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Royal St Georges Golf Club (British Open Venue)

Credit: Photography by Kevin Diss

Back to South East England

Royal St Georges Golf Club

In 1885, Dr. William Laidlaw Purves, a scratch golfer from Royal Wimbledon, discovered a stunning stretch of undulating dunes in Sandwich. Inspired by the land, he set out to create a golf course, and in 1887, "St George's" opened, named after England’s patron saint.

Royal St George’s, the first English course to host the Open Championship, is known for its unique, circular layout and natural beauty. Overlooking Pegwell Bay and the white cliffs of Dover, the course blends with its surroundings of wildflowers and dune grasses. Each hole is distinct, with memorable features like thatched shelters, flags bearing St George’s cross, and the UK’s tallest bunker on the 4th hole. The course’s immersive landscape and varied holes provide a challenging and unforgettable experience for golfers.

Royal St.Georges has now hosted the British Open on 15 occasions, most recently in 2021 when it was won by Colin Morikawa. It is regularly ranked number 1 course in England in Top 100 Courses.

Useful Information

  • All players must have a handicap index of 18.4 or less. This course is recommended for confident players looking for a true test of golf.
  • Visitor bookings are accepted for Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
  • On the course and practice areas smart golfing attire is required. Hoodies, trainers and T-Shirts are not permitted. Players wearing shorts must wear knee-length socks.
  • Caddies and Forecaddies are available and must be booked in advance.
  • Club hire is available. Buggy's may only be booked on production of a medical certificate, and must be booked together with a club caddie who will drive the buggy.
  • Golfing attire is only allowed in he clubhouse up until 11am. After this gentlemen are required to wear a jacket, shirt, tie, tailored trousers and dress shoes.  Ladies are asked to observe a comparable standard.


Click here to contact us for information on golf packages including a round of golf at Royal St Georges Golf Club.

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