Golf Betting in August 2025: The Definitive UK Guide

Golf betting can be one of the most rewarding sports to wager on, making it a hugely popular sport for UK punters seeking value. With events typically consisting of four days (three for LIV Golf), there are plenty of betting opportunities available to bettors, with 72 holes typically played in each event.

The uniqueness of different golf courses, coupled with the movement of the pin with each hole on each day, offers unpredictability to the betting, adding further excitement as the world’s best golfers are continually tested. This adds to the value that can be found, as golfers may find themselves excelling on one day but in trouble the next.

BestOdds continues to create the best golf betting tips and guides available to readers, with its resource being the #1 on the internet. Continue reading on to learn everything needed to be known about golf betting, how to read golf odds, and score a potential hole-in-one when using the best golf betting systems with UK-licensed bookmakers.

BestOdds.com & Editorial Integrity

BestOdds has a team of golf betting experts that actively wager on the sport. The author of this page has experience in looking for value in golf odds, finding the best bets to make that can be potentially rewarding.

Only UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) licensed sites have been ranked and listed throughout the BestOdds website and pages, ensuring readers only ever access sites that can be trusted. The sites recommended have been tested and reviewed by the BestOdds experts, with their opinions and views based on personal experiences, with honesty of the utmost importance.

Readers using BestOdds can benefit from the availability of the unique ShotLink-powered probability engine, allowing them to make informed bets that are backed by statistical data.

Core Golf Markets Explained

Golf betting has become increasingly popular in the UK with bettors over the years because of the variety of bets that can be placed. When using a reputable and trusted UK sportsbook, punters are offered a significant and diverse range of betting markets, with many offering competitive golf odds.

The following are among the most popular; they are also among some of the easiest for novices to golf betting sites to enjoy and place wagers on.

Outright Winner (pre-event & in-play)

The Outright Winner market involves betting on the golfer who will win the entire tournament. Bets can be placed before the event starts (pre-event) or updated continuously during play (in-play), with odds reflecting the current form and position of players. In-play betting allows wagers on golfers whose performance may improve or decline round by round.

The Outright Winner betting market is among the easiest bets to place and can offer significant value. With golf being far from predictable due to golfer performance, bettors can potentially find value in a player who emerges from the field by being under the radar.

Each-Way Betting: Places, Fractions & Dead-Heat Rules

Each-way betting is another type of golf bet that has enjoyed a boom in popularity among UK bettors. 

Each-way bets consist of two parts: one part backing the golfer to win, and the other backing them to place within a set number of top positions (places). The place terms typically indicate how many players qualify for place payouts (such as top 5, top 8, or top 10), and the fraction defines what proportion of the win odds is paid out on the place part (commonly 1/4 or 1/5).

Example: If a golfer is priced 40/1, with place terms 8 places at 1/5 odds, and there is a dead heat for 6th place among two players, the place part pays out, but the stake is adjusted for the dead heat.

Dead-heat rules mean the place payout is divided proportionally according to the number of winners sharing the position, reducing the stake on each.

Top-5 / Top-10 / Top-20 Finishes

A popular prop bet, most UK bookmakers offer punters an opportunity to place a bet on where a golfer is predicted to finish the event. Depending on the bookie that is used, it is possible to wager on a player to finish inside the top 5, 10, or 20.

This prop bet has become popular with bettors as it offers potential value. Punters have a greater chance of being successful with this bet, as there is no requirement to predict who will finish first if selecting the outright winner. Bets will have reduced odds due to the increased chance of a winning outcome.

First-Round Leader & Round Props

The First-Round Leader market involves betting on which golfer will have the lowest score after the first round only. Additional round prop bets might include best score in a certain round, over/under number of strokes, or performance-related feats within any given round.

These prop bets can add further excitement to the golf betting experience, as they can offer a quicker payout if successful. With golf events taking up to four days to be completed, bettors seeking faster returns can bet on specific rounds instead of waiting to see if a bet holds out.

Match-Ups & 3-Balls (72-hole, 18-hole)

Match-up betting lets bettors wager on which golfer will perform better relative to another player, often head-to-head over the entire tournament (72 holes) or a single round (18 holes). The 3-ball market compares three golfers’ scores head-to-head within the same group, adding a layer of strategic analysis.

