Richmond Park Golf Course
Richmond Park Golf Course is London's best-known pay-and-play venue: two 18-hole courses, the Prince's and the Duke's, laid out inside Richmond Park. Anyone can book a tee time online without membership, there is no dress code, and hire clubs, buggies and a driving range make it an easy round for visitors.
Two courses in a Royal Park
The Royal Parks describes this as the only golf course in a Royal Park. It opened in 1923, when the Prince of Wales opened the Prince's Course; its founders said artisans and royalty would be equally welcome. The Duke's Course followed in 1925. Both 18-hole layouts reopened in 2014 after a major overhaul. The Prince's (par 68) is the gentler round, while the Duke's (par 71) is longer and more demanding.
Booking and visitor practicalities
You do not need to be a member. Tee times are booked online, which the operator says is cheaper than paying at the desk, and your tee time is not shared with strangers. Rental club sets, power trolleys and buggies can be added when you book. There is no dress code, though golf shoes are recommended, and well-behaved dogs on a lead are allowed on the course. Prepaid tee times are not refunded but can be rescheduled by phone. Solo golfers are welcome, although a minimum of two players may apply at busy times.
On site and nearby
The clubhouse has a café, bar and restaurant, plus a lakeside terrace. There is also a driving range that does not need booking, along with putting and chipping greens. The course sits near the Roehampton side of Richmond Park, so you can easily add a walk among the park's deer before or after your round.
Highlights
- Two 18-hole courses: the Prince's (par 68) and the Duke's (par 71)
- Opened in 1923 inside Richmond Park, a Royal Park
- Pay and play with no membership and no dress code
- Driving range that does not need booking, plus short-game practice areas
Good to know
- Book online for the lowest green fee; walk-in prices are higher
- Each player needs their own set of clubs (half sets are fine); hire sets can be booked
- Prepaid tee times are non-refundable but can be rescheduled on 0208 876 3205
- Dogs are allowed on the course if kept on a lead
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: loyalteegolf.co.uk · loyalteegolf.co.uk · loyalteegolf.co.uk · royalparks.org.uk · en.wikipedia.org