, Team Europe bagged seven points in the singles to regain the trophy they lost to the United States in 2024

Debutant Lottie Woad secured the point Europe needed for victory, with Spaniard Carlota Ciganda still on the course three up in her match with three holes left, guaranteeing to tip the scales to 14.5. Angela Stanford’s America went down swinging, but Anna Nordqvist was the winning captain.

Europe won at a drizzly Bernardus just a week after Great Britain and Ireland made history by winning the Walker Cup at Lahinch, toppling an impressive American side that led by three points after the penultimate foursomes session.

Team golf is trending nicely in this part of the world. For a matter of days in September 2015, Europe and GB&I held all three trophies after a Walker Cup victory at Royal Lytham, before the US won the Solheim Cup in Germany. But this is the first time that the US has ended a year without all three trophies since 2004.

GB&I memorably won the Walker Cup for the third time in a row in 2003 at Ganton, Europe comfortably won the Solheim Cup in Sweden in the same year, and Europe hammered the US at Oakland Hills in the Ryder Cup 12 months later.

At least America won the Curtis Cup earlier this year.

So, is there something the United States is getting completely wrong about team match play?

No fingers should be pointed for Walker Cup loss

Team USA and captain Nathan Smith will no doubt look back on the 2026 Walker Cup with some regret. After sweeping the Sunday foursomes session 4-0, US fans, players and the captain will have been collectively licking their lips at the prospect of a sixth consecutive win at the event.

What happened in the Sunday singles was dramatic and courageous from all points of view. GB&I won six matches, with the off-course financial advisor Stuart Grehan taking down World No.1 amateur Preston Stout, then Josh Hill making a gutsy birdie on the last hole of the event to edge the contest 13.5-12.5.

But the United States were outstanding as well. They arrived at Lahinch, embraced the conditions and the town, and essentially lost a coin flip. They thrashed GB&I on home soil at Cypress Point in 2025, and despite losing the cup on this occasion, they will likely be favourites to regain it at Bandon Dunes in 2028.

Truthfully, the Walker Cup is all part of each player’s education. There is no need for ferocious finger-pointing in the captain’s direction, like there is at the Ryder Cup. Of course, each player would rather win, but for each losing team – Cypress last year and Lahinch this year – so much will have been learned.

It is better to point to the successes of each captain, and to the intricate detail each shows in their jobs and preparation. GB&I captain Dean Robertson told the NCG Golf Podcast of the remarkable lengths of his data analysis and methods that he and his team used on their way to victory.

You can safely assume that US captain Smith will have adopted similar strategies. It just so happens that he and his team were on the end of a monstrous comeback for which one can hardly legislate.

US Solheim’s effort ran out of steam in the singles again

If there is something the US Solheim Cup team must/could improve on, it is singles match play.

This sounds like a strange statement given that it is a team event, but they haven’t won a singles session since 2015, and in that time, they have won two of six Solheim Cups.

Captain Stanford won’t have missed this. Captains have enough time to analyse these events to the nth degree, and they do, so she will have been aware of this worrying trend. They even lost the singles on home turf in 2024, when they won the trophy in Virginia.

It can be difficult to judge the tangible influence that captains have on individual performances, no matter how much you hear of the thorough methods of European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald, or even Dean Robertson.

In 2019 and 2021, Team USA lost the Solheim Cup by one point, then two points. The 2023 event was a draw, and in 2026, it was a match of fine margins with only two points separating the teams. In 2019, America lost the singles by one point, and drew 6-6 in 2021 and 2023.

The recent history of this event could be significantly different if the United States had cracked the singles.

As for the 2026 Solheim Cup, it is hard to pick out what Stanford might’ve done wrong. Hindsight is a wonderful thing, of course. Could Alison Lee and Lauren Coughlin have played together again in the Saturday fourballs, as well as each foursomes session? Was there anything she could’ve done differently about the Saturday foursomes, which they lost 3-1? Were her methods thorough enough internally?

I’m squinting, really. Who knows?

Ironically, European captain Nordqvist persevered with the pairing of Charley Hull and Lottie Woad in every session of the first two days, and they had half a point to show for it. Had Europe lost, a huge spotlight would’ve shone on that. After winning her Saturday foursomes match, Leona Maguire became the quickest player to 10 points in the event’s history. The Irishwoman has a super Solheim record, but sat out Friday afternoon.

