Occupying a spectacular clifftop position above St Austell Bay on Cornwall’s south coast, Carlyon Bay Golf Club combines dramatic sea views with an enjoyable 18-hole championship course. Stretching to approximately 6,500 yards and playing to a par of 72, the course makes the most of its coastal location while offering a varied challenge that changes noticeably as the round progresses.

The opening ten holes provide Carlyon Bay’s most distinctive stretch of golf, running close to the cliff tops with extensive views across St Austell Bay. The exposed position means coastal conditions can play an important part in the challenge, with wind influencing club selection and shot choice. Well-maintained fairways and greens are complemented by strategically positioned hazards, creating a course that is approachable for visiting golfers while still demanding good course management.

As the course moves away from the coastline, its character changes. The later holes wind into more sheltered parkland, where scattered trees and the rolling landscape provide a contrast to the exposed opening stretch. This combination gives Carlyon Bay something of a two-part character, allowing golfers to experience both dramatic clifftop golf and traditional parkland-style holes during the same round.

Alongside the Championship Course, Carlyon Bay offers extensive practice facilities. These include a six-acre practice ground, two putting greens and a nine-hole Approach Course, providing plenty of opportunity to warm up or work on different parts of the game. PGA Professionals are also available for tuition, while the club’s TrackMan Simulator Studio provides an indoor option for practice and virtual golf, whatever the weather.

The on-site Pro Shop provides golfing essentials, equipment hire and expert advice, while the Clubhouse offers a relaxed setting for food and drinks before or after a round. Its terrace overlooks the course and St Austell Bay, making it a particularly inviting spot to finish a day’s golf.

For golfers staying at The Carlyon Bay Hotel, access to the Championship Course is complimentary, making it especially convenient for a stay-and-play golf break. Visitors and members can also play the course independently.

With its combination of clifftop scenery, varied course design and excellent practice facilities, Carlyon Bay Golf Club provides one of Cornwall’s most memorable resort-golf experiences and is an excellent choice for golfers looking to include the county’s south coast in a UK golf holiday.