West Hill Golf Club

West Hill Golf Club (Woking, Surrey, England)

Nestled in the heart of Surrey’s picturesque countryside, West Hill Golf Club stands as a testament to the timeless allure of heathland golf. Established in 1910, this storied course has captivated golfers with its blend of natural beauty and strategic challenge. As one of the famed “three W’s” alongside Woking and Worplesdon, West Hill offers a golfing experience that is both enchanting and demanding. Imagine teeing off amidst towering pines and vibrant heather, with the gentle contours of the land guiding your every shot.

Here, history and nature converge to create a golfing sanctuary that has earned its place among the top 100 courses in the UK and Ireland, inviting players to immerse themselves in a legacy of excellence.

Key Details

• Location: Woking, Surrey, England
• Length: 6,378 yards (White Tees)
• Par: 69
• Designers: Cuthbert Butchart (original design), with contributions from Jack White and Willie Park Junior
• Established: 1910
• Notable Events: Hosts the annual Father and Son Open Tournament since 1931, Ladies British Open Amateur Championship in 2005, and various amateur tournaments

History and Significance

West Hill Golf Club’s origins trace back to the early 20th century when the London Necropolis Company, having acquired over 2,000 acres in 1854 for cemetery purposes, found itself with surplus land by 1907. J.B. Walker, a senior executive and avid golfer, facilitated the creation of West Hill by making part of this land available. The course was designed by Cuthbert Butchart, a Carnoustie professional, with consultations from Bernard Darwin and design inputs from Open Champions Jack White and Willie Park Junior. Butchart oversaw construction and served as the club’s first professional until its opening on July 9, 1910.

The club’s founder, Marguerite Lubbock, born Marguerite Miles in 1868, was a trailblazer in women’s golf. Starting her golfing journey in 1885 at Pau, France, she became one of the era’s top female players. Her vision, possibly spurred by limited access to other clubs or as a wedding gift for her husband, drove the establishment of West Hill, cementing its place in golfing history.

The course has seen minimal changes since its inception, with some holes lengthened post-World War I to adapt to evolving equipment. This preservation of Butchart’s original design ensures a timeless challenge, blending strategic play with natural beauty. Recent efforts have focused on enhancing heather growth and bunker conditioning, maintaining the course’s pristine state.

West Hill has hosted significant events, including the 2005 Ladies British Open Amateur Championship, won by Anna Nordqvist, who later claimed the 2021 British Open. The annual Father and Son Open Tournament, held since 1931, draws pairs nationwide, with a trophy donated by Lubbock in memory of Major Lubbock. The Mellin Salver, a competition for over-50s from 16 public schools, further enriches its legacy. The course holds records like Tom Richardson’s amateur 63 in 2009 and Gary Brown’s professional 62 in 1995.

Culturally, West Hill is a cornerstone of Surrey’s golfing heritage, consistently ranked in the UK’s top 100 courses, currently at 71st by Golf Monthly. Its status as one of the “three W’s” alongside Woking and Worplesdon underscores its prestige. The club’s welcoming atmosphere and historical significance make it a cherished destination for golfers seeking tradition and challenge.

Course Features

West Hill Golf Club epitomizes heathland golf, set on sandy soil with towering Scots pines, vibrant heather, and the Brookwood brook crossing six holes. Spanning 6,378 yards, the par-69 layout weaves through gentle contours, offering a visually stunning and strategically demanding experience. The course’s design emphasizes precision, with fairways flanked by heather that punishes errant shots and greens featuring subtle undulations that challenge even the sharpest putters.

The course boasts five par 3s, each distinct, from the compact 13th to the formidable 15th, praised by Henry Cotton as one of Britain’s finest short holes. The two par 5s, the 5th and 17th, present risk-reward opportunities, particularly when wind conditions favor aggressive play. Strategic bunkering and the brook add layers of complexity, requiring thoughtful shot placement. Recent renovations, including tree removal for better light and air movement and bunker enhancements, ensure superb conditioning year-round.

West Hill’s aesthetic appeal is undeniable, with heather in bloom creating a vibrant purple hue in late summer. The course’s playability, with short walks between greens and tees, makes it accessible yet challenging, rewarding focus and punishing lapses. This balance, combined with its natural beauty, positions West Hill as a premier golfing destination in Surrey.

Signature Holes

Hole 15: Par 3, 211 yards

The 15th hole is a standout par 3, demanding a precise tee shot over heather and bunkers to a well-guarded green framed by pines. At 211 yards, it tests even long hitters, with the green’s subtle slopes requiring careful putting. Henry Cotton lauded it as one of Britain’s best short holes, a sentiment echoed by golfers who face its blend of beauty and difficulty. Its strategic design and scenic setting make it a memorable challenge.

Hole 16: Par 4, 380 yards

The 16th is a picturesque par 4, where the approach shot crosses the Brookwood brook to a green nestled among trees. The tee shot navigates a dogleg left, with heather and bunkers penalizing inaccuracy. The green, sloping back to front, demands precise club selection. Described by Golf Monthly as playing to a “beautifully-sited green,” this hole combines visual splendor with strategic depth, earning its place as a club favorite.

Hole 17: Par 5, 540 yards

The 17th, a sweeping par 5, offers a thrilling risk-reward scenario. A generous fairway invites a bold drive, but strategic bunkers and heather guard the path to the green. Players must decide whether to lay up or attempt a two-shot approach, with bunkers protecting the putting surface. Its design encourages aggressive play while maintaining peril, making it a dramatic penultimate hole that can define a round.

