Rory McIlroy names his three favourite golf courses in England – one may surprise you
The six-time major champion was asked to name his favourite English courses during a conversation with former footballer Jay Bothroyd.
Rory McIlroy has revealed the three English golf courses he would choose above all others – and while two of his picks will hardly raise an eyebrow, his final selection may surprise plenty of fans.
The six-time major champion was asked for his favourites by former pro footballer and England Golf Game Changer Jay Bothroyd during a conversation at the BMW PGA at Wentworth last week.
McIlroy, who recently bought a house on the Wentworth Estate, was quick to name his first choice before taking a little longer to settle on the other two.
His opening selection was Royal Birkdale, a course with an unrivalled place in the history of The Open.
The Merseyside links hosted golf's oldest major for the 11th time in July, when New Zealand's Ryan Fox produced a dramatic birdie on the 72nd hole to defeat Cameron Young by one shot.
"Birkdale," McIlroy said immediately when Bothroyd put him on the spot.
The Northern Irishman then opted for Sunningdale Old, the Berkshire heathland masterpiece designed by Willie Park Jr and opened in 1901.
McIlroy was asked why he preferred the Old Course over Sunningdale's New Course, which opened in 1923, and his answer was particularly revealing.
"Sunningdale Old is, look, I think for the modern game it's probably not, like the game and technology has passed it by," said the World No.2.
"But I don't think there's a more enjoyable walk for 18 holes in golf anywhere, not even just in England, it's just so good."
That sentiment is difficult to argue with. Sunningdale itself describes the Old as one of the finest inland courses in the country, while its history includes major amateur and professional events. It also hosted the Senior Open in 2025, won by Pádraig Harrington.
Then came the surprise.
After giving it some thought, McIlroy settled on Hankley Common near Farnham in Surrey.
"I'm going to say Hankley Common. That's really good," he said.
It is a superb course, but perhaps not the name that would immediately spring to mind for most golfers when asked to name England's three finest layouts.
The heathland gem sits on a huge natural site and has a reputation for its secluded setting and demanding, strategic golf.
Watch McIlroy's comments here:
The conversation was also an interesting one given Bothroyd's growing involvement in golf.
The former England international joined England Golf's Game Changers initiative in 2025, a programme designed to challenge outdated perceptions of golf and highlight the sport's physical, mental and social benefits.
Bothroyd, who won an England cap during a 21-year professional football career, has since become increasingly involved in golf through his media work and the OuttaBoundz Show.
Bothroyd's own experience of taking up the game has also shaped his work with England Golf, particularly around making golf feel more accessible to younger people and those who may not traditionally see themselves as golfers.
For McIlroy, though, the focus was purely on the courses.
And while Birkdale and Sunningdale Old may have been predictable choices, the inclusion of Hankley Common certainly gives us something to debate.
All three are absolute belters – but do you agree with McIlroy's choices?
Andy Roberts first joined GolfMagic on a month's work experience back in April 2011.
Andy then assumed the role of GolfMagic Editor in 2015.
