New to Golf? Rules, Etiquette and How to Learn the Sport at Came Down Golf Club

New to Golf? Rules, Etiquette and How to Learn the Sport at Came Down Golf Club

Golf is a fantastic sport that combines skill, strategy and time in the great outdoors, but if you’re new to the game, it can feel a little overwhelming at first. From understanding the basic rules to finding the right coaching to help you improve, there’s plenty to learn. At Came Down Golf Club, we welcome beginners of all ages and abilities, offering expert tuition from PGA professionals, practice facilities and a supportive community to help you get started.

In this blog, we’ll cover some essential rules and etiquette to help you feel confident on the course. Plus, we’ll introduce you to our junior and beginner coaching programmes and private 1:1 lessons and our Academy membership, where you can develop your game at your own pace. Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or looking to sharpen your technique, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Easter Golf Camp for Juniors

Wednesday 16th April | 1pm – 4pm | Ages 5-16 | No experience necessary | £20 per person

Introduce your child to golf or help them take their game to the next level at our Easter Golf Camp. This fun-filled afternoon is open to children of all abilities, with our PGA coaches, Nick and Sean, guiding them through skill development and exciting competitions. Clubs are provided, making it easy for everyone to get involved – and we encourage kids to bring a friend for even more fun!

While your children are on the course, you can relax in our clubhouse, enjoy free WiFi and Sky TV, and take in the stunning views with a complimentary hot drink.

Junior Golf Coaching Returns This April!

Starting Monday 28th April | 4.30pm – 5.30pm | £40 for 6 weeks

Our popular after-school junior golf coaching is back, offering a fantastic opportunity for young golfers to improve their skills in a fun and supportive environment. Our PGA professionals will help juniors to refine their technique, build confidence on the course and enjoy friendly competitions with their peers.

After an incredible year of junior coaching in 2024, we can't wait to welcome even more young golfers this season and see returning players continue to progress and grow in the sport!

Learn to Play: Beginners Coaching

Starting Monday 28th April or Wednesday 30th April | Mondays 3pm - 4pm or Wednesdays 5.30pm – 6.30pm | £55 for 6 weeks

Keen to start a new hobby this year? Our Golf Coaching for Beginners course is designed for those new to the sport, offering a relaxed and friendly introduction to the game.

Over six weeks, you'll learn the fundamentals of golf, from grip and stance to swing technique and putting – all in a fun and easy-to-follow format. No experience? No problem! All equipment can be provided, so you can simply turn up and enjoy the sessions.

Whether you're looking to pick up a new hobby, improve your skills or meet like-minded beginners, this course is the ideal way to get started.

If you have any questions about coaching or to book, contact Nick at pro@camedowngolfclub.co.uk or call 01305 812670.

The Academy and 1:1 Private Coaching

For those who prefer a more personalised approach, we also offer 1:1 private lessons tailored to your specific needs. Our PGA professionals provide structured tuition in a friendly and supportive environment, helping golfers of all levels develop their skills and confidence on the course.

Whether you want to perfect your swing, improve your short game or gain a better understanding of course strategy, our experienced coaches will work with you to achieve your goals. Lessons are available for juniors and adults alike, making it easy for everyone to enjoy and progress in the sport.

Becoming a member of our Academy includes:

• 10 golf lessons per annum with one of our PGA professionals
• 24 x 10 hole rounds of golf per annum (these can’t be played before 1.00 pm)
• Extra rounds may be purchased at the member's guest rate
• Full use of the club’s extensive practice facilities
• Full use of the clubhouse facilities
• A discount card for the bar/catering (currently 5%)
• Welcome to attend all the club's social functions
• Public liability insurance
• Fortnightly roll-up competitions organised by the professional – a great way to meet fellow Academy members
• The club will waive any joining fee if you progress to a full category of membership (if applicable at time of application)

If you’re a complete newbie, why not try an hour-long induction to learn a few basics and decide if you’d like to progress. The cost of the induction is discounted to just £45.

Respect the Course

Long-standing members take great pride in the condition of our course and appreciate when all golfers do their part to maintain it. Here are some key rules to follow:

  • Raking Bunkers: if you land in a bunker, always rake the sand after playing your shot to leave it in good condition for the next player.

  • Repairing Pitch Marks: when your ball lands on the green, it may leave a small dent. Use a pitch mark repairer to fix any marks and help keep the greens smooth.

  • Divot Repair: if you take a chunk of turf when playing a shot, replace the divot.

  • Follow Seasonal Rules: Came Down is open all year round but weather conditions can impact the course, so keep an eye on any temporary rules such as winter mats, trolley bans or preferred lies.

Pace of Play & Tee Time Etiquette

To keep the game enjoyable for all, please keep these rules of etiquette in mind:

  • Keep Up with the Group Ahead: slow play can frustrate others, so be ready to play your shot when it’s your turn and keep up with the group in front.

  • Wave Faster Players Through: if you’re taking longer than expected, let faster groups play through when appropriate.

  • Arrive on Time for Tee Times: be at the tee box and ready to go at least five minutes before your scheduled time.

  • Limit Practice Swings: a couple of practice swings are fine but avoid excessive pre-shot routines to keep the pace moving.

Etiquette on the Course

  • Silence When Others Are Hitting: be mindful of noise and movement when others are taking their shots.

  • Stand in a Safe Position: avoid standing too close to someone who is about to swing their club.

  • Keep Mobile Phones on Silent: avoid distractions by keeping your phone on silent while playing.

  • Respect the Dress Code: on the course, practice ground and putting green you must wear recognised golf wear and golf shoes and in the clubhouse, clean and smart casual wear is required – check our website for details.

If you're ready to give golf a try, we’d love to welcome you to Came Down!

Find out more about our different membership options, book a visitor tee time, get in touch with any questions, or call us on 01305 813494.

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