Business

A Fun and Lucrative Business
for Smart Investors

A comprehensive guide to turning fun into profit!

The Lost City: Nottingham

A Hole-in-One Investment
Opportunity

Adventure golf, also known as mini-golf or crazy golf, has become a highly attractive business opportunity in the leisure and entertainment industry. With increasing demand for interactive and social experiences, adventure golf courses provide a profitable investment with relatively low overhead costs, diverse revenue streams, and broad customer appeal.

If you're considering entering the adventure golf market, this guide will walk you through the key business and investment opportunities, the financial potential, and how to ensure long-term success.

Why Choose Adventure Golf

Adventure golf is a fast-growing entertainment option that appeals to all ages and demographics, from families to tourists, students to corporate groups. It offers a sustainable business model with wide market appeal.

Key Advantages:

  • Inclusive fun – Enjoyable for all ages and abilities, including accessible options for those with disabilities.
  • Group bookings – Popular with schools, businesses, and social groups for team-building and events.
  • Tourist appeal – Courses near attractions benefit from seasonal surges in visitors.

Low Costs, Strong Returns

Compared to other recreational ventures, adventure golf courses have low overheads and strong profitability.

Highlights:

  • Small staffing needs – A handful of employees can manage bookings, maintenance, and customer service.
  • Low operating expenses – Ongoing costs are mainly landscaping, light maintenance, and occasional marketing.
  • High margins – With per-person pricing starting at around £6.50, a single course can host hundreds of visitors daily.

Revenue Opportunities

There are several ways to diversify income beyond general admission.

Pay-to-Play

Charge per round, with flexible pricing for peak times and group bookings.

Memberships and Loyalty

Offer monthly or annual passes and reward repeat visits with free games or discounts.

Food and Drink Sales

An on-site café, bar, or kiosk increases average customer spend and extends their stay.

Events and Private Bookings

Host corporate team-building days, birthdays, and other social events with bespoke packages.

Themed Nights and Promotions

Seasonal events such as Halloween, Christmas, or glow-in-the-dark golf attract repeat business and new audiences.

Startup Costs

The initial investment varies depending on course size, location, and level of theming.

Estimated Costs:

Scale Player Capacity (Per Year) Estimated Cost Range
Small (9-hole) Up to 30,000 £150,000 – £300,000
Medium (18-hole themed) Up to 100,000 £300,000 – £500,000
Large (high-end themed) Up to 200,000 £500,000 – £1,000,000+

Costs include land (purchase or lease), design and construction, theming, landscaping, and lighting.

Choosing a Location

Location, location, location - success depends heavily on location. The best sites offer visibility, high foot traffic, and ease of access.

Ideal Locations:

  • Near tourist attractions such as beaches, theme parks, or landmarks
  • Within shopping centres or entertainment districts
  • Urban or suburban areas with good parking and accessibility

Marketing and Promotion

To build a strong customer base, your marketing strategy should combine digital and traditional channels.

Online Marketing

  • Easy-to-use website with booking functionality
  • Active social media presence targeting key demographics
  • Listings on Google, TripAdvisor, and relevant directories

Local Partnerships

  • Work with hotels, holiday parks, and clubs
  • Offer discounts or packages to cross-promote

Community Engagement

  • Collaborate with influencers and bloggers
  • Run local giveaways and competitions
  • Partner with charities or community groups to increase visibility and goodwill

Don't overlook offline channels such as local radio, newspapers, posters, and transport hubs.

Risks and Challenges

While the business model is strong, there are a few important considerations.

  • Weather dependency – Outdoor courses may lose footfall in poor weather. Consider indoor or covered options.
  • Capital investment – A solid business plan with revenue projections and potential financing is essential.
  • Competition – Stand out with strong theming, technology (e.g. augmented reality), and excellent customer service.

Is It a Good Investment?

Yes. Adventure golf offers high potential returns, low operating costs, and the flexibility to create multiple income streams. It appeals to a wide customer base and can be scaled to suit your ambitions—whether as a stand-alone business or part of a larger attraction.

With the right location, design, and marketing, it offers consistent revenue and long-term profitability.

9. Your Next Steps

If you're ready to explore this exciting business opportunity, begin by:

  • Researching potential sites
  • Securing funding or partnerships
  • Contact Homewood Adventure Golf to start the design and construction process
  • Planning a strong launch strategy

With careful planning and execution, your adventure golf course could be a hole-in-one investment.