Seacroft Golf Club

Seacroft Golf Club (Skegness, Lincolnshire, England)

Nestled on the picturesque Lincolnshire coast, just south of the bustling seaside town of Skegness, lies Seacroft Golf Club, a true hidden gem among the top golf courses of Great Britain and Ireland. Established in 1895, this traditional championship links course has stood the test of time, offering golfers a unique blend of history, challenge, and natural beauty. As you tee off amidst the rolling dunes and breathe in the fresh coastal air, you can almost feel the echoes of golfing legends who have graced these fairways. Seacroft is not just a golf course; it’s a journey through time, where every swing connects you to the rich heritage of the game.

Its reputation as a “hidden gem” belies its stature, as it ranks among the best value courses in England and Northern Ireland, offering an authentic links experience that rivals more famous names. Whether you’re drawn by its historical significance, its strategic challenges, or its stunning coastal setting, Seacroft promises an unforgettable golfing adventure.

Key Details

• Location: Seacroft, Lincolnshire, England (south of Skegness)
• Length: 6,635 yards from the championship tees
• Par: 71
• Designers: Willie Fernie (1900), with modifications by Guy Campbell in the 1920s, and recent remodeling by Clyde Johnson in 2017
• Established: 1895
• Notable Events: Hosted English County Finals, English Ladies County Finals, English Ladies Close Golf Championships, and various exhibition matches featuring golfing legends like JH Taylor, Arnaud Massy, Dai Rees, Ken Bousfield, John Jacobs, Harry Weetman, Eric Brown, Bobby Locke, Max Faulkner, Peter Alliss, and Bernard Hunt

History and Significance

Seacroft Golf Club was founded in 1895 as a 9-hole course, reflecting the growing popularity of golf in the late 19th century. In 1900, it was expanded to 18 holes by Willie Fernie, a renowned golf course designer and former Open Champion. Fernie’s design incorporated the natural dunes and linksland, creating a course that challenged players with its undulating terrain and strategic bunkering. Over the years, the course underwent several modifications. In the 1920s, architect Guy Campbell made significant changes, but nine of Fernie’s original holes remain intact, preserving the course’s historical character.

Interestingly, in the early 20th century, the club rejected a proposal from Dr. Alister Mackenzie, another famous golf course architect, to utilize additional land for the course. A drawing of his suggested alterations still hangs in the clubhouse today, a testament to the club’s commitment to its original design. In recent years, Seacroft has continued to evolve. In 2017, architect Clyde Johnson was brought in to remodel the course, returning some historic features and making it more playable for golfers of all levels. This work has helped Seacroft maintain its status as one of the top links courses in England. The course has a rich history of hosting notable competitions and exhibition matches.

As early as 1895, JH Taylor, five-time Open Champion, played an inaugural match at Seacroft. In 1907, he returned to play against Arnaud Massy, the recent Open winner, in a 36-hole match that drew 600 spectators, with a special train organized from London to bring fans to the event. The course has also been the venue for many national championship events, including the English County Finals, English Ladies County Finals, and English Ladies Close Golf Championships.

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Seacroft hosted a series of exhibition matches featuring golfing greats such as Dai Rees, Ken Bousfield, John Jacobs, Harry Weetman, Eric Brown, Bobby Locke, Max Faulkner, Peter Alliss, and Bernard Hunt, with proceeds going to charity. Culturally, Seacroft is significant for its role in producing golfing talent. One of its most notable alumni is Helen Hewlett (nee Dobson), whose amateur career was nothing short of magnificent and may never be surpassed. After turning professional in 1991, she won tournaments in Europe and the USA, and now, as an amateur again, she is often seen playing at Seacroft.

Today, Seacroft is ranked among the top golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland and is frequently praised for its value, being named the best course in Britain and Ireland that can be played for £60 or under. Its reputation as a hidden gem continues to grow, attracting golfers who appreciate traditional links golf in a beautiful coastal setting.

Course Features

Seacroft Golf Club is a classic links course, characterized by its undulating fairways, natural dunes, and exposure to the elements. The course stretches over 6,635 yards from the championship tees, with a par of 71, offering a challenging yet fair test of golf. The layout is traditional, with an out-and-back design that takes full advantage of the coastal landscape. The front nine heads south towards the Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve, while the back nine returns north, finishing near the clubhouse.

