Where Golf and History Meet in Canada

Golf is more than just a game — it’s a journey through history. And Canada has more golfing history than you might realize. From iconic clubs established more than a century ago to modern courses designed with heritage in mind, Canada’s golf landscape blends the beauty of the sport with fascinating historical stories. 

Canada’s Rich Golf History 

Golf has been a part of Canadian culture for greater than 150 years. Back in the day, it was a niche sport played only by the rich and sophisticated. These days, the sport is embraced by people across the country from all backgrounds and lifestyles. 

The first golf club in North America turned out to be Canadian. The Royal Montreal Golf Club was founded in 1873. Over time, as golf’s popularity increased, more clubs were established, making it much more accessible. In 1895, the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) was formed to oversee the sport’s development. The organization (now known as Golf Canada) set standards for competitions and created frameworks to maintain the integrity of the sport. 

Legendary Golf Courses 

Canada is home to some of the most well-known and historic golf courses in the world. These courses aren’t just places to play golf, they’re landmarks of the country’s golf heritage, a deeper experience than just swinging your clubs or picking which iron to use. 

The Royal Montreal Golf Club 

The Royal Montreal Golf Club not only holds the distinction of being the oldest golf club in North America, over time it has been redesigned by some of the game’s best architects. Its original layout reflected traditional Scottish influences brought to Canada by immigrants and today it still maintains its historical essence.

The Toronto Golf Club 

A gem that opened three years after the Royal Montreal debuted, the Toronto Golf Club is a classic. Although it’s been updated, it retains its heritage. Like its predecessor, it has a distinctly Scottish feeling to it. 

Banff Springs Golf Course 

Designed by famous Canadian golf architect Stanley Thompson, the Banff Springs Golf Course is an unforgettable feather in the nation’s golf cap. Located in the Canadian Rockies, its breathtaking surroundings are as jaw-dropping as its challenging layout. Opened in 1928, the course blends natural beauty with innovative design principles for a playing experience that you won’t find anywhere else. 

Highlands Links, Cape Breton Highlands National Park 

Highlands Links is widely considered one of the top golf courses in the world. It opened in 1941 in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The course’s rugged, natural landscape reflects the architect’s vision of integrating golf with its surroundings. 

MORE GOLF: Cabot Links Tees Off On Your Heart

St. Andrews Links, New Brunswick 

Although it’s not as well-known as its namesake in Scotland, St. Andrews Links in New Brunswick is another historically important course in Canada. Opened in 1894, it has attracted golfers for over a century with its scenic views. 

The Historic Canadian Golfing Experience 

Canada’s golf history is intertwined with the country’s landscapes and cultural heritage. You can’t really have one without the other. Golfers in Canada have the unique opportunity to play a variety of courses, from city to country to mountain to snowy. 

Golfing in Canada’s National Parks 

Parks Canada gives golfers the chance to play a round in some of the country’s most breathtaking natural settings. Courses located in national parks like Cape Breton Highlands, Prince Albert, and Fundy are designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment so you can enjoy the natural beauty of Canada’s landscapes while playing golf as you’ve never quite experienced it before. 

Play one of these courses in a national park and you’ll be treated to more than just an unforgettable round. Every one of the courses has spectacular views, chances to spot wildlife (take your camera!), and access to hiking trails. Perfect for outdoor adventurers. 

Golfing in Quebec City 

Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a dream destination for golf enthusiasts. The historic city, known for landmarks like the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac and the Citadelle, gives golfers a chance to combine their love for the game with a bit of cultural exploration. 

The courses in and around Quebec City have stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Golfing here isn’t just an athletic endeavour—it’s always an experience of beauty, too. 

Ontario’s Golfing Heritage 

Ontario boasts some of Canada’s most prestigious and challenging golf courses. Many of them were designed by famous architects like Stanley Thompson and Harry Colt, with a range of styles (from parkland to links-style courses) and a new challenge every time you play. 

Historical Figures in Canadian Golf

One of the most iconic golfers in Canadian history is Mike Weir, who was the first Canadian to win the prestigious Masters Tournament in 2003. His victory at Augusta National in Georgia inspired a whole new generation of players. He ended up winning eight PGA titles, cementing his place as a top golfer in Canadian history. 

Another well-known figure is Moe Norman, often regarded as one of the best ball strikers in golf history (not just Canadian history). Despite his unconventional playing style, Norman’s incredible accuracy and consistency won him the admiration of legends like Tiger Woods. 

Sandra Post was the first Canadian to win an LPGA major championship. Her contributions to women’s golf in Canada are monumental, and she remains an inspiring figure for female golfers across the country​. 

Preserving Golf’s History and Heritage 

Multiple organizations and initiatives have been created over the years to protect the legacy of the sport. The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, located at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario, is one of the most well-known institutions dedicated to the purpose. The museum showcases the history of golf in Canada, with exhibits featuring artifacts, memorabilia, and information on famous golfers and legendary courses. 

Many golf clubs across Canada, especially those with deep historical roots, also have educational programs that highlight the rich heritage of the game. These unique initiatives help both seasoned players and newcomers appreciate the long-standing traditions that built the foundation for the world of Canadian golf. 

Planning Your Golfing Trip to Canada 

• Choose Your Courses: Select courses that match your level. Canada has beginner-friendly options and thrilling courses for experienced golfers. Most also have a training section where you can practice a bit beforehand. 
• Pick Accommodation: Hotels, short-term vacation rentals, resorts, bed-and-breakfasts … There’s something for every kind of traveller, and it’s easy to find something near your chosen courses — if not connected to them. 
• Carry Your Clubs or Hire Clubs: Most clubs allow you to hire a set if you’re coming from afar and don’t want the hassle of driving or flying on your own. 
• Budget Carefully: Make sure you can cover green fees, accommodation costs, food, and extras for the duration of your stay. You may be able to find deals online that slash the prices. 
• Don’t Forget Other Activities: Canada is chock full of amazing experiences. Don’t get so busy with the golf that you forget to enjoy a few other things along the way. 

Get Out and Play 

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to swing your clubs in the mountains surrounded by snow-covered mountains (sounds surreal, doesn’t it?), then Canada is where you’ll actually be able to have that experience. 

It’s not just beautiful, though. It’s also steeped in history and tradition. If you come here looking for just golf, you’ll definitely find it. But you’ll miss out on a lot if you don’t explore the historical side that comes with the game.