Burhill Golf Club Old Course

Burhill Golf Club Old Course (Surrey, England)

Nestled in the heart of Surrey’s picturesque parkland, Burhill Golf Club stands as a testament to the timeless elegance of golf. Since its opening in 1907, this venerable course, crafted by the legendary Willie Park Jr., has welcomed royalty, nobility, and golf enthusiasts alike. The stunning Georgian mansion, dating back to 1726, serves as the clubhouse, offering a glimpse into the opulence of a bygone era.

As you tee off on the Old Course, you’re not just playing golf; you’re stepping into a legacy where history and nature intertwine. From rolling fairways to strategic bunkering and a serene woodland backdrop, Burhill invites you to immerse yourself in one of England’s finest golfing treasures.

Key Details

• Location: Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, England
• Length: 6,481 yards
• Par: 70
• Designers: Willie Park (1907), with renovations by Tim Lobb
• Established: 1907
• Notable Events: Hosts The Regional Open Qualifying Series

History and Significance

Founding and Early Years

In 1907, Burhill Golf Club opened its doors, with 18 holes designed by Willie Park Jr., completed in a remarkable five months. The course quickly became a favorite among the elite, attracting royalty and nobility from around the world. Among its notable visitors was Rupert Guinness, 2nd Earl of Iveagh, whose family continues to own the Burhill estate. The club’s early success was fueled by its stunning location in Surrey’s parkland and its proximity to London, making it a coveted destination for society’s upper echelons.

Evolution and Redesigns

Over the years, Burhill has maintained its prestige through careful maintenance and renovations to preserve its classic design. Renowned golf course architect Tim Lobb has contributed to ensuring the course remains true to its original vision while meeting modern standards. An ongoing heather regeneration program and enhancements to bunkering have further refined the course, blending tradition with contemporary excellence, as noted on Top 100 Golf Courses.

Major Tournaments and Events

While Burhill has not hosted major championships like The Open, it serves as a venue for significant events such as The Regional Open Qualifying Series, offering golfers a chance to compete for prestigious tournament spots (Burhill Golf Club). Its reputation as a challenging and beautiful course makes it a sought-after location for competitive play, attracting both amateur and professional golfers.

Cultural Significance and Modern Recognition

Burhill Golf Club holds a special place in the hearts of golfers and locals. Its Georgian mansion clubhouse, built in 1726, adds to its allure, serving as a venue for weddings and corporate events. The club’s commitment to inclusivity is evident through its Respect in Golf accreditation, ensuring a welcoming environment for all. Ranked among the top golf courses in the UK by National Club Golfer, Burhill remains a beacon of golfing excellence in Surrey.

Course Features

General Layout and Terrain

Burhill’s Old Course is a quintessential English parkland course, laid out in the grounds of a historic Georgian mansion. The front-nine features flatter terrain, allowing for strategic play, while the back-nine introduces more undulation, challenging golfers with varied elevations and contours. Tree-lined fairways, including ancient oaks, add character, while the quiet woodland and horse paddocks beyond create a serene backdrop, as described by Where2Golf.

Unique Features and Challenges

The course is renowned for its strategic bunkering, particularly around the greens, demanding precision on approach shots. Water hazards, including the River Mole, come into play on select holes, adding complexity. The good-width fairways offer room to maneuver, but accuracy is crucial to avoid hazards. The small, pristine greens feature tricky slopes and undulations, requiring careful reading, making Burhill a test of both skill and strategy.

Scenic Elements and Overall Experience

Playing Burhill is an immersion in natural beauty and historical significance. Mansionesque properties nearby enhance the sense of exclusivity, while the River Mole adds a picturesque element. Each hole offers unique views, from mature trees to distant woodland, creating a harmonious blend of nature and golfing artistry. Golfers can expect a visually stunning and challenging experience that celebrates the course’s rich heritage.

Signature Holes

Hole 1: Par 4, 433 yards

The first hole sets the tone with its length and strategic demands. At 433 yards, this par 4 requires a precise drive to avoid the bunker pinching the fairway on the left. The approach shot must be accurate to hit the long, narrow green, guarded by bunkers. This hole tests distance and accuracy from the outset, preparing golfers for the challenges ahead, as highlighted by National Club Golfer.

Hole 6: Par 3, 116 yards

The shortest hole at 116 yards, Hole 6 is deceptively challenging. This par 3 features a large green with undulations and subtle slopes, where finding the correct portion is key for a birdie. Surrounding bunkers add to the difficulty, requiring careful club selection and precision. It’s a true test of short game skill, offering a memorable moment on the course.

Hole 10: Par 3, 210 yards

Hole 10, the longest par 3 at 210 yards, demands both distance and accuracy. The green is guarded by four bunkers—two on each side—making it a small target. The elevated tee offers a scenic view, but golfers must focus on shot selection to navigate this challenging hole, which tests the ability to hit long, accurate irons.

Hole 14: Par 5, 530 yards

The last par 5, Hole 14, offers a birdie opportunity but requires careful play. At 530 yards, accuracy is paramount, with the fairway splitting and the left side providing a better view of the green. The green is protected by bunkers, demanding a precise approach. This hole rewards strategic play and patience, making it a standout.

