Swinley Forest

Ranked no.4 in England’s Top 100 courses & no.39 in the UK & Ireland

We make a long overdue return to this wonderful course designed by arguably ‘the’ master craftsman of all golf architects, Harry Colt.

Many think only Colt could have had the genius over one hundred years ago to see the potential of the desolate heathland & forest laid out before him, literally on his doorstep. He was working at Sunningdale just down the road at the time. (We are there later in the year to enjoy more of Harry’s wonderful creations).

The course is a classic on the Surrey/Berkshire sand belt, meandering through spectacular heathland with its heather, pines, azaleas & rhododendrons. It has a totally unspoiled feel to it, much in the tradition of 2 of our earlier venues this year, Royal Ashdown Forest & New Zealand.

For decades Swinley was stuck in a time warp. Just a few Private members, no scorecard, no par figures & no captain. Then in the 1990’s, things changed, but not too dramatically. Visitors & societies were welcomed in, but restrictions still tight. I remember my first call to the club a while back when I said I was interested in bringing a society. The lady politely replied ‘certainly, which year?’

But here we are again with a deliberately early start. After our morning competition round & a 4 course carvery lunch, anyone wishing to play another round in the afternoon may do so. This, & Afternoon Tea afterwards, is included in the price. Peter will be on hand to organise all those who wish to play, with the added bonus that fourballs are allowed in the afternoon. A wonderful day in prospect.

• 0700. Meet for tea/coffee & bacon rolls
• 0800. 18 holes on the Harry Colt Classic . Individual Stableford.
• Play is in 3 balls. Nearest the Pin - 17th
• After play, return to the clubhouse for a 4 course lunch & prizegiving.
• After lunch, more optional golf plus afternoon tea. Play in 3 balls & 4 balls.
• A bottle of Moët et Chandon champagne to the Individual Winner
• A bottle of Chateauneuf du Pape to the Runner Up & winner of Nearest the Pin