Liphook Golf Club

Liphook Golf Club (Liphook, Hampshire, England)

Nestled in the rolling hills of Hampshire, Liphook Golf Club is a hidden gem among England’s golf courses. Since its opening in 1923, this heathland masterpiece, originally designed by Arthur Croome and refined by Tom Simpson, has captivated golfers with its blend of natural beauty and strategic challenge. As you step onto the first tee, you’re not just playing a round; you’re walking in the footsteps of golfing greats, immersed in a landscape where every hole tells a story and every shot tests your skill.

With its vibrant heather, undulating fairways, and breathtaking views of the South Downs, Liphook offers an unforgettable golfing journey.

Key Details

• Location: Liphook, Hampshire, England
• Length: Approximately 6,523 yards (from back tees)
• Par: 71 (men), 72 (women)
• Designers: Arthur Croome (original), Tom Simpson (1930s revisions), Tom MacKenzie (2011, 2019-2022 updates)
• Established: 1923
• Notable Events: Hosts prestigious amateur tournaments, including Junior Open, Ladies Open, and Gents Mid-Amateur Individual Open

History and Significance

Liphook Golf Club was founded in 1921, with its course officially opening on June 15, 1923, following a public meeting at the Royal Anchor Hotel. Incorporated in 1922 with a capital of £5,000—a significant sum at the time—the club was the vision of local golf enthusiasts who recognized the potential of the heathland terrain. Arthur Croome, a respected golf writer and architect, designed the original layout, leveraging the natural contours to create a course that demanded both skill and strategy. The first nine holes opened in September 1922, with the full 18-hole course completed the following year.

The course evolved significantly over the decades. In the 1930s, Tom Simpson, a renowned architect, refined Croome’s design, enhancing its strategic elements, such as the iconic “Simpson’s Folly” mound on the 14th hole. More recently, Tom MacKenzie of MacKenzie & Ebert led a major rerouting project from 2019 to 2022, introducing new holes (including a par-3 8th and a dogleg par-4 9th) and realigning others to improve safety and playability. These changes, completed in time for the club’s centenary, elevated Liphook’s standing, with rankings like 55th in Golf Monthly’s UK & Ireland Top 100 for 2025.

A highlight of Liphook’s history was its grand opening on June 27, 1923, featuring a match among amateur golfing giants Cyril Tolley, Roger Wethered, Arthur Croome, and Charles Ambrose. This event set the tone for Liphook’s reputation as a premier destination. While it has not hosted major professional tournaments, the club is a regular venue for prestigious amateur events, such as the Junior Open and Ladies Open, cementing its role in the amateur golfing community.

Liphook’s cultural impact is notable, with accolades from golfing legends like Bobby Locke, who deemed it one of the finest inland courses in the British Isles. Ranked 38th in England by Golf World in 2024 and 87th in Britain & Ireland in 2025, Liphook continues to draw golfers seeking a blend of history and challenge. Its commitment to excellence, from course maintenance to hospitality, ensures a lasting legacy.

Course Features

Liphook Golf Club is a classic heathland course, defined by its gently undulating terrain, heather-lined fairways, and tactically placed bunkers. Set within the South Downs National Park, it offers a serene yet challenging golfing experience. The course’s free-draining soil, swathes of heather, and mature birch and pine trees create a wooded heathland feel, distinct from more open layouts like nearby Hankley Common.

The layout demands precision and course management. Wayward tee shots risk being swallowed by thick heather or deep bunkers, while the fast, subtly sloping greens test putting prowess. With a mix of short and long par-4s, five par-3s, and strategic par-5s, Liphook rewards thoughtful play over brute force. The course’s design encourages creativity, with firm fairways allowing run-up shots but punishing errors.

Scenic beauty is a hallmark of Liphook. Elevated tees and greens offer panoramic views of the South Downs, while colorful heather and occasional wildlife sightings—such as deer—enhance the experience. The tranquil setting, combined with the course’s strategic depth, makes every round visually spectacular and intellectually engaging.

Signature Holes

Liphook’s character shines through its signature holes, each showcasing unique design and historical significance.

• Hole 1 (Par 3, 203 yards): A rare par-3 opener, this hole sets the stage with a well-guarded green framed by heather and bunkers. Originally not intended as the first, its challenging start demands focus, offering stunning views of the Hampshire countryside.

• Hole 5 – “Black Fox” (Par 5, 498 yards): Praised by Tom Simpson as one of his ideal holes, this par-5 requires a precise tee shot to navigate heather and bunkers. The approach to a sloping green tests strategy, making it a standout for its beauty and challenge.

• Hole 7 (Par 5, 501 yards): This par-5 features a watercourse marking the Hampshire-West Sussex border, adding intrigue. A well-placed drive sets up a strategic approach, with the green’s defenses demanding accuracy.

• Hole 14 (Par 4, 434 yards): Known for “Simpson’s Folly,” a large mound added by Tom Simpson, this par-4 challenges players to avoid the hazard on the green’s front left. Its clever design rewards precise approaches.