The 2026 Solheim Cup was tight enough to suggest there were no real missteps by the captains, but the US should definitely revisit their singles record.

Where do you begin with the US Ryder Cup team?

A sub-section with an H2 can’t possibly summarise what the US Ryder Cup team is getting wrong.

Team USA has won three Ryder Cups since 2002. In that time, Europe has also won away from home three times, most recently in 2025 when they won in the grim cauldron of Bethpage on Long Island.

Players and fans of Europe would probably point to one thing to explain Europe’s success: they just care more. While this might sound like a reductive conclusion, it is a sum of parts that suggest it is, indeed, true.

“There are no superstars in our team. When they are in the team room, they leave egos at the door,” said Thomas Bjorn, captain of the winning European team in 2018.

I’ll try some examples from the most recent Ryder Cups. In 2023, Team USA became embroiled in a pay-for-play controversy. Patrick Cantlay was said to have been ringleading the campaign for US players to be compensated for their efforts wearing red, white and blue.

Lo and behold, in 2025, the players were awarded a six-figure stipend for playing, which some members of the team said they’d donate to charity. The Ryder Cup pay debate goes back a little further, though. It was before the 1999 Ryder Cup when comments from Tiger Woods and David Duval sparked debates around remuneration, and the stench has lingered since.

As a result, Europe has often taken the moral high ground. European players treat the event like a privilege and some players have rejected the notion of being paid, whereas the perception of the American players’ attitude is the opposite.

This is the tip of the iceberg as to why Team USA keep sinking at the Ryder Cup, but recent renewals do shed light for us. The captaincy department is another factor.

Donald was made European captain in 2023 when Henrik Stenson was removed for joining LIV Golf. After a stellar playing career in the Ryder Cup, Donald carried this into leadership. Using detailed methods and seemingly superb relationship skills, Donald led the continent to victory in 2023 and 2025. They will be favourites in 2027, as well.

The US captaincy is night and day in coherence. After missing out on selection for the 2023 US team that went to Rome, Bradley’s rejection call from captain Zach Johnson was shown on the Netflix show Full Swing. He attracted considerable sympathy for this.

These episodes were released on Netflix in March, 2024. Keegan Bradley was named Ryder Cup captain in July and continued to compete to qualify for his own team.

The will-he-won’t-he soap opera dominated the following 12 months. He even won the Travelers Championship – a matter of months before he was set to lead out the US at Bethpage. Bradley still didn’t know if he’d play at that stage.

As this chaos grew new arms and legs by the week, Europe plotted steadily in the background, and they won. While this was a unique situation in which America nearly ended up with a playing captain for the first time since 1963, it’s an example of why Team USA perhaps ‘don’t get it’.

Europe don’t always win, but they win more than the United States do. Camaraderie, spirit and ethos don’t always lead to good golf, but there must be something in it when Team USA often appears stronger on paper but fails to excel in team match play at the Ryder Cup.

Conclusion

There is no through-line in the Solheim Cup, Walker Cup and the Ryder Cup that explains why Team USA currently hold none of these trophies.

GB&I performed heroics in Ireland, Team Europe continued their singles success at Bernardus to win back the Solheim Cup, and Europe continues to be a cohesive unit when faced with the shoddily put-together US Ryder Cup team.

Who knows? By this time in 2028, there might be a completely different outlook…

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NOW READ: Would a Great Britain & Ireland team stand a chance of winning the Ryder Cup?

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This is where you can keep up to date with the Rory McIlroy schedule.

The sport’s latest entrant to the Grand Slam Club is expected to start his season in the Middle East on the DP World Tour, before switching to the United States to defend his title at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

McIlroy will seek to add to his resume of five major championships in 2026, beginning with his defence of the Masters at Augusta National in April.

Which PGA Tour and DP World Tour tournaments will he play next? As soon as any changes are made, you will be able to read about them right here…

ALSO: How much is Rory McIlroy worth?

ALSO: Rory McIlroy wants to be the best European ever – but which player holds this title?

Here is the Rory McIlroy next tournament schedule…

What tournament is Rory McIlroy playing in next?

