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.