Having grown up in the UK, I’ve been used to some pretty miserable Winters. Cold, wet days that aren’t much fun to play golf in.
So when it comes to Winter weather, are golf courses actually open during these Winter months? Here’s a quick look at Winter golf.
Are Golf Courses Open In The Winter?
Are Golf Courses Open In The Winter?
Yes, most golf courses stay open during the Winter, however, this will very much depend on the weather conditions.
Many golf courses will aim for year-round golf so long as the weather permits, often playing Winter rules during the colder periods..
This is obviously easier when the golf course is located in warmer countries or in Southern and Western states of the US.
I’m not a huge fan of golf when I can’t really feel my finger from the freezing cold. But I’ll still try and play golf year round so long as the course is open.
The golf season really starts in early Spring, but Winter is still a good time for golf with plenty of time to improve your putting skills, but you can also benefit from a golf courses cheaper green fees.
Winter golfing is really what you make of it. If you don’t mind the cold air and muddy golf ball, it’s definitely worth playing golf in the Winter provided the courses remain open.
When Do Golf Courses Close For Winter?
Many golf courses won’t actually close for Winter, but there are certain cases when a golf course can’t stay open because of the weather conditions.
Here’s a look at the main reasons for when a golf course would close for Winter:
Snow Cover
It’s fairly obvious but golf isn’t a snow sport.
Anytime there’s a heavy snowfall, a golf course will close as it’s not possible to play golf in but also to protect the golf course.
Removing snow from a golf course just isn’t feasible when you take into account the acreage of a golf course.
Turf Protection
Extreme Winter conditions can really damage a golf course turf if not dealt with correctly.
Walking on frosted grass can lead to long-term damage. Plus heavy rainfall can mean the course gets very muddy with lots of footfall walking on it.
For most golf courses, it’s not worth the risk and closing is the best option.
Maintenance
A golf course might close specifically over Winter so that maintenance work can be carried out.
Perhaps the bunkers need re-doing or the fairways need better drainage?
The Winter is the perfect time to get this work done, with less disruption and fewer golfers.
Safety
The risk of slipping up and hurting yourself increases in the Winter months.
For a golf course, it’s not worth the risk of their customers or staff falling over and injuring themselves while on their property.
So when bad weather occurs, often the safest option is to close the course.
Decreased Demand
The cooler temperatures tend to deter many of the less hardy golfers.
With fewer players going out to play and revenue down, keeping the golf course open and operational might not make business sense.
Some golf clubs might just close their outdoor facilities and keep the inside open for members and guests to carry on using such as the bar or indoor sim.
Other Winter Activities
Some golf course locations are built for other activities which are designed for the Winter months.
Courses such as Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, which hosts a DP World Tour event, turn into a sky resort during the Winter and then the golf course opens up in early Spring.
Can You Play Golf In Winter?
Yes, in most cases you’ll be able to play golf in the Winter months, provided that the golf course is open.
Many golf courses will remain open year-round, so if you’re happy with cold and wet conditions, you’ll be able to get some golf in.
If you’re not too keen on the cold weather conditions, the Winter is still a great time to work on your golf game and make swing changes.
As there’s not much competitive golf during these periods, golfers can focus on improving their overall game and golf swing, whether that’s their fundamentals down the driving range or indoor simulator, or it could be at the gym working on their strength and core.
It’s also a great time of year to get out on the course because far fewer golfers are playing golf. Despite the shorter days, there’s usually more available tee times as the fair-weather golfers can’t handle the cold.
Final Thoughts
It might not be as fun as golf in the Summer, but off season golf is still worthwhile for working on your game and making needed improvements.
Golf courses will usually remain open during Winter weather permitting, giving golfers the chance to play all season long.
FAQs
Can you still play golf in the winter?
Yes, if the golf course is open you’ll still be able to get out onto the golf course and play. A course might be closed however for a number of reasons usually related to the weather conditions.
Do people play golf in Winter UK?
Yes, people still play golf during the Winter in the UK even when it’s wet and cold.
Can you play golf in January in UK?
Yes, you can play golf in January in the UK. As long as the golf course is open and not affected too badly by frost or rain, the course will still be playable.
Can you golf in the UK in December?
UK golf in December is still available and is usually a great time to get out onto the course. The course conditions won’t be as good as in the Summer, but the green fees will be less and the course will be quieter.
Do people play golf in the cold?
Yes, people still play golf despite the cold weather. So long as the courses aren’t too wet or frosted, golfers can still get out and play.
Can you play golf in the frost?
Usually, a golf course will be closed if there is a frost as walking on the turf can cause significant damage in the long term.
Founder, Editor
Ed is the founder and editor at EEE Golf. He’s been playing golf for over 20 years, competing in many top amateur events. He’s played courses all over the world and played with some of the best players in the game. His aim is to help educate people about the game of golf and give insights into the sport he loves most.