2026 – Rory McIlroy next tournament

Hero Dubai Desert Classic: January 22-25 (Emirates GC) T33
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am: February 12-15 (Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill) T14 Genesis Invitational: February 19-22 (Riviera CC) T2 Arnold Palmer Invitational: March 5-8 (Bay Hill Lodge) WD
The Players Championship: March 12-15 (TPC Sawgrass) T46
The Masters: April 9-12 (Augusta National) WIN
Truist Championship: May 7-10 (Quail Hollow Club) T19 PGA Championship: May 14-17 (Aronimink GC) T7
The Memorial Tournament: June 4-7 (Muirfield Village GC) T12 US Open: June 18-21 (Shinnecock Hills GC) T32 Genesis Scottish Open: July 9-12 (Renaissance Club)
The Open Championship: July 16-19 (Royal Birkdale)

2026 results:

Dubai Invitational (Dubai Creek) T3

2025 results:

Hero Dubai Desert Classic (Emirates GC) T4
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, Monterey Peninsula) WIN
Genesis Invitational (Torrey Pines) T17
The PLAYERS Championship (TPC Sawgrass) WIN
Texas Children’s Houston Open (Memorial Park) T5
The Masters (Augusta National) WIN
Zurich Classic of New Orleans (TPC Louisiana) T12
Truist Championship (Philadelphia Cricket Club) T7
PGA Championship (Quail Hollow) T47
RBC Canadian Open (TPC Toronto) MC
US Open (Oakmont CC) T19
Travelers Championship (TPC River Highlands) T6
Genesis Scottish Open (Renaissance Club) T2
The Open Championship (Royal Portrush) T7
BMW Championship (Caves Valley Golf Club) T12
Tour Championship (East Lake) T23
AMGEN Irish Open (K Club) WIN
BMW PGA Championship (West Course at Wentworth) T20
DP World India Championship (Delhi GC) T26
Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship (Yas Links) T3
DP World Tour Championship (Jumeirah Golf Estate) 2 Crown Australian Open (Royal Melbourne GC) T14

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A look back at Rory McIlroy’s 2025 season

McIlroy continued his great form at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, finishing inside the top five for the fifth year in succession. He started his 2025 campaign with a T4 finish at Emirates GC. After a first appearance in the TGL League, the Northern Irishman then secured his 27th win on the PGA Tour, claiming victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am – his first win at the famous event.

Although it wasn’t to be in the first season of TGL, with Boston Common losing all five of their matches, the Northern Irishman did secure a second victory of the season at TPC Sawgrass. It was his second win at The PLAYERS Championship, and the first time he had won twice in the United States before the opening major of the season.

That was all the pre-show, though. Once again, coming into The Masters at Augusta National, the talk was about whether the Northern Irishman could secure the Career Grand Slam, on what was the 11th time of asking. He finally managed to achieve that goal, beating good friend Justin Rose in a playoff on the 18th green to put on the Green Jacket, and to become the sixth man of all time to complete the set.

McIlroy achieved four more top tens over the next couple of months, with one of those coming at the Open Championship at Royal Portrush. He finished T7 there, following a runners-up finish at the Genesis Scottish Open the week prior. In his next appearance on home soil, at the AMGEN Irish Open, McIlroy won for the 20th time on the DP World Tour, getting the better of Joakim Lagergren on the third extra hole.

The Northern Irishman then played four more times on the DP World Tour through to the end of the 2025 season, finishing inside the top 20 in three of those tournaments. In the DP World Tour Playoffs, McIlroy finished in a tie for 3rd at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, before then coming home as the runner-up at the DP World Tour Championship, losing out to Matt Fitzpatrick in a playoff. He did take home the Race to Dubai title for a seventh time, moving into second on the all-time list behind only Colin Montgomerie.

NOW READ: Inside Rory McIlroy’s incredible £900k luxury car collection…

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NOW READ: Who is Rory McIlroy’s caddie? Meet Harry Diamond

Done with the Rory McIlroy next tournament schedule? Surprised by anything on the Rory McIlroy schedule and results? Tell us on X!

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A semi-private golf course have both paying members and are open to the general public. However, members typically get priority on tee times and access to certain facilities.

