Links vs Parkland Courses
Also known as: links course, what is a links course, links golf, parkland course, links vs parkland, what is a parkland course, seaside golf course
A links course is a coastal course built on sandy ground near the sea, with firm, fast turf, few trees, deep bunkers and lots of wind. A parkland course is an inland course with trees, softer and lusher grass and less wind. The two play very differently.
Links ground drains quickly, so the ball bounces and rolls a long way. Wind is often the main challenge. Golfers on links keep the ball low and play bump-and-run shots that land short and roll onto the green. Bunkers can be small and deep.
Parkland courses are softer. The ball stops faster, so golfers fly it to the target. Trees line many holes, and water is common. Wind matters less, though it still affects high shots.
Other types include heathland, with heather and sandy soil inland, and desert courses. Many golfers use "links" loosely for any golf course, but the true meaning is a seaside course on sandy land.
Tips by skill level
On a links, plan for roll. Pick a landing spot short of the green and let the ball run.
Practice a low punch and a long bump-and-run before a links trip. They are the shots that save strokes there.
Example
On a links trip, a parkland golfer keeps flying wedges over the green. A local tells him to land the ball short and let it run. His scores improve the next day.
Why it matters
Knowing the course type changes how you plan shots. It helps you pick the right club and trajectory.
Common mistakes
- Playing high, spinning shots into a links wind
- Ignoring roll when choosing clubs on firm ground
- Calling every course a links
Frequently asked questions
Why are links courses so windy?
They sit by the sea on open land with few trees, so there is little to block the wind.
What is a parkland golf course?
An inland course with trees and softer, greener grass. The ball stops faster than on a links.
Related terms
- Playing in the WindInto the wind, take more club and swing smoothly to keep the ball lower with normal spin. A headwind costs more distance than an equal tailwind adds. Downwind, expect the ball to fly farther and stop less, and in a crosswind aim off and let the wind bring the ball back.
- Bump-and-RunA bump-and-run is a low chip that lands on the green just past the fringe and rolls to the hole like a putt. It uses the fringe and green to deliver the ball.
- Knock-Down ShotA knock-down shot is an approach kept lower and more controlled than normal, usually with more club and a three-quarter swing. It fights wind or sharpens distance control.
- Course ManagementCourse management is your strategy for where to aim, which club to hit, and how to play each hole. The goal is to limit risk and score well for your skill level.
- Carry-to-Roll RatioThe carry-to-roll ratio is how far a chip flies compared with how far it rolls. On a flat, medium-speed green, a common guide is about 1 to 2 for a pitching wedge, 1 to 3 for a 9-iron and 1 to 4 for an 8-iron. Pick a landing spot, then choose the club whose roll covers the rest of the distance.
Related guides & benchmarks
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