A central spine of grassy sand dunes separates the two nines, adding to the course’s character and providing strategic challenges. The fairways are tight and undulating, often with hogsback ridges that require precise shot-making. There are 75 bunkers scattered throughout the course, many of them deep and punishing, guarding greens and fairways alike. The greens are large and well-kept, with subtle contours that demand accurate approach shots. One of the defining features of Seacroft is its exposure to the coastal winds, which can significantly affect play.

Golfers must adapt their strategy to the wind conditions, making club selection and shot shaping crucial. The course is also known for its scenic beauty, with views over the nature reserve, the Wash, and the distant Norfolk coastline from various holes. The proximity to the sea and the natural environment make Seacroft a visually stunning place to play golf.

Despite its challenges, Seacroft is playable for golfers of all abilities, thanks to its multiple tee options, ranging from 5,861 yards to 6,635 yards. The course’s fast-draining soil ensures that it is rarely closed, even in inclement weather, making it an ideal destination year-round.

Signature Holes

While every hole at Seacroft has its own character, several stand out as particularly memorable. The first four holes set the tone for the round, each interacting with the parallel dune ridges in different ways. The 1st hole, a 409-yard par-4, starts with a drive over a ridge, setting up a challenging approach to a well-guarded green. The 2nd, a 425-yard par-4, plays alongside the ridge, with bunkers lurking for errant shots. The 3rd, at 380 yards, requires a shot over the ridge to a green nestled in the dunes, while the 4th, a 490-yard par-5, climbs up and over the ridge, offering a chance to reach the green in two for bold players.

The sequence from the 7th to the 9th is often highlighted as epic. The 7th is a demanding par-4 that plays into the wind, with bunkers guarding the green, testing even the most skilled players. The 8th is a short par-4 that can be driven, but accuracy is key to avoid the surrounding bunkers. The 9th is a par-3 that plays over a valley to a green perched on a dune, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a dramatic finish to the front nine.

The back nine starts with a terrific short hole, the 10th, a par-3 that plays across a hollow to a green protected by bunkers, requiring precision to avoid trouble. The 11th is another standout, with its green featuring a difficult-to-access lower-right bowl, demanding a precise approach shot to set up a birdie chance. The 13th is a strategic par-5, considered one of the best in England, with options for laying up or going for the green in two, depending on the wind and pin position. These holes showcase the variety and challenge that Seacroft offers, making each round a memorable experience.

Why Visit

Seacroft Golf Club offers a unique golfing experience that combines history, challenge, and natural beauty. For golfers seeking a traditional links course that tests their skills while providing a scenic and enjoyable setting, Seacroft is an ideal destination. The course’s historical significance, with its roots dating back to 1895 and its association with golfing legends, adds an extra layer of appeal. Walking in the footsteps of players like JH Taylor and Bobby Locke enhances the emotional resonance of playing at Seacroft. Moreover, the friendly atmosphere of the club, with its welcoming members and staff, ensures that visitors feel at home. The excellent catering facilities, including the popular Sunday roast dinners, make it a great place to relax after a round.

Golfers of all levels will appreciate the challenge that Seacroft presents, with its strategic design and exposure to the elements. The course rewards thoughtful play and accurate shot-making, making it a true test of golf. As one golfer put it, “Seacroft is a gem that every links enthusiast should experience. It’s challenging, beautiful, and steeped in history”. The affordability of the green fees, combined with the high quality of the course, makes Seacroft a standout choice for those seeking value without compromising on experience. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a newcomer, Seacroft offers a memorable round in a setting that captures the essence of links golf.

Facilities

Seacroft Golf Club boasts a range of facilities to enhance the visitor’s experience. The clubhouse is the heart of the club, offering comfortable lounges, a pro shop stocked with golf equipment and apparel, and excellent catering services. The main lounge and the ‘19th’ are popular spots for members and visitors alike, hosting various functions and events throughout the year. Dining at Seacroft is a highlight, with an extensive food menu featuring local cuisine, as well as a substantial wine list and selection of draught beers. The Sunday roast dinners are particularly popular, drawing both golfers and locals.