That means the club generates revenue from golf membership dues and green fees from members of the general public. This enables the establishment to hire more experienced staff and maintain the course and facilities. Semi-private golf courses are far better manicured, making them a pleasure to play on. They may not be perfect like private clubs, but they offer the average golfer excellent value for money.

These courses have variable and invariable revenue streams compared to a private membership club. When the links are quiet, semi-private courses can open up to the general public and generate revenue from green fees and food and beverage.

However, private clubs get their membership fee monthly or annually. This income helps to cover the operations. That’s why exclusive private golf clubs ask for an outrageous fee from current and prospective members.

Therefore, since semi-private golf courses make revenue from the public and their members, they can offer a quality, affordable experience.

Examples Of Semi-Private Golf Courses

Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines is a fine example of a semi-private golf course. If you are a resident of San Diego, you can play the host venue for two US Open for under $80. However, if you are not from “America’s Finest City,” you can expect to cough up approximately $250.

Out-of-towners who intend to play Torrey Pines a couple of times a year may consider the membership. The first-year fee is $500. After that, the renewal fee is $175.

Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is an exception to the norm of affordable semi-private golf outings. A total of $575 is what it takes to play a round at the home of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. If you think that is hefty, the initiation fee for membership is $18,000, but after that, it runs you $260 per month.

The point is that despite its membership program, Pebble Beach is open to the average Joe, making it a public golf course.

Pinehurst

Pinehurst has hosted three US Open Championships and remains a celebrated name in golf. It forms part of a golf complex with nine courses. The most famous being No. 2. Effectively, the nine layouts at Pinehurst are resort courses and range in price.

Green fees fluctuate from $50 to $450, depending on the golf course you are playing and the time of year. Expect to pay approximately $450 if you tee off at the coveted No. 2 course.

Pros and Cons of a Semi-Private Golf Course

Pros

Well-Maintained

Semi-private golf courses have the resources to employ the correct human resources and acquire the ideal equipment. Therefore the golf facilities are generally well maintained. The greens, fairway, and rough are manicured, while the clubhouse, restaurants, and tennis courts remain in order.

Relatively Affordable

As you saw with my example of semi-private courses, green fees vary for visitors. However, when you can play well-maintained layouts for less than $100 in some cases, that is a bargain.

Naturally, courses such as Pebble Beach, Torrey Pines, and Pinehurst No. 2 will cost more, but that is expected from venues that host PGA Tour events.

Better Pace of Play

Semi-private golf courses cost more to play at than municipal clubs. Therefore, it often attracts a serious type of golfer who doesn’t embarrass themselves over 18 holes. These golfers typically respect the rules and possess superior etiquette.

In addition, semi-private clubs should have starters and marshalls who keep an eye on the pace of play and step in when needed. An attentive marshall is vital to keep the field moving swiftly.

Superior Facilities

The final advantage is that semi-private courses have superior facilities. Generally, the clubhouse, halfway house, and pro shop are in better knick than municipal courses. Plus, they offer a wider variety of products and services.

Cons

Preferential Tee Times for Members

The downside of a semi-private course is that members get preference. As it should be. However, that means you need to work around the club’s schedule. Sometimes, management may allow you to tee off in the late afternoon for 9-holes.

Furthermore, you can forget about getting onto the golf course on club competition days.

Higher Green Fees Than Municipal Courses

As you noticed, semi-private courses carry higher green fees than municipal golf courses. Some of them are reasonable but remain pricey for golfers on a budget.

My Recommendation on Courses to Play

Beginners

If you are starting out, I suggest testing your skills at a municipal course. The laid-back attitude of the field and officials is the right environment to learn. There is no pressure or stuck-up folks. These are the courses you can make mistakes on.

Golfers On A Budget

Golfers looking to maximize their playing time for as little dough as possible should also stick to municipal courses. This is where you will save the most money.

On the odd occasion, check the semi-private courses in your area for special deals. Alternatively, you can sign up to a site such as Tee Off, where they offer an array of discounted green fee deals.

