Saunton Golf Club East Course

Saunton Golf Club East Course (Saunton, Braunton, Devon, England)

Saunton Golf Club East Course, nestled on the breathtaking coast of North Devon, England, is a timeless masterpiece of links golf that captivates players with its rich history, challenging layout, and stunning natural beauty. Established in 1897 and redesigned by the legendary Herbert Fowler in 1919, this course offers a challenging yet fair test of golf amidst a landscape of towering dunes and golden sands.

Imagine standing on the elevated tee of the 1st hole, the wind whispering tales of Sergio Garcia’s 1997 Boys Amateur victory, or approaching the 10th hole’s raised green, where precision could yield a birdie. Saunton East, set within the UNESCO-designated Braunton Burrows, boasts over 500 species of flora, enhancing its scenic splendor. This is more than a golf course; it’s a pilgrimage to a place where history, nature, and sport converge, inviting golfers to create their own legacy on one of England’s finest links.

Key Details

• Location: Saunton, Braunton, Devon, England
• Length: 6,779 yards (6,199 meters) from championship tees
• Par: 71
• Designers: Herbert Fowler (1919 redesign), C.K. Cotton (early 1950s restoration)
• Established: 1897
• Notable Events: English Amateur Championship (1937), Boys Amateur Championship (1997), R&A Boys Amateur (2019)

History and Significance

Founding and Early Years

Saunton East Golf Course traces its origins to 1897, when golf was first played on this coastal land near Braunton, Devon. The course’s early years capitalized on the natural links terrain, offering a challenging yet accessible layout for local golfers. In 1919, Herbert Fowler, a celebrated architect known for Walton Heath and The Berkshire, redesigned the course, transforming it into a championship-caliber venue. His vision leveraged the rugged dunes and firm turf to create a layout that balanced beauty and difficulty. By 1937, Saunton East’s reputation was cemented when it hosted the English Amateur Championship, won by Frank Pennink, marking its emergence as a stage for elite competition.

Evolution and Redesigns

World War II posed a significant challenge, as the U.S. Army used the course as a training ground, leaving it in disrepair. In the early 1950s, C.K. Cotton, a skilled architect who restored courses like Royal Lytham, undertook a meticulous restoration of Saunton East. Cotton preserved Fowler’s original design while making subtle adjustments, notably to the opening and closing holes, ensuring the course met modern standards. Further refinements in the 1960s enhanced the first and second greens, maintaining the course’s relevance. These efforts have kept Saunton East among the UK’s top links courses, with its traditional character intact.

Major Tournaments and Events

Saunton East has a storied history of hosting prestigious tournaments. The 1937 English Amateur Championship showcased its early prowess, while the 1997 Boys Amateur Championship saw a young Sergio Garcia triumph over Richard Jones 6 and 5, a defining moment in his career. In 2019, the R&A Boys Amateur further highlighted the course’s ability to challenge emerging talent. These events underscore Saunton East’s reputation as a fair yet demanding test, capable of identifying golf’s future stars. Golfing legend Harry Vardon reportedly called it “one of the finest courses in the kingdom,” a sentiment echoed by players and critics alike.

Cultural Impact and Modern Recognition

Saunton East’s cultural significance is profound, with Golf World ranking it 60th globally and Golf Monthly placing it among the UK’s top 100. Its inclusion in lists of England’s finest seaside links holes reflects its enduring appeal. The course’s location within Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, adds a unique dimension, blending golf with environmental stewardship. Modern golfers praise its authenticity, with firm fairways, strategic bunkers, and fast greens offering a pure links experience. As Golf Monthly notes, “If you can score well over Saunton East, you can probably score well just about anywhere.”

Course Features

General Layout and Terrain

Saunton East is a classic links course, spanning 6,779 yards with a par of 71. Its layout winds through towering dunes, with firm, undulating fairways that reward run-up shots and punish errors. The course features eight par fours over 400 yards, two par fives, and a mix of par threes, including the 207-yard 17th. The second hole, a par five stretching nearly 530 yards, demands both length and precision. A notable sequence of seven consecutive par fours from the sixth hole tests consistency, though some suggest adding a par three or five for variety. The coastal terrain, shaped by dunes and wind, ensures no two holes play alike.

