Cornwall isn’t just about stunning coastlines, cream teas and surf, it’s also a treasure trove for golfers. Beyond the well‑known championship links there are some lesser‑known gems that offer brilliant golf, dramatic scenery and a more peaceful round. Whether you’re visiting Cornwall or exploring as a local, here are some of the best hidden gems to tee off at.
What makes a “hidden gem”
Before we dive in, what do we mean by “hidden gem”? These are courses that:
Don’t always feature in the “top‑10 Cornwall” lists
Offer good value or quieter rounds
Have memorable holes or views but won’t break the bank
May be tucked away off the beaten tourist trail
Top Hidden Gems in Cornwall
Here are some courses you really shouldn’t miss.
1. St Enodoc Golf Club — The Holywell Course
While the Church Course at St Enodoc gets a lot of praise (rightly so), the Holywell Course is a quieter counterpart. It’s full 18 holes, links‑style, with undulating fairways, fast greens, and stunning views over the Camel Estuary and Atlantic.
Good value too (around £25 for 18 holes per head).
2. Bude & North Cornwall Golf Club
A classic old‑style links course, with blind shots, plateau greens, rumpled fairways and excellent drainage. If the weather turns windy, this becomes a real test, and that makes it all the more memorable.
3. Newquay Golf Club
Perched alongside Fistral Beach, this links course mixes natural seaside charm with a test of shot‑making. Lower par, but lots of character, bunkers, and sea view holes that linger in the memory.
4. Carlyon Bay – Championship Golf Course
If you’d like coastal views without huge travel, Carlyon Bay delivers. The first ten holes run right along cliffs overlooking St Austell Bay. Dramatic drops, brilliant views, good facilities, and less crowded than some of the top‑ranked links.
5. St Austell Golf Club
More of a parkland design than classic links, this course is a “hidden gem” for those who prefer a more sheltered round. Designed by James Braid, mature trees, lovely fairways, and good variety make this a pleasant surprise.
6. Tehidy Park Golf Club
Set in woodland and parkland, Tehidy is mellow yet engaging. It has enough challenge to test you, especially around water hazards and strategic holes. Great for a quieter round if you want a break from wind‑swept links.
7. Trevose Golf & Country Club
Though Trevose is more famous, its lesser played components (like its Headland and Short courses) are often overshadowed by the Championship layout, yet they deliver fantastic scenery and equally memorable holes. If time or budget is tight, they offer excellent alternatives.
Why these courses stand out
Landscape: Cornwall’s coastline gives many of these courses dramatic settings; cliff tops, dunes, sea vistas. The scenery becomes part of the round.
Variety: From true links to parkland woodlands, you can pick your flavour depending on how you want to play.
Value & tranquillity: Hidden gems are often less busy, less commercialised, and usually more affordable.
Memorable holes: Whether it’s a blind drive, a cliff‑hanging tee or a par‑3 with sea views, these courses tend to have at least one hole you’ll remember.
Tips for Visiting Golf Courses in Cornwall
Reserve in advance in peak season, especially for courses by the coast.
Check weather & wind – links courses can become much tougher (or dangerous) in high wind.
Bring layers & waterproofs even in summer, Cornwall weather turns fast.
Look for “visitor” rates or off‑peak times to get good deals.
Accommodation: Many courses (Carlyon Bay, Trevose, etc.) have nearby lodging, letting you make more than one round without long drives.
Suggested Golf‑Itinerary: Hidden Gems Tour
Here’s a sample 3‑day itinerary if you wanted to play hidden gems across Cornwall:
| Day | Course | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Carlyon Bay in morning, St Austell in afternoon | Start with cliff‑top spectacle, then change pace with parkland serenity. |
| Day 2 | St Enodoc (Holywell) then Newquay | Beautiful coastal links with perhaps quieter rounds. |
| Day 3 | Bude & North Cornwall, Tehidy Park | End with a classical links test and a woodland/parkland contrast. |
Conclusion
Cornwall might be best known for its beaches, surfing and rugged scenery. But if you love golf, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you favour links clinging to cliffs, tree‑lined fairways inland, or courses that offer peace and isolation, Cornwall delivers. Pick your style, pack your clubs, and discover courses that might not always make the headlines, but definitely deserve to.
