The United Kingdom is blessed with many great golf venues. From the coastline links north of the border to the inland heathland courses in the south of England, there is plenty to choose from.
Yet few can rival what Sunningdale Golf Club offers.
The combination of the Old and New Courses has made the Surrey based club one of the most admired destinations in British golf.
It’s an experience that is only amplified by playing in the iconic and unique foursomes tournament staged there each year. It is often seen as the curtain raiser on the golfing season with tour professionals, celebrities and amateur golfers all taking part.
During NCG Top 100s’ latest 48 Hours In series, NCG Top 100s host Tom Irwin and professional golfer Nicola Slater experienced the event first-hand. The pair played both courses across the practice day and first-round loss at the event.
They quickly discovered why so many believe there is no finer 36-hole venue in Britain. And, maybe even the world…
Why the Old and the New complement each other so well
Part of the appeal of Sunningdale is the contrast between the two courses.
Originally designed by Willie Park Jr, the Old Course is an inland golf course. Opened back in 1901 it is ranked eighth in NCG’s top 100s GB&I rankings.
Sunningdale’s New Course was designed by legendary golf architect Harry Colt and opened in 1923. It has been altered over recent years by Gil Hanse.
“There is probably more universal fondness for the old,” said Irwin. “It has probably got more quirk and character, if you like.
“The New is perhaps more of a proper test of golf, would be the cliche way of saying it.”
The NCG Top 100s host went on to explain why the two differing course set-ups help to ‘elevate’ the venue above others within the UK.
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“I think that is what probably elevates Sunningdale above all the others in rankings and in general opinion,” he said. “It has got that extra bit of x-factor.”
Slater also pointed out that: “I think you really notice that when you play back-to-back days that these courses are actually quite different. Although they’re on the same bit of land, the New is a lot more like a heathland and the heather feels more intrusive than it did on the Old.”
So, which is the best course?
For some, the Old Course represents everything they love about traditional golf course designs. Others are drawn towards the New Course and its more demanding nature.
Professional golfer Charley Hull admitted she naturally gravitates towards the Old Course because of its traditional feel.
“I think the Old is a beautiful golf course,” said the LPGA star. “The New is really good, but I like the Old.
“It’s a bit more old school and more traditional. If you went to the Masters you’d be like, ’Oh, wow,’. It has that old, traditional feel to it.”
WATCH THE 48 HOURS IN SUNNINGALE VIDEO
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NOW HAVE YOUR SAY
Have you played either of the golf courses at Sunningdale Golf Club? Which did you prefer? Do you think it is the best 36-hole venue in the UK or even the world? Let us know by leaving a comment or by getting in touch with us on X!
