Golf is surging in popularity right now. Across the UK, the sport has started to attract people who might never have considered picking up a club a few years ago.
Where once it was exclusive, with traditional members’ clubs or high-end courses, you can now find flexible venues and beginner-friendly sessions.
Here’s a look at what’s making people head to their nearest tee for the first time.
How many are playing golf now?
So, how many of us are now going for a round? According to Sporting Insights, in Great Britain there was a 7% increase in total golf rounds played during the third quarter of 2025 compared to quarter two. This was also 7% up on quarter three in 2024.
Additionally, England Golf recently revealed that club membership has grown by almost 20,000 golfers in the past year, showing that there’s a real appetite for golf.
With the longer summer days just around the corner, we could be set for busy courses and an influx of newbies. But what is it that makes it so appealing?
A sport that fits modern lifestyles
You no longer need to clear your calendar for an entire weekend to enjoy the sport. Traditional 18-hole rounds still have their place, but clubs across the country now champion shorter formats like 9-hole loops and express formats.
If you face a packed working week, you can also easily spend an hour at a floodlit driving range after dinner. These venues allow you to enjoy the game entirely on your own terms without committing to a five-hour game.
The social and mental benefits of playing golf
This is a chance to unplug from digital screens and clear your mind. You’re then free to cover several miles of green space at a gentle pace, lowering your stress levels. You also have to focus on every swing, which naturally leads to you switching off from your usual to-do list.
On a social level, golf gives you the opportunity to catch up with friends. Alternatively, you might want to use it to network with new acquaintances between shots.
Lower barriers to getting started
While there’s a place for expensive country club memberships, local facilities are running affordable taster sessions that make golf more accessible for a range of players.
Look out for venues that provide free equipment hire for newcomers and host group coaching clinics that welcome everyone.
Local initiatives frequently subsidise these introductory academies to make your first experience completely stress-free. You can turn up in standard sportswear and borrow a club from the professional shop before receiving expert tuition without making any massive upfront financial commitment.
Why the right equipment improves the experience
As you progress past the initial introductory stage, selecting gear that supports your body will directly dictate how much fun you have.
Golf requires a lot of walking over uneven, wet terrain, which means standard trainers can easily cause slips or sore arches. Investing in high-quality footwear will immediately ground your swing and keep your feet dry. Research premium men’s golf shoes that give you the lateral stability and underfoot cushioning required to keep you comfortable for all 18 holes.
How you can start playing without overthinking it
The easiest way to build your confidence is to book in at a local driving range with a friend this weekend. Starting in a relaxed environment removes the pressure of keeping score and lets you focus entirely on making clean contact with the ball.
By choosing low-pressure environments early on, you will naturally build the skill and confidence needed to enjoy the sport for a lifetime.