A guide to the rules of golf

Stay on the right side of the law with our rules guide

As soon as a golfer has teed off, his or her ball is in play.

Once in play it's important to know the correct rules and etiquette; playing the wrong shot or accidentally moving your ball could cost you dear.

But worry not, our guide to the rules in play will keep you on the straight and narrow.

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Who plays first?

Forget politeness, the order in which take your strokes depends on distance from the hole.

Find out who plays first

The Fairway

The fairway is the strip of closely-mown grass which usually runs from tee to green.

Find out about the fairway

Penalty shots

There are hundreds of offences which carry penalty shots, such as having too many clubs in your bag.

Find out about penalty shots

Obstructions

As a general rule it is possible to move your ball from an awkward spot without penalty.

Find out about obstructions

Rough

The rough is usually grown to two levels - the short or light rough and the long rough.

Find out about the rough

Moving the ball

A player must take extreme care not to move the ball accidentally as it carries a one-shot penalty.

Find out about moving the ball

Ground under repair, etc

There are three occasions when you can lift your ball and replace it without penalty.

Find out about ground under repair

Etiquette

Etiquette plays a major role in golf. Avoid those tuts with our handy guide.

Find out about ground under repair