Why Visit

Liphook Golf Club offers a compelling blend of challenge, history, and beauty, making it a bucket-list destination for golfers. Its heathland layout tests every facet of the game—accuracy, strategy, and finesse—while remaining accessible to players of varying skill levels through multiple tee options. The course’s recent upgrades ensure it meets modern standards without sacrificing its classic charm.

The emotional resonance of playing Liphook is profound. Walking fairways praised by Bobby Locke and shaped by architectural legends connects golfers to a rich legacy. The serene South Downs setting, with its vibrant heather and sweeping views, creates lasting memories. As one reviewer noted, “There is nothing to dislike about Liphook… a course of enduring charm”.

Beyond the course, Liphook’s welcoming clubhouse, excellent dining, and practice facilities enhance the experience. Whether you’re refining your swing or relaxing post-round, the club’s hospitality ensures a memorable visit. For golfers seeking a quintessential English golfing experience, Liphook is unmatched.

Facilities

Liphook’s clubhouse is a warm, inviting hub, featuring a restaurant serving local cuisine, a well-stocked bar, and a pro shop with premium golf gear. Comfortable lounges provide a relaxing space for socializing, while the clubhouse’s traditional ambiance reflects the club’s heritage. It also hosts events, from corporate golf days to private functions.

Practice facilities include a driving range, putting green, and short-game area, ideal for warming up or skill refinement. The club offers caddie services, professional lessons, and equipment rentals, catering to all golfer needs. These amenities, combined with attentive staff, ensure a seamless and enjoyable visit.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Wheatsheaf Enclosure, Liphook, Hampshire, GU30 7EH, United Kingdom
• Phone: +44 (0)1428 723271
• Email: secretary@liphookgolfclub.com
• Website: Liphook Golf Club

Liphook is easily accessible via the A3. From London, take the A3 south, exit at Liphook, and follow signs (about 1 hour). From Portsmouth, take the A3 north, exiting at Liphook (approximately 30 minutes). Liphook station, 2 miles away, offers train services from London Waterloo, with taxis available. Ample on-site parking is provided. View the location on Google Maps.

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees vary by season and time, with peak rates (April–October) higher than off-peak (November–March). Expect weekday rounds to cost around £50–£150, with discounts for twilight or group bookings. Exact pricing is available on the club’s website. Visitors book via the website or by calling +44 (0)1428 723271, with advance reservations recommended, especially for summer. A smart dress code (collared shirts, tailored trousers) and handicap certificate may be required.

Nearby Attractions

Hampshire’s rich heritage and natural beauty complement a visit to Liphook. The South Downs National Park offers hiking and cycling trails with stunning vistas, just 5 miles away. History buffs can explore Uppark House and Garden, a National Trust property 10 miles from the club, featuring 17th-century architecture. The Hollycombe Steam Collection, 3 miles away, delights with vintage steam-powered rides. Nearby Petersfield (7 miles) and Haslemere (8 miles) offer charming shops, cafes, and cultural sites, perfect for non-golfers or extended stays.

• South Downs National Park: Spanning 5 miles from Liphook, this park offers trails through rolling hills and chalk cliffs, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Uppark House and Garden: A 17th-century National Trust property, 10 miles away, with elegant interiors and cliffside gardens.
• Hollycombe Steam Collection: Just 3 miles from the club, this museum features working steam trains and fairground rides, great for families.
• Petersfield: A vibrant market town 7 miles away, known for its weekly markets, historic buildings, and cozy cafes.
• Haslemere: 8 miles from Liphook, this town boasts the Haslemere Educational Museum and picturesque walking paths.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Tee times are booked online via Liphook Golf Club or by calling +44 (0)1428 723271.

What are the green fees?

Fees range from £50–£150, depending on season and time; check the club’s website for details.

Is the course suitable for beginners?

Yes, multiple tees accommodate various skill levels, though its strategic design challenges all players.

What is the best time to play?

Spring and autumn offer ideal weather and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds in autumn.

What is the dress code?

Smart golf attire (collared shirts, tailored trousers) is required; see the website for specifics.

Are there practice facilities?

Yes, a driving range, putting green, and short-game area are available.

How do I get to the club?

Take the A3, exit at Liphook; the club is 1 hour from London, 30 minutes from Portsmouth.

Are there other notable courses nearby?

Old Thorns, Blackmoor, and Hindhead are within 10 miles, offering diverse golfing options.

Has the course hosted any tournaments?

Liphook hosts amateur events like the Junior Open and Ladies Open.

Why is Liphook famous?

Its heathland design, historical significance, and rankings in the UK’s top 100 courses.

Is accommodation available nearby?

Hotels and B&Bs in Liphook and Petersfield are within 5–10 miles.

Is membership available?

Yes, various categories are offered; contact the club for details.

What is the weather like?

English weather varies; check forecasts before visiting for optimal conditions.

Can I learn more about the course’s history?

The club’s history page and a 2004 book, “The Liphook Story,” provide insights.

What makes Liphook unique?

Its heathland beauty, strategic design, and recent upgrades create a distinctive experience.