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Royal North Devon Golf Club was founded in 1864 then gained Royal status just 3 years later, it is the oldest golf course in England still using its original fairways. Often known as Westward Ho!, after the town of its location, the layout is the oldest links course outside Scotland and it is firmly entrenched among the most desirable courses in the country.

As a regular feature within the Top 100 Golf Courses in The World, Royal North Devon, Westward Ho! or just plain RND to many, is a unique golfing proposition rich in history. This history includes some of the pioneers of golf, ranging from J.H. Taylor, one of the great triumvirate, who started as a caddie at the course, to the likes of Horace Hutchinson, Harold Hilton and Herbert Fowler who revised the original Old Tom Morris layout.

Located on Northam Burrows, a site of special scientific interest, between Northam and Westward Ho, Royal North Devon has hosted The Amateur Championship (1912, 1925 and 1931) as well as sharing The West of England Championship with Saunton Golf Club.

Royal North Devon Golf Club

Royal North Devon was originally laid out by Old Tom Morris and subsequently revised by Herbert Fowler, and is a quintessential seaside course. That is, its character is totally dependent upon the land. From the traditional clubhouse, the view of the course is an array of dunes and brambles, with little to suggest a championship standard golf course.

However the reality is much different, as Royal North Devon is a gem of a golf course. Any good tour of the fantastic golfing landscape of Devon should certainly include a stop at the remarkable Westward Ho! as well as sampling a delicious Devonshire Cream Tea after your round.

How to get to Royal North Devon Golf Club

Royal North Devon Golf Club is situated 1 mile from Westward Ho off the A39, 10 miles west of Barnstaple train station.

Address: Golf Links Rd, Westward Ho, Northam, Bideford, England, EX39 1HD

Course Information

Par 72
Designed by Old Tom Morris, Herbert Fowler
Opened for play 1864

Tees

Black 7,000 yards SSS 75
White 6,693 yards SSS 73
Yellow 6,422 yards SSS 72
Red 5,709 yards SSS 68

Royal North Devon Golf Club Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dress code for dinner?

Smart Casual

What restaurant do I need to book for dinner?

Par Dining

Is there a range on site?

Yes

Are there buggies available to hire?

Yes

How much is the fee for the caddies?

£40 plus discretionary

Are there any weekend golfing restrictions?

Visitors only after 2pm on Saturdays

How many bars are there?

There is 1 bar on site

Is there a charge for car parking on site?

There is complimentary car parking