Beau Desert Golf Club

Beau Desert Golf Club (Staffordshire, England)

Nestled within the serene beauty of Cannock Chase, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Staffordshire, England, Beau Desert Golf Club stands as a testament to the timeless allure of heathland golf. As you step onto its rolling fairways, framed by heather and pines, you’re transported to a world where the only spectators are the occasional passing stags. This hidden gem, ranked among the top golf courses in England, offers not just a game, but an experience that blends challenge, history, and natural splendor.

Imagine teeing off under the watchful eyes of golfing legends who have walked these same paths, or savoring the tranquility that only a course set in such isolation can provide. Beau Desert is more than just a golf course; it’s a journey through golf’s rich heritage and a celebration of nature’s beauty.

Key Details

• Location: Hazel Slade, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS12 0PJ, England
• Length: 6,470 yards (Blue tees)
• Par: 70
• Designers: Herbert Fowler (1911)
• Established: 1911
• Notable Events: Hosted Open Championship Qualifiers 17 times, Logan Trophy 2017, Women’s Open Strokeplay 2022

History and Significance

Beau Desert Golf Club, established in 1911, was crafted by renowned architect Herbert Fowler on land from the Beaudesert Estate, commissioned by Charles Henry Alexander Paget, the 6th Marquess of Anglesey. Fowler’s design philosophy, emphasizing strategic play and harmony with the natural landscape, is evident throughout the course. While enhancements have been made over the decades, the course retains its original character, a testament to Fowler’s enduring vision.

The course has a storied tournament history, having hosted Open Championship Qualifiers 17 times, alongside events like the Logan Trophy in 2017 and the Women’s Open Strokeplay in 2022. These events highlight Beau Desert’s reputation as a challenging yet fair test, capable of hosting elite players. Its significance is further cemented by consistent rankings among England’s top 50 courses and the UK and Ireland’s top 100 by National Club Golfer and Golf Monthly, reflecting its quality and appeal. Set within Cannock Chase, Beau Desert offers a cultural and natural experience, connecting golfers to both golfing heritage and the region’s beauty.

Course Features

Beau Desert is a classic heathland course, defined by its undulating terrain, heather-lined fairways, and fast, true greens. Herbert Fowler’s layout features a variety of holes that test every facet of a golfer’s game. The fairways, though generous, are bordered by thick heather and gorse, punishing errant shots and demanding precision from the tee. The greens, known for their intricate contours and undulations, require accurate approach shots and a skilled putting touch.

A hallmark of Beau Desert is its sense of isolation, with many holes played in splendid solitude, surrounded only by nature. This tranquility, occasionally interrupted by the sight of a stag, allows golfers to focus deeply on their game while soaking in the landscape’s beauty. Strategic cross-bunkers and other hazards add complexity, requiring careful planning. With slope ratings ranging from 131 to 141 across tees, Beau Desert offers a formidable challenge for all skill levels, making it both rewarding and memorable.

Signature Holes

Hole 2 – Par 4, 458 yards

This titanic par 4 plays along the crest of Cannock Chase, offering breathtaking views and a challenging approach. A cross-bunker, positioned well short of the green and jutting in from the left, adds strategic depth, forcing players to weigh their options carefully.

Hole 5 – Par 4, 418 yards

A dogleg left that climbs uphill, this hole features a cross-bunker 30 yards shy of the green. While it appears to guard the green, carrying it is optional, but doing so can yield a more favorable approach angle, rewarding bold play.

Hole 7 – Par 3, 167 yards

Regarded as the course’s premier par 3, this long one-shotter demands precision. Surrounded by trouble, it tests nerve and accuracy, with any misstep likely to result in a challenging recovery.

Hole 9 – Par 4, 263 yards

This driveable par 4 tempts aggressive players but is fraught with danger. The small, severely canted green slopes right to left, making it a harrowing target, even with a short iron or wedge.

Hole 18 – Par 5, 551 yards (Black tees)

The closing par 5 is a dramatic finale, featuring a massive green spanning nearly 10,000 square feet. Its cunning contours and subtle movements create a thrilling conclusion, where a single putt can make or break a round.

Why Visit

Beau Desert Golf Club offers a compelling blend of challenge, history, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for golfers in the Midlands. Its high rankings and tournament pedigree, including 17 Open Championship Qualifiers, affirm its quality, while its secluded setting in Cannock Chase provides a serene escape. The course’s strategic design rewards thoughtful play, appealing to golfers seeking a true test of skill.

The emotional draw of Beau Desert lies in its connection to golf’s heritage and the joy of playing a course steeped in history. A visitor’s review captures this sentiment: “We all had a wonderful time. From the welcome in the clubhouse, members we meet on the course, the bar staff and Pro shop, a really superb experience at your wonderful course.” Practical benefits include top-notch facilities, such as a welcoming clubhouse with dining and a well-equipped pro shop, alongside practice areas to refine skills, ensuring a complete golfing experience.