Bettors can often find more value in this type of bet, especially if an understanding of how certain golfers play and how well a course is typically played is held. This information can be extremely useful in helping to make informed bets, allowing bettors to potentially capitalise further.

Make / Miss the Cut

The Make or Miss The Cut betting market helps bettors wager on whether a golfer will advance past the tournament’s cut line, usually after the first two rounds. Making the cut means continuing to play in the final rounds, whereas missing the cut results in elimination from the tournament.

If a player has been trending negatively in terms of play and missing regular cuts, the odds can be long for the golfer to make the cut in the next tournament. Value can often be found when a bookie underestimates what the individual may be able to do at the next course, making this golf bet a popular option for bettors.

Specials: Hole-in-One, Nationality of Winner, Winning Score

Golf betting offers many special bets that UK bettors can take advantage of. These will often feature markets of events that are rare within the sport, but can happen. An example might be a player who scores a hole-in-one during the tournament.

Specials can also involve predicting the nationality of the overall winner or betting on the winning score range. These markets add variety and attract fans interested in more niche or novelty bets, where it may also be possible to find additional value compared to regular golf betting markets.

Bet Builder / Same-Round Multis (where offered)

Some bookmakers offer bet builder options or same-round multiples, allowing bettors to combine several selections from a single round or event into one bet. This might include combining match-ups, to-make-the-cut bets, and scoring props to increase potential returns while focusing on specific segments of the tournament.

BestOdds works hard to ensure the best golf betting sites offer this feature. It can make a significant difference to the betting experience and create additional betting value for punters with golf knowledge and an understanding of betting strategies.

Data-Driven Edges

Golf is a game of edges. These are factors that bettors must consider, as they can influence the outcome on the golf course. With four days of play, each day can be very different, requiring consideration of many metrics.

Among the most important elements to consider, the following should be understood and recognised by bettors when looking at golf odds:

Strokes Gained & Course Fit

Strokes Gained (SG) is an advanced golf metric that measures a player’s performance relative to the field average in specific aspects of the game. It breaks down into categories, such as Off-the-Tee (driving distance and accuracy), Approach (shots from the fairway or rough toward the green), and Putting (shots on the green). Each category analyses how many strokes a player gains or loses on the field benchmark, providing a detailed picture of strengths and weaknesses.

For bettors, evaluating a golfer’s Strokes Gained profile alongside course characteristics can reveal an edge. For example, a player strong in SG:Putting might excel on courses with large, challenging greens, while a player with high SG:Off-the-Tee can dominate on long, wide fairways.

Freeware databases, such as those provided by the PGA Tour and ShotLink statistics, enable bettors and analysts to track these metrics and incorporate them into betting strategies.

Weather Draw Bias (AM/PM wave)

Weather conditions often vary significantly between morning (AM) and afternoon (PM) tee times, impacting player performance.

Playing in the rain can significantly impact how the ball lands and rolls on the green; the wind can impact how the ball carries in the air. The heat can also impact or influence how a golfer plays. This creates a “weather draw bias,” whereby those teeing off early or late may face an advantage or disadvantage.

Bettors should closely monitor these patterns, as this can help them to make informed betting decisions that may offer additional value.

Elevation & Altitude Distance Adjustments

Course elevation and altitude affect how far the golf ball travels, and this can be a critical factor for golfers’ distance control and club selection. Higher altitudes with thinner air reduce air resistance, causing the ball to fly further, while courses in valleys or low elevation have differing impacts.

Adjusting for these conditions when analysing player performance or setting expectations helps identify who better suits specific venues, which can allow bettors to make strategic decisions.

Grass Types (Poa vs Bermuda) & Specialist Lists

The type of grass on fairways and greens influences playing style and ball behaviour. Poa annua, common in cooler climates, behaves differently from Bermuda grass, prevalent in warmer southern and tropical courses. Links golf courses can also have an impact on how well a golfer performs.

