Whether you’re brand new to the game or are a seasoned player seeking a challenge, the New Forest’s diverse golf courses offer something for everyone. With ancient woodland, open heath and rolling countryside at every turn, the area is perfectly suited for a day out with a club in hand.
Many of our New Forest holiday cottages sit just minutes from some of the region’s best courses, giving you the ideal base for a golfing holiday or a leisurely morning on the greens. Here are some of the most popular golf courses across the New Forest.
Bramshaw Golf Club, Lyndhurst
Bramshaw is home to 36 holes split across two fantastic courses, each offering an enchanting experience. The Forest Course is the oldest golf course in Hampshire, offering a wonderful layout through open heathland where free-roaming deer and New Forest ponies are regular spectators. It’s scenic and full of character, making it a favourite for those who enjoy a traditional round of golf.
The Manor Course is a more manicured course, with tree-lined fairways, contouring greens and a challenging layout. It’s ideal for golfers looking to hone their abilities while still soaking up the surrounding tranquillity. After your round, head to the clubhouse, complete with a bar and restaurant, for a post-game refuel.
New Forest Golf Club, Lyndhurst
As the second-oldest golf club in Hampshire, New Forest Golf Club combines history with beautifully preserved heathland scenery. It has been voted one of the top 50 heathland courses in the UK by Today’s Golfer, and it’s easy to see why. Wide views and rolling fairways make it a joy for players of all abilities.
The course here provides a uniquely New Forest golfing experience, with free-roaming ponies and cattle adding to the charm. The balance of wild landscape and carefully maintained greens offers a peaceful but engaging round. The friendly clubhouse also provides a relaxed setting for lunch, coffee or a celebratory drink.
See our holiday cottages in Lyndhurst and the surrounding areas to find the perfect place to stay nearby.
Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club
Brokenhurst Manor is a classic Harry Colt–designed course, known for its elegant layout that blends woodland and heathland scenes. The course features 16 main greens with clever bunkering and gentle undulation, offering plenty of interest without overwhelming less experienced players.
It’s a wonderfully quiet and scenic place to spend the day, with tree-lined fairways and wildlife all around. The welcoming clubhouse, complete with bar, dining room and patio, is a great spot for a long lunch after a morning on the course.
Lymington Golf Centre
This friendly 9-hole course is an ideal choice for casual players, families and anyone looking to squeeze in a relaxed round. Overlooking the Solent, it delivers stunning coastal views as you make your way through the course. Keep your eyes open for wildlife too, as it’s not uncommon to spot deer, sparrowhawks, buzzards or even the odd barn owl drifting across the fairways. To hone your skills and perfect your swing, you can also head to the practice range.
Alongside the main and practice courses, Lymington Golf Centre also offers a fun adventure golf course, ideal for children, mixed-ability groups or a playful afternoon activity. The clubhouse provides light refreshments so you can recharge after your adventure.
Burley Golf Club
Set in the heart of the Forest, Burley Golf Club boasts far-reaching views across open heathland. The 9-hole layout, played from 18 tees, has remained largely unchanged for nearly a century and offers a lovely mix of approachable holes and gentle challenges. Good drainage means the course is playable all year round, so you can enjoy it even in the wetter months.
Burley welcomes golfers of all standards and hosts regular sessions for beginners alongside various open competitions. The relaxed bar and restaurant invite you to unwind after a game, offering plenty of tasty treats with an All Day menu.
Paultons Golf Centre, Romsey
Paultons offers 18 holes of the Championship course with generously wide fairways, woodland edges and a layout that balances challenge with playability. It’s a great course for improving golfers as well as those who simply enjoy a scenic day outdoors. The course is ideal for those looking for a longer round at a steady pace.
Alongside the main course, you’ll find a driving range for practice and a pitch-and-putt course that’s ideal for families, beginners or anyone after a fun, low-pressure game. The clubhouse bar and restaurant offer a friendly base for pre- and post-game lunch or refreshments.
Dibden Golf Centre
Located on the eastern edge of the New Forest, Dibden Golf Centre offers sweeping views – especially from the 18th hole – where you can take in Southampton Water and the surrounding landscape. With both an 18-hole course and a shorter 9-hole option, it’s flexible for golfers looking for either a full day or a quick round.
Dibden also features a driving range, putting green and chipping area, making it a great place to sharpen your skills. The clubhouse has a friendly, relaxed feel, offering food, drinks and panoramic views across the water.
Whether you’re travelling with family, planning a dedicated golf break or simply fancy a spontaneous round during your stay, you have your pick of golf courses when visiting the New Forest.
After a day on the greens, return to one of our cosy cottages or luxury hideouts to relax, reset and plan your next round. Let the New Forest serve as the perfect backdrop for your golfing getaway!
For more activities that’ll help you experience this glorious corner of the world at its best, see our guide to fishing in the New Forest.