Golf Courses in Pembrokeshire, Wales — Clifftop Golf on the Wild Atlantic Coast
Wales has a strong claim as a golf destination. Royal Porthcawl, Aberdovey and the north Wales links all get plenty of attention. Pembrokeshire, however, often gets overlooked. That is a shame, since its golf mixes clifftop drama with true links and some of the finest coast in Britain.
This guide covers the main clubs, the best areas to stay and how to get there. You can also browse every course we list in Wales to see the county’s clubs alongside the rest of the country.
Why Pembrokeshire is a hidden golf destination
Pembrokeshire sits at the far west of Wales. As a result, it is a long drive or train ride from most of England. Many golf tourists stop at the better-known Welsh courses on the way.
But those who make the trip are well rewarded. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park covers most of the coastline, so the scenery is protected and unspoilt. In addition, the courses are quiet and the welcome is warm.
Tenby Golf Club
Tenby, founded in 1888, is often called the oldest golf club in Wales. The title is debated, since Borth & Ynyslas also claims an early start. Either way, Tenby is the heart of Pembrokeshire golf.
The course is a true links among the dunes beside the town. Its fairways are tight, while its greens reward a precise approach. Tenby itself is a walled seaside town with a colourful harbour, so it makes an excellent base.
Newport Sands, north coast
Newport, in north Pembrokeshire, sits at the foot of the Preseli Hills. It should not be confused with the city of Newport in south-east Wales. Its links runs beside the beach at Newport Bay. As a result, it suits golfers who want a scenic round without crowds.
South Pembrokeshire, Pembroke Dock
South Pembrokeshire Golf Club sits on a hill above Pembroke Dock, with wide views over the Milford Haven waterway. It is handy if you stay near Pembroke, where the castle is well worth a visit.
Haverfordwest Golf Club
Haverfordwest is Pembrokeshire’s main parkland course, just outside the county town. Its tree-lined fairways give shelter on windy days. In addition, the club is friendly to visiting groups.
Cardigan Golf Club
Cardigan lies just over the border in Ceredigion, on the northern edge of the area. It offers a change of pace from the exposed coast. For that reason, it suits mixed-ability groups.
St Davids and the coast
St Davids is Britain’s smallest city by population, with a cathedral at its heart. The headlands nearby, such as St Davids Head, have some of the finest coastal scenery in Wales. So a rest day here is time well spent.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs for 186 miles around the county’s coast. Golfers staying in Tenby can walk a short section towards Manorbier on a spare afternoon. For more seaside golf across the UK, read our guide to coastal golf.
Green fees
Green fees in Pembrokeshire are usually modest compared with famous links elsewhere. Even so, they change each year, so check each club’s own website before you book. Many clubs also welcome societies and offer group rates.
Getting there
By train: Trains run to Tenby and Pembroke via Swansea and Carmarthen. As a result, a car-free trip is possible, although a car makes it easier to play several courses.
By car: The M4 and A40 lead west from Cardiff and Swansea into Pembrokeshire. If you are breaking the journey, the directory lists golf courses near Swansea and golf courses near Cardiff. Coming from England, there are also golf courses near Bristol on the way.
Combine Pembrokeshire with the rest of Wales
Pembrokeshire works well as part of a longer Welsh trip. Our guide to golf in Wales covers the whole country. Similarly, our page on golf courses near Cardiff covers Royal Porthcawl and the south-east. If you live near Bristol, our page on golf courses near Bristol shows the courses close to home.
Plan your trip
A good three-day trip might include Tenby, Newport Sands and a parkland round at Haverfordwest. If you love remote links, Cornwall offers a similar feel, and our Cornwall golf guide covers it. For more ideas, read our guide to the best links golf courses in the UK or our UK golf breaks guide.
If you are choosing golf shoes for wet courses, our guide may help.
Courses mentioned in this article
The GeoGolf Course editorial team writes about UK golf courses, places to play and tips for golfers of every level. We also keep an independent directory of courses across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
About GeoGolf Course →Frequently asked questions
What is the oldest golf club in Wales?
Tenby Golf Club, founded in 1888, is often called the oldest golf club in Wales. Borth & Ynyslas in Ceredigion also claims an early start, so the title is debated.
Is Pembrokeshire a good place for a golf holiday?
Yes. It mixes links and clifftop golf with one of the finest coastlines in Britain. Since it is far from big cities, the courses are rarely crowded.
Why is Pembrokeshire a hidden golf destination?
It sits at the far west of Wales, at the end of a long drive from most of England. As a result, fewer golf tourists make the trip.
Is there inland golf in Pembrokeshire?
Yes. Haverfordwest Golf Club offers parkland golf near the county town, while Cardigan, just over the border in Ceredigion, adds another option.