Low Handicappers

Superior golfers will appreciate the manicured greens and fairways of private clubs and semi-private courses. In addition, the surrounding golfers are as serious as you about the game. Plus, they are well-versed in the etiquette and rules of golf. Therefore the pace of play is bound to be better.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years. Current Handicap: 8

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With how often it rains in the UK, you shouldn’t let it stop you from playing your favourite sport. Playing golf in the rain can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. We’ll go through how to prepare for golfing in the rain and give you some top tips on how to adjust your play to get the most out of a rainy round on the course.

Can you play golf in the rain?

The short answer is yes; you can play golf in the rain. However, this will depend on whether your local golf course stays open, which will be determined by the amount of rainfall and how it has affected the course. If the course you want to attend is open, there are several steps you should take to prepare for a round in wet conditions.

How does rain affect golf?

The rain can significantly impact both course conditions and how your ball behaves after every shot. This can include:

• Less control of the ball: As both your ball and the club will be wet, the club will have less traction when hitting the ball. As your golf ball is also likely to pick up more mud and water, both of these things together can cause the ball to act more unpredictably for each shot.
• Reduced ball distance: After hitting the ball, you’ll find it will likely not travel as far in the air due to increased drag, and it can ‘plug’ upon hitting the ground and not roll as it would in dry conditions.
• Slippery fairways: While you may have perfect form for your swing when it isn’t raining, the excess water on the fairway, on your ball, and the club can make you more likely to slip and make a mistake while taking your shot.
• Wet rough: Once the thick grass of the rough becomes wet, you may find that your swing speed is impacted by trying to push the club head over the grass, especially if it’s muddy.
• Waterlogged bunkers: The bunkers around the course can become more challenging to navigate should you need to get your ball out of the bunker. Once the sand is wet and compacted, the playing surface is entirely different from when you’re hitting your ball out of dry sand.

How to prepare for a round of golf in the rain

To make sure that you’re as comfortable as possible in wet weather, and that you minimise the effect that it has on your play, there are a few things you should bring with you to the course:

• Waterproofs and extra layers: To help keep you dry and warm without making you overheat while you play, you want to look for breathable layers and light waterproofs, such as a jacket and trousers.
• Rain gloves: As you might have guessed, rain gloves are designed for wet weather, and the grip they provide actually improves when wet to help you keep hold of your club properly.
• An umbrella: Investing in a good golf umbrella can help keep the worst of the rain off of you while you walk between holes or wait for your shot. You might also want to consider getting an umbrella or a waterproof cover to protect your club bag.
• Extra towels: Packing extra towels is always a good idea to help wick away any excess moisture as you play.
• Waterproof shoes: A good pair of waterproof golf shoes can help keep your feet dry, and if you purchase shoes with spikes, they can help you maintain traction on the wet grass, too.
• Club brush: Your clubs are likely to pick up more mud if the ground is wet, so keep a club brush handy to clean them off as you play.

5 tips for playing golf in the rain

1. Club up

In the rain, your ball will roll a shorter distance due to the ground being wet, so you may need to club up (for example, swap your 8-iron for a 7-iron) to mitigate the difference.

2. Adjust your swing

Practice a more controlled swing with a wider stance to avoid slipping. You may also want to grip your club further down to make up for your feet sinking further into the ground, and move your ball further back so that you aren’t sweeping it up off of the wet grass.

3. Brush up on the rules for ‘casual water’

The ‘casual water’ rule gives players free relief if golfers find their ball in ‘temporary water’, such as puddles. The rule allows you to move your ball to the nearest point of complete relief within one club-length (but not closer to the hole).

4. Hit putts with more force

Generally, the presence of water will reduce the speed of the greens, can cause your ball to hydroplane, and make your ball stray from its intended direction. To get the most out of your putts, it’s best to hit with more force and increase the length of your backstroke.

5. Swap your sand iron for a pitching wedge

Getting the ball out of sand is one of the toughest challenges a golfer can face, even more so when the rain compacts the sand.

A pitching wedge is better placed than a sand iron to overcome this challenge. The reason is that golf clubs are designed for normal sand, and a sand iron has bounce on its sole.

However, if the sand is compact, the last thing you want is a club with bounce on the sole, because it’ll strike the ground and bounce into the ball if the ground is hard.

You can either de-lock your sand iron grip to create more loft, or use a pitching wedge so the leading edge acts more like a knife, cutting through the sand in wet conditions.

Playing golf in the rain: FAQs

Do golf courses stay open in the rain?

