Want to go off the beaten fairway? Greg Evans wants to pass along a tip for you.
We all like to tee it up at a new course we have always wanted to play but thought it was too expensive.
Open golf competitions across the UK aren’t just for scratch players or seasoned club members. They welcome everyday golfers looking for adventure, friendly rivalry, and a great deal. Most importantly, in most cases it gives the chance to play new courses at a fraction of what the normal green fee would be.
Open competitions have a special vibe that’s hard to beat. They bridge the gap between casual play and serious tournaments, giving amateurs a place to shine. For many, the thrill comes from testing themselves in new settings.
For others, it’s meeting new golfers and sharing stories after the 18th green. It’s no surprise these events are growing in popularity.
Experience a wide range of different courses, no two UK opens are the same. Some take you to famous venues with a history shaped by legends.
Others shine a light on lesser-known courses with real character, tucked away in scenic corners of Scotland, Wales, England, and Northern Ireland. Do your research.
You could stand on the first tee at a championship venue one week, then play a quirky seaside links the next. Want to cross off some must-play courses from your wish list? Signing up for opens is the way to do it.
Golf can be a battle with yourself, but playing in an open competition turns every shot into a test. The friendly but competitive setting pushes you to focus more and find new gears in your game.
Nerves on the first tee? That’s normal, but you’ll soon settle in as you see smiles and hear encouragement from fellow players. Don’t forget you can sign up with friends.
You can enjoy value with added perks. Open competitions deliver real value for money.
Entry often includes:
Green fees that would cost more if booked directly.
Prizes for top finishers (sometimes even for longest drive or nearest the pin)
Extras like breakfast rolls, coffee, or post-round meal
Compared to paying the standard rate as a visitor, open comps often give you more golf, more fun, and more memories for less cash.
It’s easier than ever to find and sign up for open events, whether you belong to a club or not. A bit of planning and know-how can set you on the right path.
Many golf clubs post their open dates online. A quick search with your target area and “golf open competition” can show entries from coastal links to city parklands.
• County Golf Associations: Most counties in England, Scotland, and Wales publish calendars featuring club opens for men, women, and juniors.
• Social Media Groups: Facebook and local golf communities often share last-minute spaces, special deals, or personal reviews. Most UK opens are easy to join, but a few basics help you avoid surprises.
• Handicap Certificate: Many events require an official WHS handicap. This keeps things fair for everyone. • Age limits: Juniors, seniors, and ladies’ events are common, so check you meet the criteria for each competition.
• Formats: Stableford, medal, pairs, team scrambles offer of choice. But please read the event format so you know what to expect.
• Entry timeline: Popular opens fill fast, often months in advance. Book early to secure a spot and sort out your travel plans. Particularly for top 100 tracks.
• Payment: Most events take online payment. Keep records so you don’t double-book or miss key dates.
Open golf competitions across the UK offer more than just a scorecard and a green fee.
They create a sense of adventure, bring together golfers from every background, and open the door to fresh challenges. Whether you’re chasing trophies, looking for new courses, or just want to mix up your golf routine, signing up brings lasting value to your game.
Ready to tee it up somewhere new?
Check out a few upcoming opens, dust off your clubs, and go experience golf at its best.
The post Why Open Competitions should be on your radar in 2026 appeared first on Golf News.
Article Link: Why Open Competitions should be on your radar in 2026 - Golf News | Golf Magazine