Unique Features and Challenges

The course’s defining features include its pot bunkers, strategically placed to guard fairways and greens, and its fast, undulating greens, which demand precise approach shots. Thick rough and marram grass penalize wayward shots, while the absence of water hazards emphasizes the natural terrain’s role. Coastal winds, a constant factor, require adaptive club selection and shot shaping. The greens’ severe run-offs, particularly on holes like the 10th, challenge even the most skilled players. As Golf Monthly observes, “This is a beautifully situated and very peaceful links that has hosted many prestigious tournaments”.

Scenic Elements and Overall Experience

Saunton East’s setting within Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, makes it one of England’s most picturesque courses. Over 500 species of flora, including rare water Germander, enhance the landscape, while views of the North Devon coast and golden sands create a stunning backdrop. The course’s isolation from urban noise, with only the sounds of wildlife and waves, fosters a serene golfing experience. Playing Saunton East feels like stepping into a living museum of golf, where the challenges of the course are matched by the tranquility and beauty of its surroundings, offering a profound connection to the game’s roots.

Signature Holes

1st Hole – Par 4, 478 yards

The opening hole is a daunting par 4, played from an elevated tee into the prevailing wind. At 478 yards, it’s the longest par four on the course, requiring a precise drive to avoid bunkers and rough. The approach to a well-guarded green tests nerve, with par feeling like a victory. This hole sets the tone for Saunton East’s demanding yet fair challenge, as noted by Golf Monthly.

5th Hole (Tiddler) – Par 3, 122 yards

The 5th, nicknamed “Tiddler,” is a deceptively tricky par 3 at just 122 yards. A short iron is needed, but going long spells trouble, with bunkers and rough waiting to derail par attempts. The small green demands pinpoint accuracy, making this hole a favorite for its charm and challenge, as highlighted in course reviews.

10th Hole (Plateau) – Par 4, 337 yards

The 10th, known as “Plateau,” is a short par 4 that offers birdie potential but requires precision. From an elevated tee, the fairway turns slightly left, leading to an uphill approach to a raised green above two bunkers. The green’s severe tier demands an accurate shot to the correct level, as noted by GolfCourseGurus. This hole epitomizes Saunton’s strategic depth.

14th Hole (Narrows) – Par 4, 455 yards

The 14th, dubbed “Narrows,” is a long par 4 with a dogleg that tests both length and accuracy. Staying straight off the tee is crucial to avoid the narrowing fairway, while the approach to a bunker-guarded green requires precision. This hole’s difficulty and strategic demands make it a standout, as per Golf Monthly.

18th Hole – Par 4, 403 yards

The closing par 4 doglegs with a green surrounded by five bunkers, played under the clubhouse patio’s watchful eye. A strong drive sets up a challenging approach, where accuracy is paramount to avoid sand traps. This pressure-packed finish, noted for its dramatic setting, provides a fitting end to a memorable round.

Why Visit

Golfing Challenge and Appeal

Saunton East offers a formidable yet fair test, with its 6,779 yards of links terrain, pot bunkers, and fast greens challenging every aspect of a golfer’s game. Its history of hosting events like the 1997 Boys Amateur Championship allows players to measure themselves against legends like Sergio Garcia. The course’s strategic design rewards precision and course management, making it a bucket-list destination for serious golfers.

Emotional and Historical Resonance

Playing Saunton East is a deeply emotional experience, connecting golfers to a century of history. From Harry Vardon’s praise to Garcia’s triumph, the course evokes a sense of legacy. “It’s a joy to play and will create golf memories that will last a lifetime,” said a TripAdvisor reviewer. Walking these fairways feels like a pilgrimage to golf’s roots.

Quotes and Practical Benefits

Golf Monthly calls it “one of the best golf courses in England”. The club offers a clubhouse with dining, practice facilities, and caddy services. Its North Devon location, near Croyde Beach and Barnstaple, makes it ideal for combining golf with coastal exploration, enhancing the overall experience.

