Course of the Week - Aldeburgh

published 5 July 2007

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.

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.

gf: £55wd per day, £60we per day

The leading website from the world’s oldest golf magazine, we’re the go-to destination for amateur and keen golfers alike who are keen to up their golfing game. As well as expert course reviews, news and tips to improve your handicap our golf-focused travel content will help you pair teeing off with your travels in some of the best destinations around the globe.