Royal North Devon Golf Club

Royal North Devon Golf Club (Westward Ho!, Devon, England)

Perched on the rugged coastline of North Devon, the Royal North Devon Golf Club, affectionately known as Westward Ho!, stands as a living testament to the origins of English golf. Established in 1864, it holds the distinction of being the oldest golf course in England, a title it wears with pride. Designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris, this links course offers a unique blend of history and challenge, where golfers can experience the game as it was played in its earliest days.

With its windswept fairways, undulating terrain, and stunning views of the Bristol Channel, Royal North Devon is not just a golf course; it’s a journey through time, often referred to as the “St Andrews of the South.” Whether you’re chasing a low score or simply soaking in the heritage, this course promises an unforgettable experience.

Key Details

• Location: Westward Ho!, Devon, England
• Length: 7,044 yards (championship tees)
• Par: 72
• Designers: Old Tom Morris (1864), Herbert Fowler (1908)
• Established: 1864
• Notable Events: The Amateur Championship (1912, 1925, 1931), The West of England Championship, Martini Pro event (1975)

History and Significance

Founding and Early Years

In 1864, the Reverend Isaac Gosset, a visionary with a passion for golf, recognized the potential of Northam Burrows’ coastal dunes for a world-class course. He enlisted Old Tom Morris, the revered Scottish golfer and course designer, to craft an 18-hole layout, founding the North Devon and West of England Golf Club. The course quickly gained prominence, attracting golfers from across the region. In 1867, the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, bestowed Royal status upon the club, renaming it the Royal North Devon and West of England Golf Club.

By 1910, it adopted its current name, Royal North Devon Golf Club. This early recognition cemented its place as a cornerstone of English golf, earning it the moniker “The Cradle of English Golf.”

Evolution and Redesigns

Over its 160-year history, Royal North Devon has evolved to meet the demands of modern golf while preserving its links heritage. In 1908, renowned architect Herbert Fowler revised the layout, enhancing its strategic elements and ensuring its longevity. Today, only three of Morris’s original greens—the 3rd, 4th, and 16th—remain in play, serving as cherished relics of the course’s origins. However, the course faces ongoing challenges from coastal erosion, with Storm Eleanor in 2018 washing away part of the seventh green.

Despite disagreements with Natural England over coastal management, the club has adapted, making necessary changes to protect its future while maintaining its historical integrity.

Major Tournaments and Events

Royal North Devon has a storied history of hosting prestigious tournaments that have shaped its legacy. The course welcomed The Amateur Championship in 1912, 1925, and 1931, drawing top amateur talent and showcasing its challenging layout. In 1975, it hosted the Martini Pro event, further elevating its profile. The club also shares the West of England Amateur Championship with nearby Saunton Golf Club, a tradition that continues to attract competitive golfers.

These events have solidified Royal North Devon’s reputation as a premier venue, where history and competition intertwine.

Cultural Significance and Modern Recognition

Known as the “St Andrews of the South,” Royal North Devon is steeped in cultural significance. It was here that J.H. Taylor, one of golf’s Great Triumvirate, began his illustrious career as a caddie before winning five Open Championships. Other golfing luminaries, including Horace Hutchinson, Harold Hilton, and Herbert Fowler, have left their mark on the club, contributing to its storied legacy.

Ranked 94th in Golf Monthly’s Top 100 UK&I courses and featured in Golf World’s “Top 100 Courses in the World,” Royal North Devon remains a pilgrimage site for golfers worldwide, celebrated for its historical importance and raw, unfiltered golfing experience.

Course Features

General Layout and Terrain

Royal North Devon is a quintessential links course, sprawling across 170 acres of Northam Burrows, a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The layout weaves through natural dunes, with firm, fast fairways that encourage creative shot-making. The course’s undulating terrain, shaped by centuries of coastal winds, presents a dynamic challenge, where no two holes feel the same. Golfers must navigate a landscape of sea rushes, grassy mounds, and deep bunkers, all while contending with the ever-present breeze from the Bristol Channel. This raw, unmanicured setting delivers golf in its purest form, as envisioned by Old Tom Morris.

Unique Features and Challenges

What sets Royal North Devon apart is its integration with the local environment, where sheep and horses roam freely across the fairways, adding a rustic charm unmatched by modern courses. The course is dotted with sleepered bunkers and spiky rushes, which punish errant shots and demand strategic precision. The coastal winds are a constant factor, often turning straightforward holes into formidable tests of skill. Notable challenges include the long par-3 8th, where the green seems elusive in howling winds, and the dogleg 7th, known as the toughest hole due to its sloping green and sea rush hazards.

