The new 18-hole London Airlinks golf course in Hounslow, England, is set to open on 15 May.  

The 5,314-yard layout replaces the abandoned Airlinks course that closed in 2014, on a site that was once home to Heston Aerodrome, London’s primary airport until nearby Heathrow opened in 1946 and the venue of former British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain’s 1938 ‘Peace for our time’ speech. 

The previous course has been replaced with an eighteen-hole layout, which Glendale Golf – operators of seven courses in the UK – says is inspired by Scotland’s coastal courses. The par-68 layout has five par threes and one par five, and includes dunes and water features, and has views of the London skyline. 

“Short in length compared to traditional eighteen-hole courses; yet an enticing feature in today’s market,” said Jon Dummett, head of golf at Glendale Golf. “Time is an increasingly valuable commodity and expeditious golf is appealing. More so when it satisfies the busy city dweller with an appetite for a full round, who might otherwise feel short-changed by nine. 

“The course features USGA-specification greens with modern drainage and irrigation systems ensuring quality, all-year round playing surfaces; robust enough to stand up to the expected high footfall.” 

Watch: a virtual tour of the new course. 

A parcel from the original course has been used for a 25-bay driving range that will include Toptracer range technology.  

“After eight years in the making, we’re incredibly excited to be opening London Airlinks Golf Course and bringing the drama of links golf to the city, making it a must-visit golfing destination,” said Dummett. “Links courses can be notoriously tough to play, but with London Airlinks we’ve ensured the course design is suitable for golfers of all abilities, and we can’t wait to welcome newcomers, novices and golf enthusiasts of all levels to the new course and premium Toptracer range next month.”