Nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, Leeds and the surrounding district offer some of the most picturesque and challenging golf experiences in Northern England. From historic parkland courses to modern golfing facilities, the Leeds and District Golf scene caters to players of all abilities. This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know about golfing in this vibrant region, from the top courses to play, essential amenities, annual tournaments, and tips for making the most of your golfing visit.
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Discover the finest golf courses Leeds and District has to offer.
Leeds as a Premier Golf Destination
Leeds has established itself as one of Northern England’s premier golfing destinations, combining accessibility with outstanding natural beauty. The city’s strategic location in West Yorkshire places it at the heart of a region blessed with diverse golfing landscapes, from parkland courses nestled in historic estates to modern championship layouts designed to challenge even the most skilled players.
Scenic Landscapes
The Leeds and District golf courses benefit from Yorkshire’s varied topography, offering players breathtaking views across the county’s famous dales and moors. Many courses are set against backdrops of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and historic architecture, creating a uniquely English golfing experience that changes with the seasons. Spring and summer bring lush green fairways, while autumn transforms the courses with golden hues that add another dimension to your round.
Accessibility
One of Leeds’ greatest strengths as a golf destination is its exceptional accessibility. Located at the crossroads of major motorways including the M1, M62, and A1(M), Leeds is easily reachable from across the UK. Leeds Bradford Airport provides international connections, making the region accessible to golf tourists from Europe and beyond. Most courses are within a 30-minute drive from Leeds city centre, allowing visitors to base themselves in the city while exploring different courses each day.
Reputation and Heritage
The Leeds and District Union of Golf Clubs, established in the early 20th century, has been instrumental in developing the region’s golfing reputation. The area has produced numerous professional and amateur champions, and several courses have hosted prestigious tournaments, including qualifying rounds for major championships. This rich golfing heritage is evident in the traditional clubhouses and the reverence with which the game’s etiquette and traditions are maintained.
With a perfect blend of traditional members’ clubs and more accessible pay-and-play facilities, Leeds caters to all types of golfers, from occasional players to dedicated enthusiasts. The region’s variable weather adds another layer of challenge, with conditions that can change dramatically throughout the day, testing a player’s adaptability and skill.
Plan Your Leeds Golf Trip
Contact the Leeds & District Union of Golf Clubs for personalized recommendations.
Top Golf Courses in Leeds and District
The Leeds area boasts an impressive variety of golf courses, each with its own character and challenges. From historic members’ clubs to modern pay-and-play facilities, here’s our selection of the finest courses in the region:
1. Moortown Golf Club
Private Club Championship Course
Designed by the legendary Alister MacKenzie (who later created Augusta National), Moortown is a historic heathland course that hosted the first Ryder Cup match on British soil in 1929. This championship course features MacKenzie’s signature challenging bunkers and strategic layout, demanding thoughtful shot placement rather than raw power.
The par-71 course stretches to 6,980 yards from the championship tees, offering a stern test for skilled players while remaining enjoyable for golfers of all abilities from the forward tees. The signature 10th hole, known as “Gibraltar,” is a par-3 that requires a precise shot over a deep bunker to a raised green.
- Visitors welcome on weekdays and specific weekend times
- Championship-quality practice facilities
- Historic clubhouse with excellent dining
- Professional instruction available
2. Alwoodley Golf Club
Private Club Top 100 UK Course
Alwoodley holds the distinction of being Alister MacKenzie’s first design (1907), and it remains one of England’s finest heathland courses. Consistently ranked among the UK’s top 100 courses, Alwoodley offers a classic out-and-back routing across natural heathland terrain, with heather, gorse, and strategically placed bunkers creating a challenging but fair test of golf.
The course measures 6,900 yards from the championship tees and features subtle elevation changes that affect club selection and strategy. The par-3 holes are particularly noteworthy, each requiring different shot shapes and distances. The closing stretch from the 15th hole onward provides a demanding finish that can make or break a good round.
- Visitors welcome on weekdays and select weekends
- Excellent practice facilities including short game area
- Traditional clubhouse with Yorkshire hospitality
- Host of prestigious amateur championships
3. Leeds Golf Centre
Public Course Practice Facilities
Often referred to as “The UK’s Premier Golf Experience,” Leeds Golf Centre offers a comprehensive golfing facility that caters to players of all abilities. The centre features the remodeled Wike Ridge 18-hole championship course, which underwent a multi-million-pound investment program to enhance its layout and features.
