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Golf and the Good Life - Your Guide for Golf Trips Across the Pond

Golf and the Good Life - Your Guide for Golf Trips Across the Pond
Author: Haversham & Baker Golfing Expeditions
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Description
Your guide for golf trips to the great courses of Scotland, Ireland, England, and Beyond.
Produced by Haversham & Baker Expeditions. The leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members.
Golf and the Good Life offers insight and expertise for your time both on and off the great golf courses of Scotland, Ireland, and England.
https://www.haversham.com/
Produced by Haversham & Baker Expeditions. The leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members.
Golf and the Good Life offers insight and expertise for your time both on and off the great golf courses of Scotland, Ireland, and England.
https://www.haversham.com/
68 Episodes
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The Swilcan Package is one of the four key ways to land a tee time on The Old Course at St. Andrews.In this timely episode, DJ and Connor walk through how the application works, why the odds—though long—are still worth a shot, and what to know before you apply.As the 2026 window opens, it’s a useful listen for this year and future trips alike.Additional ResourcesSend Us Your Old Course at St. Andrews StoryApply for the Swilcan PackageThe Complete Guide to Old Course at St. Andrews Tee Times
This week, the Irish Open returns to the K Club. With the 2026 venue still unannounced (as of this recording) Connor & D.J. discuss where they'd like to see the Irish Open held in the future.From the usual suspects near Dublin to a few logistically challenging choices, the picks all show off the outstanding links golf in Ireland.Additional Resources7 Things to See at Portmarnock Golf ClubThe Complete Guide to St. Patrick's Links & the Rosapenna Resort7 Things to See at Ballybunion Golf Club7 Things to See at Old Head Golf Links
A common question we receive from Members preparing for their Expedition is simple: What should I read before I go?In this episode, Connor and D.J. share their curated list of books and other great reads that will both pass the time before departure and enrich your understanding of golf across the pond.From the legends of Old Tom Morris to modern reflections on links golf and architecture, these recommendations offer history, insight, and a deeper connection to the courses you’ll soon walk.Mentioned in this EpisodeThe Long Golden Afternoon: Golf's Age of GloryTommy's HonourThe Confidential Guide to Golf Courses: Vol. 1The Golfer's JournalSearching in St. AndrewsA Course Called Scotland / IrelandGolf Architecture by Alister MacKenzieMonarch of the GreenAn American Caddie in St. AndrewsJames Finegan Trio
Your first day across the pond can set the tone for your entire golf Expedition.In this episode, Connor & D.J. share practical advice to help your trip get off to a smooth start. From managing flight arrivals and tee time expectations to arrival-day golf and sightseeing. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, this episode is packed with insights to help you hit the ground running.Additional ResourcesThe Most Important Day of Your Golf Trip
In this episode, D.J. and Connor break down the key differences between golf travel in the U.S. and across the pond.From private clubs and tee times to hotel rooms and daily logistics, they cover the quirks, surprises, and what every traveler should know before heading to Scotland, Ireland, or England.Additional ResourcesHow Overseas Golf Travel Differs from the U.S.
With so much preview content already swirling around this year’s Open at Royal Portrush, we decided to take a different approach.In this episode, we trade analysis for reflection, sharing personal memories of The Open and what makes Royal Portrush and the surrounding area such a special place.From the storied Dunluce Links to our favorite spots nearby, we revisit the experiences that have stayed with us and explore why The Open remains simply without equal.Additional ResourcesThe Complete Guide to Royal Portrush9 Things to See Near Royal PortrushBook Mentioned in Episode - The Long Golden Afternoon by Stephen Proctor
In this episode, we’re joined for the first time by our colleague—and fellow links golf enthusiast—Mike Walters.Together, we share what draws us to the links game year after year, and why it continues to hold such a special place in the hearts of so many H&B Members.From memorable rounds to the unique challenges and charms of golf along the seaside, this conversation blends personal stories with the joy of the game in its purest form.Have a question or story of your own to share? Record a message at haversham.com/podcast and you might hear it featured in a future episode.
When most travelers picture golf across the pond, they imagine long summer days and busy clubhouses. But there’s another window that’s steadily gaining popularity among seasoned H&B Members and golf travelers: the shoulder season.In this episode, D.J. and Connor unpack the growing appeal of spring and fall travel to the UK and Ireland. From greater access to marquee tee times and accommodations, to the warmth of the hospitality, there’s a compelling case to be made for stepping outside the summer rush.Considering a trip of your own? Or already a believer in the shoulder season? We’d love to hear from you. Record your message here.Additional ResourcesThe Complete Guide to Shoulder Season Golf Trips Across the Pond
In this debut episode of our Just Returned series, we’re joined by longtime H&B Member, Dan Wood.Dan hails from Greenville, South Carolina and is a member of the Currahee Club in Northeast Georgia.From recent highlights in Ireland to lessons learned over the course of three Expeditions, Dan shares a wealth of insight and standout moments—both on and off the course.Have a question about golf travel—or a story of your own to share? Record your message at haversham.com/podcast and you may hear it featured in a future episode.About H&BHaversham & Baker Expeditions is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
Quick heads-up: The first version of this episode had the audio from Part 1 instead of Part 2 (our bad!). It's been fixed, so without further ado, here is the real Part 2.In the second half of this two-part series, Connor & D.J. continue the conversation with five more essential questions every traveler–especially group captains–should ask before selecting a golf travel company. From understanding what “custom” really means to ensuring your time off the course is just as memorable as your time on it, these final questions are designed to help you make an informed decision and keep your trip in the fairway.Additional Resources10 Questions to Ask Your Golf Tour CompanyDo You Really Need a Golf Travel Company?
