In some countries, particularly the UK and Ireland, public footpaths and rights of way cross many golf courses. Walkers have a legal right to use them, and golfers need to share the course safely and courteously. Here's how golfers and walkers can get along.
For golfers
- Wait: never play while walkers are within range.
- Be patient: walkers may not know golf etiquette.
- Shout "fore" loudly if needed. Read golf course safety.
- Be friendly: greet walkers and thank them for waiting.
- Follow course signs on footpath crossings.
For walkers
- Stay on the path.
- Look and listen for golfers.
- Wait briefly if a golfer is about to play, if you can see them.
- Keep dogs on a lead and away from greens. Read dog-friendly golf.
- Don't pick up golf balls.
Common flashpoints
- Footpaths crossing fairways near landing areas.
- Blind holes where walkers can't see golfers. Read how to play blind shots.
- Busy weekends with many walkers and golfers.
What clubs do
- Signs at crossing points.
- Warning bells or mirrors on blind holes.
- Local rules about balls hitting walkers or obstacles. Read golf local rules explained.
Typical signs and what they mean
| Sign | Meaning |
|---|---|
| "Public footpath" or "Public right of way" | Walkers have a legal right to use the path |
| "Beware of golf balls" | Warning to walkers that play crosses or runs alongside the path |
| "Golfers give way to walkers" | Golfers must wait until walkers are clear |
| "Please wait for golfers to play" | A request to walkers to pause briefly |
| "Keep to the path" | Walkers should not wander across the course |
A golfer's step-by-step approach
- Look before every shot near paths.
- Wait until walkers are clearly out of range.
- Signal politely if walkers are unsure whether to proceed, such as a wave to go ahead.
- Shout "fore" immediately if a ball heads towards anyone. Read golf course safety.
- Thank walkers for waiting.
A walker's step-by-step approach
- Stay on the marked path.
- Look for golfers about to play, especially on tees and fairways near the path.
- Pause briefly if a golfer is ready to hit, if it's safe to do so.
- Keep dogs on leads and away from greens.
- Never pick up golf balls, even if they look lost.
Dogs on courses with footpaths
Many golfers love seeing dogs, but dogs running onto greens or bunkers cause damage and disrupt play. Owners should keep dogs on leads and clean up after them. Some courses also welcome golfers with dogs. Read dog-friendly golf.
When a ball lands on a path
The rules on paths depend on the course: some paths are obstructions with free relief, while others are part of the course or out of bounds. Check the local rules on the scorecard. Read golf free relief rules and golf local rules explained.
Building good relations
Clubs that communicate well with local communities, through clear signs, newsletters and open days, tend to have fewer conflicts and more local support for the course. Read golf courses and wildlife.
Frequently asked questions
Do walkers have the right of way on a golf course footpath?
On a public right of way, walkers have a legal right to use the path; golfers must wait until it's safe to play.
What should I do if a walker is in range?
Wait until they've passed safely.
What if my ball hits a walker?
Check they're okay, apologise and report it to the club if necessary.
Can walkers pick up golf balls on footpaths?
They shouldn't; balls in play belong to the golfers.
Do walkers have to stop for golfers?
Usually not legally, but most walkers are happy to pause briefly when asked politely.
Can a golf club close a public footpath?
Generally not without a legal process. Rights of way are protected by law in many countries.
The bottom line
Footpaths on golf courses work when both sides show patience and courtesy: golfers wait and warn; walkers stay alert and on the path. For more on safety, read golf course safety.