In this episode of the NCG Top 100s podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy tackle one of golf’s most misunderstood topics: how do we actually define a golf course?

From links and parkland to heathland, moorland and clifftop, the pair break down the characteristics that separate each style, exploring everything from soil types and vegetation to location and design philosophy. They also dive into the often-blurred lines between categories, asking what really distinguishes a heathland course from a moorland – and whether those definitions still hold up today.

Along the way, Tom and Dan discuss some well-known examples and debate where certain courses truly belong, highlighting just how subjective golf course classification can be.

The episode wraps up with a quiz from Dan, putting Tom to the test as he’s challenged to categorise a selection of courses – with some trickier than others.

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In this episode of the NCG Top 100s podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy turn their attention to one of golf’s biggest questions: where is The Open heading after St Andrews in 2027?

The pair explore the future of the Open rota, discussing established venues such as Royal St George’s and Royal Troon, while also debating whether iconic courses like Portmarnock could finally join the championship’s regular host list. With the R&A continually assessing the rota, Tom and Dan consider which venues are most likely to feature in the coming years - and which might be overdue a return.

Along the way, they break down what truly makes an “Open course”, from the strategic demands of links golf to the infrastructure and scale required to host one of the game’s biggest events.

They also examine the growing conversation around taking the Open beyond its traditional boundaries, including the possibility of the championship heading to the Republic of Ireland for the first time.

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In this episode of the NCG Top 100s podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy tackle a question every travelling golfer asks: where can you find the best value golf in Great Britain and Ireland?

Using the NCG Top 100s GB&I Top 250 as their starting point, the pair reveal the courses that deliver the most for your money among the very best venues in the region. The list is built on extensive research into publicly available green fee prices, comparing what visitors actually pay to play these highly ranked courses. Importantly, the prices used do not include resident, member or local rates.

The discussion uncovers a fascinating mix of venues - many of them characterful coastal courses with real golfing soul. From standout links such as Hunstanton, Trevose and Seacroft to distinctive inland layouts like Yelverton and Kington - Tom and Dan highlight the courses that combine elite quality with relatively accessible prices.

They also explain why regions like East Anglia deserve far more attention when planning a golf trip, and why English and Welsh courses feature so strongly when value is the focus.

Along the way, the pair explore how golfers can piece together the perfect golf trip on a budget - proving that some of the best experiences in the GB&I Top 250 don’t necessarily come with the highest green fees.

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