Scenic Elements and Overall Experience

The scenic beauty of Royal North Devon elevates every round into a visual spectacle. From the elevated tees, golfers are treated to panoramic views of the Bristol Channel, with the distant silhouette of Lundy Island on clear days. The clubhouse offers one of the finest vistas in golf, overlooking the course and the rugged coastline. The interplay of light and shadow across the dunes, combined with the sounds of crashing waves, creates an immersive experience that lingers long after the final putt. Playing here feels like stepping into a bygone era, where golf and nature coexist in perfect harmony.

Signature Holes

Hole 4 – Cape (Par 4, 385 Yards)

The 4th hole, aptly named “Cape,” is a classic risk-reward par 4 that epitomizes Royal North Devon’s strategic brilliance. At 385 yards, the tee shot must navigate a fortressed bunker positioned 170 yards out, a hazard that once struck fear into players but is now more manageable with modern equipment. The real test lies in the approach to a green nestled in a dell, where subtle contours demand pinpoint accuracy. A well-executed shot can yield a birdie, but misjudge the wind or distance, and the surrounding bunkers await. This hole’s historical significance and timeless challenge make it a standout.

Hole 5 – Table (Par 3, 165 Yards)

The 5th hole, known as “Table,” is a picturesque par 3 that plays up a dune to a canted, compartmentalized green. At 165 yards, it appears deceptively simple, but the severe fall-offs and deep bunkers guarding the green make precision paramount. The wind, often swirling unpredictably due to the hole’s abrupt change in direction from the 4th, complicates club selection, turning a short iron into a nerve-wracking choice. Described by golf writer Bernard Darwin as a hole of great character, the Table is a testament to the course’s ability to challenge with subtlety and beauty.

Hole 8 – Bar (Par 3, 235 Yards)

The 8th hole, “Bar,” is a daunting par 3 that stretches to 235 yards from the championship tees, requiring a long carry over natural hazards. The green, perched exposed to the coastal winds, is notoriously difficult to hit, especially when the breeze howls from the sea to the left. This hole’s length and exposure make it a true test of nerve and skill, with the storm wall nearby serving as a reminder of the course’s battle with erosion. A par here feels like a victory, cementing the Bar’s status as one of Royal North Devon’s most iconic holes.

Why Visit

Golfing Challenge and Appeal

Royal North Devon offers a golfing experience that tests every facet of a player’s game. The links layout, with its firm fairways and unpredictable bounces, rewards creativity and adaptability, making each round a unique challenge. The coastal winds demand strategic shot-making, while the deep bunkers and sea rushes punish wayward shots. Whether you’re a low-handicap golfer seeking a stern test or an amateur looking to embrace the game’s roots, this course delivers a rewarding and exhilarating experience that stands apart from modern resort courses.

Emotional and Historical Resonance

Playing Royal North Devon is a pilgrimage to the heart of English golf. As the oldest course in the country, it connects golfers to a legacy that includes J.H. Taylor and other pioneers who shaped the sport. The course’s museum, housed in the clubhouse, offers a tangible link to this history, displaying artifacts that tell the story of golf’s evolution. Walking the fairways, where sheep graze and the wind carries echoes of the past, evokes a profound sense of connection to the game’s origins, making every visit a deeply memorable experience.

Quotes and Practical Benefits

Golfers and reviewers alike have praised Royal North Devon’s unique charm. One visitor described it as, “A must play, you won’t play another course quite like it,” highlighting its singular appeal. The club’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with amenities like a well-stocked pro shop and excellent dining, enhances the visit. With green fees starting at £90 and discounts for twilight play, it offers exceptional value for a course of such historical and golfing significance, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Facilities

Clubhouse and Dining

The Royal North Devon clubhouse is a hub of hospitality and history, offering a warm welcome to visitors. The restaurant serves a range of dishes, from hearty local cuisine to lighter fare, with a dining area that boasts stunning views of the course and coastline. The bar is a cozy spot to relax post-round, while the golf museum, housed within the clubhouse, is a must-visit, showcasing artifacts from the club’s 160-year history. The clubhouse’s old-world charm, combined with modern amenities, creates a perfect blend of tradition and comfort.

Practice Areas and Additional Services

Golfers can hone their skills at the club’s practice facilities, which include a putting green and a short game area. The well-stocked pro shop offers equipment rentals, including clubs (£40 per set) and pull trolleys (£6), as well as professional coaching for those looking to improve. Caddies are available for £60 plus gratuity, providing valuable course knowledge to enhance your round. The club also features a short course, the Taylor Course, for £15, ideal for families or beginners, and a pétanque court for a unique off-course activity.