Some players specialise or perform significantly better on one grass type. Bettors can gain an edge by referencing specialist lists that track player performance correlations with grass types, improving prediction reliability for events held on specific turf.

Tee-to-Green Consistency vs Volatile Putters—impact on each-way value

Players who exhibit consistency from tee to green but have variable putting performance tend to be more reliable contenders for each-way bets. Volatile putters may win or lose strokes unpredictably on greens, increasing the risk when placing a bet on them to be the overall winner of a tournament.

Assessing the balance between tee-to-green steadiness and putting variability helps determine value in placing each-way bets, as steady players often achieve high finishes even without winning, providing safer returns in place markets.

Live Golf Betting & Shot-By-Shot Streams

Live golf betting is hugely popular with UK bettors for a number of factors. One of the major reasons it has become widely enjoyed is that there is a very short time between the shots that are made and the updating of live odds from bookmakers.

On the PGA Tour, the latency between the live play and the odds that are updated is around two seconds. This allows bettors to receive near real-time updates on player shots, scores, and leaderboard positions. Betting odds for outright winners are typically suspended mid-swing when leaders are teeing off or striking the ball, reflecting the high stakes of such moments and reducing the risk of unfair advantage.

The best UK bookmakers will offer several betting features that can be used to enhance the live golf betting experience. Using the top UKGC-licensed options, BestOdds has completed the following comparison table involving key features bettors should be looking for:

Bookmaker	Shot Tracker (IMG Media)	Hole-Prop Markets	In-Round Cash-Out
Bet365	Yes	Available	Yes
Paddy Power	Yes	Limited	Yes
William Hill	Yes	Available	Yes
Ladbrokes	No	Limited	Yes
Coral	Yes	No	Yes

Bettors who use a betting exchange can often find more value during the final round, especially during the back-nine (the final nine holes of the round). This allows bettors to place sizable bets and potentially obtain increased returns because of the value on offer.

BestOdds Live Leader-Board Heat-Map

BestOdds’ API widget will help bettors make informed decisions when placing a bet after a shot a golfer has made. It analyses and compares the implied probability that has been offered by bookmakers against the win expectancy once the shot has been made.

API widget placeholder

From Odds to Probability & Each-Way EV

UK bookmakers will often display odds in fractions when a bettor visits the platform for the first time. 

This can be changed by the user within the settings, as they can swap to a format that suits their understanding better. For instance, decimals can be easier to read and multiply against a stake to understand the return better.

Golf odds offered by a betting site usually factor in many different aspects of the game and individuals. This leads to the bookie creating an Implied Probability, which is then reflected in the odds that are then offered to punters. The formula used is:

• Implied Probability = 1/decimal odds x 100%

Using 50/1 as an example for an outsider to win a tournament, the following calculation would be used:

• 1/51.0 x 100% = 1.96%

This would imply that the golfer has a less than 2% chance of winning the event, hence why the player has been provided with such long odds.

Each-Way Calculation

Each-way bets consist of two parts: one part backing the golfer to win, and the other backing them to place within a set number of top positions (places). The place terms typically indicate how many players qualify for place payouts (such as top 5, top 8, or top 10), and the fraction defines what proportion of the win odds is paid out on the place part (commonly 1/4 or 1/5).

Using an example of using win odds of 51.0 and paying out on 10 places at 1/5 of the odds, the following steps would need to be taken to understand the implied probability of a successful outcome:

The win part of the bet would look like the following:

• Win part expected value (EV) = (Implied Win Probability × Win Odds) – (Probability of not winning × Stake)

Using figures, this would look like:

• EV win = (0.0196×51) − (0.9804×1) = 1.0−0.9804 = 0.0196

The next step would be to look at the place part of the bet:

• Place odds = win odds × 1/5 = 51 × 0.2 = 10.2

Using the example:

• EV place = (0.10×10.2) − (0.90×1) = 1.02 − 0.90 = 0.12

The total value of the EW bet would then be represented as follows:

• EV total = EV win +EV place = 0.0196 + 0.12 = 0.1396

In numbers, this appears as:

• 0.1396/2 = 0.0698

This would then represent a 7% positive chance that a golfer would end up in the places per unit staked.