Facilities

Clubhouse and Dining

Saunton Golf Club’s clubhouse is a welcoming hub, offering bar and catering services with local cuisine, ideal for post-round relaxation. The “Putt Stop” provides casual dining options, while the traditional setting reflects the club’s heritage. A golf shop stocks apparel and equipment, ensuring visitors are well-equipped for their round.

Practice Areas and Services

The club features a driving range and two putting greens for pre-round preparation. Caddy services are available, offering expert guidance on the course’s nuances. Pull trolleys and club hire are offered, though players must walk, preserving the traditional links experience. These facilities ensure a complete and enjoyable visit.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Saunton Golf Club, Saunton Road, Braunton, Devon, EX33 1LG, England
• Phone: +44 (0)1271 812436
• Email: info@sauntongolf.co.uk
• Directions: From Exeter (1 hour), take M5 to Junction 27, then A361 to Barnstaple, turning off for Saunton. From Bristol (2 hours), follow M5 and A361.
• Public Transport: Buses to Braunton from Barnstaple, then a short taxi ride to the club.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking available.
• Map: Search “Saunton Golf Club” on Google Maps.

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees for Saunton East vary by season and day, reflecting its status as a premier links course. Booking requires advance planning due to high demand.

• Booking Process: Book online at Saunton Golf Club or call +44 (0)1271 812436. Visitor bookings within 10 days require direct contact.
• Membership Options: Membership available; contact the club for details.
• Requirements: Smart golf attire (no denim, tracksuits); handicap certificate may be required.

Nearby Attractions

North Devon’s coastal charm and natural beauty complement a golfing trip to Saunton East, offering attractions for golfers and companions.

• Braunton Burrows: Adjacent to the course, this UNESCO reserve offers trails through dunes and diverse wildlife.
• Croyde Beach: A surfing hotspot with golden sands, perfect for relaxation or water sports.
• Barnstaple: A historic town with markets, shops, and dining, ideal for cultural exploration.
• Exmoor National Park: Rugged landscapes for hiking and nature enthusiasts.
• Royal North Devon Golf Club: England’s oldest course, offering a complementary golf experience.
• Saunton Sands Beach: A scenic beach for walks and water activities, just a mile away.
• Ilfracombe Aquarium: Family-friendly marine exhibits in a charming coastal town.
• Tarka Trail: A scenic path for cycling or walking, showcasing North Devon’s beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I book a tee time at Saunton East?

Book online at Saunton Golf Club or call +44 (0)1271 812436. Bookings within 10 days require direct contact.

What are the green fees for Saunton East?

High season (May–Sep): £100 (weekday), £135 (weekend); Low season (Oct–Apr): £50 (weekday), £75 (weekend).

Is Saunton East suitable for beginners?

While challenging, forward tees and caddy guidance make it accessible for all skill levels.

What is the best time to play Saunton East?

Summer (May–Sep) offers milder weather, but book early for peak season availability.

What is the dress code at Saunton East?

Smart golf attire; no denim, tracksuits, or casual sportswear.

What facilities are available at Saunton Golf Club?

Clubhouse with dining, driving range, putting greens, caddy services, and golf shop.

How do I get to Saunton East from Exeter?

Drive 1 hour via M5 to Junction 27, then A361 to Barnstaple, turning off for Saunton.

Are there other golf courses near Saunton East?

Yes, Royal North Devon (10 miles) and Saunton West Course on-site.

What major tournaments has Saunton East hosted?

English Amateur (1937), Boys Amateur (1997), R&A Boys Amateur (2019).

Why is Saunton East famous?

Top 100 UK ranking, UNESCO setting, and history with players like Sergio Garcia.

Is there accommodation at Saunton Golf Club?

No, but nearby Saunton Sands Hotel and B&Bs are available.

Is membership available at Saunton Golf Club?

Membership offered; contact the club for details.

What is the weather like at Saunton East?

Coastal winds and rain possible; summers are mild, check forecasts.

What is the history of Saunton East?

Founded in 1897, redesigned by Fowler in 1919, restored post-WWII.

What are some unique features of Saunton East?

UNESCO reserve setting, 500+ flora species, and classic links design.