The ancient town of Sandwich is just 30 minutes from Canterbury, and your arrival at Royal St. Georges will take you through the old town, down narrow lanes past ancient stone walls and out into the dunes and sheep pastures that define the landscape of seaside Kent.
The Clubhouse and buildings at the course are like an oasis in a green desert, and the feeling of spaciousness is unparalleled. The course was laid out in 1887, and has undergone few changes over the years except the addition of new tees for today’s longer ball. Although the course may seem long at 7100 yards, meticulous review of the day’s wind and weather ensure that the course is prepared with the tees of the day in a position appropriate for the conditions. Few courses can produce play so differently from day to day or even hour to hour, as the wind changes direction and strength.
Most golfers know the Open Championship has been held here on many occasions since the first in 1894, but it is so highly regarded by selection committees it has also hosted the Amateur, the English Open, the Walker Cup, the European and PGA Championship and the Curtis Cup in 1988. The board listing the winners of all these competitions is truly a who’s who of golf and is a must see.
One of the great joys of St. Georges is the wide variety in design of golf holes. No two are even remotely similar, and you will likely be able to recall your first round many years later. The famous 4th hole, featuring the most fearsome “hell bunker”, has recently become a par 5, the tees moving back a little to once again bring this seemingly 40ft. vertical trap into play. However, should you take this approach, the hole will open up nicely, and a host of trouble on the left side of the fairway will be avoided. Your approach will now be to a large, elevated, two tiered green, with out of bounds beyond, a tangle of deep rough to the right, and a pit of deep rough short and to the left. Should you be lucky enough to find the green, two putts will serve you well.
Hell Bunker at Royal St. Georges
The bunkers that feature so heavily are large and in the most part steep and revetted. There may be occasions when a sideways or even backwards stroke is the most sensible course of action to escape.
The wonderful clubhouse features a bar with a grand window to view the weather in safety, relaxing in deep leather chairs and sofas, enjoying the log fires and contemplating the famous golfers who have enjoyed this fine room before you.