How We Test & Rate Golf Betting Sites

BestOdds uses a strict methodology to ensure that its team of experts continue to craft the best reviews. BestOdds places its integrity on honesty and transparency, striving to be the #1 leader in the market for truthful reviews that readers can trust.

With a team of experts who consistently enjoy golf betting and using the best golf betting sites, BestOdds uses a standardised checklist when testing and reviewing sites. They also ensure to regularly test sites to ensure the best experiences can always be had, while ensuring the reviews generated remain updated.

When looking at the best golf betting sites available to UK punters, testers will examine several key areas to ensure the very best gambling experiences and sessions can always be obtained.

BestOdds’ team will look at the depth of the markets offered and the competitiveness of the golf odds when comparing sportsbooks and ranking them fairly. The team will carry out an audit and check for the 20+ biggest golfing events on the calendar, including the four majors, FedEx Play-offs, two DP World Tour events, and two LPGA events.

The team will also analyse how competitive the bookies are across various betting factors, such as examining how many places are paid out for each tournament, whether odds are regularly boosted, and if price boosts that are offered are legitimate. The team will also look at the rules regarding withdrawals, determining whether the terms and conditions are fair.

Live golf betting can be hugely popular in the UK with bettors, which is why BestOdds regularly looks at the markets offered and the terms they come equipped with. Can you place bets during specific moments of a match? If a sudden-death playoff is being contested, is it possible to place live bets? 

BestOdds does not just look at the golf betting markets and odds on offer. BestOdds also tests other areas of the betting site to ensure a comprehensive review can be completed.

Testers will examine how easy it is to navigate to the badminton betting markets, how simple placing a bet is, and look at the promotions on offer. Reviewers will also compare withdrawal speeds, the availability of payment methods, the fairness of the terms and conditions, as well as the usefulness and efficiency of customer service.

BestOdds places an emphasis on responsible gambling, which is why readers can only find trusted UKGC-licensed operators listed and recommended. The team will analyse the measures that have been put in place by the bookie to ensure this is available, rating them on their effectiveness and accessibility.

Once all of these aspects have been analysed, BestOdds will provide a fair ranking score based on how the site meets its strict criteria, ensuring readers receive a fair and honest assessment of a site’s golf betting qualities.

Major Championships & Flagship Events

Golf features many events each year, helping to boost its popularity among UK bettors. Many of the events that are played feature the world’s best golfers, as players take to courses worldwide in the hunt for ranking points and big prize pots.

Some tournaments are considered more prestigious than others and are often betting highlights because of what they can mean to the individuals who compete in them. These tournaments are often recognised in the same way by bookmakers, with many offering enhanced golf odds, markets, and promotions.

The Masters

Widely considered the most prestigious golf tournament, The Masters is held annually at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club every April. It has been played since 1934, with the winner receiving the famous green jacket.

Several iconic moments have been experienced at this hugely technical and challenging course over the years, which has helped boost its popularity with golf bettors. As the course demands precision and rewards shot-making skills, it often favours consistent, strategic players.

It is rare that a player wins multiple Masters titles back-to-back, but Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods are among the most successful, having won six and five green jackets, respectively.

PGA Championship

Scheduled as the second men’s major of the championship season, the PGA Championship began back in 1916 and is held annually. It often appears on the schedule in either May or August, and is typically played at a different course each year.

The usage of a different course can add excitement to bets being placed, as there can be an element of unpredictability. The world’s best continue to play in this tournament, but often face challenging obstacles that can be difficult to navigate.

The most successful PGA Championship winners include Jack Nicklaus and Walter Hagen, who share the record with five PGA Championship victories each, while Tiger Woods has won four times.

US Open

The US Open is one of the oldest golf tournaments on the calendar, featuring several traditions and a level of class that others find difficult to replicate. It has been held annually since 1895 and uses different courses each year,  making it unpredictable and challenging at the same time.

Bettors enjoy this competition because of the unknown that can be experienced, as the courses used are typically among the most difficult the United States of America has to offer. A player’s golf course management is truly tested, as they need to be extremely accurate with their play, otherwise they can be punished.

