Golfing the British Isles: The Weekend Warrior’s Companion

This gorgeously photographed book offers a window into the finest courses in the UK and Ireland, with relatable tips and amusing commentary for the average golfer.

Most golfers only dream of playing at St. Andrews, Ballybunion, Turnberry, or Royal County Down. With incomparable history, unique traditions, and ferociously beautiful seaside landscapes, it’s no wonder that the British Isles are home to some of the most celebrated golf courses in the world.

Peter Gray, a middle handicapper and weekend warrior, has nonetheless golfed his way around the UK and Ireland and has the misadventures to prove it: from a disaster on the legendary ＂Road Hole＂ at Old Course in St. Andrews, to braving gale force winds at Muirfield (characterized by locals as ＂a spot of bother＂), and even being urged to drink an entire bottle of Jameson 18-year-old whiskey after a round at Lahinch to cure a fierce case of the shanks (it worked).

Part amusing travelogue, part scenic showcase, Golfing the British Isles: The Weekend Warrior’s Companion brims with the same beauty, character, and sheer fun exemplified by the courses it depicts.

Featuring breathtaking photography from Gary Lisbon alongside insightful commentary and practical guidance, this distinctive book will have golf enthusiasts packing their clubs, booking tee times, and charting their own pilgrimage in celebration of this singular game.

Peter Gray is an environmental lawyer and published author with an abiding passion for golf and golf course architecture. As a longtime veteran international golf course rater for Golfweek magazine, he has rated hundreds of courses in the United States and overseas. He is also a member of several golf architectural societies including the Donald Ross Society and the Tillinghast Association.

Although Mr. Gray is a middle handicapper, he has played many of the world’s Top 100 courses. His perspective on the playability of golf courses is one that has been missing for readers--the perspective of the average golfer. This book presents that missing perspective.

Gary Lisbon has been an accomplished Melbourne, Australia-based golf-course photographer for almost two decades. His photographic goal is clear-cut: to capture the essence of the golfing landscape and the spirit of the game--through the medium of his camera.

With an appreciation for the game’s traditions and a genuine love of the playing aspect, Gary brings a golfer’s perspective to his photography, ably demonstrated by the spectacular and enduring images from many of the world’s top golf courses.