First things first, golf isn’t just for retirees or big-shot corporate folk aiming to seal the deal (though there’s plenty of both playing a round as you read this, I’m sure). Golf is about the open air, the sunshine and relaxation. It’s also about starting something new, getting really good at it and being the man. Which means winning the round and being bought beers at the 19th hole (traditionally the clubhouse ‘watering hole’ rather than with a pin and a green).

Top tips for getting started

1. Go to a driving range, borrow some clubs and whack some balls. There’s no pressure to perform, it’s reasonably priced and accessible, plus you’ll feel like you’re getting somewhere by the time you see the bottom of the bucket of balls.
2. Have a crack at a pitch and putt. This will get you out on the green, using different clubs and trying the other end of the driving game – getting it in the hole.
3. Play a round with a friend at their club. Borrow the equipment, let them show you the ropes and see how you get on. Does it feel like something you could get into?
4. If you’ve made it this far, you’ll need some golf clubs…

Buying golf equipment

Most good courses require you to have your own clubs. They’re a substantial investment and it sometimes pays to buy in bulk. But my tip would be to buy only what you need, and top up as you progress. You’ll need at least:

1. A 3-wood (for long-distance driving off the tee, it won’t be made of wood but you’ll always start at the tee)
2. A pitching wedge (to dig the ball out of the rough – you’ll spend plenty of time doing this)
3. A putter (for the green – you may struggle at first, but eventually you’ll get near the hole, and will need one)
4. A selection of irons, say a 3, 5, 7 and 9
5. A golf bag, assorted tees and affordable balls – you’ll break a lot of tees and lose a lot of balls, so don’t throw your money away on pricey ones.

Learning golf etiquette and lingo

1. Most golf clubs will have a dress code – usually golf shoes with spikes, smart trousers (chinos will do it) plus a collared shirt (a polo shirt often suits). Avoid garish colours and logos – fashion shouldn’t die because you’ve passed through a clubhouse.
2. Generally act as if your grandparents were watching – that means good manners, no swearing and no hacking at the grass with your putter in frustration.
3. You’ll be slow around the course, let those playing behind you ‘play through’ if needed, so you’re not slowing their round.
4. You’ll be off target with the ball – shout ‘fore!’ if it looks even remotely like hitting another player. It won’t prevent a lawsuit, but it might help.

Five best golf courses to try

Now you’ll want to get out there and play a round. Here are some top ones to try, but be aware that most clubs are moderately expensive, and may require membership.

1. Valderrama, Spain – the ‘Augusta of Europe’ near Marbella in southern Spain is pricey, famous and pristine.
2. Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrew’s, Scotland – the ‘home of golf’. The weather’s unpredictable but it’s amongst the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in the world.
3. Augusta, USA – the home of the Masters, consistently ranked the best course in the USA. 
4. Wentworth, England – just outside Windsor Castle is amongst the most regal courses in the world and revered since the 1930s.
5. Mission Hills, Haikou, China - built in 2010 this is the premier spot to play in China, if not Asia.

Now get out there and whack some balls. Don’t worry if you don’t take to it at first – you can always revisit golf in retirement!