No 44 - Royal West Norfolk

Royal West Norfolk is a unique parcel of linksland with a charming old-school atmosphere that makes this natural links a pleasure to play

Royal West Norfolk

44 ROYAL WEST NORFOLK

Architect: Ingleby 2006 position: 53 Stats: 6,457 yds; par 71; SSS 71 GF: £50-£75 T: 01485 210223 W: rwngc.org

The course at Brancaster is situated on magical, almost mystical marshland and is an excellent example of an entirely natural links.

Due to the tides, the club is often cut off, but this just lends to the feeling of seclusion and splendid isolation.

Bunkers faced with large wooden sleepers are an impressive feature as are the ever-present views over the tidal marshes where only the birdlife breaks the tranquillity.

The 8th and 9th demand carries over tidal water and are excellent strategic holes. The overall atmosphere is very much one of stepping back in time. RS

+ Unique parcel of linksland; charming old-school atmosphere - Two-ball only; greenkeeping compound on the course a bit of an eyesore

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Rob Smith
Contributing Editor

Rob Smith has been playing golf for 45 years and been a contributing editor for Golf Monthly since 2012. He specialises in course reviews and travel, and has played more than 1,200 courses in almost 50 countries. In 2022, he played all 21 courses in East Lothian in 13 days. Last year, his tally was 81, 32 of them for the first time. One of Rob's primary roles is helping to prepare the Top 100 and Next 100 Courses of the UK&I, of which he has played all but seven and a half... i.e. not the new 9 at Carne! Of those missing, some are already booked for 2024. He is a member of Tandridge in Surrey where his handicap hovers around 16. You can contact him at r.smith896@btinternet.com.