Championship golf courses
Slope ratings of 130 and above put these courses in the top band of difficulty: demanding tee shots, fast and sloped greens, and layouts that punish a loose swing. Long par-72 layouts and links courses that don't publish slope are classified here on length, par and exposure.
They're bucket-list rounds, so check the scorecard and the guest policy on each course page before you commit a weekend morning to one.
Bulphan
John O'Gaunt
The Millbrook
Frequently asked questions
What qualifies a course as championship difficulty?
A published slope of 130 or more, or, where slope isn't available, a combination of par 72+, 6,800+ yards and an exposed links layout.
Do championship courses allow visitors?
Many do, often with restricted tee-time windows or handicap expectations. The guest policy on each course page has the specifics.
Are these courses suitable for high handicappers?
You can absolutely play them. Just pick forward tees, take plenty of balls, and treat the score as secondary to the day out.