Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club

Tucked away in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, making it a cherished destination for golf enthusiasts. Founded in 1888, this traditional members' golf club has maintained its original charm and challenge over the years. The heathland course, with its 36 holes, stands as a testament to golf's enduring appeal, embracing the very essence of the sport without succumbing to modern alterations.

The Old Course, renowned for its absence of bunkers, relies on the natural landscape to challenge players. Heather, humps, hollows, and streams serve as nature's obstacles, demanding precision and strategy from every golfer. This reliance on the original contours of the land has earned the Old Course a prestigious spot among the top 100 courses in England, as ranked by Golf World in 2023. Its design, dictated by nature, provides a stern test to golfers, emphasizing the importance of accuracy over distance. The presence of mature trees, seeded from the surrounding forest, further narrows the fairways, enhancing both the course's beauty and its challenge.

The West Course adds another layer of complexity with its narrower fairways and smaller, elevated greens. Once recognized as the longest Ladies Golf Club in England, it offers a different but equally demanding experience. The strategic placement of heather, gorse, and thick rough compensates for the absence of bunkers, ensuring that every shot requires careful thought and precision. The evolution of the West Course, from its inception in 1889 to achieving Royal status, mirrors the club's commitment to offering a diverse and challenging golfing experience.

Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club's commitment to tradition is evident in its selection as a venue for prestigious tournaments, including the Open Championship Regional Qualifying and various amateur championships. These events not only highlight the Old Course's competitive edge but also its ability to test the mettle of the finest golfers from around the globe. The club's dedication to maintaining the natural integrity of the course ensures that it remains a true test of golf, balancing the demands of the sport with the preservation of its historical and natural environment.

Beyond the fairways, Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club extends a warm welcome to members and guests alike, with a clubhouse that offers a range of amenities. From professional tuition and custom fitting at the Pro Shop to the cosy bar and restaurant, the club ensures a comprehensive golfing experience. The practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and indoor simulator, allow golfers to hone their skills in a variety of settings, reflecting the club's commitment to excellence in all aspects of the game.

In conclusion, Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club stands as a beacon of golfing tradition, seamlessly integrating the sport with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Its courses challenge golfers to play the game as it was originally conceived, amid the unspoiled landscapes of the Ashdown Forest. As the club moves forward, it remains rooted in the values that have made it a revered destination for golfers for over a century, preserving the essence of golf for future generations to cherish.