The Complete Guide to Small Group Golf Trips Across the Pond

What is Considered a Small Group?

When we talk about small group golf trips, we're referring to parties of two or three golfers. With four or more golfers, things are pretty straightforward for Ireland and Scotland golf packages. But as we’ll detail further in this guide, there are a few factors that often come into play with groups of less than four golfers.

What About Singles?

While our custom approach to planning allows us to be of service to groups of any shape or size, H&B is unable to craft itineraries for single golfers.

This is for several reasons, some of which we’ll cover in this guide, including the logistics of booking tee times and the economics of transportation and accommodations.

By focusing on groups of two or more golfers, we can ensure each trip is planned to perfection and offers the best possible experience.
But not to worry, single golfers… We’ve compiled some tips and advice for solo golf trips here.

Haversham & Baker’s Commitment to Small Groups

When someone turns to H&B for a small group expedition, they often describe their party as “just” two or three golfers. There’s a lot hiding within that single word… Just.

It implies an underlying belief that, because they’re leading a smaller group, golf travel companies are less motivated to earn their business. Or if they do move forward with a company, the level of service may suffer compared to larger groups.

To use a restaurant analogy, these travelers are often expecting to be stuck at the table in the back by the kitchen door.

At Haversham & Baker, we pride ourselves on delivering the highest level of service to all of our members, regardless of group size. The shortsighted view of “just a group of two” has no place here, because we know that over the course of our relationship, that initial group of two could grow to 100 or more when repeat trips and referrals are taken into account.

Whether you're planning a trip for two or twenty, you can expect to receive:

Personal Concierge: Every H&B Expedition includes a dedicated Concierge to assist with the finer details of your itinerary, such as dining reservations, personal tours, and spa treatments.

Customized Itineraries: Your journey with H&B begins with a blank sheet of paper and ends with an itinerary that’s custom tailored to your precise desires and expectations. This ensures that every minute and every dollar is spent exactly how you see fit.

24/7 Support: The one constant of modern travel is that “Stuff Happens.” If Murphy’s Law attempts to take over your trip, the H&B “Batphone” is available around the clock to handle any issues or changes that may arise and help get your trip back in the fairway.

Local Expertise: When you travel with H&B, you’re tapping into a vast network of contacts and expertise built over our three decades in the golf travel business. The result is an unmatched experience delivered by scores of hospitality professionals who are invested in the success of your journey.

Considerations for Small Groups

Planning a golf trip for a small group involves some unique considerations. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

Guaranteed Old Course Tee Times: Guaranteed tee times for The Old Course at St. Andrews through an Authorized Provider are generally sold as foursomes.

While twosomes and threesomes can still play through the Direct Application, Daily Ballot, or Singles Daily Draw, these options aren’t a sure thing.

In short, if you’re a small group and want to guarantee your slot on The Old Course, you’ll need to find another friend or two to come along.

Muirfield Bookings: Muirfield, one of the most sought after tee times in Scotland, will book groups of two or three golfers. The final cost, however, is contingent on their ability to pair your group with another twosome or single golfer.

Small groups should approach Muirfield with the assumption of paying for the entire foursome. If the club manages to fill the other open slots, it’s a bonus.

Transportation Costs: Transportation is one of the most overlooked considerations when planning a golf trip across the pond. Hiring a private driver host is the preferred choice for the majority of H&B travelers, yet most small groups opt for a self-drive trip.

The reason for the disparity is quite simple: Transportation costs are usually higher per person in smaller groups because the expense is divided among fewer people.

The key decision for small groups is whether the savings of a self-drive is worth the loss of service and carefree travel that’s experienced with a driver-host.

Tee Time Timing: When traveling with less than four golfers, you may find that your rounds of golf are at less-than-ideal times. At some marquee clubs, tee times for twosomes are restricted to either early morning or late afternoon. The prime mid-morning tee times are often reserved for fourballs only.

In short, flexibility is essential when planning your rounds of golf, but it can still come together for small groups.

Advantages of Small Group Golf Trips

In contrast to the hurdles above, traveling as a small group also has numerous benefits:

Flexible Planning: With fewer opinions to consider, planning your itinerary becomes simpler and more flexible. It's easier to agree on dates, courses, and activities, allowing for a smoother planning process.

Shared Accommodations: Smaller groups can often take advantage of multi-bedroom lodges, providing comfortable and cost-effective shared accommodations. This arrangement can enhance the overall experience by fostering camaraderie among the group.

Last-Minute Rounds: Smaller groups have a better chance of securing last-minute tee times or making changes on the fly to their itinerary. This flexibility can lead to unexpected and memorable experiences.

Self-Drive Exploration: Opting for a self-drive trip gives you the freedom to explore the country at your leisure. You're not restricted by the regulated hours of a driver-host, allowing for more post-round explorations and spontaneous detours.

Dining Options: Restaurants are generally smaller than they are on stateside. Some venues have limited availability for larger groups or have to decline them altogether. As a small group, you'll avoid this challenge and probably have an easier time finding reservations in the process.

By understanding the unique considerations and advantages of traveling as part of a small group golf trip, combined with the service and expertise provided by Haversham & Baker, you can create an unforgettable experience across the pond.

In the end, our advice to groups both large and small is always the same…

Start planning early, stay flexible, pack less, and don’t forget the Good Life.