Golf in Sussex
Rolling downland, historic heathland and coastal golf, paired with refined country-house hotels and restorative spa escapes.
Sussex offers one of southern England’s most varied golf landscapes. The South Downs deliver fast-running, exposed golf with expansive views, while woodland and heathland courses inland provide a more sheltered strategic test. Along the coast, sea air, changing winds and easy access to Brighton, Eastbourne and the wider South Coast create a distinctive short-break proposition.
For golfers seeking more than eighteen holes, Sussex also combines well with country-house spas, destination hotels and wellness-led stays. It is an ideal region for a two-night Stay · Play · Recover itinerary within practical reach of London and Gatwick.
Best golf courses in Sussex
Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club
Two highly regarded courses set within Ashdown Forest, with natural terrain, traditional architecture and a strong sense of place.
East Sussex National
A major 36-hole resort near Uckfield, offering two substantial parkland courses, hotel accommodation and a complete golf-break infrastructure.
Piltdown Golf Club
A distinctive heathland course with natural hazards, heather and a strategic character that rewards control rather than brute force.
East Brighton Golf Club
Open, breezy downland golf above the Sussex coast, with panoramic sea views and a layout shaped by wind and elevation.
Copthorne Golf Club
A mature parkland course close to Gatwick, combining strategic tree-lined holes with convenient access for London and international visitors.
Worthing Golf Club
Two courses on the South Downs with firm turf, exposed conditions and a traditional club atmosphere close to the coast.
Stay · Play · Recover
East Sussex National
The region’s most straightforward all-in-one golf stay, with two courses, hotel, spa and leisure facilities in one location.
Ockenden Manor
A refined Sussex retreat with a modern spa, strong dining and easy access to central Sussex courses.
South Lodge
A premium hotel and spa near Horsham, well suited to golfers combining inland Sussex golf with high-quality recovery and dining.
Planning intelligence
Best for
Downland golf, short breaks from London, couples’ escapes, coastal weekends and golfers who value variety across a compact region.
When to visit
Late spring to early autumn offers the most reliable conditions. Exposed downland courses remain playable for much of the year but can become demanding in strong winds.
Getting there
Gatwick, the M23, A23 and direct rail services to Brighton, Eastbourne and Horsham make Sussex highly accessible from London and the South East.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best golf resort in Sussex?
East Sussex National is the region’s leading full-service golf resort, with two courses, hotel accommodation and spa facilities.
Is Sussex good for a golf-and-spa break?
Yes. The region has several strong combinations, especially East Sussex National, Ockenden Manor and South Lodge.
Can Sussex be visited for a weekend from London?
Yes. Many central and West Sussex venues are reachable in around one to two hours, depending on traffic and departure point.
Plan your Sussex golf escape
Explore more UK golf regions, destination guides and Stay · Play · Recover recommendations from The Global Golfer.