Golf courses may stay open in light rain or if rain is sporadic. If the course becomes waterlogged due to prolonged or heavy rain, it will likely close until the weather improves.

Do golf courses refund when it rains?

Unfortunately, most golf courses will not provide a complete refund if it rains and the course has to close. However, you may be able to get vouchers back to be able to move your scheduled round to a later date. The best way to find out is to check the booking policy of your chosen course.

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Whatever the weather, you may want to consider getting specialist golf insurance to financially protect yourself and your equipment while out on the course.

Get an instant online quote today. 

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Whether you’re looking for a new way to practice or the weather is stopping you from getting out on the course, indoor virtual golf is a great way to work on your technique.

We’ve compiled a list of the best virtual golf courses across the UK and answered some common questions about how virtual golf works.

Find a golf simulator near you

London and the South East

1. Project Golf

Based in Moorgate, Central London, Project Golf has 5 Trackman 4 bays with 459 virtual golf courses to choose from for you to practice your golf technique. They also offer golf lessons from Advanced PGA Professional coaches if you want help refining your swing.

2. Pitch Golf

Pitch Golf have several locations across the UK, including three in London, one in Manchester, and one in Dublin. With a choice of Trackman iO-equipped simulator bays, you can improve your golf performance by tracking your analytics or play a round on some of the most famous golf courses in the world.

If you want something to eat or drink while you play, each location offers a range of cocktails and a food menu with different dishes offered at each venue.

3. Caddi Club

As of 2025, Caddi Club owns the largest indoor golf venue in the UK, with 12 virtual golf bays at its Wimbledon location. Caddi Club also has three other venues across London in Waterloo, Fulham, and Chelsea. All Caddi Club venues are kitted out with Trackman simulator technology, and the Fulham and Wimbledon locations both have a full bar and restaurant.

4. Urban Golf

Unlike the other virtual golf venues in this list, Urban Golf uses custom technology that you won’t find at any other indoor golf venue. Based in London, Urban Golf’s tech uses several high-definition cameras to capture your clubhead speed, launch angle, spin rate, and ball velocity.

With 11 golf simulators and food on offer from a Michelin-star-trained chef, Urban Golf has a lot to offer, whether you’re practising, playing for fun with friends, or taking lessons.

South West

1. Eagles Indoor Golf

Eagles Indoor Golf in Gloucestershire uses Uneeker XO simulator technology and GSPro software, which can help you track metrics such as your ball speed, swing path, spin axis and more.

They also offer lessons for guidance on improving your play, as well as a fully licensed bar with a range of food and drink options.

2. GolfBox

GolfBox has indoor golf venues in both Bath and Bristol, with two bays in Bath and three in Bristol, all utilising Trackman iO technology. You’ll find that both locations offer lessons if you want guidance from a golf pro, and their venue in Bath also has a café if you wish to have some refreshments while you play.

3. Bunkerbay

With a venue in Poole and an upcoming venue in Christchurch, Bunkerbay offers the latest Trackman simulators and 24/7 access to members. You can also book lessons and coaching packages with PGA professionals at Bunkerbay.

Midlands

1. Swings Golf

Using Trackman iO technology, practising your golf game at Swings Golf in Nottingham means you can work on your ball and swing speed, launch angle, and carry distance.

There’s also a wide range of interactive games at your disposal, which provide a fun way to work on your golfing technique. If you’re feeling confident, you can even compete in monthly competitions to test your skill.

2. Goin Golf

With 7 virtual golf bays, Goin Golf is one of the UK’s largest virtual golf experiences, based in Stoke-on-Trent. At Goin Golf, you can take part in lessons, competitions, or their Go Golf rewards programme, where you can earn discounts or free food and drink.

When you book through Goin Golf, you can choose one of their Trackman 4 simulators or a VIP room with a Golfzon simulator (famously used by the national golf teams of Spain, China, Taiwan, and Korea).

3. Skratch Golf

Skratch Golf in Birmingham has a lot to offer for golfers on rainy days. Skratch Golf offers lessons, competitions, and experience packages during the Ryder Cup and the Majors. You can also enjoy Indonesian street food and drinks on site, and you can even book their mobile simulator for work events and parties.

