Ashridge Golf Club

Ashridge Golf Club (Little Gaddesden, Hertfordshire, England)

Imagine teeing off amidst the rolling Chiltern Hills, where ancient woodlands frame fairways and deer graze in the distance. Ashridge Golf Club, located in Little Gaddesden, Hertfordshire, England, offers this enchanting experience. Established in 1932, this 6,678-yard parkland course is a testament to golfing tradition, blending natural beauty with strategic design.

Just 35 miles from central London, Ashridge invites golfers to walk in the footsteps of legends like Sir Henry Cotton, whose legacy elevates its status. With its pristine greens and evocative hole names like “Witchcraft Bottom,” Ashridge promises a round that’s as memorable as it is challenging.

Key Details

• Location: Little Gaddesden, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 1LY, England
• Length: 6,678 yards (from championship tees)
• Par: 72
• Designers: Major C K Hutchison, Sir Guy Campbell, Colonel S V Hotchkin (1932); Tom Simpson (updates in 1935)
• Established: 1932
• Notable Events: Hosted Open Championship Regional Qualifying (2003–2008)

History and Significance

Ashridge Golf Club was born in 1932, crafted by the esteemed trio known as “The 3 Majors”: Major C K Hutchison, Sir Guy Campbell, and Colonel S V Hotchkin. Set within the National Trust Ashridge Estate, a former deer park, the architects preserved the land’s natural splendor, ensuring each hole exudes unspoiled beauty. In its early days, dynamite was reportedly used to clear tree stumps, a testament to the rugged determination behind its creation. By 1935, Tom Simpson, a titan of golf course architecture, refined the layout, adding new holes and greens that elevated its challenge and charm.

The club’s prominence soared in the late 1930s with Sir Henry Cotton as its resident professional. Cotton, arguably the era’s finest golfer, won three Open Championships, including the 1937 title at Carnoustie while at Ashridge. Remarkably, his assistants, Bill Laidlaw and Fred Robertson, finished 7th and 18th in that Open, a unique feat in the last century where one club claimed three top-20 finishers. This golden era cemented Ashridge’s place in golfing lore.

From 2003 to 2008, Ashridge hosted the Open Championship Regional Qualifying, drawing top amateurs and professionals to its fairways. Its consistent ranking among the UK’s top 100 courses, including England’s 82nd best in 2024 by Golf World, underscores its enduring quality. Visitors often cite the club’s warm hospitality, with one golfer noting, “Ashridge feels like a step back to golf’s golden age, with every detail perfected”.

Today, Ashridge remains a member-owned club with a cap of under 500 members, ensuring accessibility and a personal touch. Its blend of historical significance, architectural pedigree, and natural beauty makes it a cherished destination for golfers worldwide.

Course Features

Ashridge Golf Club is a quintessential parkland course, weaving through 350 acres of woodland in the Chiltern Hills. Its clover-leaf layout, with three loops starting and ending near the clubhouse, offers both convenience and variety. Tree-lined fairways and gently undulating terrain create a serene yet strategic golfing experience, with no two consecutive holes sharing the same par—a design choice that keeps players engaged.

The course’s greens are a standout, often hailed as Hertfordshire’s finest for their smooth, true surfaces. Strategic bunkering, crafted by its legendary designers, demands precision, while subtle green contours challenge putting skills. As one reviewer noted, “The greens slope more than you think—study your lines carefully”. The fairways, maintained to a high standard, reward well-placed shots but punish errant ones, especially in the fast-running conditions that can mimic a heathland course.

Set within the National Trust Ashridge Estate, Ashridge is alive with natural beauty. Magnificent specimen trees frame holes, and the local deer herd adds a touch of wilderness. Holes like “Thunderdell” and “Nob’s Crook” evoke the estate’s storied past, enhancing the course’s romantic allure. This harmonious blend of nature and design creates an unforgettable golfing journey.

Signature Holes

Ashridge’s holes are as characterful as their names, with a few standing out for their design and legacy.

Hole 14: “The Road Hole”
This par 4, inspired by St Andrews’ iconic Road Hole, is a masterpiece of strategy. Spanning approximately 400 yards, the tee shot crosses a ravine to a dogleg-right fairway. Bunkers guard the approach, and the green slopes away, demanding pinpoint accuracy. Labeled “the most perfect copy of the Road Hole imaginable” by contemporaries, it’s a test of nerve and skill.

Hole 17: “Witchcraft Bottom”
A stunning par 3 of around 180 yards, this hole requires a precise tee shot over a valley to a green encircled by bunkers. The evocative name and breathtaking Chiltern Hills backdrop make it a visual and strategic highlight. Its design by Tom Simpson adds historical weight, captivating players with its beauty and challenge.

Hole 18: “Princes Riding”
The closing par 5, approximately 550 yards, offers a dramatic finale. A generous fairway invites aggressive play, but strategic bunkers and a well-guarded green demand careful planning. Players can risk going for the green in two or opt for a safer lay-up, with the clubhouse providing a picturesque finish. Simpson’s touch ensures this hole is both scenic and memorable.

Why Visit

Ashridge Golf Club is a pilgrimage for golfers seeking a course that tests skill while immersing them in history and nature. Its challenging layout, with varied holes and impeccable conditions, appeals to players of all levels. The course’s historical ties to Sir Henry Cotton and its ranking among the UK’s elite courses add a layer of prestige, allowing visitors to connect with golf’s storied past.

