Sunningdale Golf Club
Berkshire, England
Sunningdale Golf Club Overview
Nestled on the picturesque Surrey/Berkshire border, Sunningdale Golf Club is widely acclaimed as one of the finest inland golfing destinations in the world. Established in 1900, the club boasts a storied heritage and a longstanding commitment to excellence, offering a perfect balance of tradition, natural beauty, and world-class course conditioning.
Sunningdale is home to two of England’s most revered courses — the Old and the New — both of which are consistently ranked among the top 10 courses in the country by major golf publications. Set amidst rolling heathland and framed by pine, birch, and oak trees, the club offers a peaceful retreat that feels far removed from the bustle of nearby London.
Over the decades, Sunningdale has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the British Masters, the Senior Open Championship, and the final stage of Open Championship Qualifying. Its strategic design, timeless aesthetic, and refined hospitality continue to draw both amateur and professional players from across the globe.
Golf Courses
The Old Course Designed by Willie Park Jr. and opened in 1901, the Old Course is a celebrated example of early golf architecture. It features wide, inviting fairways, heather-lined rough, and strategically placed bunkers that challenge players to think carefully about every shot.
Measuring just over 6,600 yards, the course is not defined by its length, but by the finesse and thoughtful course management it demands. Notable holes like the par-4 10th and the picturesque par-3 11th contribute to the course’s enduring reputation. Seamlessly integrated into its heathland surroundings, the Old Course offers a tranquil, classic golfing experience that consistently earns it global recognition.
The New Course Opened in 1923 and designed by the legendary Harry Colt, the New Course provides a more rugged and dramatic contrast to its older sibling. It sits on firmer ground and features more pronounced elevation changes, creating a visually striking and technically challenging layout.
The New Course is slightly longer and is often regarded as the sterner test of the two. It has tighter fairways, bolder bunkering, and sweeping views across the heathland, particularly in its strong finishing stretch. Colt’s masterful design demands a combination of power and precision, delivering a more open yet unforgiving challenge that has cemented its own place among England’s elite courses.
Golf courses at Sunningdale Golf Club
Old Course
The Old Course at Sunningdale, designed by Willie Park Jnr, is one of the finest inland courses in the UK. Known for its rolling fairways, heather-lined terrain, and scenic pine trees, it offers a classic and picturesque golfing experience.
New Course
The New Course at Sunningdale, designed by Harry Colt, is a more demanding test than the Old. Known for its rugged terrain, narrow fairways, and strategic layout, it offers a challenging and rewarding round.