Putting Green Install – How Much Space Do You Really Need in Your Garden?
Thinking about turning a corner of your garden into your very own mini St. Andrews? Whether you’re a scratch golfer or more of a Sunday slicer, a putting green install is the perfect way to combine a love for the game with a lush, low-maintenance garden upgrade.
But the big question is — how much space do you actually need for a home putting green in the UK? Spoiler alert: not as much as you think.
At Look Real Lawns, we’ve helped dozens of homeowners across Kent and Surrey create their dream golf green (complete with flags, undulations, and the occasional cheeky bunker). Here’s what you need to know before teeing off on your own garden transformation.
Why Install a Putting Green at Home?
First things first — let’s talk about why a putting green install is more than just a golfer’s fantasy:
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?️♂️ Practice makes par – Sharpen your short game from the comfort of your patio.
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? Low maintenance – Artificial grass means no mowing, no mud, no worries.
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? Adds value – It’s a proper talking point for property viewings (especially if they play a bit themselves).
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? Garden envy – Neighbours peering over the fence wondering why theirs looks like a 5-a-side pitch and yours is PGA-ready.
⛳ How Much Space Do I Need for a Home Putting Green?
This is the most common question we get. And the answer? As much or as little as you like.
Minimum Recommended Size
We’ve installed functional greens in spaces as small as 3m x 3m. That’s more than enough for:
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One or two holes
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Light undulation
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Fringe grass surround
Perfect if you just want a spot to sink a few putts between BBQs and beers.
Ideal Sizes for Keen Golfers
If you want to take things up a notch, aim for:
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3m x 5m – for longer putts and more hole variation
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4m x 8m+ – to include slopes, multiple flags, and realistic green speed
Want to go all-out? We’ve done installs across entire lawns with fairway, fringe, and even rough sections. You dream it – we turf it.
? What Makes the Best Garden Putting Green?
Designing a quality putting green install involves more than just rolling out a bit of green carpet. Here’s what makes all the difference:
✅ Pro-Grade Artificial Grass
We use specialist putting green turf with a stimp rating similar to a real course. Fast, true, and UV-stable – it’s golf-grade, not garden centre stuff.
✅ Drainage Matters (Especially in the UK)
With Kent’s clay-heavy soil and Surrey’s variable weather, proper sub-base installation and drainage is key. No one wants to practice knee-knockers in puddles.
✅ Shape & Features
Fancy a kidney shape? Dogleg right? Raised fringe? Add bunkers, cups, flags and even chipping mats for the full tour experience.
✅ Fringes & Chipping Areas
Include a longer artificial turf border to work on your short chips. Even the pros need work on the ol’ bump and run!
?️ Can I Install a Putting Green Myself?
Technically, yes. But unless you’re handy with a compactor and spirit level, it can quickly become a DIY divot.
✅ DIY kits are an option for small areas.
? But for anything bigger (or if you want it to actually roll true), you’ll want the pros in.
That’s where we come in. At Look Real Lawns, we handle:
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Site prep and groundworks
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Artificial turf fitting
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Custom shaping and features
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Edging, drainage, and finish
And we always leave the garden cleaner than we found it – no muddy footprints or leftover turf scraps in sight.
? What Does a Putting Green Install Cost?
A proper putting green install in Kent or Surrey starts from around £70 per square metre + VAT, depending on:
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Turf type
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Ground conditions
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Features (bunkers, cups, contours)
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Access to site (hand tools or diggers!)
Want a rough quote? Drop us a message and we’ll pop round for a proper look and a no-nonsense chat.
?️ Does Artificial Turf Work Well in UK Weather?
Short answer: yes, brilliantly.
Artificial putting greens are built for:
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☔ Rain – Drains faster than you can say “greenskeeper”
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☀️ Sun – UV-stable, won’t fade or melt
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❄️ Cold – Frost-resistant and easy to brush clean
Plus, it’s pet-friendly, child-safe, and ideal for all-season use.
? Insider Tips from the Greenkeepers at Look Real Lawns
?️♂️ Add a cup with removable flag – makes mowing the rest of the lawn a breeze.
? Build in subtle contours – simulates real putting challenges.
? Keep trees trimmed – avoids debris and shade that can affect turf quality.
? Use tee markers – great for family putting games and practice routines.
? Local Golfers in Kent and Surrey – We’re Your Turf Team
Whether you’re based in leafy Sevenoaks, stylish Reigate, or anywhere between Tunbridge Wells to Leatherhead, we cover the entire Kent and Surrey region with our premium putting green install service.
We’ve worked with:
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Weekend warriors
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Retired golfers
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Garden designers
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Primary schools
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Even a wedding venue (yes, really)
Why Trust Look Real Lawns?
✔️ Over 10 years’ experience in artificial lawn design and landscaping
✔️ Local experts with 5-star reviews from happy Kent and Surrey homeowners
✔️ Use only top-quality, UK-sourced materials
✔️ Detailed, free quotes and honest advice – no fluff, no upsell
We don’t just know turf. We live and breathe it.
? Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I customise the shape of my putting green?
A: Absolutely! We design to fit your space – from classic circles to curvy doglegs.
Q: Is it suitable for pets and kids?
A: 100%. Our putting green turf is non-toxic, soft, and safe for the whole family.
Q: Do I need planning permission?
A: Nope! As long as you’re not digging a bunker the size of a swimming pool, you’re good to go.
Q: How long does a putting green last?
A: Around 10-15 years with proper care – and we’ll show you exactly how to look after it.
Q: Can I use it all year round?
A: Yes – it’s designed to perform in all seasons. No need to wait for summer to practice your lag putts.
? Ready to Tee Off at Home?
If you’re dreaming of your own slice of Augusta in the garden, get in touch with Look Real Lawns today. We’ll talk through your ideas, assess your space, and deliver a putting green install that’s nothing short of championship-worthy.
? Contact us here or call for a friendly chat. No hard sell, just helpful advice and cracking turf.
