
While the Old Course charms, the New Course challenges. Opened in 1923 and designed by Harry Colt, the New Course at Sunningdale is often viewed as the sterner test – longer, tighter, and more muscular in feel. It still shares the same stunning heathland terrain as the Old – towering pines, sweeping heather, and sandy turf – but the routing is more demanding. Tee shots are framed narrower, and several holes play uphill with demanding carries or sloped landing areas. The front nine builds steadily, culminating in the intimidating par-4 9th. The back nine features several strong two-shotters and a long par-3 13th with a sloping green set beneath tall trees. Every bunker is beautifully sculpted, and the green surrounds require delicate touch. Despite its name, the New Course is a classic – mature, revered, and equally beloved by purists. It’s often considered one of the best inland tests in the UK. Play both courses back-to-back and you’ll understand why Sunningdale is a golfing pilgrimage.
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Tiger’s best round
Rory’s best round
Mens course record
Ladies course record
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Caddy guide
Buggies
Demanding tee shots into narrow corridors. Control spin into sloped greens and be precise with distance. Course rewards patience and full control of trajectory.
More penal than the Old – stick to safe lines and don’t chase flags. Manage your round hole by hole, and lean on your short game.
Challenging, but beautiful. Use forward tees, keep it in play, and take in the setting. Missing in the heather is costly – stay disciplined.
10 – firm and fast, with classic undulations
Light – trees offer protection but breezes still influence shots on open holes
Excellent – strong etiquette culture and attentive marshalling
Moderate – traditional surroundings and tight fairway create quiet tension
Same as the Old – timeless, traditional, and among the most iconic in Britain
The par-4 6th is a sweeping dogleg left framed by trees and heather. The 9th is a long, rising par-4 demanding two big strikes. The 13th is a beautiful but brutal par-3 playing over a valley into a sloped, well-protected green.
Superb heathland drainage keeps conditions dry and firm. Summer brings ideal light and bounce. Winter play possible, but spring and autumn may offer the best playing balance.