Moor Park Golf Club (High Course)

Moor Park Golf Club (High Course) (Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, England)

Picture yourself standing on the tee, gazing across a lush parkland framed by ancient trees, with the elegant silhouette of a 17th-century mansion in the distance. Moor Park (High) Golf Course in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, offers this and more—a championship layout designed by the legendary Harry Colt in 1923. Nestled within a 300-acre estate, the course blends strategic challenges with breathtaking scenery, having hosted golfing greats like Seve Ballesteros and Justin Rose.

Whether you’re drawn by its storied past or the thrill of its iconic holes, Moor Park promises an unforgettable golfing experience steeped in history and natural beauty.

Key Details

• Location: Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, England
• Length: 7,036 yards (blue tees)
• Par: 72 (men), 73 (ladies)
• Designer: Harry Colt
• Established: 1923
• Notable Events: PGA Matchplay Championship (1925), Women’s British Open (1985), Bob Hope Classic (1980s), Carris Trophy, Hertfordshire Stag
• Course Rating: 74.8
• Slope Rating: 142

History and Significance

Founding and Early Years

Moor Park Golf Club was established in 1923 as part of the historic Moor Park estate, acquired by Lord Leverhulme in 1919. The estate, with roots tracing back to the 13th century, includes the Grade I-listed Moor Park Mansion, now the club’s iconic clubhouse. Harry Colt, a master architect known for courses like Sunningdale, was commissioned to design two championship courses: the High and the West. Opened in 1923, the High Course quickly gained acclaim for its strategic layout, blending seamlessly with the estate’s rolling parkland and ravines. Sandy Herd served as the club’s first professional, and Sir Guy Campbell was its secretary, marking the club’s early prestige.

Evolution and Redesigns

Since its inception, the High Course has evolved to meet modern golfing demands while preserving Colt’s vision. To host high-profile events, the course has been lengthened to over 7,000 yards from the blue tees, with additional tees added to challenge elite players. Notable updates include enhancements to bunkering and greens to maintain their speed and complexity. The club’s commitment to excellence is evident in its meticulous maintenance, ensuring year-round playability. During World War II, the mansion served as the headquarters for the Parachute Regiment, where the Battle of Arnhem was planned, adding a unique historical layer to the estate.

Major Tournaments and Events

Moor Park (High) has a rich tournament history. Just two years after opening, it hosted the PGA Matchplay Championship in 1925, showcasing its championship pedigree. The Women’s British Open in 1985 brought global attention, with top players navigating its demanding layout. The Bob Hope Classic in the 1980s attracted celebrity golfers, while the Carris Trophy, launched in 1935, returns every four years, nurturing talents like Sandy Lyle and Justin Rose. Annual events like the Hertfordshire Stag and British Open Regional Qualifying further cement its status as a premier venue.

Cultural Significance and Modern Recognition

Ranked among England’s top 100 golf courses, Moor Park (High) is celebrated for its design and heritage. Golf writer Bernard Darwin, in his 1925 book The Golf Courses of Great Britain, praised its “park golf with a dash of something else,” noting its unique bracken country. The club’s 1,600 members once earned it a Guinness Book record for England’s highest membership. Today, it remains a bucket-list destination, praised by visitors for its condition and hospitality. Golfers like Nick Faldo and Seve Ballesteros have graced its fairways, enhancing its global reputation.

Course Features

General Layout and Terrain

The High Course is a classic parkland layout, characterized by tree-lined fairways, undulating terrain, and strategic hazards. Spanning 7,036 yards from the blue tees, it weaves through the estate’s mature woodland, utilizing ravines and elevation changes to create a varied and engaging round. Harry Colt’s design emphasizes strategy, with doglegs, bunkers, and fast greens demanding precision. The course’s par-72 configuration includes five par-3s, five par-5s, and eight par-4s, offering a balanced test for all skill levels.

Unique Features and Challenges

The course is renowned for its deep bunkers, fast fairways, and slick greens, which challenge even seasoned golfers. Ravines come into play on holes like the 1st, 2nd, and 12th, requiring heroic carries. The 8th hole features a pond guarding the green, while the 14th’s hidden gully tests approach shots. Wind can influence play, particularly on exposed holes, and the greens’ subtle breaks demand careful reading. The back nine is notably tougher, with longer par-4s and strategic par-5s that reward bold play but punish errors.

