Dress Code & Course Etiquette
Play safely, dress appropriately, care for the course, and respect others.
Your comfort comes first.
At Clays Golf, we want you to feel at ease – whether you’re out on the course, relaxing in the clubhouse, or anywhere in between. We’re a modern, forward-thinking club, and our dress code reflects that. All we ask is that you must wear recognised golf attire. By this, we simply mean clothing that today’s golfing community accepts – including contemporary styles that evolve with the game. If it’s something you’d find at a trusted golf retailer, it’s perfectly fine here.
On The Course
Golf Shirts & Tops
Collared golf shirts are required. Modern crew-neck golf/sports tops are permitted. Football, rugby shirts or t-shirts with large slogans or logos, are not permitted.
Golf Trousers & Shorts
Golf trousers or golf shorts are required. Jeans, coloured denim, combat-style trousers/shorts, three-quarter lengths, or tracksuits, are not permitted.
Golf Shoes
Golf shoes must be worn, as they provide grip and support for your game. Golf-specific trainers are permitted in dry conditions, with soft spikes preferred. Trainers, work/walking boots, football boots and all other types of shoes are not permitted.
On The Driving Range & In The Clubhouse
There’s no dress code on the Driving Range or inside the Clubhouse – we simply ask that shirts and tops are kept on at all times.
Safety first, manners always.
Golf is more than just a game – it’s a shared experience. Good etiquette keeps everyone safe, ensures a smooth pace of play, and maintains the course for the next group. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced player, these guidelines will help you enjoy your round while respecting others.
Health & Safety Rules
Before teeing off on our Golf Course, please ensure you read the following rules.
- Don’t hit until it’s clear – wait until the group ahead is well out of range before playing.
- Shout “FOOOORE!” – if your ball is heading towards another golfer or member of the public. Shout loudly to warn them.
- Stay alert on the course – listen for warnings, watch for stray balls, and avoid distractions when someone is hitting.
- Be aware of your surroundings – make sure no one is in your line of swing or shot before you play.
- Mind your backswing – be cautious when practising swings near others.
- Crossing over roads – be cautious when crossing over the road from the 4th to 5th hole and returning from the 13th to 14th hole.
- Golfers teeing off – be cautious when walking to the next tee. Golfers could be teeing off on adjacent holes.
- Beware of out of bounds areas – which are identified with white posts and detailed on the scorecard. DO NOT play your shot from any of the out of bounds areas.
- Weather awareness – if there’s lightning, head to safety immediately. No round of golf is worth the risk.
Dress Code & Equipment
Following basic golf traditions helps you play correctly and stay in step with others.
- Follow our dress code – ensure you are wearing the correct clothing and golf shoes.
- You must have your own golf equipment – sharing a bag and clubs is NOT permitted.
Course Care
Looking after the course means it stays in great condition for everyone.
- Replace divots – replace your divots or fill with seed/sand mix when on the teeing area.
- Repair pitchmarks – use a pitchfork.
- Rake bunkers – smooth club marks and footprints when you leave.
- Avoid damage with buggies and trolleys – stay away from the tees and greens, follow paths, keep behind white lines and avoid wet or sensitive areas.
- Don’t drag clubs on greens – treat putting surfaces with care.
- Use the recycling bins provided – keep the course clean and tidy.
Pace Of Play
Playing at a steady pace avoids slow play and keeps the game enjoyable for everyone.
- Keep up with group in front – this helps maintain the pace of play.
- Let players through – if your playing slow, let groups behind play through, regardless of their size.
- Be ready to hit – decide on your club and shot before it’s your turn.
- Play “ready golf” – whoever is ready first plays, if safe to do so.
- Limit time spent looking for lost balls – the rules allow three minutes.
- Move quickly between shots – walk briskly or drive promptly to your ball.
Respect Others
Playing respectfully keeps the game fair, enjoyable, and welcoming for everyone.
- Keep quiet while others are hitting – silence and stillness help concentration.
- Stand out of sight lines – avoid standing directly behind or in front of the golfer playing.
- Don’t distract with movement – even small gestures can be off-putting during a shot.
- Honour the game – play with honesty and integrity, counting every stroke.
- Encourage good shots – a quick “nice shot” goes a long way.
- Be inclusive – educate beginners, make them feel welcome and supported.
