Pay and Play Golf in the UK — Complete Guide

Pay and play golf is exactly what it sounds like. You book a tee time, pay a green fee and play. There is no membership, no joining fee and usually no handicap check. As a result, it is the easiest way to start golf in the UK.

This guide explains how pay and play works, what it costs, what to bring and how to behave on your first visit. It also shows how to find courses near you.

What does pay and play mean?

A pay and play course sells rounds to anyone. Some are council-owned municipal courses. Others are privately owned courses that make their money from green fees rather than members. Many members’ clubs also sell visitor tee times, although they often limit the days.

The R&A counted 3,101 golf courses in the UK at the end of 2020. Many of them take pay and play golfers. Our guide to how many golf courses there are in the UK explains the figures.

What does pay and play golf cost?

Prices vary widely by course, region and time of day. In general, the cheapest options are:

• Par-3 and pitch and putt courses, which are short and quick
• Council nine-hole courses, often with junior and concession rates
• Council 18-hole courses, which are usually well below private clubs

Privately run pay and play courses often cost a little more, while premium resort courses cost much more. For example, Glasgow Life’s 18-hole Littlehill course starts from £10.50 in winter and £16.50 in summer for adults (checked 11 October 2026). Since prices change each year, always check the course’s own website.

Twilight and off-peak rates

Many courses charge less on weekdays and late in the day. In summer, a twilight start still leaves enough light for a full round in much of the UK. Our guide to cheap golf courses has more ways to save.

What to bring

Equipment

You do not need a full set of clubs, since a beginner uses only a few. A driver or hybrid, a few irons, a wedge and a putter are plenty. If you have no clubs, ask whether the course hires them out.

Clothing

Most pay and play courses are relaxed about clothing. Even so, a collared shirt and smart trousers or shorts are a safe choice. Wear trainers or golf shoes, and bring waterproofs if rain is likely.

Other essentials

Bring plenty of balls, a few tees, a pitch-mark repairer and some water. In addition, a towel helps on wet days.

How to find pay and play courses

Start with the directory. For instance, the pages for golf courses near London, golf courses near Manchester and golf courses near Birmingham list courses with contact details. You can also browse every course we list in England.

Then check each course’s website for booking and prices, because they change each year. Most now take bookings online.

Pay and play golf by region

London and the south-east

London has public courses and pay and play venues around its edges. Our page on golf courses near London covers options at every price.

The Midlands

The Midlands has many pay and play courses, while golf centres with ranges are common too. Our page on golf courses near Birmingham is a good start.

The north of England

Council golf is strong in the north, from Manchester’s Heaton Park to Leeds. Our guide to municipal golf courses covers well-known public courses.

Scotland

Scotland has a long tradition of public golf. For example, Edinburgh Leisure runs six courses in the capital, while Glasgow Life runs two in Glasgow. In addition, the St Andrews links are public courses.

Wales

Wales has many friendly clubs that welcome visitors on a pay and play basis. Our guide to golf in Wales covers the main regions.

The Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight’s clubs welcome holiday golfers, many on a pay and play basis. Our Isle of Wight golf guide covers each club.

Short courses

Short courses are ideal for beginners and busy players. Our guide to nine-hole golf courses and our par 3 and pitch and putt guide list good places to play.

Etiquette for first-timers

Pace of play

Keep up with the group in front. If you lose a ball, do not search for more than three minutes. In addition, let faster groups play through.

Repairing the course

Replace or repair divots, fix pitch marks on the green and rake bunkers after use. That way, the course stays in good shape for everyone.

Keeping score

Write your score down after each hole, once you have left the green. Then the group behind can play on without waiting.

Mobile phones

Keep your phone on silent. Similarly, take calls away from other players.

Getting ready

If you are brand new, a few sessions at a driving range help a lot. Our driving range guide explains how to practise. Our guide to golf courses for beginners then helps you choose a first course.

Common questions

Do I need to book? It is wise to book, especially at weekends. Some courses accept walk-on players at quiet times.

Is there a dress code? Usually a relaxed one. Still, check the course website, since some have rules on denim or footwear.

How early can I book? It varies, so check the course’s booking page.

Pay and play golf is the easiest way into the game. Pick a course, book a tee time and enjoy your round.

On the kit side, our guides to push versus electric trolleys and trolley accessories may help.