The Wike Ridge course stretches to 6,450 yards and offers a varied challenge with water features, strategic bunkering, and USGA-specification greens. The centre also boasts a unique 12-hole par-3 course called “The Oaks,” perfect for beginners or those looking to sharpen their short game.
- Open to the public with membership options available
- State-of-the-art floodlit driving range with 50 bays
- PGA professional instruction and custom club fitting
- Modern clubhouse with restaurant and conference facilities
- FootGolf course for alternative entertainment
4. Sand Moor Golf Club
Private Club Visitor-Friendly
Another Alister MacKenzie design, Sand Moor offers a delightful parkland course set on elevated ground with spectacular views across Leeds. Established in 1926, the course features MacKenzie’s trademark challenging green complexes and strategic bunkering, requiring thoughtful course management rather than just distance.
The par-71 course measures 6,446 yards from the back tees and includes a variety of memorable holes. The elevated tee on the par-4 7th hole provides one of the best views in Leeds golf, while the par-3 15th requires a precise shot over a valley to a well-guarded green.
- Visitors welcome throughout the week with advance booking
- Excellent practice facilities including putting green and short game area
- Welcoming clubhouse with bar and dining options
- Professional shop with equipment and lessons available
5. Moor Allerton Golf Club
Private Club 27 Holes
Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. (his only course in northern England), Moor Allerton offers a distinctive American-style layout with 27 holes arranged in three loops of nine. This configuration provides flexibility for play and allows the club to maintain 18 holes open even during maintenance periods.
The course is characterized by large undulating greens, strategic water hazards, and extensive bunkering typical of Trent Jones designs. Each nine-hole loop has its own character, with the Lakes (holes 1-9) featuring several water challenges, the Highwaymen (holes 10-18) offering elevation changes, and the Blackmoor (holes 19-27) providing a more traditional test.
- Visitors welcome seven days a week with advance booking
- Comprehensive practice facilities including driving range and short game area
- Modern clubhouse with panoramic views and excellent dining
- Host venue for European Tour events in the past
- Golf academy with PGA professionals
6. Cookridge Hall Golf Club
Public Course Health Club
Cookridge Hall offers a modern golfing experience in a parkland setting just a few miles from Leeds city centre. Opened in 1997, this relatively young course has matured nicely and features several challenging water hazards across its 18 holes, including a signature island green on the par-3 17th hole.
The par-72 course stretches to 6,788 yards from the championship tees and offers four tee positions to accommodate players of all abilities. The layout features generous fairways but strategic bunkering and water hazards that come into play on several holes, requiring careful course management.
- Pay-and-play with membership options available
- Excellent practice facilities including 22-bay driving range
- Modern clubhouse with bar, restaurant, and function rooms
- On-site health club with gym, pool, and spa facilities
- Golf academy with PGA professionals and state-of-the-art technology
7. Headingley Golf Club
Private Club Historic Course
Founded in 1892, Headingley is one of Leeds’ oldest and most prestigious golf clubs. This classic parkland course was redesigned by Dr. Alister MacKenzie in the 1920s and retains many of his design features, including challenging green complexes and strategic bunkering. Set in a mature woodland setting, the course offers a tranquil escape just minutes from Leeds city centre.
The par-71 course measures 6,451 yards from the back tees and features a varied layout with tree-lined fairways and subtle elevation changes. The signature 17th hole is a challenging par-3 requiring a precise shot over a valley to a well-protected green.
- Visitors welcome on weekdays and select weekend times
- Practice facilities including putting green and short game area
- Historic clubhouse with excellent dining and bar facilities
- Professional shop with equipment and lessons available
Find Your Perfect Leeds Golf Experience
Contact the Leeds & District Union of Golf Clubs for personalized course recommendations based on your preferences and skill level.
Golf Amenities and Services in Leeds
Leeds and District offers comprehensive amenities for golfers of all levels, ensuring you have everything you need for an enjoyable golfing experience. From equipment rentals to professional instruction, here’s what you can expect:
Equipment Rentals and Pro Shops
Most Leeds golf clubs offer well-stocked pro shops with the latest equipment, apparel, and accessories. Whether you need to rent clubs for a day or are looking to upgrade your gear, you’ll find excellent options throughout the region:
- Club Rentals: Most courses offer quality rental sets for visitors, typically ranging from £25-£45 per round. It’s advisable to book these in advance, especially during peak season.