The emotional resonance of playing Ashridge is profound. As one golfer shared, “Walking these fairways feels like stepping into a bygone era of golf”. The serene setting, just 35 miles from London, offers a peaceful retreat, while the club’s hospitality ensures a warm welcome. Practical perks include top-tier practice facilities and a clubhouse restaurant celebrated for its cuisine, making Ashridge a complete golfing experience.

Facilities

Ashridge Golf Club provides a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. The modern, chalet-style clubhouse features a restaurant renowned for serving Hertfordshire’s best lunch, with views of the 9th, 12th, and 18th greens. The pro shop offers equipment, apparel, and professional lessons, catering to all golfing needs.

Practice facilities are extensive, including a driving range near the car park, a practice putting green, a chipping green, and a bunker. A practice net and an additional putting green near the 1st, 10th, and 13th tees provide ample opportunities for skill refinement. Caddies and trolleys are available upon request, enhancing the golfing experience with local knowledge and convenience.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Ashridge Golf Club, Golf Club Road, Little Gaddesden, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 1LY, England
• Phone: +44 (0)1442 842244
• Email: info@ashridgegolfclub.ltd.uk
• Directions:
• From M25: Exit at junction 20, take A41 towards Aylesbury, exit at Chesham (A416), follow to Berkhamsted, turn left at High Street traffic lights, after 1 mile turn right onto B4506 (New Road) signposted Ashridge. The club is on the right after 3 miles; follow the private road to the clubhouse and car park.
• From M1 Southbound: Exit at junction 11, turn under the motorway towards Dunstable, go straight at double/offset mini roundabouts, stay on the road for 2 miles, at the roundabout with Monsoon Indian Restaurant turn left onto B4506 to Dagnall, straight at Dagnall mini-roundabout, up the hill to Ringshall, club entrance signposted ½ mile on left.
• From M1 Northbound: Exit at junction 8, straight across all roundabouts to ‘magic roundabout’ in Hemel Hempstead, turn right, take A4146 to Leighton Buzzard for 7 miles, over narrow bridge at Water End, at Dagnall mini-roundabout turn left onto B4506, up hill to Ringshall, club entrance signposted ½ mile on left.
• Public Transport: The nearest train station is Berkhamsted (4 miles away), with taxi services available.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking is available.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Ashridge offers competitive green fees, with pricing varying by season and day. Below is a sample for 2025:

• Booking Process: Contact the club via dawn@ashridgegolfclub.ltd.uk or call +44 (0)1442 842244. Society packages are available Monday to Friday.
• Requirements: Smart golf attire is mandatory, and a handicap certificate may be required.
• Membership Options: Full membership is limited to under 500 members; contact the club for details.
• Gift Vouchers: Available for green fees, valid for 12 months (Ashridge Golf Club).

Nearby Attractions

Hertfordshire’s Chiltern Hills offer a treasure trove of attractions, making Ashridge an ideal base for a golfing getaway.

• National Trust – Ashridge Estate: Spanning thousands of acres, this estate offers trails through woodlands and commons, perfect for nature lovers. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, it’s a short walk from the course (Ashridge Estate).
• Bridgewater Monument: Built in 1832, this monument honors the third Duke of Bridgewater. Climb for stunning views, open 24 hours (National Trust).
• Chilterns Nature Areas: Great Gaddesden Flood Meadows and other reserves provide serene spots for birdwatching and walks, open 24 hours.
• Gadebridge Park: A family-friendly park in Hemel Hempstead with gardens and recreational facilities, open 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Berkhamsted Castle: Explore the ruins of this 11th-century castle, a short drive away, open daily with free entry (English Heritage).
• Tring Natural History Museum: A fascinating collection of stuffed animals and exhibits, ideal for families, open Tuesday to Sunday (Natural History Museum).

These attractions enrich a visit to Ashridge, offering history, nature, and family fun.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I book a tee time at Ashridge Golf Club?

Contact the club at dawn@ashridgegolfclub.ltd.uk or call +44 (0)1442 842244 to book.

What are the green fees?

Fees range from £75 (off-peak) to £125 (peak season, Fridays). Check the club’s website for current rates (Ashridge Golf Club).

Is the course suitable for beginners?

Yes, but it’s challenging. Lessons and practice facilities are available to support all skill levels.

What is the best time to play?

Spring to autumn offers the best conditions; weekdays are less busy.

What is the dress code?

Smart golf attire, including collared shirts and tailored trousers or shorts, is required.

Are there practice facilities?

Yes, including a driving range, putting greens, chipping green, and bunker.

How do I get to the club?

Accessible via M25 or M1; see directions above. Berkhamsted station is 4 miles away.

Are there nearby golf courses?

The Grove, Berkhamsted Golf Club, and Moor Park are within 20 miles.

Has the course hosted major tournaments?

It hosted Open Championship Regional Qualifying from 2003 to 2008.

Why is Ashridge Golf Club famous?

Its history with Sir Henry Cotton, top-100 UK ranking, and stunning parkland setting.

Is accommodation available nearby?

Hotels and B&Bs in Berkhamsted are nearby; contact the club for recommendations.

Can I become a member?

Yes, membership is available with a cap of 500 members; inquire directly.

What is the weather like?

Hertfordshire has a temperate climate; check forecasts before visiting.

Tell me about the course’s history.

Founded in 1932, designed by “The 3 Majors,” updated by Tom Simpson, and linked to Cotton’s 1937 Open win.

What makes Ashridge unique?

Its clover-leaf layout, varied par sequence, historical names, and Chiltern Hills setting.