Canberra Public Golf Course, one of Canberra’s most recommended golf courses. Photo: Ian Bushnell.
Whether you’re starting out or are a truly seasoned player, there’s nothing quite like a game of golf on a beautiful Canberra day. The capital, despite its size, is spoiled for choice with quality golf clubs, many surrounded by rolling hills and lush scenery. You’ll find that most have quality amenities for club members and guests.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualifies to consider when choosing a golf course, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great golf course?
Choosing the right golf course is essential for your game and enjoyment. Each course has its own personality and offers amenities and opportunities to refine your game.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a golf course.
- Excellent course. First off, the course should be top-quality. It should be well maintained with various challenges to keep you on top of your game.
- Scenic backdrop. A day on the golf course can be even more rewarding and relaxing when the scenic backdrop is stunning.
- Gear hire. You may not own all the gear necessary to play golf. That’s why the best golf clubs offer quality gear hire at fair prices.
- Other facilities. Quality golf courses offer facilities, including places to eat and drink after your game. You might want a club with a pro shop. You might also want spaces for corporate or private functions.
- Welcoming attitude. Whether you’re a member or guest, or new to golf or a pro, you’ll want a welcoming club. There’s nothing worse than a club that’s arrogant.
The best golf clubs in Canberra
RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Gold Creek Country Club
One of the finest golf courses in inland Australia, the Gold Greek Country Club offers an 18-hole, par 72 course and a first-class, grassed driving range. The Club’s pure bent greens provide top-playing surfaces and some of the most rewarding golfing experiences in the country.
With a championship layout designed by Bruce Devlin, the Gold Greek Country Club attracts beginners through to seasoned pros. Its signature holes—the short par 3 7th and the long par 5 14th—have breathtaking views of the Brindabella Ranges.
The Gold Greek Country Club, which has been going strong since 1996, provides state-of-the-art facilities for golfers at all levels. Located in the prestigious Nicholls Estate, members and visitors can fine tune their swing at the largest grass driving range in the capital (open daily).
The leading public access course in the ACT, the Gold Greek Country Club’s amenities include a Golf Shop, which offers a complete hire service at great prices—clubs (right and left hand), bags, trundlers and umbrellas. Those wanting to sharpen their game can take lessons from professional, highly skilled instructors. Gold competitions are held each Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday and on public holidays.
With a true country club feel, members and guests can relax at the Clubhouse. Golf competitions are held each Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday and on public holidays.
Vickram Rai wrote on Google, “Great staff, course in good condition and always a pleasant experience. The Pro Shop staff are some of the best in town! Very sincere, welcoming, and always flexible, even to a casual golfer like me who is not a member at their club.”
Canberra Public Golf Course
Canberra Public Golf Course, with a new lease on life and improved landscaping, offers a few challenging pine tree lined fairways for even the most skilled players. Known as “the friendly club”, the course is open seven days, including public holidays and is open to everyone, no membership required. Professional staff are on site providing high levels of service and Canberra Public Golf Course has hire equipment for women and men.
Canberra Golf Course is available for corporate golf events and functions.
Nathaniel Beldom wrote on Google, “… the course was well designed and the staff were good.”
Fairbairn Golf Club
Fairbairn Golf Club is a full 18-hole, par 70 course with well-maintained grass greens and fairways defined by established trees. The clubhouse has a fully licensed bar, sizeable BBQ area and is available for events and functions. Membership options available. The club is affiliated to Golf Australia.
On Google, James Kerr wrote, “This place is in great condition. Greens roll well and fairways are well maintained. Nice tees with new signs and ball washers too. Great views across to Mount Majura, the airport and city.”
Belconnen Magpies Golf Club
The challenging, 18-hold Magpies Belconnen Golf Club welcomes members of the public to its quality facilities. The resident PGA golf professional and team are on hand for support. The club hires clubs, buggies and carts from the Pro Shop. Open every day for reasonably priced lunches and dinners. Enjoy live sport on huge screens.
Tim Purtell wrote on Google, “Nice course, challenging enough without being intimidating. Love the warbling magpies and exemplary conduct from the other players …”
Royal Canberra Golf Club
One of the most beautiful courses in Australia, the historic Royal Canberra Golf Club is world-class. The “Royal” as it’s affectionally known, is a 27-hole championship course within the Westbourne Woods arboretum. The elegant Clubhouse, with spectacular views, offers members and guests a special spot to sit back, relax and enjoy full-table service or a quiet drink. Business and private functions available.
James Watson wrote on Google, “… Australia's capital contains one of the established crown jewels of Australian golf …”
Federal Golf Club
The Federal Golf Club has an 18-hole championship course with expertly maintained Santa Ana couch fairways, quality grass greens, and well-placed bunkers. Set among lush bushland, players at this premier public-access golf course enjoy picture-perfect panoramic views from every hole. After the game, head to the Clubhouse for a drink or bite to eat.
On Google, Paul Rains wrote, “Very friendly Pro Shop staff. Course was fantastic. Greens are fast and tricky. Well worth a round.”
If you’re looking for more information on other fun and rewarding activities in Canberra, you might like our articles on the best driving ranges, best mini golf courses, and the best skydiving and adventure activities Canberra has to offer.
Your experience with golf courses in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the golf clubs listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right golf club?
Many factors are at play when choosing a golf course. These include budget, location and layout. You’ll also want to think about conditions and the breadth and level of amenities. Last, but not least, consider your skill level. If you’re a beginner, you might want a great practice facility and maybe even lessons from a golf pro.
How much does it cost to join a golf club?
Prices vary from golf club to golf club. Your best bet is to research memberships fees online and/or call the club to have a chat.
Are all golf courses open to the public?
Not all golf courses are open to the public. Some require memberships and members can then invite guests. Others welcome all players.
What type of memberships are available?
This varies across golf clubs, so you’ll need to do some research. Many clubs have varying membership categories and packages to cover diverse needs. While some are exclusive and expensive, others are more accessible and economical.
What type of amenities can I expect from a golf course?
Some clubs have full-on amenities and others are more pared back. Amenities can include equipment hire, golf store, restaurants, and bars. Good golf clubs often host special events and golf tournaments.
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