Scenic Elements and Overall Experience

Moor Park’s scenic beauty enhances every round. Mature oaks and beeches frame the fairways, while glimpses of the mansion add a regal touch. The bracken country near the 12th hole, as noted by Darwin, provides a rugged contrast to the manicured landscape. The course’s serene setting, shielded from suburban sprawl, creates a tranquil escape. Golfers often describe the experience as a journey through history, with each hole offering a new challenge and a chance to connect with the game’s heritage.

Signature Holes

Hole 8 (Par 4, 494 Yards)

The 8th hole is a standout par-4, stretching 494 yards from the blue tees. The tee shot sweeps downhill, tempting long hitters, but the fairway narrows as it climbs back uphill to a sloping green guarded by a pond. Accuracy is crucial, as bunkers flank the fairway, and the water hazard punishes errant approaches. This hole’s dramatic elevation changes and strategic design make it a favorite, with the halfway house offering a welcoming respite behind the green.

Hole 12 (Par 3, 207 Yards)

Regarded as one of England’s finest inland par-3s, the 12th hole demands a bold tee shot over a deep valley to a well-protected green. At 207 yards, it requires a precise mid-iron, with bunkers and slopes ready to catch any misjudgment. The scenic backdrop of trees and bracken enhances its allure, and its difficulty has made it a talking point in tournaments like the Carris Trophy, where young golfers test their mettle.

Hole 14 (Par 4, 453 Yards)

The 14th is a formidable par-4, measuring 453 yards, with a hidden gully dissecting the fairway. The tee shot must find a narrow landing area, while the approach requires a carry over the gully to a green surrounded by bunkers. This hole epitomizes Colt’s strategic genius, forcing golfers to balance risk and reward. Its challenging layout and historical significance make it a memorable part of the back nine.

Why Visit

Golfing Challenge and Appeal

Moor Park (High) offers a championship test that appeals to golfers of all levels. Its Harry Colt design rewards strategic play, with varied holes that challenge driving, iron play, and putting. The course’s length and hazards, like ravines and bunkers, demand focus, while its pristine condition ensures a premium experience. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or a high handicapper, the High Course provides a satisfying and memorable round.

Emotional and Historical Resonance

Playing Moor Park is like stepping into golf’s storied past. The fairways have hosted legends like Faldo and Ballesteros, and the mansion clubhouse evokes centuries of history, from nobility to wartime strategy. Golfers feel a deep connection to the game’s heritage, walking where champions competed and creating their own memories. The serene parkland setting and warm hospitality amplify the emotional impact, making every visit special.

Quotes and Practical Benefits

“Moor Park is, in my opinion, the best in Hertfordshire,” raves a TripAdvisor reviewer. “The High is a classy golf course,” notes Top 100 Golf Courses. Beyond golf, the club offers a luxurious clubhouse with gourmet dining, a pro shop, and 13 tennis courts. Practice facilities, including a driving range and swing studio, enhance preparation, while corporate and society packages cater to groups.

Facilities

Clubhouse and Dining

The 17th-century Moor Park Mansion is among the most photographed clubhouses in golf, rivaling St Andrews’ R&A. Its elegant interiors house a gourmet restaurant serving regional specialties, a well-stocked pro shop, and comfortable lounges for post-round relaxation. The mansion’s historic charm, with high ceilings and garden views, creates a luxurious setting for dining or events, from weddings to corporate functions.

Practice Areas and Additional Services

Moor Park boasts extensive practice facilities, including a double-ended grass driving range with a covered section, an 18-hole putting green, and a members-only short game area for chipping and pitching. The indoor Swing Studio and Putting Lab use Trackman and SAM Putt Station technology for coaching. Practice nets and a Complete Golfer fitting studio are available, alongside PGA lessons. The club’s 13 tennis courts, including grass surfaces, offer year-round play.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Moor Park Golf Club, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, WD3 1QN, United Kingdom
• Phone: +44 (0)1923 773146
• Email: enquiries@moorparkgc.co.uk
• Directions: From London (20 miles), take the M25 to Junction 18, then the A404 and A4145 to Rickmansworth. The club is a 5-minute drive from the town center.
• Public Transport: Rickmansworth Station, served by the Metropolitan Line and Chiltern Railways, is 1.5 miles away; taxis are readily available.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking is provided for members and visitors.

Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees for the High Course vary by season and time. From March 31 to October 12, 2025, weekday rates are £145 before 3 pm and £99 after 3 pm; weekend rates after 2:30 pm are £175. Four-ball packages and county card discounts are available. Visitors can book tee times 7 days in advance by calling +44 (0)1923 721673 or emailing enquiries@moorparkgc.co.uk. A handicap certificate may be required, and smart attire is mandatory. Additional fees apply for buggies (£45), hire sets (£40), and trolleys (£5–£15).

Nearby Attractions

Hertfordshire’s charm extends beyond Moor Park, offering diverse attractions for golfers and companions. From nature reserves to historic sites, the area blends relaxation and adventure.

• Rickmansworth Aquadrome (1 mile): A 100-acre nature reserve with lakes, walking paths, and boating opportunities, ideal for a peaceful family outing.
• Cassiobury Park (3 miles): This 190-acre park features formal gardens, a miniature railway, and sports facilities, perfect for all ages.
• Chiltern Open Air Museum (5 miles): Explore over 30 historic buildings, from medieval barns to Victorian shops, set in scenic parkland.
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour London (6 miles): A must for Harry Potter fans, offering behind-the-scenes access to film sets and costumes.
• Chenies Manor House (4 miles): A 15th-century manor with stunning gardens, known for its Tudor architecture and seasonal events.
• Watford Museum (4 miles): Discover Hertfordshire’s history through art, artifacts, and interactive exhibits in a Georgian townhouse.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I book a tee time at Moor Park Golf Club?

Visitors can book tee times 7 days in advance by calling +44 (0)1923 721673 or emailing enquiries@moorparkgc.co.uk.

What are the green fees for visitors?

Summer rates for the High Course are £145 before 3 pm and £99 after 3 pm on weekdays, £175 on weekends after 2:30 pm (March 31–October 12, 2025).

Is the course suitable for beginners?

The High Course is challenging, better suited for experienced golfers. The West Course offers a more forgiving option for beginners.

What is the best time of year to play at Moor Park?

Spring and summer (April–October) offer optimal conditions, with lush fairways and full access to facilities.

What is the dress code for the golf course and clubhouse?

Smart golf attire is required, including collared shirts, tailored trousers, and golf shoes. Denim and trainers are prohibited.

What facilities are available at the club?

Facilities include a driving range, putting green, short game area, swing studio, pro shop, gourmet restaurant, and 13 tennis courts.

How do I get to Moor Park Golf Club?

Drive 20 miles from London via the M25 and A404, or take a train to Rickmansworth Station, 1.5 miles away, followed by a taxi.

Are there any nearby golf courses?

Nearby courses include Sandy Lodge Golf Club (2 miles) and Batchworth Park Golf Club (3 miles).

What tournaments has Moor Park hosted?

Notable events include the Women’s British Open (1985), PGA Matchplay Championship (1925), Bob Hope Classic, and Carris Trophy.

Why is Moor Park Golf Club famous?

Its Harry Colt design, top-100 ranking, historic mansion clubhouse, and tournament history make it a golfing landmark.

Is accommodation available at or near the club?

No on-site accommodation, but hotels like The Grove (5 miles) and Premier Inn Watford (4 miles) are nearby.

How can I become a member of Moor Park Golf Club?

Contact the club at +44 (0)1923 773146 for membership details, which include access to both courses and facilities.

What is the weather like in Rickmansworth?

Mild summers (15–25°C) and cool winters (0–10°C); check forecasts for rain, common year-round.

Can you tell me about the history of the course?

Founded in 1923, designed by Harry Colt, it has hosted major events and is part of a historic estate with a 17th-century mansion.

What are the unique features of the High Course?

Ravines, fast greens, deep bunkers, and elevation changes, with iconic holes like the par-3 12th over a valley.