- Pro Shops: Leeds Golf Centre and Moor Allerton feature particularly extensive pro shops with major brands like Titleist, Callaway, TaylorMade, and Ping. Many offer custom fitting services using launch monitor technology.
- Trolley and Buggy Hire: Electric and push trolleys are widely available (£5-£15), while motorized buggies can be rented at most courses (£25-£40) with advance booking recommended.
Coaching and Instruction
Leeds boasts some of Yorkshire’s finest PGA professionals offering instruction for all skill levels:
- Individual Lessons: Available at all major clubs, typically priced between £40-£80 per hour depending on the instructor’s experience and reputation.
- Group Clinics: Many clubs offer group sessions at reduced rates, perfect for beginners or those looking to refine specific aspects of their game.
- Advanced Technology: Leeds Golf Centre and Moor Allerton feature state-of-the-art teaching facilities with launch monitors, video analysis, and putting labs.
- Junior Programs: The Leeds & District Union of Golf Clubs coordinates excellent junior development programs across multiple venues.
Practice Facilities
Dedicated practice facilities allow you to work on your game before or after your round:
- Driving Ranges: Leeds Golf Centre offers a 50-bay floodlit range open until 9 pm daily, while Cookridge Hall features a 22-bay covered facility.
- Short Game Areas: Alwoodley and Moortown provide excellent short game practice facilities for members and visitors.
- Indoor Facilities: Several venues offer indoor putting studios and swing rooms for year-round practice regardless of weather.
Clubhouse Facilities
After your round, Leeds golf clubs offer excellent hospitality:
- Dining: From casual post-round snacks to fine dining experiences, clubhouse restaurants cater to all tastes.
- Locker Rooms: Most clubs provide well-appointed changing facilities with showers and lockers.
- Function Spaces: Many clubs offer rooms for private events, corporate outings, or celebrations.
- Pro Shops: Purchase equipment, apparel, or souvenirs to remember your Leeds golfing experience.
Custom Fitting Services
Getting properly fitted clubs can significantly improve your game, and Leeds offers several excellent fitting options:
- Leeds Golf Centre features a comprehensive fitting studio with all major brands available.
- Moor Allerton offers custom fitting using TrackMan technology for precise measurements.
- Cookridge Hall provides fitting services with immediate workshop modifications available.
Annual Golf Events and Tournaments in Leeds
Leeds has a vibrant calendar of golf competitions and events throughout the year, catering to players of all abilities from professionals to amateurs and juniors. Here are some of the most notable annual tournaments in the region:
Leeds Amateur Championship
The flagship event of the Leeds & District Union of Golf Clubs, this prestigious championship has been contested since 1902 and features the region’s best amateur players. The format typically includes a 36-hole stroke play qualifying round followed by match play for the top 16 players. Past winners have gone on to successful professional careers, making this a great opportunity to spot rising talent.
Leeds Strokeplay Championship
Held annually at rotating courses throughout the district, this 36-hole stroke play event determines the best stroke player in the region. The competition attracts a strong field of low-handicap golfers and provides an excellent spectator experience with free admission. Recent editions have been held at prestigious venues including Moortown and Alwoodley.
Associate Members Team Meetings
The Leeds & District Union of Golf Clubs organizes regular team events for associate members throughout the season. These popular competitions use various formats including four-ball better ball and team stableford, providing competitive yet sociable golf at some of the region’s finest courses.