The record for most US Open titles is four, which is held by Jack Nicklaus, Ben Hogan, Robert T. Jones Jr, and Willie Anderson.

The Open Championship

The Open Championship is often known as the British Open. The Open is the oldest major golf championship, dating back to 1860. It is played on links courses in the UK in July, and it is renowned for unpredictable weather and strategic play.

Tom Morris Sr. and Harry Vardon hold the record with six wins. Recent trends show that top-50 Official World Golf Ranking players dominate the champion list, with an emphasis on strong links play and shot versatility.

It is a hugely popular tournament for bettors, with many UK bookmakers offering Open Championship odds long before the event takes place. Markets can be diverse, while odds are often competitive. Some bookies will offer boosted options, while other specific promotions can also be on offer.

Ryder Cup & Presidents Cup

The Ryder Cup is a biennial men’s team competition contested between Europe and the USA, evolving into one of the most thrilling events in golf. Bettors regularly enjoy this format as it provides something different due to the way golf is played, as well as the team aspect and the rivalry that has emerged.

The Presidents Cup, established in 1994, features the USA against an International team excluding Europe. Phil Mickelson holds records for most appearances and points in the Presidents Cup. Both cups highlight match-play head-to-head competition and national pride, drawing massive fan engagement.

When betting on the Ryder Cup, it can be worth keeping a note of where the tournament is being held, as it swaps between a course in Europe and the US each time. It is always worth recognising player form before betting on the tournament, too, as some may play better on a specific course than others, or may be in a hot streak heading into the event..

DP World Tour Flagships (BMW PGA, Abu Dhabi)

The DP World Tour is a different Tour to the PGA, Korn Ferry Tour, and Challenge Tour. It is the leading tour in Europe, and offers a similar level of competition and quality to the PGA Tour. It is why the European Tour has become extremely popular with bettors.

Flagship events on the DP World Tour include the BMW PGA Championship and the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, among others. Sponsored by Rolex, these tournaments offer significant cash amounts to competitors, as well as big ranking points to play in the majors and other top competitions.

The BMW PGA Championship, held at Wentworth Club, is the tour’s flagship event, often showcasing elite strategy and stamina. It is an event that bettors in the UK regularly place a bet on, because it has a competitive field where value can be found throughout due to the challenging nature of the course.

LPGA & Women’s Majors

The world’s best female golfers play on the LPGA Tour, where they can compete in five majors: the ANA Inspiration, U.S. Women’s Open, Women’s PGA Championship, Women’s British Open, and The Evian Championship. They can also compete in many other tournaments throughout the year, including the Solheim Cup (female equivalent of the Ryder Cup).

Women’s golf continues to emerge in popularity with UK punters, as the field is continually improving in terms of quality and competitiveness. Betting sites have recognised this by introducing more betting markets and competitive golf odds to attract bettors.

LIV Golf Invitational Series

A relatively new tour and breakaway from the PGA Tour, the LIV Golf Invitational Series is a tour that sees the world’s best golfers play in a reduced number of events that last just three rounds and have no cut, unlike the PGA Tour. Still, prize funds are of a huge amount, sometimes eclipsing what is on offer anywhere else.

It has been very divisive across the golfing community, with many having been vocal about their displeasure regarding it. Still, some have praised it for helping to move the sport forward, as the series features team and individual competition formats, shorter events, and a unique points system.

For golf bettors, it is another opportunity to wager on competitive action, where value can be obtained as the world’s best continue to compete in new formats and look to win the biggest prize cheques they can.

Open Championship Betting

The Open Championship is typically held in July on links courses in the UK, with Royal Portrush, Royal St George’s, and Carnoustie among the frequent venues. Its unpredictable weather and challenging coastal courses provide unique betting dynamics.

It is one of the most heavily bet-on golf events in the UK, with bookmakers reporting spikes in betting volumes in the weeks leading up to and during the event. It attracts both casual and professional bettors, offering potential value through the diverse elements it provides.

Statistical trends note that favourites win only around 30% of the time over the past decade, with many champions emerging from mid-range odds or first-time major winners. Native players can often be backed heavily by bettors, as there is a feeling that they’ll have a better understanding of the course than foreigners.

