Rye Golf Club Old Course Review, Tee Times and Key Info

Rye Golf Club Old Course Key Information

This hugely characterful layout is not only one of the best golf courses in Sussex but also one of just two in the county to feature in our Top 100 Golf Courses UK & Ireland rankings.

Founded in 1894 the original layout at Rye was designed by a 25-year-old Harry Colt. Even at that young age his talent for visualising and creating attractive and exciting holes was evident. Indeed, Colt was the club’s first captain and Rye, his very first design, was one that would switch him from his career as a solicitor into that of a golf course architect.

The course at Rye is something of a timeless classic that has been largely unchanged since the 1930s. But it will still present a strong challenge, particularly when the wind is up.

It’s a classic links layout played over fast-running and undulating turf.

The opening in Rye is relatively gentle before things ramp up at the superb 4th playing to a hogsback fairway with trouble on both sides.

Other holes worth noting including the 6th – a dog-leg with a blind tee shot over a dune, then the superb 7th with a green featuring run-offs on all sides.

On the back nine, the 13th is a cracking hole where the second shot will generally be a long iron over a dune.

Although times for visitors are limited, bookings will be taken on weekdays by appointment.

When you do play, you’ll be made to feel very welcome. Be sure to allow yourself time for what is always an excellent lunch in clubhouse.

What The Top 100 Panel Said

John Slater

A bump and run links course with undulating fairways. There's a good variety of green sites, some of the greens are flattish, but some (eg the 16th) are notably contoured. Rumpled fairways and runoffs round greens all add to the challenge. The par 3s are all good. The 5th is epic across a valley. The clubhouse is excellent, very smart showers, old established comfortable, well-appointed clubhouse with many rooms and historical artefacts. The members are extremely friendly.

James Pinkstone

Rye is a classic - providing a stern test regardless of the wind. The more you play Rye the more you get it – there’ll always be a new bounce, a new lie, a new challenge on the green, or a new breeze.

Despite the old-school, largely members only approach, you receive a warm welcome in the clubhouse. 2-ball golf is preferred, followed by donning jacket and tie for lunch – an integral part of the Rye experience. Golfing royalty such as Colt and Darwin have graced the fairways of Rye as past Captains, and this history only adds to the experience.

Rye Golf Club Old Course Location

Best Courses Near to Rye Golf Club Old Course

LITTLESTONE

A fine course that adds a fourth dimension to the strong links attraction of the Kent coast beyond the three Open Championship venues. The links at Littlestone, which dates back to 1888 shares the same designer as Royal St George's, William Laidlaw Purves, although James Braid and Dr Alister MacKenzie both played a role in its evolution.

ROYAL CINQUE PORTS

This two-time Open venue follows a broadly out-and-back routing with one or two deviations, including an Old Course-style loop at the far end. The outward nine hugs the sea wall closely in places, and the course has benefitted hugely from Martin Ebert’s judicious and selective design touch in recent years.

Best Places To Stay Near Rye Golf Club Old Course

The Gallivant - Book now at Booking.com
Opposite Camber’s golden beach, Gallivant Hotel offers elegant rooms with homemade cake and luxury toiletries. Just a couple of minute's drive from Rye Golf Club, The Gallivant restaurant serves a variety of menu options, using seasonal and local produce.

The Hope Anchor - Book now at Booking.com
Built around 1750 for local sailors and ship builders, The Hope Anchor is thought to have once sheltered the Tenterden Gang, who used its old secret passages for smuggling. Relax beside the log fire in traditional snug bar, and enjoy the individually styled bedrooms, some of which have a four poster bed. It's in the centre of Rye just a mile and a half from the golf club.

Rye Golf Club Old Course Gallery

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Rye Golf Club Old Course Historical Top 100 Ranking UK&I

• 2025/26 - 61
• 2023/24 - 65
• 2021/22 - 65
• 2019/20 - 57
• 2017/18 - 54
• 2015/16 - 58
• 2013/14 - 61
• 2011/12 - 71
• 2009/10 - 77

Frequently Asked Questions