Maesdu Golf Club

Plenty of courses in North Wales come with a view. What sets Maesdu apart is that the golf more than lives up to the scenery. Stand on the 15th tee and Conwy Bay opens up in full, with Snowdonia on the horizon and the Great Orme to your west. It's the sort of moment that makes you pause, then refocus because the shot still matters.

Maesdu dates back to 1915, when Llandudno Town Council bought what was then the Maesdu Estate. The club later enlisted five-time Open Champion James Braid to advise on the layout, giving the course genuine architectural pedigree. From the Gold tees it plays 6,448 yards with a slope rating of 132, so there's enough bite here to keep good players honest. It has hosted a range of notable events too, including the Ladies Golf Union Seniors' Home Internationals, the Welsh Open Youths Championship and the first Professional Home International Series in 1938.

The best part is how the test changes as your round unfolds. Early holes feel more sheltered and parkland in character, with tree-lined corridors and softer ground underfoot. As you turn, the course opens out towards the bay, the turf firms up, the breeze becomes a factor and the greens ask for a confident stroke. It's two different challenges in one round, which makes Maesdu an excellent pick for a North Wales golf break. Ideal as a day two course if you're basing yourselves in Llandudno or Conwy, and a great option for mixed-ability groups thanks to sensible tee choices.

Who is this for?
Golfers planning a North Wales break who want proper golf, real history and views that are a bonus, not the main event.

Who is it best for?
Mid-handicappers who enjoy plotting their way round and anyone who appreciates classic British golf heritage. From the back tees it's a stern test, but it stays playable for mixed-ability groups.