Sherwood Forest Golf Club

Sherwood Forest Golf Club (Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, England)

Nestled in the heart of Nottinghamshire, England, Sherwood Forest Golf Club offers more than just a game of golf—it’s a journey through history and nature. Picture teeing off amidst the ancient woodlands of Sherwood Forest, where the legendary Robin Hood once roamed, with the whispers of folklore carried on the breeze. This historic heathland course, crafted by Harry Colt and refined by James Braid, challenges players with its strategic layout and undulating terrain.

Renowned for its scenic beauty and prestigious tournaments, Sherwood Forest blends golfing excellence with an enchanting backdrop, promising an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Key Details

• Location: Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, England
• Length: 6,835 yards (championship tees)
• Par: 71
• Designers: Harry Colt (initial design), James Braid (enhancements)
• Established: 1912 (club formed in 1895)
• Notable Events: British and English Seniors, regional qualifying for the Open Championship, The Brabazon Trophy, The McGregor Trophy (2022), 2006 England Boy’s Amateur Stroke Play Championships, England Golf Championship venue of the year 2023

History and Significance

Sherwood Forest Golf Club, originally founded as Mansfield Golf Club in 1895, found its permanent home in 1912 on land leased from the Sixth Duke of Portland within the Welbeck Estate. By 1921, the club secured ownership of the land for £1,500, cementing its place in the heart of Sherwood Forest. The course’s initial design by Harry S. Colt, a titan of golf architecture, laid a strong foundation, but it was James Braid’s 1920s redesign that elevated it to greatness. Braid himself declared it “as good as any inland course in the country,” a testament to its enduring quality.

With minimal changes over the decades, the course retains its classic heathland character, a tribute to both designers’ genius and the exceptional terrain. The club’s history is enriched by unique moments, such as its use in 1916 by Scottish Highland Infantry Regiments for trench warfare training during World War I. This period birthed the revered “Clipstone Camp Cup” and “Scottish Trophy,” cherished artifacts in the club’s legacy.

By 1921, membership exceeded 200, signaling its growing stature. Sherwood Forest has since hosted numerous prestigious events, including the British and English Seniors, regional Open Championship qualifiers, and the 2006 England Boy’s Amateur Stroke Play Championships, where the English Golf Union lauded it as “in a league of its own.” Recent accolades include hosting The Brabazon Trophy and The McGregor Trophy in 2022 and being named England Golf Championship venue of the year in 2023. Culturally, Sherwood Forest stands as a beacon of golfing heritage. Ranked 84th in the British Isles and 35th–47th in England, it’s celebrated for its challenging layout and pristine conditions.

The course’s connection to the Robin Hood legend and its wartime history add layers of significance, making it more than just a golfing destination. It’s a place where players connect with the past while tackling a course that demands modern skill and strategy, earning praise from golfers and critics alike.

Course Features

Sherwood Forest Golf Club is a championship heathland course spanning 6,835 yards with a par of 71. Its 18 holes weave through the ancient woodlands of Sherwood Forest, blending natural beauty with strategic challenges. The undulating terrain, framed by pines, silver birch, and oak trees, creates a classic golfing experience that rewards precision and punishes wayward shots. With a course rating of 73.7 and a slope rating of 140, it’s a formidable test for golfers of all levels.

The course boasts 98 bunkers filled with local, thick sand, strategically placed to catch errant shots. Long carries over dense heather dominate the layout, demanding accurate drives and thoughtful club selection. Unlike modern courses, Sherwood Forest eschews water hazards, relying on its natural landscape for difficulty. Its greens, often described as “most excellent,” are fast, true, and subtly contoured, requiring precise approach shots. The back nine is particularly demanding, with the second half typically yielding higher scores, especially on the challenging stretch from holes 11 to 14.

The scenic allure of Sherwood Forest is unmatched. The heathland setting, with punishing swathes of heather and ancient trees, creates a dramatic and immersive experience. Each hole is framed by the forest’s natural beauty, evoking the mystique of Robin Hood’s domain. Playing here is as much about soaking in the historic landscape as it is about mastering the course’s challenges, making every round a memorable journey.

Signature Holes

1st Hole: Par 4, 380 yards

The opening hole at Sherwood Forest sets the tone with a tactical par-4 that demands precision. Played in front of the clubhouse, where a bronze stag statue stands sentinel, this hole requires a straight drive to avoid a bunker positioned 30 yards from the green. The green itself is guarded by additional bunkers and heather, making accuracy paramount. It’s a fitting introduction to the course’s blend of strategy and scenic charm, inviting golfers to embrace the challenge ahead.

7th Hole: Par 3, 165 yards

The 7th is a picturesque par-3 that combines beauty with difficulty. Its sloping green, renowned for its brilliant contouring, demands a well-judged iron shot to hold the surface. Framed by heather and trees, the hole is as visually striking as it is strategically complex. Golfers often recall this hole for its classic design and the precision required, making it a standout moment in the round.

14th Hole: Par 4, 450 yards

The 14th is the course’s defining challenge, a long par-4 that doglegs right to left. Six bunkers guard the fairway and green, making accuracy off the tee critical. Missing the fairway risks a tough recovery from heather or sand, while the approach shot must navigate the bunker-laden green. Known as the hole where “scores are lost or made,” it epitomizes Sherwood Forest’s demanding back nine and its test of skill and nerve.

