A total of 6,751 rounds were logged on the popular UDisc app between 1 January and 12 October this year, making Trafford's course the busiest in England. More than 13% of all recorded disc golf rounds in the country took place at Longford Park during this period. The English Disc Golf Association (EDGA) estimates the total number of participants is significantly higher, as many players do not use the app.
Disc golf, also known as frisbee golf, involves throwing a disc at a target using rules similar to golf. The EDGA, which is campaigning for Sport England recognition to unlock funding, released the statistics. The news comes as work begins on new water features in Longford Park to alleviate waterlogging on the course, which was installed in 2015. These improvements are part of a wider £6m transformation supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
EDGA reported a trebling of rounds played across the country this year compared to 2025, highlighting the sport's rapid growth. Disc golf is free to play at Longford Park year-round, and discs can be hired from the park café. The community group Manchester Disc Golf organises club nights, matches, tournaments, and open events at Longford Park and Lilford Park Course in Leigh. There are 121 permanent courses in England.
“"For years, disc golf in England has been misunderstood as either a niche American export or an informal park novelty. But the reality is that thousands of people are walking millions of steps in public parks, getting outdoors, and discovering a low-cost, lifelong sport."
Cllr Eve Parker, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Leisure, Arts, Culture and Heritage, commented: “We are delighted that disc golf is so popular in Longford Park, where we also have the country’s busiest athletics track. UDisc’s statistics show that in 2025, a total of 7,859 rounds were recorded here – that’s 29.6 million tracked steps and 10,660 hours of fresh air and enjoyment. This fits in with the Council’s priorities to facilitate healthy and independent lives and offer sport for all.”
