Golf courses in England will be allowed to reopen on Wednesday, following Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s address to the nation on Sunday night.

Golfers will be permitted to play at their usual club – provided the club follows strict guidelines – either on their own, with members of their household, or with one other person from outside of their household, provided they remain two metres apart.

Clubhouses must remain closed, while clubs are awaiting clarification regarding the opening of professional shops, driving ranges and coaching sessions.

There is no change to the current position in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales and so golf courses in these countries must remain closed for now.

The government guidance document entitled ‘Staying alert and safe (social distancing)’, published on Monday, states: “From Wednesday 13 May, the government will also allow outdoor sports facilities – such as tennis and basketball courts, golf courses and bowling greens – to open, but you should only use these alone, with members of your household, or with one other person from outside your household, while keeping two metres apart at all times.”

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden revealed on Twitter shortly after Mr Johnson’s televised address on Sunday that the government “can imminently allow some sports activity like golf, basketball, tennis, fishing” to be practised either alone or with members of their own households.

Outdoor gyms, playgrounds, or outdoor swimming pools will remain closed.

Mr Dowden said on Twitter: “In recent weeks our daily exercise has been so important to our health and wellbeing. Now in tentative steps, and in the least risky outdoor environments, we can imminently allow some sports activity like golf, basketball, tennis, fishing - solo/in households. Guidance to follow.”

A statement published by England Golf on Monday morning read: “It is important to stress that this remains an extremely difficult situation throughout the UK and we are acutely aware that many lives have been lost to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The effects of the virus will continue to be felt for a long time to come. As a sport we must work together to resume play responsibly as and when the relevant Government determines it is safe to do so. 

“We must ensure that the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved from golfers, to club staff and greenkeepers is maintained at all times. Golf clubs and golfers have observed the lockdown very well and must keep it up and act responsibly as play resumes.”

Budock Vean Golf Club posted a brief statement following the announcement that golf clubs in England could re-open, saying: “Further to the Government announcement on May 10 and under guidance from England Golf we will be reopening the golf course as soon as possible to allow golfers to play alone or with other players from the same household. Please watch this space.”

Radnor Golf and Leisure posted a statement on Facebook, which read: “As it stands, we will be welcoming back members from Wednesday morning to play nine holes, more if tee is clear upon completion, sadly no guests or visitors for the immediate future.

"Members do not need to book a tee time but will be required to observe social distance requirements whilst they wait.

"You may play in a two ball of your choosing, no more. Driving range remains closed as does clubhouse and changing rooms. Assisted shopping available at certain times, contactless preferred. Please be patient and if you feel any symptoms stay away.”