The UK golf tourism market is expected to experience steady growth over the next decade. With its renowned golf courses and increasing interest in golf as both a leisure activity and a competitive sport, the market is projected to expand from an estimated USD 4.6 billion in 2025 to USD 6.9 billion by 2035, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. Factors contributing to this growth include the allure of historical courses, the increasing popularity of destination golf resorts, and the strong appeal of golf to both domestic and international travelers.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Estimated UK Market Size (2025E) | USD 4.6 billion |
| Projected UK Value (2035F) | USD 6.9 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 4.1% |
The growth in the demand for golf holidays, while iconic UK courses are being modernized, also forms a fundamental growth driver in this market. The UK Golf offers a high variety of facilities, from classical links courses up to modern holiday resorts, suitable for both accomplished and amateur players from all continents. The demographic growth of higher disposable income also increases the consumer base, alongside the growing acceptance of golf breaks.
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The following table provides a comparative assessment of the changes in the CAGR for the base year, 2024, and the forecast for 2025, tracking the shifts in market dynamics.
CAGR Values for UK Golf Tourism Market (2024 and 2025)
The UK golf tourism market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 2.9% in the first half of 2024, with an increase to 3.3% in the second half. In 2025, the market is expected to maintain this momentum to 3.9% with a slight increase to 4.2% by the end of the year.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Market Value | The UK wedding tourism Market is estimated at £14 billion, contributing 22% to Europe’s £64 billion wedding tourism market |
| Domestic Market Share | Domestic weddings make up 60% of the UK market, driven by iconic locations like the Lake District, Cotswolds, and Edinburgh |
| International Market Share | International couples contribute 40%, with major visitors from the USA, India, and China |
| Top Venue Types | Castles (30%), countryside estates (35%), coastal venues (20%), boutique hotels (10%), and urban landmarks (5%) |
| Annual Growth Rate | The UK wedding tourism Market is growing at 5.6%, slightly above Europe’s average growth rate of 5%. |
| Key Seasons | Summer (50%) and spring (30%) dominate, with fewer weddings in autumn (15%) and winter (5%) |
The UK wedding tourism sector holds an important place within Europe's market. It generated over one-fifth of the total value contributed by the region. Italy and France are commonly associated with destination weddings, yet there is renewed interest in using historic venues within the UK.
Castles such as Highclere in Downton Abbey, Windsor, and other estates surrounding the Cotswolds and Scottish Highlands are phenomenally in demand for both domestic and international weddings. These venues feature a unique mix of history, charm, and modern luxury, with which couples have sought out a quintessentially British experience.
International tourists dominate UK wedding tourism, with large segments of couples coming from the USA, India, and China. They come to witness the ultimate experience of getting married in an aesthetically perfect backdrop along with royal-themed weddings and cultural celebrations.
Among Europe, the United Kingdom is noteworthy for its heritage and exclusiveness. It is also witnessing increases in boutique or intimate weddings - a trend gaining popularity in recent times for unique, personalized small-scale celebrations. The UK wedding tourism Market is emerging as a distinct niche in an otherwise competitive market in Europe through its unique offering and focus on heritage.
| Date | Development & Details |
|---|---|
| Jan 2025 | Launch of Luxury Golf Packages in Scotland: Gleneagles Resort launched new exclusive golf packages, offering VIP treatment, luxury accommodations, and private tours of historical sites, attracting high-net-worth individuals. |
| Dec 2024 | Family-Friendly Golf Initiatives in Wales: Celtic Manor Resort introduced new family-focused golf programs, including child-friendly lessons, activities for younger players, and customized family packages. |
| Nov 2024 | Opening of New Championship Course in Northern Ireland: Royal Portrush Golf Club unveiled a new, challenging 18-hole course designed to cater to both amateur and professional golfers, positioning the club as a key destination for international tourists. |
| Oct 2024 | The Ladies European Tour (LET) partnered with global sponsors to create the first-ever "Aramco Team Series" in Europe, offering a multi-event series with mixed-team formats that cater to both professional and amateur golfers. |
| Sept 2024 | St Andrews Links Trust revealed the launch of a new luxury boutique hotel near the Old Course. The 5-star hotel will provide golf enthusiasts and tourists with an immersive experience, offering direct views of the iconic 18th hole and access to exclusive golf packages, including private tee times and personalized concierge services. |
Online Bookings to Dominate the Market
In 2025, online direct bookings are expected to dominate the UK golf tourism market, with a projected market share of 70%. This trend is primarily driven by the increasing reliance on digital tools and platforms, which offer unparalleled convenience and transparency for tourists. Golfers can now easily book their golf vacations directly through golf-specific websites like Golfbreaks.com, resort websites, and online travel agencies (OTAs), which allow them to compare prices, customize packages, and secure instant confirmations without the need for intermediaries.
