Saunton West Golf Club

Saunton West Golf Club (Braunton, Devon, England)

Saunton West Golf Course, nestled on the stunning coast of North Devon, England, offers an unparalleled golfing experience that captivates both seasoned players and newcomers alike. Picture yourself standing on the tee, the Atlantic Ocean stretching endlessly before you, as you prepare to navigate the undulating dunes and firm fairways of this historic links course. Established in 1935, Saunton West has evolved into a masterpiece of golf course design, blending natural beauty with strategic challenges.

Recent enhancements, including the complete rebuilding of all 18 greens, ensure that every round is as visually stunning as it is demanding. Whether you’re drawn by the course’s rich history, its breathtaking scenery, or the chance to test your skills against one of the UK’s finest links layouts, Saunton West promises a golfing journey that lingers long in the memory. This is not just a round of golf; it’s an immersion into the heart of links golf, where every shot tells a story.

Key Details

• Location: Braunton, North Devon, England
• Length: 6,600 yards (from championship tees)
• Par: 71
• Designers: Original design by Alister MacKenzie; later modifications by Frank Pennink
• Established: 1935 (West Course)
• Notable Events: While the East Course has hosted more championships, the West Course is celebrated for its quality and challenge, often featured in top UK golf rankings.

History and Significance

Saunton Golf Club, founded in 1897, is one of Devon’s oldest golfing institutions, with its roots deeply embedded in the region’s sporting heritage. The original course was laid out by Tom Taylor, a professional from nearby Royal North Devon Golf Club. In the 1920s, Herbert Fowler, a renowned golf course architect, redesigned the East Course, elevating it to championship status. The West Course, added in 1935, was designed by Alister MacKenzie, whose legacy includes iconic courses like Augusta National and Cypress Point.

MacKenzie’s vision for Saunton West emphasized natural features and strategic play, creating a layout that challenges golfers at every turn. The course’s history took a dramatic turn during World War II when both the East and West Courses were requisitioned for military training, resulting in significant damage. Post-war, Frank Pennink, another golf course design luminary, was tasked with restoring and enhancing both courses. His work included rerouting holes and ensuring the courses retained their character while meeting modern standards.

Over the decades, Saunton has hosted numerous prestigious events, though the East Course has been the primary venue for championships like the English Amateur and R&A Boys Amateur. The West Course, while less tournament-focused, has earned its reputation as a hidden gem among discerning golfers. In recent years, Saunton has continued to invest in its facilities. A major renovation in the early 2000s saw all 18 greens on the West Course completely rebuilt, ensuring they drain effectively and provide fast, true surfaces.

This investment has solidified Saunton West’s place among the UK’s top links courses, often ranking highly in golf publications. Its location within the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and near the Braunton Burrows Biosphere Reserve—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—adds to its allure, making it not just a golfing destination but a place of natural and cultural significance. Golfers here walk not only in the footsteps of legends but also through landscapes that have inspired poets and artists for centuries.

Course Features

Saunton West is a quintessential links course, where the natural terrain dictates play. Its undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and firm surfaces demand precision and strategy. The course stretches along the coastline, with the Atlantic Ocean providing a constant backdrop and influencing play through ever-present winds. These coastal breezes can turn a seemingly straightforward hole into a formidable challenge, requiring golfers to adapt their game plan on every shot.

The greens at Saunton West are particularly noteworthy, having been completely rebuilt to ensure they are fast and true, even after heavy rainfall. Each green is contoured to test approach shots, with subtle slopes and runoffs that reward careful club selection. The fairways, while generous in places, are flanked by thick rough and gorse, punishing errant shots. Bunkers, many of them deep and revetted, guard key areas, forcing players to think strategically about their lines of play.

The course’s layout encourages multiple routes to the green, but choosing the right one is crucial for success. Visually, Saunton West is a feast for the senses. The golden sands of Saunton Beach frame the course, while the dunes, covered in marram grass and wildflowers, add to the rugged beauty. Each hole offers a unique perspective, from elevated tees that reveal panoramic views to fairways that meander through natural hollows.

The ever-changing light and weather conditions only enhance the experience, making every round feel fresh and exciting. For golfers who appreciate the raw, unfiltered beauty of links golf, Saunton West is a revelation.

Signature Holes

Hole 1: Par 4, 400 yards

The opening hole at Saunton West sets the stage for the round ahead. From an elevated tee, players must carry a dune to reach a fairway that slopes gently towards the green. Bunkers guard the left side, while a large hollow on the right punishes slices. The approach shot is equally demanding, with the green protected by bunkers and subtle contours. This hole introduces golfers to the course’s strategic depth and offers a glimpse of the stunning coastal views that await.

Hole 9: Par 3, 180 yards

Often photographed for its dramatic setting, this short par 3 is a true test of precision. The tee shot must carry a deep bunker to a slightly elevated green that slopes back to front. Wind can make this hole play significantly longer or shorter, adding an extra layer of challenge. A well-struck shot here is not just rewarding but also visually satisfying, with the green perched against the backdrop of the dunes and sea.

Hole 18: Par 5, 550 yards

The closing hole is a fitting climax to a round at Saunton West. This sweeping par 5 runs along the coastline, with the clubhouse visible in the distance. Players must navigate fairway bunkers on the left and pot bunkers on the right, setting up a second shot that can be played aggressively with the wind. The green is large but undulating, with bunkers guarding the front and back. Finishing here, with the sea breeze in your face and the satisfaction of completing a great round, is an experience every golfer cherishes.

