Golf Course Dress Code: What to Wear at Lullingstone Park

Getting the golf course dress code right is one of the small worries that puts first-time and occasional golfers off, but at Lullingstone Park in Kent, a public pay and play course near Chelsfield, it is refreshingly simple. Public courses are far more relaxed than private members' clubs, so you do not need a wardrobe of specialist kit. This guide explains what to wear, what to avoid, and the sensible middle ground that will keep you comfortable and correctly dressed whether you are a beginner or a regular.

The simple rule

Aim for smart, tidy sportswear. A collared polo shirt with tailored shorts or trousers and golf shoes or clean trainers is welcome on any course in the country and will never raise an eyebrow at the first tee. Get those three things right and the rest is detail.

What to wear

• Top: a collared polo shirt is the golfing standard. On a relaxed public course a tidy sports top is usually fine too, but a polo is the safe choice.
• Bottoms: tailored trousers or proper golf shorts. Chinos work well; avoid anything that looks like gymwear.
• Shoes: golf shoes with soft or spikeless soles are ideal, and flat trainers are generally accepted on a pay and play course.
• Layers: a lightweight jumper or waterproof for the British weather, since a round takes several hours and conditions change.

What to avoid

A short list covers almost everything that gets turned away, even at relaxed courses.

• Denim jeans, the most common item asked to be changed.
• Tracksuit and jogging bottoms.
• Football shirts, football shorts and sleeveless gym vests.
• Metal spikes, football boots and heavy walking boots, which damage the greens.

Relaxed, but still respectful

Because Lullingstone Park is a public pay and play course that welcomes visitors and casual players, the dress code is about being tidy rather than formal. There is no need for a strict collared-and-tucked look you might meet at a private club. If you are ever unsure about a specific item, a quick call to the pro shop settles it. For everything else a first-timer needs to know, our first-time visitor guide covers directions, buggies and what to expect, and you can plan your round from the Lullingstone Park homepage.

Frequently asked questions

Do you have to wear a collared shirt to play golf?

On most courses, yes for men: a collared polo shirt is the standard, though public pay and play courses like Lullingstone Park are more relaxed than private members' clubs. A tidy sports top is usually fine. The safest bet is a collared polo with tailored shorts or trousers, which is welcome on any course and never causes a problem at the first tee.

Can you wear jeans on a golf course?

Generally no. Denim jeans are the most common item turned away, along with tracksuit bottoms, football shirts and gym vests. Even relaxed public courses tend to ask players to avoid jeans. Wear tailored trousers or proper golf shorts instead, which are comfortable, allow a full swing and keep you inside the dress code everywhere.

What shoes should you wear to play golf?

Golf shoes with soft spikes or spikeless soles are ideal, and flat-soled trainers are usually accepted on a public pay and play course. Avoid metal spikes, football boots and heavy walking boots, which can damage the greens. Whatever you choose should grip well and be comfortable over four or five miles of walking.

Is the dress code strict at a pay and play course?

No, public pay and play courses are far more relaxed than private clubs. Lullingstone Park welcomes visitors and casual golfers, so smart, tidy sportswear is the expectation rather than a formal code. Collared shirt, tailored shorts or trousers and golf shoes or trainers will always be fine. If in doubt, a quick call to the pro shop confirms it.

What should you not wear on a golf course?

Avoid denim jeans, tracksuit and jogging bottoms, football shirts and shorts, sleeveless gym vests, swimwear and metal-spiked or football boots. These are the items most likely to fall foul of a dress code. Stick to golf or smart-casual sportswear with a collar and you will be dressed correctly for almost any UK course.