The best golf trips start with the right questions. In this two-part episode, we cover five 10 questions that will help you choose the right golf tour company and set the stage for an unforgettable experience.Additional Resources10 Questions to Ask Your Golf Tour CompanyHow to Choose the Right Golf Travel Company
In this episode, Connor quizzes D.J. on his recent travels through Scotland and Ireland. Along the way, they explore new discoveries, revisit a few longtime favorites, and reflect on what continues to make golf across the pond so special.From The Highlands to Killarney, the journey was a great reminder that no matter how much you've seen across the pond, there's always something new to discover. Additional ResourcesScottish Golf Tourism Week RecapPast Episode: Exploring AberdeenGreetings from Doolin
In this episode of our Legendary Links series, we’re joined by Colin Sinclair, Secretary of Royal St. George’s Golf Club.From its storied Open Championship legacy to the debut of the exciting Hagen 54 event, Colin offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of England’s most iconic clubs.We also explore why the Channel Coast deserves far more attention from golf travelers seeking authentic links, rich tradition, and unforgettable experiences.Additional Resources7 Things to See at Royal St. George's Golf ClubPodcast: Exploring The Channel Coast of England
We’ve covered the topic of securing Old Course at St. Andrews tee times before, but a lot has changed in recent years. In this episode, we revisit the four ways to book a round at St. Andrews, break down how the process has evolved, and discuss how The Open in 2027 will impact availability in the coming years.If a golf trip to St. Andrews is on your radar, here’s what you need to know now.Additional ResourcesThe Complete Guide to Old Course at St. Andrews Tee TimesHow The 2027 Open at St. Andrews will Impact Golf Travel
Planning a golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or beyond? Even with a golf travel company handling the details, there are still plenty of decisions, deadlines, and logistics to keep track of—both before and during your trip.In this episode, Connor & D.J. share practical tips and insights to help you stay organized, avoid last-minute surprises, and keep your trip in the fairway.About H&BHaversham & Baker Expeditions is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
Our Legendary Links series returns with a look at a course that few have heard of and even fewer have played. But everything about Cruit Island is the definition of Legendary.Additional ResourcesThe Curious Case of Cruit IslandWhere to Play on Northwest Ireland Golf Trips
During the recent PGA Show in Orlando, Connor and D.J. sat down with a dozen of our golf and accommodation partners across the pond to hear what’s on the horizon for the 2025 golf travel season.
From the Birthplace of The Open to the host of this year’s championship, this episode offers an insider’s view of what’s new and exciting for the year ahead.
In This Episode
Prestwick Golf Club
Ballybunion Golf Club
Adare Manor
Enniscrone Golf Club
Rosapenna Resort
Royal Portrush Golf Club
Galgorm Resort & Spa
Ardglass Golf Club
Kingsmills Hotel Group
Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
Royal Dornoch Golf Club
Dumbarnie Golf Links
About Haversham & Baker Expeditions
H&B is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
In recent years, we've noticed a small yet growing interest in shorter itineraries that still deliver an exceptional Golf and the Good Life experience.
These short-stay trips—typically 4-5 nights with a few world-class courses and the ease of a single-location itinerary—are in demand for working professionals and time-strapped travelers who can’t spare an entire week.
In this episode, Connor and D.J. share the top destinations for shorter trips, along with essential tips to make every moment count.
Additional Resources
The Complete Guide to Short Stay Golf Trips Overseas
Explore Dublin Golf Trips with H&B
Edinburgh & East Lothian Podcast
About Haversham & Baker Expeditions
H&B is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
Join Connor and D.J. as they chat with Jeremy Matte, Director of Golf & Operations at Cabot Highlands, about the arrival of Old Petty, the legacy of Castle Stuart, and the ongoing evolution of this must-visit golf destination in the Scottish Highlands.
Additional Resources
7 Things to See at Cabot Highlands
Highlands of Scotland Golf Packages
The Highlands of Scotland Off the Beaten Path
About Haversham & Baker Expeditions
H&B is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
This episode highlights the top destinations for 2026 golf trips to Scotland, Ireland, and England. You'll also learn some key dates and essential tips to help you navigate the planning process.
If a golf trip across the pond is on your radar for 2026, your brief window of opportunity is here.
Additional Resources
The Complete Guide to 2026 Golf Trips to Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond
H&B Yardage Book – In-depth guides covering all aspects of golf travel across the pond.
About Haversham & Baker
H&B is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.