Painswick Golf Club

A little different. narrow fairways, blind green approaches - on some holes you really need to try and hit a spot on the fairway and not just go for distance and use the slopes. Still lost a ball but made a couple of birdies.

Definitely one that we will go back to

Painswick Golf Club is deceptive in the way only the best old courses are. On paper, it looks short and inviting. In reality, it punishes anything less than disciplined golf.

Set high in the Gloucestershire hills, the course delivers outstanding views from almost every hole. The setting is understated on arrival—no grand entrance, no pretence—but that restraint reflects the course itself. It doesn’t need to announce its difficulty.

The opening tee shot sets the tone immediately: uphill, blind, and uncertain. That theme repeats throughout. There are few conventional bunkers, but that absence is deliberate. Instead, the course defends itself with natural hazards—craters, steep slopes, valleys, and heavily contoured fairways that demand precise placement and constant awareness just to track your ball.

Built over the remains of an ancient hill fort, the layout feels discovered rather than designed. The land hasn’t been shaped to suit golf; golf has been laid over the land. Old quarry features and defensive earthworks now function as obstacles, giving the course a character that modern designs struggle to replicate.

What makes Painswick distinct is its shared landscape. Golfers, walkers, and dog owners all occupy the same terrain, yet it works. There’s a quiet mutual respect, and the atmosphere is notably friendly—help finding a lost ball is as likely to come from a stranger as your playing partner.

The course’s modest length will tempt aggressive play. That’s a mistake. Indiscipline is punished quickly, and recovery is rarely straightforward.

Painswick offers something increasingly rare: a course where history, landscape, and challenge are inseparable. It’s not long, it’s not polished, but it is authentic—and excellent value for money.

Fantastic course butting alongside beautiful natural landscape. Golfing amongst walkers and breathtaking views. A course I keep coming back to. It's special.

Challenging course with great picturesque holes. Located on Painswick Hill offering stunning views. Nice clubhouse with a warm and friendly atmosphere. Met a few members whilst playing who were very welcoming. Will be back again

What a course!! If you are up for a challenge then give it a go. The friendliest members and staff, willing to offer advice and give you the warmest welcome. The course is both quirky and challenging with stunning views. Great value for money and will be going back for sure! Although challenging my wife who is new to golf played with me and thoroughly enjoyed the round so don't be afraid to give it a go. Great course!!

I love Painswick as a course. It has a diverse range of holes and some epic tee locations. The staff are very friendly and accommodating. Wish I lived closer!

Once again the course is fun fun fun. Its great to wander round with a constant smile on our faces, if you appreciate quirky, stunning views and ancient history, Painswick never disappoints.

Best value green fee in Uk

Very misty round with senior tournament cancelled ahead of me. I slowed up and walked to each green before walking back to each shot - watching out for Cotswold walkers! Amazing experience even with a hole closed temporarily. Fantastic memorable holes - tough and challenging but overall unique

Booked a three ball at 8:20 tee time , couple of members were already out on course. One of our group was late arriving but pro shop was happy for us to wait for home to arrive.

Course is fantastic with 360 degree stunning views once up on the Painswick Hill trig point. It is a course with plenty of character and interesting features on every hole

Definitely worth a visit, course is short but full of links style challenges. Great views nearly all the way round. Kept in great condition all year round considering its location and public roads / footpaths.

Most relaxed and welcoming club in Gloucestershire, staff are always friendly.

Exceptional value for money all year.

Keeping an eye on walkers before each tee shot is a must and can be frustrating but adds to the character.

One of my favourite places to play locally. Would recommend!

Cheers !

An exceptionally enjoyable and challenging course. Not that long but tight and tricky. Pleasant clubhouse serving food. Fantastic value for money overall.

Very interesting course to play with great views. Shame the general public aren’t a little more aware of golfers!!

V difficult and different course. Lots of climbing. Slight downside is the public rights of way which sometimes slows play

Early game and even with rain and wind the course is exceptionally well maintained

Stunning views after the fog had cleared

Great facilities

Pro shop employee was very welcoming, gave good course tips and asked for feedback on course after. Course was in great condition, greens rolled well and come challenging holes through the course. Looking to go back to play again asap

Decent little course with some stunning views will be back to play again