Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club

Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club (Deal, Kent, England)

Imagine standing on the first tee, the salty breeze of the English Channel brushing your face, as you gaze down a fairway framed by rugged dunes and wild grasses. Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, often simply called Deal, is more than a golf course—it’s a journey into the heart of links golf. Established in 1892 in Deal, Kent, this coastal gem has welcomed legends and amateurs alike, its fairways etched with the drama of The Open Championship.

With its challenging layout and breathtaking scenery, Royal Cinque Ports invites you to test your skills where history and nature converge, creating an unforgettable golfing experience.

Key Details

• Location: Deal, Kent, England
• Length: 7,006 yards (championship tees)
• Par: 72
• Designers: Original design by Harry Hunter; notable redesigns by James Braid and Martin Ebert
• Established: 1892
• Notable Events: The Open Championship (1909, 1920), Halford Hewitt Tournament, various amateur championships

History and Significance

Founding and Early Years

Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club was born on February 12, 1892, when a group of golf enthusiasts, led by Major General Graham, gathered at the Union Club in Walmer to establish a course on 116 acres of leased coastal land. By May 30, a nine-hole course, designed by greenkeeper Harry Hunter, was ready for play. The clubhouse opened in November, complete with lockers and a balcony overlooking the first hole. Early competitions, like the first monthly medal won by Captain W.H. Eccles, set the stage for the club’s competitive spirit. By 1899, Hunter extended the course to 18 holes, earning praise as a “magnificent” layout that punished errant shots.

Evolution and Redesigns

The course faced challenges, including damage from both World Wars, but was restored by James Braid in 1919 and later by Sir Guy Campbell in 1946. Recent enhancements by Martin Ebert, including updates in 2019, have modernized the layout while preserving its links character. Notable changes include lengthening the 3rd hole and converting the 16th to a par 5, ensuring the course remains a formidable challenge. These efforts have kept Royal Cinque Ports relevant in modern golf, maintaining its reputation as a top-tier links course.

Historical Events

Royal Cinque Ports cemented its legacy by hosting The Open Championship in 1909, where J.H. Taylor won with a score of 295, and in 1920, where George Duncan triumphed with 303. Plans for additional Opens in 1938 and 1949 were disrupted by flooding, leading to its removal from the Open rota, though it remains a final qualifying course. The club has also hosted prestigious amateur events, such as the 1923 Amateur Championship and the Halford Hewitt Tournament since 1925, the world’s largest amateur foursomes event with 640 competitors annually.

Cultural Impact

Consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 courses by Golf World, Royal Cinque Ports is celebrated for its challenging layout and historical significance. Golfing greats like Peter Alliss have called it “one of my favourite links courses,” while Gary Player praised its final four holes as “the finest consecutive holes on any course in the world.” Its proximity to Royal St George’s and Prince’s Golf Club enhances its status as part of Kent’s golfing trilogy, drawing players globally to experience its unique blend of tradition and challenge.

Course Features

General Layout and Terrain

Royal Cinque Ports is a classic links course with a traditional out-and-back layout along the Kent coast. Spanning 7,006 yards from the championship tees, it features fast, undulating fairways that weave through sandhills and dune grasses. The front nine typically plays downwind, offering scoring opportunities, while the back nine turns into the prevailing south-westerly winds, testing even the most skilled golfers. The course’s stark, natural terrain, devoid of trees, relies on its coastal features for definition and challenge.

Unique Features and Challenges

The course is renowned for its deep pot bunkers, which demand precision to avoid, and large, contoured greens that are among the fastest in England. The wind is a constant factor, altering club selection and strategy on every hole. Notable obstacles include the burn on the 1st and 18th holes and the punchbowl green on the 3rd. The back nine, particularly the last seven holes, is notoriously difficult, with tight fairways and awkward lies adding to the strategic complexity.

Scenic Elements and Overall Experience

While the course lacks direct sea views, the English Channel’s presence is felt through the ever-present wind and coastal dunes. The rugged landscape, with its wild grasses and sandy hills, creates a dramatic backdrop that enhances the golfing experience. The clubhouse, overlooking the 18th green, adds a sense of history, while the serene coastal setting offers a peaceful escape, making every round at Royal Cinque Ports a blend of challenge and beauty.

