Golf Tourism England recently hosted a select group of tour operators on a FAM trip to Surrey and Berkshire — a region widely regarded as the heartland of English inland golf. Just a short distance from London, this area blends world-class heathland courses with exceptional hotels, refined dining, and seamless accessibility, making it one of the most compelling golf destinations anywhere in the world.
The FAM showcased four of the region’s standout courses, each offering its own distinct expression of classic English design. Walton Heath, with its championship pedigree and rich Ryder Cup history, set the tone with expansive heathland vistas and unmistakable Fowler character. Worplesdon, one of the celebrated “Three Ws”, revealed the timeless beauty of Surrey golf — pine, heather, and elegant routing that rewards thoughtful play. Participants also experienced the drama and charm of Hindhead, a course defined by sweeping valleys, elevated views, and natural contours that highlight the very best of the Surrey Hills. The trip concluded with The Berkshire, home to two of Herbert Fowler’s masterpieces and among the most admired inland pairings in the country. Together, these clubs illustrated exactly why Surrey and Berkshire continue to attract golfers from across the globe: architectural integrity, immaculate presentation, and a purity of terrain that is increasingly rare.
Complementing the golf was a carefully selected hotel and dining programme, designed to reflect the hospitality and luxury standards expected by international travellers. Guests stayed at the welcoming Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa in Ascot before moving to the Fairmont Windsor Park, one of England’s most sophisticated modern hotels, combining contemporary comfort with first-class service. Dining highlights included the Fairmont’s acclaimed 1215 Restaurant and the outstanding No.15 Chobham, a local favourite offering refined, relaxed, countryside cuisine. These venues underscored the region’s ability not only to deliver world-class golf but to do so alongside a hospitality experience that matches the expectations of premium golf travellers.
What stood out throughout the trip was the extraordinary proximity of everything involved. The group enjoyed top-100 calibre golf, luxury accommodation, and high-quality dining within short, effortless transfers — all within easy reach of Heathrow. This convenience is one of the region’s greatest assets and a major reason why Surrey and Berkshire feature so prominently in long-haul itineraries.
The FAM trip reinforced a simple truth: Surrey and Berkshire represent one of the world’s most complete inland golf destinations. The combination of heritage, beauty, accessibility, and hospitality creates an experience that resonates deeply with the international golf travel trade. The trip strengthened valuable relationships, showcased the region’s premium offering, and reaffirmed its position at the very core of England’s high-end golf tourism product.
