Autumn can be the best time of year to play golf: courses are often in great condition after summer, temperatures are comfortable and the colours can be spectacular. But conditions change quickly, with falling leaves, morning dew, shorter days and maintenance work. Here's how to make the most of autumn golf.
Changing conditions
- Cooler air: the ball flies a little shorter. Read winter golf.
- Morning dew and softer ground: less roll, wetter balls.
- Wind: autumn storms bring stronger winds. Read how to play golf in the wind.
- Greens may slow as growth and moisture increase. Read putting on fast and slow greens.
Leaves
- Finding your ball: leaves can hide balls in the rough and under trees; watch every shot and use a landmark.
- Provisional balls: play one if a ball might be lost. Read penalty areas and out of bounds.
- Loose impediments: leaves are loose impediments; you may remove them, but take care not to move your ball. Read golf free relief rules.
- Local rules: some courses introduce local rules for leaves in autumn. Read golf local rules explained.
- Bright balls are easier to spot.
Course maintenance
Autumn is a common time for aeration and overseeding. Greens may be sandy and bumpy for a couple of weeks. Check the course calendar before booking important rounds. Read golf course maintenance explained.
What to wear
- Layers: a base layer, a mid layer and a windproof or waterproof outer layer.
- Waterproof shoes for dewy mornings. Read our golf shoes guide.
- Rain gear for showers. Read our golf rain gear guide.
Shorter days
- Check sunset times and book tee times accordingly. Read twilight golf.
- Play nine holes after work while light allows. Read nine-hole golf.
Practise for next season
Autumn is a good time to assess your season, set goals and start any swing changes. Read golf goal setting and keeping a golf journal.
Autumn destinations
Autumn is ideal for golf in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Greece, New England and Virginia. Read best golf destinations by month and golf in New England.
Frequently asked questions
Is autumn a good time for golf?
Yes. Courses are often in good condition and temperatures are comfortable.
Can I move leaves near my ball?
Yes, they're loose impediments, but if your ball moves while you remove them, it's a penalty (except on the green).
Why are greens bumpy in autumn?
Many courses aerate greens in autumn for long-term health.
What should I wear for autumn golf?
Layers, waterproof shoes and a light waterproof.
The bottom line
Autumn golf combines great conditions with beautiful scenery. Dress in layers, watch your ball among the leaves, expect some maintenance, plan around shorter days and use the season to set up next year's improvement. For the other end of the year, read spring golf preparation.