Why Visit

Sherwood Forest Golf Club is a bucket-list destination for golfers seeking a blend of history, challenge, and natural splendor. Its heathland layout, designed by Harry Colt and James Braid, offers a stern test with 98 bunkers, heather-lined fairways, and exceptional greens. The course’s difficulty, particularly on the back nine, rewards strategic play and precision, appealing to golfers of all skill levels. Its setting within Sherwood Forest, steeped in Robin Hood lore, adds an emotional depth that elevates the experience beyond the scorecard.

The club’s rich history, from its 1895 founding to its wartime contributions and prestigious tournaments, resonates with every step. Golfers walk where champions have competed, with the course earning accolades like “in a league of its own” from the English Golf Union. Reviews praise its pristine conditions and challenging layout, though some note the high green fees as a point of contention. The clubhouse, practice facilities, and unique amenities like falconry enhance the visit, ensuring a complete golfing experience.

For those yearning to test their skills on a historic course while immersing themselves in one of England’s most iconic landscapes, Sherwood Forest delivers. Ascot Golf Club, a premier heathland course, is a must-visit for any golfer. Its combination of challenge, beauty, and heritage makes it a destination that leaves lasting memories.

Facilities

Sherwood Forest Golf Club offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. The clubhouse serves as a welcoming hub, featuring a restaurant with local cuisine, a well-stocked pro shop, and cozy lounges for post-round relaxation. The dining options highlight regional flavors, providing a taste of Nottinghamshire’s culinary heritage.

For skill development, the club provides a driving range and putting green, ideal for warming up or refining techniques. Caddy services and golf lessons are available, catering to players seeking guidance on the course’s challenges. Additional amenities, such as a spa for relaxation and unique activities like falconry, elevate the experience, making Sherwood Forest a destination for both golfers and their companions.

Contact Details and Directions

Address: Eakring Road, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG18 3EW, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0)1623 626689
Email: info@sherwoodforestgolfclub.co.uk
Directions: Located east of Mansfield in the East Midlands, the club is accessible by car from London via the M1 to Junction 28, then the A617 east (approximately 3 hours). From Glasgow, it’s about a 4-hour drive via the M6 and M1. Public transport includes trains to Mansfield station, followed by a 5-mile taxi ride. Ample on-site parking is available.
Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at Sherwood Forest Golf Club vary by season, time, and visitor status. Below is the pricing structure:

Bookings can be made online via the club’s website (Sherwood Forest Golf Club) or by calling +44 (0)1623 626689. Advance reservations are recommended, especially in peak season. A handicap certificate may be required for certain tee times, and smart attire is mandatory, including collared shirts and tailored trousers or shorts.

Nearby Attractions

Nottinghamshire’s rich history and natural beauty complement a visit to Sherwood Forest Golf Club. Below are key attractions to explore:

Edwinstowe: This charming village, just 5 miles away, is steeped in Robin Hood lore. The Major Oak, a massive ancient tree linked to the legend, is a must-see, alongside local shops and cozy pubs offering a taste of rural England.

Creswell Crags: Approximately 20 miles from the club, this limestone gorge features caves with Ice Age art, offering a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life for history enthusiasts.

Clumber Park: A National Trust property 15 miles away, Clumber Park boasts expansive parkland, woodlands, and a serene lake, ideal for walking, cycling, or picnicking.

Nottingham Castle: Located 15 miles from the club, this historic site explores the city’s past, including its Robin Hood connections, set within beautiful parkland.

Welbeck Abbey: Just 10 miles away, this historic estate features stunning gardens, woodlands, and an intriguing underground tunnel network, showcasing Nottinghamshire’s aristocratic heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I book a tee time at Sherwood Forest Golf Club?

Book online via the club’s website or call +44 (0)1623 626689. Advance booking is advised.

What are the green fees for Sherwood Forest Golf Club?

Fees range from £315–£1,000, depending on season, time, and visitor status (see table above).

Is Sherwood Forest Golf Club suitable for beginners?

The course is challenging but offers multiple tees, making it accessible with proper expectations.

What is the best time to play Sherwood Forest Golf Club?

Spring and summer offer milder weather and peak course conditions.

Is there a dress code at Sherwood Forest Golf Club?

Yes, smart attire is required, including collared shirts and tailored trousers or shorts.

What facilities does Sherwood Forest Golf Club offer?

Clubhouse with dining, pro shop, lounges, driving range, putting green, caddies, lessons, spa, and falconry.

How do I get to Sherwood Forest Golf Club?

Drive from London (M1, A617, 3 hours) or Glasgow (M6, M1, 4 hours). Trains to Mansfield, then a 5-mile taxi ride.

Are there other golf courses near Sherwood Forest Golf Club?

Yes, including Hollinwell Golf Club and Notts Golf and Country Club.

What tournaments has Sherwood Forest Golf Club hosted?

British and English Seniors, Open Championship qualifiers, 2006 England Boy’s Amateur, and more.

Why is Sherwood Forest Golf Club famous?

Its Colt/Braid design, heathland challenge, and Robin Hood heritage make it iconic.

Is accommodation available at Sherwood Forest Golf Club?

No on-site lodging, but nearby hotels offer packages.

Does Sherwood Forest Golf Club offer membership?

Yes, membership options are available.

What is the weather like in Nottinghamshire?

Temperate with mild winters, warm summers; wind can affect play.

Can I walk the course at Sherwood Forest Golf Club?

Yes, walking is permitted with caddies or trolleys available.

Are there any unique features at Sherwood Forest Golf Club?

Heathland terrain, 98 bunkers, heather carries, and no water hazards define its challenge.