Golfing in Sussex
Golfers have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sport of golf in Sussex as the County is home to a number of gems, while most of its golf courses enjoy excellent weather conditions most of the golfing season.
Some of the finest golf courses in Sussex include:
Crowborough Beacon Golf Club. Located 9 miles from Tunbridge Wells, the Crowborough Beacon Golf Club’s course is widely considered not only one of the best golf courses in Sussex but the entire UK. At the height of 800 feet above sea level, the 18-hole course offers spectacular view of the South Downs.
Royal Ashdown Forest & Tunbridge Wells Golf Club. Located 4 miles from East Grinstead, Royal Ashdown Forest & Tunbridge Wells Golf Club’s two 18-hole courses are among favourite golfing destinations in Sussex. The Old Course that dates back to the 1880s also hosted several prominent golf events including the 2007 Open Championship Regional Qualifying, the 2009 Senior Woman’s English Close Amateur Stroke Play Championship and the 2011 Ladies’ British Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship.
Rye Golf Club. Rye golf course is considered one of the best places to play golf not only in Sussex but whole Britain and has one of the largest golf clothes shops in the South East. However, Rye is a private golf club and it is very difficult to get a game here as there is no tee time system and visitors need to be introduced by a member of the Club. According to some golfers, it is easier to get a game at the renowned St Andrews’ Old Course.
West Sussex Golf Club. In comparison to other golfers’ favourites in Sussex, the West Sussex Golf Club is relatively new as it was founded only in 1930. Nevertheless, its course doesn’t lag behind other fine golf courses in the County in any aspect. West Sussex is a private Club as well but it isn’t difficult to get a tee time. However, you must be a member of a recognised golf club and have a handicap certificate.
East Sussex National. Located 40 minutes from Gatwick, the East Sussex National is home to two golf courses – East Course and West Course with the former one being more desirable. Although it opened only in 1990, it immediately became popular with the golfers. It also hosted several prominent golf tournaments including two European Championships.
Mannings Heath Golf Club. The Club’s two championship courses may not be as famous as the above mentioned Sussex golf courses but they aren’t any less spectacular and enjoyable. Besides running two exciting golf courses, the Club also runs a Golf Academy in case you would like to improve your play and a Pro Shop offering both men’s and lady’s golf equipment, golf trolleys and clothing.