Signature Holes

3rd Hole – Par 5, 566 Yards

The 3rd hole, a par 5 stretching 566 yards, is a standout for its strategic design and natural beauty. Lengthened in 2019, it features a tee positioned left of the 2nd green and a repositioned fairway leading to a punchbowl green complex. Bunkerless, the green’s surrounding contours reward well-placed shots but punish errors with challenging recovery shots. Its crumpled landscape and suspenseful approach make it one of Deal’s most memorable holes, evoking the classic links of Scotland.

16th Hole – Par 5, 549 Yards

Once a brutal par 4, the 16th was converted to a par 5, offering a strategic three-shot challenge across 549 yards. The split fairway and elevated green, perched on a minor ridge, demand a power fade to navigate the prevailing wind. Natural folds and humps add character, while the hole’s history—praised by Bernard Darwin as a “valley of inglorious security”—makes it a candidate for the UK’s finest holes. Its transformation has enhanced its playability and allure.

18th Hole – Par 4, 454 Yards

The 18th, a 454-yard par 4, provides a dramatic finish. A raised, kidney-shaped green is guarded by a burn short of the putting surface, requiring a precise approach. The clubhouse looms in the background, adding pressure as spectators watch from above. The hole’s natural contours and strategic design, reminiscent of St Andrews’ iconic finish, make it a fitting climax to a round at Royal Cinque Ports, where history and challenge converge.

Why Visit

Golfing Challenge and Appeal

Royal Cinque Ports offers a true links experience that tests every aspect of a golfer’s game. Its wind-swept fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens demand creativity and precision, rewarding strategic play. The course’s reputation as a former Open Championship venue and its ranking among the world’s elite courses make it a pilgrimage for golfers seeking a challenge steeped in tradition. Whether you’re a low-handicapper or a passionate amateur, Deal delivers a round to remember.

Emotional and Historical Resonance

Playing at Royal Cinque Ports is like stepping into a golfing time capsule. You’re walking fairways where J.H. Taylor and George Duncan made history, feeling the same coastal winds that shaped their victories. The club’s legacy, from its royal status granted in 1910 to its role in amateur golf, creates a profound connection to the sport’s heritage. As Peter Alliss noted, “The inward nine, especially if there is a wind against, is perhaps as formidable as anything in British golf.”

Quotes and Practical Benefits

Golfers consistently praise the course’s quality and hospitality. One TripAdvisor reviewer raved, “The whole trip was perfect, thank you,” highlighting the club’s welcoming staff and pristine conditions. Practical benefits include excellent practice facilities, a well-stocked pro shop, and dining options featuring local cuisine. The club’s proximity to other top courses like Royal St George’s allows visitors to craft a memorable golfing itinerary along Kent’s coast, enhancing the overall experience.

Facilities

Clubhouse and Dining

The clubhouse at Royal Cinque Ports is a hub of tradition and comfort, featuring a restaurant serving locally sourced dishes and a bar open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM in summer (6:00 PM in winter). The dress code is smart casual, ensuring a refined atmosphere. A halfway hut near the 9th green offers hot and cold refreshments, perfect for a mid-round break. The clubhouse’s balcony overlooks the course, providing a scenic spot to relax post-round.

Practice Areas and Additional Services

The club boasts top-tier practice facilities, including a 300-yard driving range, a putting green redesigned in 2022, and chipping and pitching greens built in 2019. Caddies, buggies, trolleys, and club hire are available through the Professional’s Shop, contactable at +44 (0)1304 374170 or professional@royalcinqueports.com. These amenities ensure golfers can prepare thoroughly and enjoy a seamless visit.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Golf Road, Deal, Kent CT14 6RF, United Kingdom
• Phone: +44 (0)1304 374007
• Email: office@royalcinqueports.com
• Directions: Located 2 miles north of Deal train station off the A256, the club is approximately 1.5 hours from London via the M2 and A2. From Gatwick Airport, it’s about a 1-hour 45-minute drive.
• Public Transport: Trains from London St Pancras to Deal take around 1 hour 20 minutes, followed by a short taxi or bus ride to the club.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking is available for visitors.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Royal Cinque Ports welcomes visitors Monday through Thursday, with green fees varying by season. The booking process is straightforward, with options to reserve tee times online or by contacting the club office. A smart dress code is enforced, and handicap certificates may be requested.

