Junior Golf in the UK — How to Get Your Child Into Golf

Getting a child into golf is easier than ever. You do not need a club membership, expensive kit or a handicap to start. All you need is a few clubs, a willing child and somewhere to hit balls. This guide explains how to begin and how to help a young golfer progress.

What age can a child start?

There is no minimum age. Tiger Woods famously putted on American television at the age of two. Still, most coaches say that from about five or six, a child can learn the basic movements and enjoy hitting balls.

From around eight to ten, many clubs welcome children into their junior sections. At that age, formal coaching and simple competitions start to make sense. Meanwhile, children can begin working towards a handicap.

Do not overthink the starting age. If a child is keen and can hold a club, they can start. If they are not interested, however, pushing rarely works. So keep it fun and let the spark grow.

Getting started without joining a club

Many children start before they ever join a club. For example:

• Driving ranges let children hit balls in short, fun sessions. Our driving range guide explains what to expect.
• Pitch and putt and par-3 courses are short and quick, so children stay interested. Our par 3 and pitch and putt guide lists places to play.
• Nine-hole courses are a good step up. Our nine-hole golf guide covers them.
• Pay and play and council courses welcome everyone, with no membership needed. Our pay and play guide explains how they work.

Club junior sections

Once a child is keen, a club junior section is the natural next step. Junior membership is usually much cheaper than adult membership. In addition, it often includes group coaching, junior competitions and access to the course at set times.

A good junior section has a friendly organiser and regular coaching. It should also have a clear safeguarding policy. So visit a few clubs, ask questions and choose the one where your child feels at home.

Coaching

Group lessons with a PGA professional are the best way to learn. They are cheaper than one-to-one lessons, and children enjoy learning with friends. As a result, many children stay in the game longer.

The Golf Foundation, a charity, helps young people try golf through schools and clubs. Ask your local club or your child’s school whether they run sessions.

Equipment: what a junior needs

Children do not need expensive kit. A junior half set of clubs, cut to the right length, is ideal. Adult clubs cut down are a poor substitute, since they are too heavy and stiff.

Comfortable clothes and trainers are fine for the range. For the course, check the club’s dress code. A light carry bag, some balls and tees complete the kit. Since children grow quickly, second-hand clubs are a sensible choice.

Handicaps for juniors

Juniors get a handicap the same way as adults. They join an affiliated club and submit scores from 54 holes. Our guide on how to get a golf handicap in the UK explains the steps.

A handicap opens the door to junior competitions at club and county level. Still, it is not essential, especially in the early years.

The competitive pathway

Talented juniors can progress from club competitions to county junior teams. County golf unions run squads and coaching for promising players. However, most children play for fun, and that is just as valuable.

Girls in golf

Many clubs run girls’ groups and coaching. The national golf bodies also promote girls’ golf, because girls have long been under-represented in the game. Our guide to women’s golf in the UK covers schemes for women and girls.

Courses that welcome juniors

The best courses for juniors are short, friendly and affordable. In particular, look for a club with a junior section, a short course and a practice area. Our guide to golf courses for beginners explains what to look for.

The directory helps you find courses near home. For example, see the pages for golf courses near Nottingham, golf courses near Leicester and golf courses near Derby. You can also browse every course we list in England.

Costs

Junior golf is usually much cheaper than adult golf. Junior green fees and memberships are lower, while group coaching keeps lesson costs down. Since prices vary, check with local clubs. Our guide to cheap golf courses has more ways to save.

Common questions from parents

Is golf safe for children? Yes, with sensible supervision. Teach children to stand well clear of anyone swinging a club.

How long should a session last? For young children, keep it short and fun. A small bucket of balls or a few holes is plenty.

Should I teach my child myself? You can share the basics. However, a coach will spot problems early, so a few lessons are worth it.

Next steps

Start small, keep it fun and let your child set the pace. Our top tips for golf beginners are useful for parents who are learning alongside their children.

On the kit side, our guides to trolley bags and trolley accessories may help.