It's fair to say North Foreland Golf Course will test every department of your game - the sea breezes constantly challenge your shot-making and your distance control. This exposed course is always in great condition, though, with greens that provide testing putts over fast running surfaces with subtle slopes. The rough is tough but fair, and there are great coastal views to enjoy.
Situated on the Kent coast at the point where the English Channel becomes the North Sea - and is lucky enough to have a view of the sea from every tee and green. It is not a proper links even though it's very links-like in appearance and feel. Unlike seaside courses that run through dunes, North Foreland is chalk-based and, as a result, it drains exceptionally well and is playable all year round.
The courses are the work of the renowned architect's Herbert Fowler and Tom Simpson, and was completed before World War 1 after they were asked to extend the original nine holes. Such is the quality of the layout, the R&A uses North Foreland as a qualifying course when the Open Championship is held just up the coast at Royal St George's Golf Club in Sandwich. Fowler's creations include Aberdovey, The Berkshire (Red and Blue Golf Courses), Walton Heath (New and Old Golf Courses) and even Los Angeles Country Club which is a regular amongst the World's Top 100 Golf Courses.
Renowned for its fast-running fairways and greens, along with coastal views that are amongst the best in England, the 6,412-yard, par-71 Main Course is a fantastic test for all golfers – with the open front nine holes being contrasted nicely with the tighter back nine and a mixture of strategically- placed bunkers and broad fairways.
Course Information
Par |
71 |
Designed by |
Herbert Fowler, Tom Simpson |
Opened for play |
1903 |
Tees
White |
6,412 yards |
SSS 73 |
Yellow |
6,183 yards |
SSS 71 |
Red |
5,767 yards |
SSS 76 |
The Northcliffe Course provides the opportunity for players to hone their short game on a number of par 3 holes and the club is also home to excellent practice facilities and tennis courts.
The delightful Lighthouse Brasserie and Bar offers sumptuous food and drink with stunning views of the sea and coastline with the balcony extension adjoining the bar providing panoramic views across the course and the English Channel.