
The Old Course at Sunningdale is a timeless treasure – often ranked among the best inland courses in the world. Designed by Willie Park Jr. in 1901, it winds gracefully through towering pines, golden heather, and sandy ridges on Surrey’s famous heathland. The routing is as refined as it is beautiful – a series of flowing holes that reward strategy, placement, and touch over brute strength. The course opens gently before building toward a glorious back nine stretch. The par-4 10th, rising toward the iconic halfway house, is one of golf’s great moments. Greens are subtly contoured, fairways impeccably maintained, and bunkering beautifully shaped. Every hole is natural, unforced, and charming – from the short par-3 8th to the dogleg 17th. The setting is quiet, exclusive, and steeped in history – legends from Bobby Jones to Rory McIlroy have praised it. It’s not long by modern standards, but that’s irrelevant – scoring here is about precision and poise. Sunningdale Old isn’t just a round of golf. It’s a masterclass in course design and a love letter to the game.
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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
Play positionally – aim for ideal angles into pins, and don’t chase yardage. The green complexes require deft short game and distance control. It’s about shaping, not smashing.
Pick smart lines off the tee and favour centre-green targets. The course is fair but punishes impatience. Enjoy the routing – it helps you build rhythm.
One of the most welcoming elite courses in terms of playability. Avoid the heather, stay calm around the greens, and enjoy the tradition. A caddy can be invaluable here.
10 – true, fast, and firm with classic contours
Typically light – trees shield much of the course, but subtle breezes influence club choice
Impeccable – elite standards of marshalling and etiquette
Moderate – understated setting, but the prestige of the club carries quiet pressure
Iconic and traditional – wood-panelled, historic, and quietly magnificent
The 10th is world famous – a long par-4 uphill to a green beside the halfway house. The 8th is a short par-3 over a heathery hollow, and the 12th is a sweeping dogleg requiring precise placement and a bold approach.
Dry and playable nearly all year due to sandy heathland soil. Summer is sublime – spring and autumn offer cooler conditions with beautiful golden light.