When betting on The Open Championship, bookmakers can often make several markets available. These can include:

• Outright Winner: Predicting who will win The Open Championship after four rounds.
• Each-Way: Backing a player with a bet of two parts. They can either win, or a fraction of the odds will be awarded if they finish within a determined place.
• Top Finishes: Bets can be placed on a player finishing inside the top 5, 10, or 15, etc.
• Live Markets: UK bettors can place bets live during The Open Championship, with the time zone on their side, in contrast to many other golf tournaments.

Ryder Cup Betting

Held every two years, the Ryder Cup is one of the most intense and popular events in golf. Ryder Cup betting spikes exceptionally in the UK with bookmakers, as it is a type of golf tournament that is extremely unique.

The format of the Ryder Cup consists of match play; sessions of foursomes, four-balls, and singles over three days, with 28 points available. The first team to reach 14.5 points wins. UK bettors will typically back the European team when they take to the course, with many British players often involved.

Live betting can be intense with this tournament, as the Ryder Cup can provide many magical moments due to its intensity. Unique moments can be created, while one-in-a-million shots can be produced that capture the imagination of bettors. As a result, value can be found as odds consistently move.

The most popular Ryder Cup betting markets typically offered include:

• Match Betting: Bettors can bet on who will win each match that is played.
• Team Outright: Selecting which team will win the Ryder Cup.
• Correct Score: Betting on the exact score that the Ryder Cup will finish.
• Top Points Scorer: Placing a bet on which golfer will score the most points throughout the event.

Scottish Open Betting

The Scottish Open is one of Europe’s flagship golf tournaments and a highlight of the summer schedule. Scottish Open betting draws strong interest from UK punters, given its prestigious history, links-style courses, and proximity to The Open, often acting as a form guide for major championships.

The format is classic stroke play across four days, usually on a famous Scottish links course, attracting world-class golfers and many British contenders. UK bettors are particularly active in backing home players and rising stars due to the conditions, while international fields create plenty of betting diversity.

Live betting is popular due to rapidly changing weather conditions, shifting leaderboard positions, and the unpredictable nature of links golf. Punters track momentum swings and forecast updates for value, with odds on outright winners, leader after a round, and head-to-head matchups adjusting constantly.

Popular Scottish Open betting markets typically offered include:

Outright Winner: Bet on the player expected to win the tournament after four rounds.

Each-Way: Back a player to win or finish within the designated top places (usually top 5–8).

Round Leader: Wager on who will lead after a specific round (e.g., first-round leader).

Top Scottish/UK Player: Bet on which home player will finish highest on the leaderboard.

Head-to-Head: Pick which of two matched golfers will finish ahead after completion.

How to Get Started With Golf Betting

Placing a golf bet is easy when readers use a trusted UKGC-licensed betting site. BestOdds recommends the following steps are taken to ensure punters can start in the best possible way and enjoy a positive experience:

1. Choose a Trusted UK Bookmakers

Begin by selecting a UK betting site that BestOdds recommends. These operators are fully licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), meaning they are safe, regulated, and committed to protecting players. While bettors can use other sites, doing so carries added risks, especially if the operator is unlicensed or the terms are unclear. By sticking with BestOdds’ recommended sites, punters know they are protected by UK law.

2. Create an Account and Register

Once a site has been chosen, head to the registration page and create a login. This process involves completing a few steps that require personal details, such as your full name, date of birth, email, and residential address. These details are required by UKGC rules and help bookmakers ensure that all customers are of legal betting age. Screenshots in this guide highlight how the process typically looks.

3. Claim a Welcome Bonus

During registration, bettors will often be presented with a welcome bonus offer. It’s best to claim this right away, as it may not be available later. Bonuses usually come with terms and conditions, such as:

• A minimum deposit amount.
• A wagering requirement within a set time period.
• Eligible payment methods or bet types.

Reading these terms carefully is crucial, as failing to meet the requirements could result in forfeiting the bonus.