North East

1. Sharpley Golf

For the days when you can’t get out onto Sharpley Golf Course in Durham, they also have a virtual golf facility powered by Trackman 4 simulators. They also have a fully licensed bar for drinks and snacks, or you can head to their clubhouse bar and restaurant.

2. The Virtual Golf Centre

With club fittings, lessons, and competitions on offer throughout the year, The Virtual Golf Centre in Washington is a great choice for indoor golf. Protee VX launch monitors power their practice bays, or you can try their Performance Room, which uses a Foresight Falcon launch monitor and swing cameras to help you perfect your technique.

3. The Golf Studio

At The Golf Studio in Sunderland, you can take part in tournaments, practice in their indoor driving range, or use their SkyTrak Studio to work on your swing. They also offer lessons from PGA golf professionals and custom club fittings.

North West

1. Fliers Indoor Golf

Based in Liverpool, Fliers Indoor Golf has 5 Trackman simulator bays. In addition to booking out one of their bays for a round with friends, you can also book lessons and club fittings, or take advantage of their fully licensed bar and freshly baked pizzas.

2. North West Indoor Golf

With three golf studios available, all fitted with Trackman 4 simulators, you can track more than 50 ball and club data parameters while you play. Located in Warrington, North West Indoor Golf also has an indoor putting green powered by SAM PuttLab technology to help you improve your putting technique.

3. HUKD Golf

Using Trackman simulators, HUKD puts more than 350 famous golf courses at your fingertips. Here you can book lessons with PGA golf professionals or join competitions and leagues to test your skill. You can also take advantage of several offers and packages available at HUKD throughout the week, which include food and drink.

Scotland

1. The Golf Bar

Scotland’s largest virtual golf centre, The Golf Bar, based in Glasgow, uses Trackman simulator technology and has six golf bays that can accommodate up to eight players each. With a food menu offering a range of dishes and a fully stocked bar where you can enjoy cocktails, The Golf Bar is the perfect way to spend an afternoon golfing.

2. Centre of Golf Excellence

You’ll find the Centre of Golf Excellence at St Andrews in Fife, with each bay offering Trackman 4 technology and Sportsbox AI to track your shots. You’ll also find a club fitting and repair centre here to make sure you’re hitting the course with clubs that are the right fit and in the best condition. You can even take lessons with former tour players and PGA professionals.

Wales

1. The South Wales Simulator Academy

The South Wales Simulator Academy is based in Llanyravon, with two Foresight Falcoln launch monitors available to book. You can also order food and drink straight to your bay, including pizzas, burgers, and alcoholic and soft drinks.

2. Play All-Year Round

Play All-Year Round has 3 golf simulator bays, where you can try some of the most famous courses in the world, such as St Andrews or Royal Troon.

Indoor golf simulator: FAQs

Do you bring your own clubs to virtual golf?

You can bring your own clubs to virtual golf, and it’s often recommended so that any practice you’re putting in is using the clubs you use regularly on the course. However, you’ll often find that virtual golf venues will provide clubs you can use for free or for a small fee.

How realistic is virtual golf?

The best golf simulators can be very realistic, often offering metrics such as distance and ball velocity with an accuracy within 1-2%. However, there are some aspects of the course that a golf simulator cannot replicate, such as the effect of weather conditions.

How do you win virtual golf?

Just like when you’re out on a real course, you need to work on your golfing technique to improve your ability in virtual golf. You may also want to practice playing virtual golf, as some aspects of the game will feel very different from playing a round outdoors.

How does virtual golf work?

Most golf simulators use either cameras or radar to track metrics such as your swing speed, launch angle, and carry distance. To use a golf simulator, all you need to do is set up your ball on the hitting mat and hit the ball as you would on the course. The ball will hit the impact screen, and you’ll be able to follow your virtual ball’s flight on the screen.

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Whether you’re playing golf indoors or outdoors, there’s always a risk that you may injure yourself, someone else, or damage your golf equipment while you play. That’s why you may want to consider getting specialist golf insurance. Find out more about specialist golf insurance through Golf Care or get a quote online today. 

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There are two golf courses at Torrey Pines in La Jolla, California, and they’re both part of a municipal complex. It’s one of the few munis used by the PGA Tour and that means anyone can play it.