The Dorset Golf Course

at The Dorset Golf & Country Club and Resort

Location: Bere Regis, Dorset | Style: Parkland | Par: 72 | Designer: Martin Hawtree | Founded: 1991

Set within 300 acres of tranquil Dorset countryside near Wareham, Dorset Golf & Country Club is a 27-hole resort complex offering three distinct 9-hole loops: Lakeland, Parkland, and Woodland. Designed by renowned architect Martin Hawtree, the course combines modern championship design with a peaceful, nature-rich setting.

The Lakeland and Parkland nines form the club’s primary championship layout, stretching to over 6,500 yards (and beyond 7,000 yards from the back tees), with water hazards featuring on many holes and large, sculpted bunkers defining the strategy. In contrast, the Woodland nine offers a shorter but equally engaging experience, winding through dense rhododendron forest to create a more enclosed, technical test.

Together, the three loops provide a varied golf experience, blending open parkland vistas, water-lined fairways, and tree-lined corridors. This flexibility allows golfers to play multiple course combinations, each presenting a different challenge and making the venue one of Dorset’s most versatile golf destinations.

Course highlights

• 27-hole layout - Three distinctive loops (Lakeland, Parkland, Woodland) offering multiple 18-hole combinations.
• Championship design - Lakeland & Parkland nines combine to form a par-72 championship course.
• Signature Hawtree bunkering - Large, clover-shaped bunkers and undulating greens add visual drama and challenge.
• Woodland contrast - The Woodland nine provides a tighter, scenic round through rhododendron forest.

Signature Holes

When playing at the Dorset Golf and Country you can find a variety of challenging holes, which makes for an enjoyable round. Providing large greens which are well looked after and a great layout.

The Parkland course’s 14th hole is a favourite of many, a tricky dogleg left across water hazards followed by a shot to the green which must carry a deep bunker. The 14th can be known to make or break your scorecard, but you will want to return to play again.

Post Round

After your round, the clubhouse provides a relaxed setting to enjoy food and drink, with views across the surrounding countryside. For those staying on-site, the resort-style lodges offer a comfortable base for extended golf breaks.

Nearby activities:

• Jurassic Coast (UNESCO World Heritage Site) nearby for coastal walks and scenery
• Wareham and Poole Harbour for watersports and dining
• Nature reserves and heathland are ideal for walking and wildlife spotting

Did You Know?

Designer Martin Hawtree has worked on iconic venues including Royal Birkdale and St Andrews, adding prestige to the course’s design pedigree.