4. Complete Verification (KYC)

Bookmakers must verify every customer’s identity. Most will complete this automatically using the details you provide. However, additional Know Your Customer (KYC) checks may be required, especially before your first withdrawal. These checks can involve uploading a copy of your ID (passport, driver’s licence) and proof of address (utility bill, bank statement). Completing verification early ensures faster withdrawals in the future.

5. Make a Deposit

After your account is set up, navigate to the cashier and choose your preferred payment method. UK sportsbooks typically accept debit cards, e-wallets like PayPal or Skrill, and bank transfers. Simply enter the details, specify the amount, and confirm. Most deposits are processed instantly, so you can begin betting straight away.

6. Navigate to the Golf Betting Section

From the bookmaker’s homepage, open the sports menu and find Golf. Here you’ll see a full list of live and upcoming tournaments, from PGA Tour events to Majors like The Masters, The Open, and Ryder Cup.

7. Place Your Bet

Click on your chosen event, browse the available betting markets, and add a selection to your betting slip. Enter your stake, check the odds, and confirm the bet. Once placed, your wager will be tracked within your account under “My Bets” or a similar section.

8. Watch Live and Consider Cash-Out Options

Some bookmakers provide live streaming for major golf tournaments. Watching the action can help you make informed decisions about using the cash-out feature, which allows you to settle a bet early, either to lock in profits or minimize losses.

9. Take Advantage of Event-Specific Promotions

Many UK bookmakers run special promotions tied to big golf events, such as enhanced odds, free bet offers, or insurance on losing wagers. These promotions add extra value but always come with terms and conditions. BestOdds recommends reading these carefully to avoid exclusions or forfeiture of winnings.

Tips for Getting Started with Golf Betting

Before UK bettors get started with golf betting, it can be advise to consider some of the best golf betting tips available. BestOdds has a dedicated page that provides readers with expert tips and advice from advanced golf bettors, with key details being shared to maximise potential betting successes.

A brief rundown of popular golf betting tips that readers should consider when betting on the sport for the first time include:

• Understand Tournament Formats: Know stroke play, match play, and the structure of majors and smaller events.
• Research Player Form: Check recent performances, course history, and fitness.
• Focus on Major Tournaments: Higher liquidity and more information available.
• Use Each-Way Bets: A safer strategy when betting on outsiders or less consistent players.
• Track Course Fit: Some players excel on specific courses or surfaces.
• Compare Odds: Shop across bookmakers to find the best value.
• Follow Weather Conditions: Wind and rain heavily influence golf outcomes.
• Consider Head-to-Head Markets: Simpler alternatives that limit the field.
• Stay Updated: Monitor withdrawals, injuries, and tee times.
• Manage Bankroll: Set limits and avoid chasing losses.

Readers who adopt these golf betting tips can potentially improve betting decisions and find value bets.

Responsible Gambling on Four-Day Markets

When placing bets on golf, it can be easy for punters to begin to make poor betting decisions. Bettors may attempt to try and find value in bets on a golfer who is facing the cut on Friday, hoping that the player is able to climb up the leaderboard. Other bets can involve backing players who have seen odds drift because of their form, etc.

While bets like these can be profitable and attractive, bettors must ensure they practice responsible gambling. With golf events taking four days to complete, it can be very easy for bettors to place multiple bets when chasing losses or reacting to what happens on the course.

Without following responsible measures that the UKGC has implemented and requires all licensed betting sites to offer, punters can fall into trouble. Problem gambling can occur, as more money can be spent without bettors realising.

To stay on top of golf betting, players should use the tools that have been made available to them, as well as practicing discipline and control in terms of bankroll and avoiding a decision to chase losses. Tools available include:

• Reality checks
• Deposit and loss limits
• Self-exclusion opportunities
• Support and assistance for problem gambling

Independent charities and organisations that are available for punters who fear potentially falling into harmful or problem gambling include:

• GamStop
• GameCare
• GambleAware

These assistance providers offer 24/7 professional help, with various methods of communication available, including online and telephone support.

Main Takeaways

Golf betting continues to remain a popular market with UK bettors, with the sport offering several betting opportunities. The length in which the game is played can be of huge attraction, as there are many unique facets that punters can consider.