Junior Competitions
Leeds has a strong commitment to junior golf development, with numerous events specifically for young players:
- Junior League: Team competition between clubs in the district
- Junior Order of Merit: Season-long points competition across multiple events
- Junior Championship: Individual stroke play and match play events
- Junior Team Championship: Club teams compete for the Marshall Bellow Trophy
Club Open Competitions
Individual clubs host open competitions throughout the season that welcome visitors:
- Moortown Seniors Open: Popular event for over-55s
- Alwoodley Mixed Open: Pairs competition for mixed teams
- Moor Allerton Festival Week: Series of different formats
- Leeds Golf Centre Monthly Medals: Regular competitions open to all
Charity and Corporate Events
Leeds hosts numerous charity golf days and corporate tournaments throughout the season. These events combine competitive golf with fundraising and networking opportunities. Notable annual charity events include:
- Leeds Hospitals Charity Golf Day: Annual fundraiser rotating between courses
- Yorkshire Children’s Charity Golf Day: Major fundraising event
- Leeds United Foundation Golf Day: Often featuring former players
Professional Events
While not regular fixtures, Leeds courses have hosted significant professional tournaments over the years:
- Moortown hosted the first Ryder Cup on British soil in 1929
- The European Tour has visited Moortown and Moor Allerton for various events
- PGA regional events are regularly held at courses throughout the district
“The Leeds Amateur Championship has been the starting point for many successful golfing careers. The standard of play is exceptionally high, and the tradition of the event makes it special for all competitors.”
Participate in Leeds Golf Events
View the full calendar of upcoming competitions and register to participate.
Essential Tips for Golfing Visitors to Leeds
Best Seasons to Play
Leeds offers year-round golf, but each season has its own character and considerations:
| Season | Conditions | Advantages | Considerations |
| Spring (April-May) | Courses begin to flourish, temperatures 10-15°C | Quieter than summer, good value green fees | Occasional frost delays in early spring |
| Summer (June-August) | Peak condition, temperatures 15-22°C | Long daylight hours, best course conditions | Busiest period, higher green fees |
| Autumn (September-October) | Beautiful colors, temperatures 10-18°C | Excellent playing conditions, less crowded | Earlier sunset limits late tee times |
| Winter (November-March) | Varies, temperatures 2-10°C | Lowest green fees, quiet courses | Temporary greens possible, limited daylight |
Local Tip: May and September offer the best combination of good weather, excellent course conditions, and reasonable availability.
Booking Advice
To ensure you secure your preferred tee times at Leeds’ popular courses:
- Advance Booking: For premier courses like Moortown and Alwoodley, book at least 2-3 months in advance during peak season (May-September).
- Visitor Days: Most private clubs have specific visitor days and times. Typically, weekday afternoons offer better availability than weekends.
- Golf Packages: Consider booking through tour operators like Golf in Yorkshire or directly through hotel golf packages for better rates and guaranteed tee times.
- Twilight Rates: Many courses offer discounted twilight rates in summer, providing excellent value for evening rounds.
- County Card: If you’re a member of another club, check if your county golf union card provides discounted access to Leeds courses.
Dress Codes and Etiquette
Leeds golf clubs generally maintain traditional dress codes, particularly at the more established venues:
On the Course
- Collared shirts required (no t-shirts or football shirts)
- Tailored trousers or golf shorts (no denim, cargo shorts, or athletic shorts)
- Golf shoes with soft spikes (metal spikes prohibited at most venues)
- No tracksuits or hoodies
In the Clubhouse
- Smart casual attire (no golf shoes in formal dining areas)
- Some clubs require jacket and tie in dining rooms
- No hats indoors
- Mobile phones typically restricted to designated areas
Note: Dress codes vary between clubs. More traditional members’ clubs like Moortown and Alwoodley have stricter requirements, while modern venues like Leeds Golf Centre are more relaxed. Always check specific requirements when booking.
Transportation and Logistics
Getting around Leeds to access the various golf courses is straightforward:
- By Car: Most convenient option, with all courses having ample parking. Leeds is well-served by motorways (M1, M62, A1M).
- Public Transport: Limited options for most golf courses, though some like Headingley are accessible by bus from the city center.
- Taxis/Uber: Readily available throughout Leeds, with typical fares of £10-20 from city center to most courses.
- Accommodation: Consider staying in north Leeds (Weetwood, Headingley, Alwoodley areas) for convenient access to multiple courses.
Weather Considerations
Yorkshire weather can be changeable, so come prepared:
- Pack waterproof clothing even in summer – short showers are common
- Layering is essential, especially in spring and autumn when temperatures can vary significantly
- Wind can be a significant factor, particularly at more exposed courses
- Check course websites or call ahead during winter for information on temporary greens or weather-related restrictions
Weather Advisory: Leeds courses rarely close completely due to rain, but occasional frost delays are common in winter months. Always call ahead if conditions are questionable.
