A breathtaking panorama of a royal golf course, notable for its elevation changes and scenic beauty.
The designation of ‘Royal’ golf courses, recognized by the British monarchy, signifies excellence and tradition in the sport. With 64 courses globally, this title reflects both historical significance and a commitment to quality. Only clubs meeting strict criteria can bear this prestigious title, often linked to civic causes. From renowned locations like Royal Portrush to Royal Dornoch, these courses not only offer challenging layouts but also contribute to the rich heritage of golf, continuously evolving with renovations and new additions around the world.
The world’s golf landscape features a distinctive group of 64 courses worldwide bearing the prestigious ‘Royal’ title, officially recognized by the British monarchy. These courses, scattered across multiple countries, symbolize long-standing tradition, excellence, and often, historical significance.
The tradition of designating a golf course as ‘Royal’ dates back to 1833 when the Perth Golfing Society received royal patronage from King William IV. Today, official ‘Royal’ status is awarded through a formal application process. Clubs seeking the title must demonstrate a history of excellence, financial stability, and their commitment to civic or charitable causes. Once approved by the reigning monarch, a course is added to the exclusive list, ensuring it adheres to high standards of historic preservation and quality.
Although most ‘Royal’ clubs are located within the United Kingdom and Ireland, the designation extends beyond borders, including sites in Malta, Kenya, Zimbabwe, India, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong. In total, these courses reflect a blend of tradition, prestige, and geographic diversity, with the number of courses increasing over the decades. During Queen Elizabeth II’s reign—from 1952 until her passing in 2022—nine new courses gained the ‘Royal’ designation, illustrating the continued significance of this honor.
Not all courses bearing ‘Royal’ in their names meet the official criteria; only those officially recognized can appear on reputable golf rankings and lists. The distinction between ‘Royal’ courses and those claiming the title informally is notable, with the latter lacking the historical and institutional backing necessary for official recognition. Rankings by respected sources primarily include those courses with verified ‘Royal’ status, highlighting their contribution to the sport’s heritage and quality.
One of the most renowned courses is Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland, which is hosting The Open this week. Its combination of scenic views and challenging terrain makes it a favorite among players and spectators alike. Features include significant elevation changes, such as a downhill tee shot toward the ocean and a notably difficult uphill par 3 named ‘Calamity.’
Another highly regarded course is Royal Dornoch in Scotland, praised for its challenging layout and stunning setting. It has been highlighted by major golf publications as the top international course and has been played multiple times by the author of this overview since 2015.
Other courses include Royal Melbourne’s composite course, often debated in rankings for its limited accessibility, as only professional players and select members can play it. Similarly, Royal Troon’s Old Course is famed for its ‘Postage Stamp’ par 3, an iconic shot under 150 yards long, known for its difficulty.
Not all ‘Royal’ clubs are universally admired. Royal St. George’s, despite hosting 15 Open Championships, is often criticized for its monotonous visual appeal and lack of scenic diversity, affecting its ranking appeal. Conversely, courses like Royal Durban and Royal Dublin have undergone renovations since 2016 and 2023 respectively, with the latter maintaining its historic bunkering and classic design elements.
The tradition of ‘Royal’ golf clubs continues to evolve with new additions and renovations. The Royal St. David’s course in Wales, for example, played a crucial role in sparking a passion for links golf during a press trip. Meanwhile, Royal Sydney in Australia saw a comprehensive redesign completed in 2023, revitalizing its prominence in the international golf scene.
The ‘Royal’ designation remains a mark of distinction in golf, rooted in historical governance and high standards of excellence. As these courses symbolize tradition, challenge, and prestige, they continue to attract enthusiasts and preserve the sport’s rich heritage. The author encourages golf fans to share their opinions on favorite ‘Royal’ courses and how rankings reflect their quality and importance.
With the ongoing appreciation of monarchial influence in golf, the list of royal courses globally is expected to grow, further enriching the legacy of these institutions.
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