Hole 7: Par 4, >400 yards

Hole 7 is a sharp dog-leg left, presenting a visual challenge. Golfers must shape their drive to the left fairway to gain a clear view of the lowered green, which features subtle breaks. Measuring over 400 yards, the hole is guarded by bunkers, testing shot-shaping and green-reading skills, as noted on Top 100 Golf Courses.

Why Visit

Burhill Old Course offers a unique blend of history, challenge, and natural beauty, making it a must-play for golfers. Designed by Willie Park Jr., this 1907 course features a parkland setting with rolling fairways, mature trees, and heather, providing a classic English golfing experience. Its strategic design, with demanding greens and bunkering, tests all skill levels. The course’s historical significance, tied to royalty and the Guinness family, adds emotional resonance, allowing players to connect with golf’s legacy. The Georgian mansion clubhouse enhances the experience with luxurious amenities. Burhill’s proximity to London and top-notch facilities, including a driving range and PGA coaching, make it an ideal destination for a memorable golfing trip.

Facilities

Burhill Golf Club boasts exceptional facilities to enhance your visit. The Georgian mansion clubhouse, built in 1726, houses elegant restaurants, bars, and private dining areas, ideal for relaxation or events. The club offers a driving range with 20 covered bays, a short game area, and a putting green for practice. PGA-qualified professionals provide golf lessons for all ages, with dedicated junior programs fostering young talent. Burhill’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its GEO Certified® status, and its Respect in Golf accreditation ensures inclusivity. While caddy services and spa facilities are not explicitly detailed, such amenities are common at clubs of this caliber, as per Burhill Golf Club.

Contact Details and Directions

Address: Burhill Golf Club, Burwood Road, Walton on Thames, Surrey, KT12 4BX
Telephone: 01932 227 345
Email: [email protected]

Directions: Located 30 minutes from central London, Burhill is accessible via the M3 or M25 motorways. Use postcode KT12 4AY for GPS navigation. By public transport, take a train from London Waterloo to Walton-on-Thames station, followed by a taxi or short walk.
Parking: Ample on-site parking is available for visitors.

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at Burhill vary by season and day. From April 25 to October 25, fees are:

Visitors can book tee times five days in advance online at Burhill Golf Club. Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. Check in at the Golf Shop to pay, sign in, and possibly present a handicap certificate. Contact the club for off-peak rates or special offers.

Nearby Attractions

Surrey offers a wealth of attractions near Burhill Golf Club:

• Hampton Court Palace: This historic palace, once home to Henry VIII, features Tudor architecture, beautiful gardens, and a famous maze, perfect for history enthusiasts.
• RHS Wisley: A world-renowned garden showcasing diverse plants, glasshouses, and seasonal displays, ideal for nature lovers.
• Weybridge: A picturesque town with boutique shops, cafes, and the Thames Path for scenic walks along the river.
• Windsor Great Park: Spanning over 2,000 hectares, this royal park offers walking, cycling, and the iconic Long Walk to Windsor Castle.
• Runnymede: The historic site where the Magna Carta was sealed in 1215, now a peaceful spot with memorials and riverside walks.
• Virginia Water Lake: Part of Windsor Great Park, this lake features a cascade and boathouse, ideal for a relaxing stroll.

These attractions complement a golfing trip, offering cultural, historical, and natural experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I book a tee time at Burhill Old Golf Course?

Book online at Burhill Golf Club up to five days in advance for seamless scheduling.

What are the green fees for Burhill Old Course?

April 25–October 25: £135 (weekdays, after 11am), £145 (weekends, bank holidays). Check the website for updates.

Is Burhill Old Course suitable for beginner golfers?

Challenging yet playable for beginners with higher handicaps, ideally with guidance or lessons.

When is the best time to play Burhill Old Course?

Spring and autumn offer mild weather and vibrant scenery; book early for summer tee times.

What is the dress code at Burhill Golf Club?

Smart casual required: collared shirts, tailored trousers or shorts, no denim or trainers.

What facilities does Burhill Golf Club offer?

Elegant clubhouse with restaurants, bars, pro shop, driving range, short game area, and putting green.

How do I get to Burhill Golf Club by public transport?

Train from London Waterloo to Walton-on-Thames station, then a short taxi ride or walk.

Are there other golf courses near Burhill Old Course?

Nearby options include St George’s Hill, Weybridge Golf Club, and Addlestone Heath.

What tournaments has Burhill Old Course hosted?

Hosts The Regional Open Qualifying Series and other notable regional golf events.

Why is Burhill Old Course famous?

Renowned for its Willie Park Jr. design, parkland beauty, and historic Georgian mansion clubhouse.

Are there accommodation options at Burhill Golf Club?

No on-site lodging, but nearby hotels in Walton-on-Thames cater to visitors.

Can international golfers join Burhill Golf Club?

Contact the club for associate or temporary membership options for international players.

What’s the weather like in Surrey for golfing?

Temperate climate with mild winters, warm summers, and occasional rain; check forecasts.

What is the history of Burhill Old Golf Course?

Established in 1907 by Willie Park Jr., with a 1726 Georgian mansion as its clubhouse.

What makes Burhill Old Course unique?

Features mature trees, strategic bunkers, undulating greens, and a parkland-heathland mix.