If you’re a golf enthusiast or a traveler looking to explore some of the most picturesque and challenging golf courses in the world, the Royal St. George’s Golf Course should be on your radar. This historic course is situated in the charming seaside town of Sandwich in Kent, England, and is widely regarded as one of the most iconic courses in the world. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Royal St. George’s Golf Course, including its history, location, and other essential details that you need to know.
1. History of the Royal St. George’s Golf Course
The Royal St. George’s Golf Course was founded in 1887, making it one of the oldest golf courses in England. It was the brainchild of a group of local golf enthusiasts who saw the need for a course that could rival some of the top courses in Scotland. The course was designed by the renowned golf architect, Dr. Laidlaw Purves, and has since undergone several renovations and improvements to make it the championship course it is today.
One of the unique features of the Royal St. George’s Golf Course is its close proximity to the English Channel. The sea breezes and winds make the course a challenging test for even the most experienced golfers, and this has earned it the nickname “The Beast of Sandwich.” Over the years, the course has hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the Open Championship, which has been held on the course 14 times, with the most recent in 2011. Other notable tournaments held on the course include the Curtis Cup, the Walker Cup, and the Amateur Championship.
2. Location of the Royal St. George’s Golf Course
The Royal St. George’s Golf Course is located in the town of Sandwich in Kent, England. It is situated on the eastern coast of England, about 75 miles southeast of London. The course is adjacent to the English Channel, and its location near the coast makes it a popular destination for golfers who enjoy the challenge of playing in windy conditions.
If you’re planning to visit the Royal St. George’s Golf Course, you can find it at the following address:
Royal St George’s Golf Club,
Sandwich, Kent CT13 9PB,
United Kingdom
3. Getting to the Royal St. George’s Golf Course
There are several ways to get to the Royal St. George’s Golf Course, depending on your location and preferences. If you’re traveling from London, the easiest way to get to the course is by car. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, and you can follow the M2 and A299 routes to get there.
Alternatively, you can take a train from London to Sandwich, which is the nearest town to the course. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, and trains depart from London’s St. Pancras and Victoria stations. From Sandwich, you can take a taxi or a bus to the course, which is a short distance away.
If you’re flying into the UK, the nearest airport to the Royal St. George’s Golf Course is London Gatwick Airport, which is approximately 70 miles away. From there, you can hire a car or take a train to Sandwich. Another option is to take a ferry from mainland Europe, with the nearest ports being Dover and Folkestone, both of which are approximately 20 miles away from the course.
4. Accommodations near the Royal St. George’s Golf Course
If you’re planning to stay near the Royal St. George’s Golf Course, there are several accommodation options available in the surrounding area. Some of the most popular hotels and resorts include:
- The Lodge at Prince’s, which is located about 2 miles from the course and offers luxury accommodation with stunning sea views.
- The Bell Hotel, which is located in the heart of Sandwich and offers comfortable rooms and traditional English hospitality.
- The Blazing Donkey Country Hotel, which is located about 6 miles from the course and offers peaceful surroundings and modern amenities.
In addition to hotels and resorts, there are also several bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals available in the area, which offer a more homely and affordable option for travelers.
5. Dining options near the Royal St. George’s Golf Course
The town of Sandwich is known for its delicious cuisine and there are several dining options available near the Royal St. George’s Golf Course. Some of the most popular restaurants and cafes include:
- The Salutation Tearooms, which is located in the gardens of The Salutation Hotel and serves traditional English afternoon tea and light meals.
- The Hop and Huffkin, which is a gastropub located in the heart of Sandwich and serves modern British cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.
- The Princes Golf Club, which is located adjacent to the Royal St. George’s Golf Course and offers a fine dining experience with stunning views of the course and the sea.
There are also several other cafes, pubs, and restaurants available in the town of Sandwich, catering to a variety of tastes and budgets.
6. Things to do near the Royal St. George’s Golf Course
If you’re planning to visit the Royal St. George’s Golf Course, there are several other attractions and activities in the surrounding area that you can explore. Some of the most popular tourist attractions include:
- The White Cliffs of Dover, which is a stunning natural attraction located about 20 miles from the course and offers breathtaking views of the English Channel.
- Canterbury Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 13 miles from the course and is one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England.
- The Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory, which is a wildlife sanctuary located near the course and offers a unique opportunity to observe a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
In addition to these attractions, there are also several outdoor activities available in the area, including hiking, cycling, and water sports.
7. Tips for playing at the Royal St. George’s Golf Course
Playing at the Royal St. George’s Golf Course can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your round:
- Familiarize yourself with the layout of the course before you play, as it can be difficult to navigate.
- Be prepared for windy conditions, as the course is located near the coast and can be exposed to strong sea breezes.
- Practice your short game, as the greens are known for being fast and undulating.
- Take advantage of the practice facilities, including the driving range, putting green, and chipping area, to warm up before your round.
- Pay attention to the course conditions, as they can change depending on the weather and other factors.
8. Conclusion
The Royal St. George’s Golf Course is a historic and iconic golf course that should be on every golfer’s bucket list. Its challenging layout and stunning seaside location make it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts and travelers alike. By following our guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan your visit, including the course’s location, transportation options, accommodation and dining choices, nearby attractions and activities, and tips for playing at the course. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, a round at the Royal St. George’s Golf Course is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable experience.
