England's Atlantic Links

BEST OF THE REST
If you're making your way to Devon and Cornwall from London, then it's well worth stopping off at the links at Burnham & Berrow, a quality Harry Colt design that overlooks the Bristol Channel some two and a half hours from London. The opening holes are some of the most demanding in the region, with sandhills framing the fairways and the small greens featuring strong contours. Precision is everything here. Contact: burnhamandberrowgolfclub.co.uk. For more information on all the courses listed here visit atlantic-links.co.uk.

WHERE TO STAY
The art deco-style Saunton Sands Hotel, a four-star resort with splendid ocean views, is a good base for playing both Saunton (it's literally next door) and Royal North Devon some 20 minutes away. There are numerous accommodation options available in and around Padstow, the closest town to Trevose and St Enodoc, including Trevose itself, which offers a range of quality accommodations on- site. The St Enodoc Hotel in Rock, which adjoins the golf club, is another excellent choice and houses Nathan Outlaw, a superb seafood restaurant that was awarded two Michelin stars in January 2011.

WHEN TO GO
The British weather is famously unpredictable but golf is generally possible year-round on the Devon and Cornish coast thanks to the influence of the Gulf Stream, which makes these the warmest English counties during winter; snow – and the likelihood of the courses being closed as a result – is rare. The best golfing conditions are typically May thru September when the turf is at its best. Sunset doesn't occur until after 8p.m. in the summer months and many courses offer substantial green fee discounts on rounds commenced after 4pm.

GETTING THERE
Numerous carriers – including Cathay Pacific, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Qantas – fly direct to London's Heathrow airport daily. Car hire is by far the most convenient mode of transport upon arrival, although it is possible to travel by a combination of train and taxi to all five courses listed here. It's approximately a four and a half hour drive from Heathrow to Padstow; three and a half hours to Barnstaple.