Course of the Week - Aldeburgh

Dating from 1884, Aldeburgh is one of the oldest courses in England. The layout has altered somewhat from Willie Fernie and John Thompson?s original design. In 1907 there was a change in ownership of a section of land leased by the club. As a result the course was revised and the legendary J H Taylor and fellow Open champion Willie Park Jnr were tasked with the modifications. It?s basically their layout that?s in play today.

Although Aldeburgh is famous as a seaside holiday town, the course is not right on the coast. Separated from the sea by the town, it is set on a stretch of land designated as ?maritime heathland.? The turf is sandy and well-draining so the fairways are fast-running through the summer months.

There are 113 bunkers on the course while the gorse provides a beautiful frame to many holes, particularly when it?s in bloom. If you can avoid it you?ll appreciate its sweet scent and yellow flower.

You have to look closely at Aldeburgh?s card to identify where its difficulty lies. At first glance you?ll see it?s not long at just 6,349 yards. But on closer inspection you?ll realise the par is only 68 and there are no par 5s. In fact there are eight par 4s measuring over 400 yards. In order to score well you must be an accurate long iron or fairway wood player and have the ability to scramble well for pars. Watch out for the 11th and 16th in particular ? both require a well-placed drive if you are to have any chance of reaching in two.

Aldeburgh is one of the few courses left in the country that exercises a twoball only policy and foursomes is a popular format with the club members. It means play is refreshingly fast and free-flowing, even when the 1st tee is busy.

After a game be sure to make use of Aldeburgh?s clubhouse. It exudes character and charm ? wood panelling and leather seats are the order of the day.

address: Saxmundham Road, Aldeburgh, IP15 5PE

t: 01728 453309

w: aldeburghgolfclub.co.uk

stats: par 68, SSS 71, 6,349 yards

gf: £55wd per day, £60we per day

Designer:

Opened:

GM TOP 120 RANKING: 83