Burnham And Berrow Golf Club

Burnham And Berrow Golf Club: A Storied Links Haven in Somerset, England

Imagine standing on the first tee, the salty breeze of the Bristol Channel in your face, as you gaze down a fairway framed by towering sand dunes. This is Burnham & Berrow Golf Club, a historic links course in Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset, England, where golf’s timeless allure meets nature’s rugged beauty.

Established in 1890, this revered venue has welcomed generations of golfers to its challenging fairways, earning accolades for its design and hosting prestigious tournaments. Whether you’re drawn by its storied past or the promise of a memorable round, Burnham & Berrow delivers an unforgettable experience.

Key Details

• Location: St Christopher’s Way, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset, TA8 2PE, England
• Length: 6,926 yards (Championship tees)
• Par: 71
• Designers: Charles Gibson (original, 1891), Herbert Fowler (1910), Harry Colt (1913)
• Established: 1890
• Notable Events: The Open Final Qualifying Series, English Amateur (multiple years), British Ladies Amateur (1906, 1923, 1938), Brabazon Trophy

History and Significance

Founding and Early Years

Burnham & Berrow’s story began in 1890, when a group of local gentlemen convened at the Royal Clarence Hotel in Bridgwater to form the Burnham Golf Club. The original nine-hole course, designed by Charles Gibson, a professional from Royal North Devon, was laid out among the sand dunes near Burnham Lighthouse. Its rudimentary design embraced the era’s philosophy: hit over dunes and aim for greens nestled in hollows. By 1896, the course expanded to 18 holes, extending to Berrow Church, prompting a name change to Burnham & Berrow Golf Club to satisfy the Lords of the Manor.

Evolution and Redesigns

The course evolved significantly in the early 20th century. In 1901, it was extended beyond the church, and in 1910, club member and architect Herbert Fowler reimagined the back nine, introducing the iconic Church Hole and pushing the course beyond 6,000 yards. In 1913, Harry Colt, one of golf’s architectural giants, crafted a modernization plan to eliminate blind shots and enhance strategic play. His work, completed in 1923 after wartime delays, included new holes that remain integral to the course’s identity. Contributions from Hugh Alison and Alister MacKenzie further refined the layout, cementing its reputation.

Historical Events

Burnham & Berrow has been a stage for golfing excellence, hosting over 40 major amateur championships. Notable events include the British Ladies Amateur in 1906, 1923, and 1938, and the English Amateur in 1930, 1952, 1963, 1971, 1981, and 2006. The Brabazon Trophy, a premier stroke-play event, graced the course in 1956, 1990, 2006, and 2011. The club also hosted the Jacques Léglise Trophy in 1999 and the Boys Amateur Championship in 1982 and 2011. Its role in The Open Final Qualifying Series underscores its championship pedigree.

Cultural Impact

Ranked 27th in Great Britain and Ireland by Top 100 Golf Courses, Burnham & Berrow is a beacon of links golf. Its association with J.H. Taylor, the club’s first professional and five-time Open Champion, adds to its lore. The course’s challenging design and historical significance have earned praise from golfers and critics alike, with Golf Monthly lauding its “fabulous collection of par 3s”.

Course Features

General Layout and Terrain

Burnham & Berrow is a classic out-and-back links course, stretching along the Bristol Channel’s sandy shores. The first nine holes skirt the coastline northwards, weaving through rumpled dunes, before turning inland and southwards through Berrow, past a historic church, and back to the clubhouse. The terrain is beautifully varied, with expansive views of the channel and distant South Wales coastline.

Unique Features and Challenges

The course is defined by its fast, undulating greens and strategic bunkering, demanding precision and creativity. Its quartet of par 3s—holes 5, 9, 14, and 17—are particularly renowned, each presenting unique challenges like deep pot bunkers and raised greens. Coastal winds add complexity, making club selection and shot shaping critical. The course’s 6,926 yards from the championship tees test even the most skilled players, yet shorter par 4s offer birdie opportunities.

Scenic Elements and Overall Experience

The natural beauty of Burnham & Berrow enhances every round. The silhouette of Steep Holm island and the sweeping vistas across the Bristol Channel create a stunning backdrop. Recent scrub clearing has improved course definition and revealed more sea views, enriching the experience. Golfers leave with a sense of awe, having played a course that balances challenge with breathtaking scenery.

Signature Holes

Hole 5 (Par 3, 201 yards)

This par 3 is a formidable test, with a raised green guarded by hidden pot bunkers on all sides. The tee shot must carry rough terrain to a small putting surface, where wind and subtle slopes complicate matters. Its compact design belies its difficulty, making it a standout.

Hole 9 (Par 3, 167 yards)

Designed with input from Alister MacKenzie, the 9th appears heavily defended but is more forgiving than it looks. A precise short iron must navigate a sliver of daylight between fronting bunkers to reach the green. Its strategic depth and historical significance make it memorable.

Hole 17 (Par 3, 200 yards)

A daunting 200-yard par 3, the 17th demands a stout tee shot to a raised green with run-offs and bunkers. The long carry over rough terrain tests nerve, and the wind can turn a well-struck shot into a gamble. It’s a thrilling challenge late in the round.

