Etiquette

Etiquette is about consideration and courtesy towards fellow golfers and respect for the course

Starting on the tee

  • Be on time! It is usually to be on the tee at least 5 minutes before your tee time
  • Turn off mobile - most courses do not allow them on the course or in the clubhouse anyway
  • Have easily accessible your pencil to mark your card, tees, ball marker and pitch fork
  • Be ready to play your shot with your club, glove, tee and ball ready to go
  • The honor of play is usually lowest handicap or winner of the last hole to tee off first
  • Stand still and do not chatter while your fellow golfer is playing their shot
  • Park your trolley at the side or behind the tee
  • Wait for the players in front to be out of shot…this is not a way to speed up slow play
  • Shout 'Fore!' to alert other golfers if your ball is heading in their direction
  • Shouting, swearing, club throwing, cheating or littering is just not on
  • Watch for your fellow golfers ball not just your own 

On the fairway

  • The player’s ball which is the furthest from the hole always plays their next shot first
  • Keep your voice down while on the course and do not shout across fairways
  • Be aware of any noise you make when walking (for instance on gravel)
  • Replace any divots made
  • Be aware of the group in front and behind for the pace of play

Bunkers

  • Ensure the rake is nearby before getting into the bunker and taking the shot
  • Take care when lifting the rake out of the bunker not to disturb the sand or ball
  • After taking the shot smooth out ball marks and footprints in the sand with the rake, leave the rake in the position specified by the Local Rules

Around the Green

  • Observe the putting line of others take care not to walk through it
  • Repair pitch marks
  • Keep bags, buggies and trolleys off the green and in the position of the next tee
  • Move off the green as soon as the last player has putt out
  • Recording your score on the next tee while others are taking thier tee shot
  • Be honest about the number of shots you take
  • Whether you win, lose or finish all-square, you should shake hands with your fellow golfers at the end of the game whilst removing you cap/visor
  • Enjoy a sociable drink at the 19th...