Why Visit

Saunton West Golf Course is a destination for golfers who seek more than just a round of golf—it’s for those who want to connect with the essence of the game. The course’s links layout, with its firm fairways and challenging greens, tests every aspect of a player’s game. But it’s not just about the challenge; it’s about the experience. Walking these fairways, you’re part of a tradition that spans over a century, where golfing legends have played and where future stories are still being written.

The emotional resonance of Saunton West lies in its ability to transport you to another era. Here, amidst the dunes and with the ocean as your companion, you can almost hear the echoes of past champions. Golfers like Rory McIlroy have praised Saunton for its purity and challenge, calling it a “true test of golf.” The course’s reputation is further cemented by its inclusion in top UK golf rankings, often listed among the best links courses in the country.

Beyond the golf, Saunton offers practical benefits that enhance any visit. The clubhouse is welcoming, with a pro shop stocked with the latest gear and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine. Practice facilities, including driving ranges and putting greens, are available for those looking to refine their skills. And while Saunton is primarily a golfing destination, its location near beaches, historic sites, and natural reserves makes it ideal for a broader holiday.

Facilities

Saunton Golf Club’s facilities are designed to cater to every golfer’s needs. The clubhouse is the heart of the experience, offering a pro shop with top-tier equipment and apparel, as well as a restaurant that serves hearty meals made from local ingredients. The bar is a perfect spot to unwind after a round, with friendly staff and a warm atmosphere. For those looking to improve their game, the club offers lessons with qualified professionals, along with practice areas including driving ranges, putting greens, and chipping zones.

Locker rooms and showers are available for convenience, ensuring a comfortable experience from start to finish. While Saunton is primarily focused on golf, its location near attractions like Saunton Sands Beach and Braunton Burrows provides additional activities for companions or downtime between rounds.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Saunton Golf Club, Braunton, Devon EX33 1LG, England
• Phone: +44 (0)1271 812436
• Email: info@sauntongolf.co.uk
• Directions: From the M5, take the A361 towards Barnstaple, then follow signs for Saunton. It’s approximately a 2-hour drive from Bristol or Exeter. The nearest airport is Exeter International Airport, about 1 hour away. Public transport options include trains to Barnstaple, from where you can take a taxi to the club. Ample parking is available on-site.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at Saunton West vary depending on the season and time of day. During peak season (April to October), fees range from £50 to £135 for 18 holes, with higher rates for non-residents playing before 1pm. Off-peak rates (November to March) are more affordable, starting at £315 for non-residents. Hotel guests and members receive discounts. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods. Tee times can be reserved online through the club’s website or by calling the pro shop. A handicap certificate may be required for peak times, and smart casual attire is expected on the course.

Nearby Attractions

North Devon is a treasure trove of attractions that complement a golfing holiday at Saunton. Here’s a curated selection to enhance your visit:

• Saunton Sands Beach: Just a short walk from the club, this expansive golden beach is perfect for a post-round stroll or a relaxing day by the sea. Its vast sands and gentle waves make it ideal for families or those seeking tranquility.
• Braunton Burrows: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this unique dune system is one of the largest in the UK. It’s a haven for wildlife and offers guided walks to explore its flora and fauna, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
• Barnstaple: The nearest town, Barnstaple boasts a rich history with attractions like the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon. Its markets, shops, and restaurants provide a vibrant day out.
• Clovelly: This charming fishing village, about 30 minutes away, is known for its cobbled streets and stunning harbor views. It’s a step back in time, with no cars allowed, making it a unique excursion.
• Exmoor National Park: For those who love the outdoors, Exmoor offers rugged landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for cycling or wildlife spotting, all within a short drive from Saunton.

These attractions ensure that a visit to Saunton West is not just about golf but also about exploring one of England’s most beautiful regions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I book a tee time at Saunton West?

Tee times can be booked online through the club’s website (Saunton Golf Club) or by calling +44 (0)1271 812436.

What are the green fees for Saunton West?

Fees range from £50 to £135 for 18 holes, depending on the season and time of day. Discounts are available for hotel guests and members.

Is Saunton West suitable for beginners?

While challenging, beginners are welcome. Staff can provide guidance to help them enjoy the course safely.

What is the best time to play Saunton West?

The course is playable year-round, but April to October offers milder weather and better conditions.

Is there a dress code at Saunton Golf Club?

Yes, smart casual attire is required. Collared shirts and tailored trousers or shorts are acceptable.

Are there practice facilities available?

Yes, there are driving ranges, putting greens, and chipping areas for practice.

How do I get to Saunton Golf Club?

By car: From M5, take A361 towards Barnstaple, then follow signs for Saunton. By public transport: Train to Barnstaple, then taxi to the club.

Are there other golf courses nearby?

Yes, Royal North Devon Golf Club (Westward Ho!) is nearby and is another top-rated links course.

Has Saunton West hosted any major tournaments?

While the East Course has hosted more events, Saunton as a whole has a history of championships and amateur events.

Why is Saunton West famous?

It’s renowned for its links layout, stunning coastal views, and challenging yet fair design.

Is accommodation available at Saunton Golf Club?

The club does not have on-site accommodation, but nearby options include the Saunton Sands Hotel.

Is membership available at Saunton Golf Club?

Yes, membership is available. Contact the club for details.

What is the weather like in North Devon?

The climate is mild but can be windy, especially near the coast. Rain is possible year-round.

When was Saunton West established?

The West Course was established in 1935, designed by Alister MacKenzie.

Are there any unique features at Saunton West?

Yes, it’s part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers unparalleled natural beauty and wildlife.