Hole 18 (Par 4, 445 yards)

Hailed as one of the UK’s finest finishing holes, the 18th doglegs left around grassy hollows before straightening towards a sloping green under the clubhouse’s gaze. Harry Colt’s design ensures a dramatic finale, with a gap cut through a dune adding both beauty and challenge.

Why Visit

Golfing Challenge and Appeal

Burnham & Berrow’s Championship Course is a stern test, blending strategic design with natural hazards. Its fast greens, deep bunkers, and wind-influenced play demand skill and adaptability, yet the layout rewards creative shot-making. The 9-hole Channel Course offers a gentler introduction to links golf, ideal for varied skill levels.

Emotional and Historical Resonance

Playing Burnham & Berrow is a journey through golf’s history. Golfers tread fairways shaped by legends like Fowler, Colt, and MacKenzie, and follow in the footsteps of champions like J.H. Taylor. The course’s legacy, coupled with its coastal setting, creates a profound connection to the sport’s roots, making every round a pilgrimage.

Quotes and Practical Benefits

Golfers rave about the experience, with one TripAdvisor reviewer calling it “the best golf course we played” after a visit in magnificent condition. The club’s facilities, including The Dormy House and excellent dining, enhance the visit, offering convenience and comfort for extended stays.

Facilities

Clubhouse and Dining

The clubhouse is a sanctuary of tradition, featuring a spacious lounge and bar overlooking the course. Open from 8:00 AM, it offers breakfast, lunch, evening meals, and snacks, with a sample menu showcasing local flavors. Historical displays, including golf clubs from 1890 and honors boards, add charm.

Practice Areas and Additional Services

Golfers can hone their skills at the driving range, short game area, and putting green. The pro shop provides equipment, custom fitting, and souvenirs, while golf tuition, including masterclasses and the Tee to Green Programme, caters to all abilities. A snooker room and caddy services round out the offerings.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: St Christopher’s Way, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset, TA8 2PE, England
• Phone: +44 (0)1278 785760
• Email: enquiries@burnhamgolf.co.uk
• Directions: From Bristol Airport (16.1 miles away), drive 40 minutes via the M5, exiting at junction 22, then head west to Burnham-on-Sea. From London, it’s a 2.5-hour drive via the M4 and M5.
• Public Transport: Take a train to Highbridge and Burnham station (2 miles away), then a taxi or local bus to the club.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking is available.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees for the Championship Course vary by season, with peak rates from April to September. Bookings are available online or by phone, with a smart casual dress code and handicap certificate recommended for visitors.

Booking Process: Reserve tee times via Tee Times or call +44 (0)1278 785760. Membership inquiries are handled separately, with a waiting list possible (Membership Enquiry).

Nearby Attractions

Somerset’s coastal charm complements a golfing trip to Burnham & Berrow with a variety of attractions for all interests.

• Brean Leisure Park: A vibrant park with 40 rides, a fun pool, and a golf course, perfect for families (Brean Leisure Park).
• Weston-Super-Mare: A bustling town with the Grand Pier, shopping, and nightlife, ideal for a day out (Weston-Super-Mare).
• Glastonbury Tor: A mystical hill with panoramic views, near the historic city of Wells (Glastonbury Tor).
• Cheddar Gorge: Explore caves, sample famous cheese, and marvel at dramatic cliffs (Cheddar Gorge).
• Apex Park: A local gem for picnics, fishing, and wildlife watching, just minutes from the club (Apex Park).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I book a tee time at Burnham & Berrow Golf Club?

Tee times can be booked online through Tee Times or by calling +44 (0)1278 785760 or Burnham And Berrow Golf Club.

What are the green fees for the Championship Course?

Fees range from £110 (Nov–Feb) to £195 (Apr–Sep) for adults, with twilight and replay discounts available.

Is the course suitable for beginners?

The Championship Course is challenging, but the 9-hole Channel Course is ideal for beginners (Golfbreaks – Burnham & Berrow).

What is the best time of year to play at Burnham & Berrow?

April to September offers optimal weather, though winter provides lower rates and fewer crowds.

What is the dress code at the club?

Smart casual attire is required on the course and in the clubhouse (Visitors Information).

What facilities are available at the club?

The club offers a 6,926 yards, par 71, a clubhouse, pro shop, practice areas, and The Dormy House for accommodation.

How do I get to Burnham & Berrow Golf Club?

Drive from Bristol Airport (16.1 miles) via M5, junction 22, or take a train to Highbridge and Burnham station, then a taxi.

Are there any nearby golf courses?

Brean Golf Club and Enmore Park Golf Club are nearby options for additional rounds.

What tournaments has the club hosted?

The club has hosted the English Amateur, British Ladies Amateur, Brabazon Trophy, and The Open Final Qualifying Series.

Why is Burnham & Berrow famous?

Its 1890 founding, iconic design, and championship history make it a links golf landmark.

Is there accommodation available at the club?

The Dormy House offers six twin bedrooms for on-site stays (Burnham & Berrow Golf Club).

How can I become a member of the club?

Contact the club for membership details; a waiting list may apply (Membership Enquiry).

What is the typical weather like in Burnham-on-Sea?

Mild climate with summer highs around 20°C and winter lows around 8°C; check forecasts before visiting.

What is the history of the course?

Founded in 1890, it expanded in 1896 and was redesigned by Fowler and Colt, shaping its current form.

What are the unique features of the course?

Towering dunes, fast greens, and a stellar par 3 collection define its links character.