Spotlight on… Sussex
Sitting on the southern coast, Sussex has lots to offer both on and off the course! From vibrant destinations, such as Brighton and Eastbourne to a number of smaller boutique offerings off the beaten track!
Sussex has some of the best golf courses in the UK, ranging from the superb downland courses that offer stunning views over Brighton and Eastbourne, to a number of classic heathland courses further inland.
Check out some of our favourites below…
Dyke Golf Club
Founded in 1906, Dyke Golf Club is perched 200m above sea level and offers some of the most spectacular views of the coastline and Brighton and Hove. The clubhouse has a very relaxed feel with a fully stocked pro shop and practice putting green. The Spike Bar is a hit with members and visitors alike with large comfortable chairs you won’t want to get out of. The Dyke Golf Course is widely regarded as one of the finest downland courses in the region. Designed by Fred Hawtree, the course uses length and natural surroundings to create a unique test of golf. At 6,605 yards from the back tees, it provides a stern test of golf for even the most seasoned of golfers. The degree of difficulty depends on the weather, as the wind can play a big part in this course’s defense due to it close proximity to the sea. If the breeze doesn’t catch you out, the bunkers will, and the stunning 5th and 17th holes will remain in your memory after a round here. The chalky structure of the soil means that drainage is excellent and can be played anytime throughout the year.
East Brighton
Set in the lush Sussex downland, East Brighton offers a treat for all golfers. The well maintained, welcoming fairways and good drainage system means that this course is playable all year round without the need for temporary tees or greens. Built more than 100 years ago the clubhouse is full of warmth, charm and character and has been carefully updated and improved in recent times. The Oak Lounge in particular is a superb oak-panelled room with its own bar which provides the perfect venue for any visiting party or society. The clubhouse is kitted out with Wi-Fi so visitors and guests can surf the web whilst enjoyed real ales, continental lagers and excellent value hot and cold food. East Brighton presents a genuine but fair challenge to golfers of all abilities due to its generous fairways and no impossible carries which both contribute to an always enjoyable round. From the highest point on the course, the 12th tee, spectacular views of the English coastline can be enjoyed. On a clear day the silhouette of the Isle of Wight way off on the western horizon adds to the splendour of the already magnificent vista.
East Sussex National
East Sussex’s championship courses were designed by Robert E Cupp, one of Jack Nicklaus’ course architects. The East Course was specifically designed with championship golf in mind. Measuring 7138 yards from the gold tees, this is a formidable test of golf. Unlike the West, the East has two loops of nine holes bringing you back to the Clubhouse after each nine. The West Course is often regarded as the more scenic of the two courses, but is certainly tighter and more undulating. Surprisingly at 7154 yards it is slightly longer than the East.
Royal Ashdown Forest
Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club has two great courses to enjoy and it is not just us that think so. Golf World Magazine assembled a panel of experts to decide the top 100 courses in England and, given that there are over 2,000 of them, that is no easy task. The panel voted the Old Course #42 in the country. Set in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, one of the things that golf lovers most appreciate about playing here is that so little has changed over the club’s 125-year history. Heather, humps, hollows, pools and streams remain nature’s defence against shooting a low score.
Crowborough Beacon
Founded in 1895, the dramatic heathland setting of Crowborough Beacon Golf Club has an unrivalled position on one of the highest points in Sussex, enjoying far-reaching views to the sea 22 miles away. The golf course has been influenced by two legendary golf course Architects, Harry S.Colt and Dr. Alister Mackenzie.
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