Contact Details and Directions

Royal North Devon Golf Club is located at Golf Links Road, Westward Ho!, Bideford, Devon, EX39 1HD, England. To book a tee time or inquire about your visit, contact the club at +44 1237 473817 (general manager) or +44 1237 477598 (pro shop). Alternatively, use the contact form on the club’s website (Royal North Devon). The course is a 4-hour drive from London via the M5 and A39, or a 1-hour drive from Exeter. The nearest train station is Barnstaple, 10 miles away, with bus or taxi services to Westward Ho!. Ample on-site parking is available. View the location on Google Maps.

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at Royal North Devon vary by season and time of day, offering flexibility for visitors. Bookings can be made online via the club’s website (Royal North Devon) or by calling the pro shop at +44 1237 477598. A smart golf attire dress code is enforced, and a handicap certificate may be required for competitive play. County cards from Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset clubs are accepted Monday to Wednesday after 2pm.

Nearby Attractions

Westward Ho! and the surrounding North Devon area offer a wealth of attractions to complement your golfing trip. From coastal parks to family-friendly amusement parks, there’s something for everyone. Below is a curated list of nearby highlights, each within a short drive from Royal North Devon Golf Club.

• Northam Burrows Country Park: Adjacent to the golf course, this 650-acre park is a haven for nature lovers, offering coastal trails, sand dunes, and opportunities to spot local wildlife. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk or picnic after your round.
• The Milky Way Adventure Park: Just 8 miles away, this award-winning park features roller coasters, live shows, and indoor play areas, making it ideal for families traveling with non-golfers (Milky Way).
• North Devon Maritime Museum: Located in the charming village of Appledore, 3 miles from the course, this museum showcases the region’s seafaring heritage with exhibits on shipbuilding and fishing (Maritime Museum).
• Pebble Ridge Adventure Golf and Go Karts: A short walk from the clubhouse, this fun attraction offers mini-golf and go-karting, perfect for a lighthearted activity with friends or family.
• Carousel Amusements: Situated in Westward Ho!, this arcade provides classic games and entertainment, ideal for a quick visit between golf rounds.
• Kipling Tors: A scenic spot within walking distance, offering panoramic views of the coastline and a nod to Rudyard Kipling’s connection to the area, as referenced in his novel Stalky & Co.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I book a tee time at Royal North Devon Golf Club?

Tee times can be booked online through the club’s website (Royal North Devon) or by calling the pro shop at +44 1237 477598.

What are the green fees for visitors?

Green fees range from £90 to £100 for 18 holes, with discounts for twilight play, juniors, and county card holders. See the pricing table above for details.

Is there a dress code?

Yes, smart golf attire is required, including collared shirts and tailored trousers or shorts. Jeans and t-shirts are not permitted.

Are caddies available?

Caddies can be arranged for £60 plus gratuity, offering valuable course knowledge. Book in advance through the pro shop.

What facilities are available at the clubhouse?

The clubhouse features a restaurant, bar, pro shop, and a golf museum showcasing the club’s history.

Is the course suitable for beginners?

The course is challenging but suitable for all levels. Beginners may find the wind and bunkers demanding but rewarding.

What is the best time of year to play?

Summer (May to September) offers the best weather, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours.

Are there nearby accommodations?

Westward Ho! and Bideford offer hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering options. Check the club’s website for local recommendations.

Has the course hosted any major tournaments?

Yes, it hosted The Amateur Championship in 1912, 1925, and 1931, the Martini Pro event in 1975, and co-hosts The West of England Championship.

What makes Royal North Devon unique?

As England’s oldest course, it features roaming livestock, historical greens, and a raw links experience unmatched elsewhere.

Is there a handicap requirement?

A handicap certificate may be required for competitive play, but casual visitors can play without one.

How do I get to the course?

Drive 4 hours from London via the M5 and A39, or take a train to Barnstaple and a taxi or bus to Westward Ho!.

Are there other golf courses nearby?

Saunton Golf Club, 10 miles away, offers two championship courses and co-hosts The West of England Championship.

What is the weather like in Westward Ho!?

The area has a temperate climate, with mild summers and wet winters. Check forecasts before your visit.

Why is Royal North Devon famous?

Its status as the oldest course in England, ties to J.H. Taylor, and unique links features make it a golfing landmark.