Facilities

Beau Desert Golf Club provides a range of facilities to enhance the visitor experience. The clubhouse is a central hub, offering dining with delicious meals and refreshments, a well-stocked bar, and event spaces for gatherings. The pro shop, staffed by PGA professionals, supplies the latest golf equipment and apparel, along with expert advice to elevate your game.

Practice facilities are robust, featuring a 10-bay floodlit driving range accessible to members and green-fee-paying visitors, with tokens available from the pro shop. The short game area includes steep-faced bunkers for sand practice, three greens for chipping and pitching, and two putting greens near the clubhouse, allowing golfers to hone every aspect of their game before or after a round.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: The Beau Desert Golf Club Ltd, Rugeley Road, Hazelslade, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS12 0PJ
• Phone: 01543 422 626
• Email: [email protected] (general inquiries), [email protected] (group bookings)
• Directions: Located just off the A5, Beau Desert is about 20 minutes north of The Belfry. From the M6, take junction 12 and follow signs for Cannock. The nearest train station, Hednesford, is 3 miles away, with taxis available. Ample on-site parking is provided.
• Google Maps: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at Beau Desert vary by season and group size, with discounts for larger groups and county card holders. Below is a pricing overview for 2025:

• Weekend Rates: £100pp (Spring), £115pp (Summer), available 14:30–15:30.
• Booking Process: Online booking is available for summer weekend rates; other times require direct contact via phone or email. Cancellations more than 48 hours in advance receive a full refund; less than 48 hours receive a green fee voucher.
• Requirements: Smart casual attire is mandatory (collared shirts, tailored trousers/shorts; no denim or trainers). Buggies and trolleys can be arranged through the pro shop.
• Membership: Options are available; contact the club for details.

Nearby Attractions

Cannock Chase, a gem in Staffordshire, blends natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal complement to a golfing trip to Beau Desert. Below are key attractions to enhance your visit:

• Cannock Chase Forest: Explore miles of trails through woodland, home to wild deer and vibrant heather, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Cannock Chase Visitor Centre: Offers insights into the area’s ecology and history, with refreshments to refuel after a round.
• Chasewater: A 270-acre reservoir ideal for sailing, paddleboarding, or leisurely walks, with cycling trails for all ages.
• Museum of Cannock Chase: A free attraction on a former colliery site, showcasing the region’s mining past and natural beauty.
• Hednesford Hills Nature Reserve: Adjacent to the museum, this reserve offers serene walking paths and birdwatching opportunities.
• McArthur Glen Designer Outlet: A shopping haven with discounted designer brands, ideal for non-golfers.
• Go Ape: A thrilling tree-top adventure course, perfect for families seeking excitement.

These attractions ensure a well-rounded visit, catering to golfers and companions alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I book a tee time at Beau Desert?

Tee times can be booked online for summer weekend rates (14:30–15:30) or by contacting the club directly via phone (01543 422 626) or email ([email protected]).

What are the green fees?

Fees range from £70 (county card, Spring) to £115 (single, Summer). Group discounts apply, with a four-ball in Summer costing £400 (£100 per person).

Is Beau Desert suitable for beginners?

While challenging, the course offers multiple tee options, making it accessible for beginners using forward tees, though its greens may test novices.

When is the best time to play?

Summer (June–September) offers ideal weather, but autumn (October) provides quieter rounds and stunning foliage.

What is the dress code?

Smart casual attire is required: collared shirts, tailored trousers/shorts. Denim, trainers, and tracksuit bottoms are prohibited.

What facilities are available?

The club features a clubhouse with dining and bar, a pro shop, a 10-bay driving range, short game areas, and two putting greens.

How do I get to Beau Desert?

Located off the A5, it’s 20 minutes from The Belfry. From the M6, take junction 12. Hednesford station is 3 miles away; taxis are available.

Are there nearby golf courses?

Little Aston, Whittington Heath, and The Belfry are nearby, offering diverse golfing experiences.

What tournaments has Beau Desert hosted?

It hosted Open Championship Qualifiers 17 times, the Logan Trophy (2017), and Women’s Open Strokeplay (2022).

Why is Beau Desert famous?

Its heathland layout, historical significance, and top rankings by National Club Golfer make it a standout.

Are accommodations available nearby?

Hotels and B&Bs in Cannock and Lichfield are nearby; the club can recommend options.

Is membership available?

Yes, membership options exist; contact the club for details.

What’s the weather like?

Summer is mild, autumn cooler with possible rain. Check forecasts before playing.

Who designed the course?

Herbert Fowler designed Beau Desert in 1911, known for strategic heathland layouts.

What makes Beau Desert unique?

Its secluded heathland setting, historical prestige, and natural beauty within Cannock Chase distinguish it from other courses.

Can I bring food and drinks?

The clubhouse and pro shop offer food and drinks. Outside food may be permitted; confirm with the club.