Plan Your Leeds Golf Trip
Contact Visit Leeds for accommodation recommendations near your preferred golf courses.
Local Attractions for Non-Golfing Companions
Leeds offers abundant attractions for non-golfing companions, making it an ideal destination for mixed groups where not everyone plays golf. Here are some of the best options within easy reach of the main golf courses:
City Centre Attractions
Shopping
- Victoria Quarter: Upscale shopping arcade with luxury brands
- Trinity Leeds: Modern shopping centre with over 120 stores
- Kirkgate Market: Historic market with over 800 stalls
- Corn Exchange: Independent retailers in a stunning Victorian building
Culture and Heritage
- Royal Armouries Museum: National collection of arms and armor
- Leeds Art Gallery: Impressive collection of 20th-century British art
- Leeds City Museum: Fascinating exhibits on local history
- Leeds Minster: Historic church with beautiful architecture
Nearby Attractions
Within a short drive of Leeds’ golf courses, you’ll find numerous attractions:
- Harewood House: Stunning stately home with gardens, just 7 miles from Moortown Golf Club
- Roundhay Park: One of Europe’s largest city parks, adjacent to several north Leeds courses
- Temple Newsam: Historic house and farm with beautiful grounds
- Yorkshire Sculpture Park: World-class outdoor art gallery, 30 minutes from Leeds
Food and Drink Experiences
Leeds has developed an excellent reputation for its food and drink scene:
- Leeds Indie Food Festival: If visiting in May, this celebration of independent food and drink is not to be missed
- Brewery Tours: Northern Monk and North Brewing Co. offer tours and tastings
- Food Halls: Trinity Kitchen and Assembly Underground offer diverse dining options
- Fine Dining: The Man Behind The Curtain (Michelin-starred) and HOME offer exceptional culinary experiences
Spa and Wellness
Perfect for relaxation while golfers are on the course:
- Rudding Park Spa: Award-winning spa near Harrogate, 30 minutes from Leeds
- The Spa at Oulton Hall: Comprehensive spa adjacent to Oulton Hall Golf Course
- Titanic Spa: Eco-spa in a converted textile mill, 40 minutes from Leeds
Day Trips
Several fascinating destinations are within an hour’s drive of Leeds:
- York: Historic walled city with magnificent Minster cathedral (30 minutes)
- Harrogate: Elegant spa town with beautiful gardens (30 minutes)
- Yorkshire Dales National Park: Stunning landscapes and charming villages (45 minutes)
- Saltaire: UNESCO World Heritage Site and model village (20 minutes)
Explore Leeds While Your Partner Golfs
Discover the many attractions Leeds has to offer for non-golfers.
Why Leeds Stands Out for Golf Enthusiasts
Leeds and District offers a truly exceptional golfing experience that sets it apart from many other UK golf destinations. The region’s unique combination of historic championship courses, modern facilities, and Yorkshire hospitality creates an unforgettable experience for golf enthusiasts of all levels.
What makes Leeds particularly special is the remarkable concentration of Alister MacKenzie-designed courses within such a compact area. Few places in the world can boast multiple courses by this legendary architect who went on to design Augusta National, home of The Masters. The opportunity to experience MacKenzie’s design philosophy across different venues provides a fascinating insight into the evolution of golf course architecture.
Beyond the courses themselves, Leeds offers outstanding value compared to many other premium golf destinations. Green fees, even at the most prestigious clubs, are generally more reasonable than equivalent courses in the south of England or famous Scottish destinations, while the quality remains exceptional.
The city’s central location and excellent transport links make it an ideal base for a golf break, with the added advantage of vibrant urban amenities alongside easy access to the stunning Yorkshire countryside. Whether you’re planning a dedicated golf trip or looking to enjoy some quality rounds as part of a broader Yorkshire experience, Leeds and District delivers a golfing experience that will leave you eager to return.
“Leeds represents one of British golf’s hidden gems. The concentration of world-class courses, particularly those with MacKenzie influences, offers a golfing experience that rivals any destination in the UK, often at a fraction of the cost.”
Start Planning Your Leeds Golf Adventure
Contact the Leeds & District Union of Golf Clubs to create your perfect golfing itinerary.