The rise in digital bookings is attributed to a number of factors, including improved internet infrastructure, the preference for self-service, and the flexibility offered by online platforms. Consumers enjoy the ability to book at their own pace, browse various golf destinations, and even access exclusive deals and offers that may not be available through traditional travel agents. While travel agents will still account for 30% of bookings, especially for those seeking personalized services, the vast majority of golf tourists are opting for the speed and convenience of online booking.
This shift transforms the golf tourism landscape, thereby empowering consumers as well as granting Market players opportunities to become leaders in the markets by offering targeted experiences and transparent booking processes in golf tourism in every corner of the globe.
Corporate Golf Tourism Leads the Market
Corporate golf tourism is anticipated to be the largest segment of the UK golf tourism market in 2025, commanding a significant 35% of the total market share. This growth is largely due to the rising popularity of golf as a tool for team-building, networking, and client engagement in the corporate world. Many companies have come to appreciate the appeal of hosting events and activities in golf courses. From corporate retreats, tournaments, and incentive programs, among others, a company can conduct these activities using such venues.
In this line of business are such big-name golf resorts like The Belfry, Gleneagles, and St Andrews, who can offer tailored packages for their corporate clients with services that range from exclusive use of event spaces to premium meeting facilities and five-star accommodations. These resorts also tailor golf packages to corporate groups, allowing businesses to host tournaments or team-building activities in an upscale, stress-free environment. Corporate golf tourism benefits from golf’s unique combination of leisure and business opportunities, which helps build relationships in a more relaxed yet professional setting. That is why this portion is likely to remain strong as more companies look for memorable and engaging ways of connecting their employees, clients, and partners with luxurious amenities and services in the world's leading golf resorts.
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The UK golf tourism market is moderately competitive, with a mix of iconic resorts and regional players offering specialized experiences. Major players include Gleneagles Resort, Celtic Manor Resort, and St. Andrews Links Trust, alongside other regional operators offering niche golf packages for specific tourist groups.
Leading players in the UK market include Gleneagles Resort (22%), St. Andrews Links Trust (18%), and Celtic Manor Resort (12%), with a variety of smaller operators catering to specialized groups, such as luxury golf tours and family-focused resorts.
Small and Niche Players Establishing Their Footprint in the UK Golf Tourism Market
Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club in Scotland has been given the green light for a major expansion, which will include a new 18-hole course, luxury accommodations, and improved practice facilities. The new development is expected to attract a wide range of clients, including international visitors, thereby boosting the local economy.
Similarly, The Machrie on Islay has reinvented itself to be a round-the-year venue by providing activities like golfing, cycling, and wildlife visits along with such luxury amenities like a spa, gourmet dining experience. This opens up the door to a large number of users who want either adventure or peace.
The UK golf tourism market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% from 2025 to 2035.
The market is projected to reach USD 6.9 billion by 2035.
The key drivers include the increasing demand for luxury golf experiences, the UK's rich golfing heritage, and the growth of corporate golf tourism.
Key players include Gleneagles Resort, St. Andrews Links Trust, Celtic Manor Resort, and other leading UK golf resorts offering world-class golfing experiences.
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