For practice, the club provides a driving range and putting green, allowing players to hone their skills. Additionally, the state-of-the-art swing studio offers advanced technology for golfers looking to improve their game, regardless of the weather. Other services include caddy services, golf lessons with the professional staff, and even unique activities like falconry displays, adding to the overall experience at Seacroft. The club’s commitment to a relaxed yet respectful atmosphere ensures that all visitors enjoy their time both on and off the course.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Drummond Road, Seacroft, Skegness, Lincolnshire, PE25 3AU
• Phone: 01754 763020
• Email: For golf enquiries: robin@seacroft-golfclub.co.uk; For office enquiries: susan@seacroft-golfclub.co.uk
• Directions: Seacroft Golf Club is located just south of Skegness town center. From the A52, follow signs to Skegness, and then look for Seacroft Square. The club car park is off Seacroft Square; please follow the signs. Public transport options include trains to Skegness station, from where it’s a short taxi ride to the club. There is ample on-site parking available (Seacroft Golf Club).

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at Seacroft vary depending on the season and day of the week. The following table outlines the pricing based on available information:

Note: Prices are subject to change; check the official website for current rates (Seacroft Golf Club). Booking can be made online through the club’s website or by contacting the pro shop directly at 01754 763020. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Golfers are required to wear standard golf attire, and no handicap certificate is needed, though a smart casual dress code applies in the clubhouse (Seacroft Golf Club Visitor Information).

Nearby Attractions

Skegness and the surrounding Lincolnshire coast offer a wealth of attractions for golfers and their companions, making Seacroft an excellent base for a golfing holiday. The town of Skegness is a classic British seaside destination, known for its long sandy beach, vibrant amusement arcades, and iconic Skegness Clock Tower. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade or indulge in traditional fish and chips.

For those interested in nature, the Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve, adjacent to the golf course, is a highlight. This reserve features miles of footpaths through dunes, saltmarshes, and beaches, making it a haven for birdwatchers and walkers. The reserve’s serene beauty complements the golfing experience, offering a peaceful escape just steps from the course.

Other notable attractions include:

• Fantasy Island (2 miles): A family-friendly theme park with thrilling rides, attractions, and dining options, perfect for a fun day out.
• Natureland Seal Sanctuary (1.5 miles): A rescue center for seals and marine life, offering educational talks and feeding sessions that delight visitors of all ages.
• Church Farm Museum (3 miles): A living history museum showcasing rural life in Lincolnshire, with historic buildings and interactive exhibits.
• Woodhall Spa Golf Club (20 miles): Home to the renowned Hotchkin Course, this heathland gem offers a contrasting golfing experience for those exploring the region.

These attractions, combined with the area’s reputation as “the drier side of Britain,” make Skegness and Seacroft a versatile destination for golfers and non-golfers alike (Visit Lincolnshire).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I book a tee time at Seacroft Golf Club?

You can book online through the club’s website or by contacting the pro shop at 01754 763020.

What are the current green fees?

Green fees vary by season: weekdays £70 (summer), £40 (winter); weekends £90 (summer), £45 (winter). Check the website for updates.

Is Seacroft suitable for beginners?

Yes, with multiple tee options, the course can be played by golfers of all levels, including beginners.

What is the best time to play?

The course is playable year-round due to its fast-draining soil, but spring and autumn offer milder weather conditions.

What is the dress code?

Normal golf attire is required on the course: no blue denim jeans, tracksuits, athletic shorts, or collarless shirts. Golf shoes must be worn.

What facilities are available?

The clubhouse offers dining, lounges, a pro shop, and a swing studio. There is also a driving range and putting green.

How do I get to Seacroft Golf Club?

Located just south of Skegness, follow signs from the A52 to Seacroft Square. Public transport includes trains to Skegness station.

Are there other golf courses nearby?

Yes, Woodhall Spa Golf Club is about 20 miles away, offering another excellent golfing experience.

What tournaments has Seacroft hosted?

The club has hosted English County Finals, English Ladies County Finals, English Ladies Close Golf Championships, and various exhibition matches.

Why is Seacroft famous?

It’s known as a hidden gem among top UK golf courses, praised for its traditional links layout, historical significance, and value for money.

Is accommodation available at the club?

No, but there are numerous hotels and bed & breakfasts in Skegness and surrounding areas.

Does the club offer membership?

Yes, membership is open to all, with options for full, associate, and social membership.

What is the weather like at Seacroft?

As a coastal course, it can be windy, but the area is known as ‘the drier side of Britain,’ with less rainfall than much of the country.

What is the history of the course?

Founded in 1895 as a 9-hole course, expanded to 18 holes in 1900 by Willie Fernie, with modifications over the years, including recent work by Clyde Johnson.

What are some unique features of Seacroft?

The course is adjacent to a National Nature Reserve, offering stunning views and a unique playing environment. It also has a state-of-the-art swing studio and hosts regular social events.