Why Visit

West Hill Golf Club delivers a golfing experience that blends challenge, beauty, and history. Its heathland layout tests every facet of a player’s game, from driving accuracy to putting finesse, with its par 3s and undulating greens providing a stern but fair examination. The course’s serene setting, with pines and heather, offers a tranquil escape, particularly when the heather blooms in late summer.

The emotional resonance of playing a course steeped in tradition, where figures like Marguerite Lubbock and events like the Father and Son Open have left their mark, is profound. Golfers walk fairways that have hosted champions, connecting with the sport’s heritage. The club’s welcoming vibe, as noted in reviews—“We were not only made to feel very welcome but were also treated to a course that was in magnificent condition”—ensures a memorable visit.

Practical benefits include top-notch facilities, from a well-equipped pro shop to extensive practice areas. Golf Monthly praises it as “the epitome of sublime, old-fashioned, heathland golf,” making West Hill a must-visit for those seeking a quintessential English golfing experience.

Facilities

West Hill Golf Club offers exceptional facilities to complement its stellar course. The clubhouse, with its elegant architecture, houses a welcoming bar and restaurant serving a variety of meals, from casual snacks to hearty post-round dining. The pro shop, staffed by professionals like Guy Shoesmith, stocks premium golf equipment and apparel, catering to all player needs.

Practice facilities are comprehensive, featuring a 300-yard driving range with a teaching studio and six covered bays, ideal for honing swings. A practice putting green sits adjacent to the pro shop, while a chipping green with practice bunkers and three nets near the 1st tee allows for short-game refinement. Equipment hire, including clubs, buggies, and trolleys, is available through the pro shop with advance notice, ensuring convenience for visitors.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: West Hill Golf Club, Bagshot Rd, Brookwood, Woking, Surrey, GU24 0BH, United Kingdom
• Phone: +44 1483 474365
• Email: secretary@westhill-golfclub.co.uk
• Directions: Located on the A322 in Brookwood, midway between the A3 and M3 junction 3, the club is 6.2 miles from Guildford, 18.6 miles from Heathrow Airport, and 36.1 miles from central London. From London, take the M3 to junction 3, then follow the A322 toward Brookwood.
• Public Transport: Brookwood Railway Station, served by trains from London Waterloo, is a 15-minute walk from the club.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking is available for members and visitors.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at West Hill Golf Club for the summer season (May to October 2025) are structured to accommodate various schedules:

Booking is straightforward via phone at +44 1483 474365 or email at secretary@westhill-golfclub.co.uk. Advance reservations are recommended, especially for peak times. The dress code requires standard golf attire on the course and smart casual in the clubhouse, with golf shorts permitted in summer alongside predominantly white socks. No handicap certificate is explicitly required, but players should be prepared for the course’s challenges.

Nearby Attractions

Surrey’s rich tapestry of history and nature complements a golfing trip to West Hill. The region offers diverse attractions for golfers and companions alike, blending cultural heritage with scenic beauty.

RHS Garden Wisley, located in Wisley, is a horticultural haven with stunning landscapes and a glasshouse, perfect for a relaxing day out. Brookwood Country Park, just a stone’s throw from the club, offers tranquil trails ideal for unwinding. Woking Palace, a historic site linked to Henry VIII, provides a glimpse into England’s past. Horsell Common, featured in H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds, invites exploration with its scenic paths. Newark Priory, near Ripley, captivates with its riverside ruins, appealing to history buffs. These attractions enhance a visit, offering something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I book a tee time at West Hill Golf Club?

Book via phone at +44 1483 474365 or email secretary@westhill-golfclub.co.uk. Advance booking is advised.

What are the green fees?

Fees range from £120 (Twilight, Mon–Thu) to £250 (all-day, Mon–Thu) in summer, with weekend rates at £225 after 2pm.

Is the course suitable for beginners?

Yes, multiple tees cater to various skill levels, though the course’s strategic elements challenge all players.

What is the best time to play?

Spring and summer, particularly when heather blooms, offer optimal conditions and scenic beauty.

What is the dress code?

Standard golf attire on the course; smart casual in the clubhouse. Summer shorts are allowed with white socks.

What facilities are available?

Includes a clubhouse with bar and restaurant, pro shop, 300-yard driving range, putting green, and chipping area.

How do I get to the course?

Located on A322 in Brookwood, 15 minutes’ walk from Brookwood Station, or a drive from London via M3.

Are there nearby golf courses?

Woking and Worplesdon Golf Clubs, part of the “three W’s,” are nearby, offering similar heathland experiences.

Has the course hosted any tournaments?

Hosts the Father and Son Open since 1931 and the 2005 Ladies British Open Amateur Championship.

Why is the course famous?

Renowned for its heathland beauty, top 100 UK ranking, and historical significance as a “three W’s” member.

Is there accommodation nearby?

Hotels in Woking, such as Hilton Woking, are available; contact the club for recommendations.

Is membership available?

Yes, various categories like Unrestricted and Junior are offered; contact the club for details.

What is the weather like?

Surrey’s temperate climate varies; check forecasts for Woking before visiting.

What is the course’s history?

Founded in 1910 by Marguerite Lubbock, designed by Cuthbert Butchart, with a rich amateur tournament legacy.

What are the unique features of the course?

Heathland layout with pines, heather, Brookwood brook, strategic bunkers, and five notable par 3s.