Golf is a sport that can involve bettors needing to use strategy with their bets, bringing in additional value to bets when the analytics have been studied correctly and offer potential returns. With factors like weather, form, and the type of course all features to consider, golf betting is unlike any other.

Still, with many major tournaments played throughout a calendar year across many different tours, responsible gambling must be observed to ensure a positive experience. Punters must use the tools that are highlighted to keep themselves safe and avoid potential harmful gambling.

Understanding golf odds can help bettors to avoid making rash decisions, while also allow for value to be potentially found.

TL;DR:

• Golf betting is hugely popular with UK bettors.
• Several competitions/events are held across the year offering many golf betting opportunities.
• Important golf odds are understood before wagering.
• Consider using golf betting strategies to make informed betting decisions.
• Practice responsible gambling measures at all times.

FAQs

What is golf betting?
Golf betting involves placing wagers on professional golf tournaments, players, or specific outcomes within events. You can bet on outright winners, top 5/10/20 finishes, head-to-head matchups, and even props like a hole-in-one.

Is golf betting legal in the UK?
Yes. Golf betting is completely legal in the UK as long as you use a bookmaker licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Licensed sites guarantee fairness, security, and player protection.

How do I start betting on golf?
Choose a UKGC-licensed betting site, create an account, deposit funds, and navigate to the golf section of the betting site. From there, select your market, add it to your bet slip, and confirm your wager.

What types of golf bets can I place?
Popular options include outright winner bets, each-way bets, top 5/10/20 finishes, player match bets, proposition bets like hole-in-one markets, and live in-play betting during tournaments.

What is an each-way bet in golf?
An each-way bet is two wagers: one on your chosen player to win and one on them to finish in a certain place (often top 5). It increases your chance of a payout if your golfer performs well without winning outright.

When is the best time to place a golf bet?
Many bettors prefer betting before the tournament starts for higher odds, while others wait for in-play betting to respond to live form. Betting on Majors often offers extra promotions and better value.

Can I bet on golf live?
Yes. In-play betting is available at most bookmakers, letting you place wagers during the tournament. Odds shift in real time based on performance, momentum, and course conditions.

How do golf betting odds work?
Odds reflect the probability of an outcome and determine your potential winnings. For example, 10/1 means a £10 bet would return £100 profit. Odds may be shown in fractional, decimal, or moneyline format depending on the site settings.

Do bookmakers offer promotions for golf?
Yes. Common promotions include enhanced odds, free bets, extra each-way places for Majors, and insurance if your player leads after a round but fails to win.

What does cash-out mean in golf betting?
Cash-out lets you settle your bet before the tournament finishes. If your golfer is performing well, you can take an early profit rather than risk a late slip.

Do course conditions affect betting?
Definitely. Course layout, weather, and player history at a venue are key factors. Many successful bettors analyze past performances at similar courses to find an edge.

Can I watch golf live through betting sites?
Some UKGC-licensed bookmakers offer live streaming for major tournaments. If streaming isn’t available, you can usually track live leaderboards and statistics.

What payment methods can I use?
UK bookmakers typically support debit cards, e-wallets like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller, and bank transfers. Credit cards are banned for gambling in the UK.

How long do withdrawals take?
Withdrawal times vary by method: debit cards usually take 1–3 days, e-wallets are often instant to 24 hours, and bank transfers can take 2–5 days. Completing identity verification helps prevent delays.

What is the minimum age for golf betting?
You must be at least 18 years old to place bets legally in the UK. All licensed operators will verify your age before you can withdraw funds.

Are there strategies to improve golf betting success?
Yes. Strategies include analyzing course history, studying recent player form, monitoring weather forecasts, and using each-way bets to spread risk in large tournament fields.

Can I bet on smaller or amateur events?
Most bookmakers cover professional events such as the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, Ryder Cup, and Majors. Some may offer markets on smaller tours, but these are less common.

Are golf betting winnings taxed in the UK?
No. All gambling winnings, including golf betting, are tax-free for players in the UK. The operators are responsible for paying gambling duties, not the bettors.