Sunningdale Golf Club

Overview

The Old Course -
Sunningdale Golf Club is up there as one of the best 36 hole experiences anywhere in the world. Willie Park Junior, was consulted and tasked with designing a course of exemplary character, for the price of £3000. It opened to universal acclaim in 1901 and was among the first successful courses located away from the coast, as many had believed turf would not grow well in such regions. Credit to Park Jnr’s design, 'The Old Course' has stood the test of time, and even now with the advance of modern technology, the course can be challenging to even the longest of hitters. Whilst in his post as Secretary, Harry Colt contributed to the layout and made some thoughtful changes to Park Jnr’s design, notably moving the 4th, 7th & 12th greens to where they are still to this day. Several prestigious events have been held on the The Old Course including The Walker Cup and The Senior Open Championship.

The New Course -
Sunningdale’s New Course was designed by renowned Architect and former Secretary, Harry Colt and first opened in 1923. It was commissioned following the end of the First World War, as membership figures were recovering rapidly and transport to the Club was becoming easier with the development of the motor car. The amount of golf played was increasing, and the Committee was concerned to reduce the pressure on the Old Course. The New Course is considered to be the more rugged, with less bunkering and tree lining that its older sibling. Narrow winding fairways bordered by penal heather, act as corridors to the small and often raised greens. The New Course has partnered the Old throughout many years of Open Championship International Final Qualifying with competitors playing 18 on each course.