• Booking Process: Book online at Royal Cinque Ports Visitor Booking or call +44 (0)1304 374007.
• Requirements: Smart attire; no metal-spiked shoes in the clubhouse.

Nearby Attractions

Kent’s coastline blends history, culture, and natural splendor, enhancing a golfing trip to Royal CinquePorts. From medieval castles to serene beaches, Deal and its surroundings offer diverse attractions for golfers and companions, ensuring a memorable visit.

• Deal Castle: Built in 1540 by Henry VIII, this Tudor fort boasts circular bastions and underground tunnels. Daily tours explore England’s defensive history, with rampart views over the English Channel. Its unique cloverleaf design and historical significance make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
• Walmer Castle and Gardens: A 16th-century castle, home to the Lord Warden, features historic rooms and vibrant gardens. Its coastal setting offers tranquility, with trails through woodlands and manicured lawns, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
• Deal Pier: Extending 1,026 feet, this iconic pier offers fishing, dining, and panoramic sea views. Open daily with a café, it’s a lively spot for leisurely strolls, family outings, or simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere.
• Deal Seafront: This shingle beach with a vibrant promenade is ideal for walks, picnics, or enjoying the sea breeze. Open 24 hours, its scenic charm and accessibility make it a favorite for visitors year-round.
• Deal Timeball Tower: A quaint maritime museum showcasing a 19th-century timeball mechanism for naval signaling. Open weekends, it offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history, appealing to curious visitors and history buffs alike.
• Kent Museum of the Moving Image: Located in Deal, this museum traces cinema’s evolution with vintage projectors, film posters, and interactive exhibits. Open weekends, it’s a cultural gem for film enthusiasts exploring Kent’s coastal charm.
• Betteshanger Park: A former colliery transformed into a country park, it features cycling trails, walking paths, and adventure activities. Its open spaces and family-friendly amenities make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Sandwich Bay Beach: A serene shingle beach with dunes, perfect for birdwatching, quiet walks, or relaxation. Its secluded coastal setting offers a peaceful retreat, ideal for nature lovers seeking solitude near Deal.
• Dover Castle: A medieval fortress atop white cliffs, featuring wartime tunnels and a Roman lighthouse. Its hilltop views and rich history, from Norman times to World War II, captivate visitors just a short drive away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I book a tee time at Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club?

Book online via the club’s visitor portal or call +44 (0)1304 374007. Email office@royalcinqueports.com for assistance.

What are the green fees for Royal Cinque Ports?

Non-resident fees are £150 (winter) to £275 (summer 2025). Juniors pay £50 year-round.

Is Royal Cinque Ports suitable for beginners?

Its windy links layout challenges experienced players, but prepared beginners can enjoy it.

What’s the best time to play Royal Cinque Ports?

Summer (April–October) offers milder weather; winter (November–March) is cheaper but windier.

What is the dress code at Royal Cinque Ports?

Smart casual in the clubhouse; proper golf attire on-course. No metal spikes indoors.

What facilities does Royal Cinque Ports provide?

Clubhouse with dining, bar, driving range, putting/chipping greens, and caddy services.

How do I get to Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club?

Drive 1.5 hours from London via M2/A2 or take a 1-hour 20-minute train to Deal.

Are there nearby golf courses to Royal Cinque Ports?

Royal Szymon George’s and Prince’s, former Open venues, are within 5 miles.

What tournaments has Royal Cinque Ports hosted?

The Open Championship in 1909 (J.H. Taylor) and 1920 (George Duncan), plus Halford Hewitt.

Why is Royal Cinque Ports a famous golf course?

Its Open history, top-100 ranking, and links challenge, praised by Gary Player, elevate its status.

Where can I stay near Royal Cinque Ports?

The Royal Hotel in Deal or The Lodge at Prince’s are 1–3 miles away.

Can I become a member of Royal Cinque Ports?

Membership is available; contact +44 (0)1304 374007 for details and requirements.

What’s the weather like at Royal Cinque Ports?

Coastal weather varies; summers are milder, winters wetter, with strong winds common.

Can I rent golf equipment at Royal Cinque Ports?

Clubs, trolleys, and buggies are available at the Professional’s Shop, +44 (0)1304 374170.

Are there dining options at Royal Cinque Ports?

Clubhouse offers local cuisine; a cash-only halfway hut near the 9th provides refreshments.