From the warm glow of a sunrise tee-off to relaxed evening rounds with friends, this summer has reminded us just how good golf can be for both body and mind. With the UK enjoying one of its finest golf seasons in recent memory, golfers of all ages are taking full advantage and the benefits stretch far beyond the fairway.
According to the Met Office, spring 2025 has been the warmest since records began in 1884. All four UK nations experienced unusually high temperatures and prolonged dry spells, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, especially golf. Extended daylight hours and minimal rainfall meant fewer cancellations, drier courses, and more chances to play. For once, British golfers haven’t had to keep their waterproofs permanently packed in their bags.
We surveyed UK golfers this summer to find out how the weather had affected their game and any benefits they had noted.
What the data says
Data from England Golf confirms that participation is up this year. Reports show that over 5.75 million scores were submitted through the World Handicap System™ in the first half of 2025 alone, a 29% increase compared to the same period in 2024. July 2025 also saw a noticeable boost in activity, highlighting golf’s continued appeal across all demographics.
England Golf’s COO commented: “Certainly, the warmer weather this year has played a key role in more people getting out and playing more golf, but there are other important factors at play which are helping us to increase participation.”
Many players have been squeezing in a few holes after work, taking longer weekend tee times, or simply enjoying more time outside with their clubs. And it’s not just anecdotal.
Survey results reveal:
- 41% of golfers reported playing more golf than usual this summer.
- 15% significantly increased their rounds.
- 45% said weather affects their golf habits.
In regions such as Northern Ireland, Wales, and the North East, over 60% of respondents said weather typically acts as a barrier to play but this summer’s dry and sunny conditions have flipped the script.
The local picture
While most of the UK saw a rise in golf activity this summer, regional behaviour showed some interesting trends.
For example:
- 50% of golfers in both Northern Ireland and the North East played more than usual.
- Over 60% of golfers in Northern Ireland, the North East and Wales reported the weather as the biggest barrier to play, the highest in the UK.
- Meanwhile, London saw a more mixed picture, with 41% playing more but 23% actually playing less.
Golf clubs across the UK have seen noticeable changes in how and when people are playing. At Princes Risborough Golf Club, the Pro Shop Manager Luke Viney has observed:
“This summer’s fantastic weather has really driven activity at the club. We’ve seen a noticeable uptick in casual, non-member golfers not only visiting more frequently but also returning consistently, some groups have even more than doubled their rounds compared to last year.”
He added that “early morning tee times between 7:30am and 9am are consistently booked out, while after-work slots post-5:30pm are proving especially popular among regulars trying to avoid the midday heat.
Membership has also seen a modest rise, and there’s also been a spike in beginners signing up for lessons with the club’s PGA professional.”
Golf for body and mind
With all this extra time on the course, many golfers are reaping serious health and wellbeing benefits. Combining our survey with other research this is what we found.
Physical perks
- Walking an 18-hole course can see players covering 5+ miles, contributing to cardiovascular fitness.
- Golf provides a low-impact, joint-friendly way to stay active, making it ideal for all age groups.
- 49% of surveyed players agreed golf has improved their physical health.
- 14% said it helped with an injury or ongoing physical issue.
Mental and emotional boosts
- A whopping 59% said playing golf helps them relax.
- 52% felt it boosted their mood.
- 47% credited it with improving their social connections.
- Nearly half said it gave them a much-needed break from daily stress.
- 30% enjoyed the chance to channel their competitive side.
Matt Scott, a golf fitness expert summed it up well:
“Golf offers so much more than just exercise — it’s social, it’s stimulating, and it gives people a sense of purpose and routine. Whether you’re walking the course with friends or enjoying a quiet round on your own, it can be incredibly mentally refreshing.”
They also noted that for older adults in particular, golf can be a sustainable, enjoyable, and mentally engaging way to stay healthy.
This summer has been a reminder of just how transformative golf can be. With the right weather, players of all ages and skill levels have embraced the sport not just as a game, but as a gateway to better health, stronger connections, and more joy in the great outdoors. If the forecasts hold, there’s still time to enjoy a few more sunny rounds and take full advantage of a season to remember.
Specialist golf insurance from SportsCover Direct
With golf participation on the rise, it’s more important than ever to protect yourself, your gear, and others, for confidence whilst you play.
SportsCover Direct’s specialist golf insurance offers cover for personal liability in case you accidentally injure someone or damage property on the course, even including up to £250 towards the traditional clubhouse round if you score a hole-in-one during a competition.
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Get a quote online to get covered in minutes. For more information, contact our team if you have any questions.
Sources
- One Poll Survey July 2025 (1000 UK adult golfer respondents)
- England Golf participation and membership statistics (2023–2025)
This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation.