Start golf in a group where nobody expects you to know it already.
Friendly beginner and ladies golf coaching at Hampton Court Palace Golf Club with Gareth Dredge.
A relaxed way to start golf without feeling like you need to know anything first.
The beginner groups at Hampton Court are designed for adults who are new to golf, returning after a long break or simply want to learn in a more social environment than a one-to-one lesson.
Gareth Dredge runs the Hampton Court beginner programme under ME Golf Academy. Sessions introduce the game progressively, covering putting, short game, full swing and the skills you need to feel comfortable moving towards the golf course.
The current group session price is £20 per person on a pay-as-you-go basis. For ladies who would prefer a little individual help before joining a group, there is also a 45-minute new-golfer introduction lesson for £50.
You do not need a handicap or previous experience to join. The aim is to make the first stage of learning golf straightforward, welcoming and enjoyable.
The parts of golf you actually need to get started.

Make consistent contact
Learn a simple setup and swing that gives you a reliable starting point without overloading you with technical positions.

Learn how to score near the green
Putting, chipping and basic pitching are introduced early because they are essential once you begin playing holes.

Understand how golf is actually played
Learn basic etiquette, club choice, pace of play and how to move from practice sessions towards playing the course.

Learn with Gareth Dredge at Hampton Court.
Gareth delivers the main adult beginner and ladies group programme at Hampton Court, as well as private lessons for golfers who prefer individual coaching.
Starting golf for the first time.
Do I need any golf experience before joining?
No. These sessions are designed for beginners and returning golfers, so you do not need a handicap or previous club membership.
Are the groups only for ladies?
The academy runs ladies-focused beginner sessions as well as broader beginner coaching. The live booking calendar shows the sessions currently available.
What if I am nervous about joining a group?
Book the 45-minute new-golfer introduction with Gareth first. It gives you individual time to learn the basics before joining other players.
How much do the group sessions cost?
The current live booking price is £20 for a one-hour beginner group session.
Where are the sessions held?
At Hampton Court Palace Golf Club, where the academy can use practice facilities and progress golfers towards on-course learning.
You do not need to be “good enough” before you start.
Book a Hampton Court beginner group or start with an individual introduction lesson with Gareth.
