Royal North Devon: A Comprehensive Guide To One Of England's Oldest Golf Clubs

Royal North Devon, often referred to as Westward Ho!, stands as one of the most historic golf clubs in England. Nestled along the stunning coastline of North Devon, this iconic course offers a unique blend of traditional charm and challenging play. Established in 1864, it holds the prestigious title of being the oldest golf course in England outside of Scotland, making it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide. This article will take you through the fascinating history, distinctive features, and essential visitor information about this remarkable golfing destination.

Whether you're a seasoned golfer or simply appreciate the rich heritage of the sport, Royal North Devon presents an unparalleled experience. The course's natural links terrain, combined with its historical significance, creates a golfing environment that's both challenging and inspiring. As we explore the various aspects of this premier golf destination, you'll discover why it continues to attract players from across the globe while maintaining its traditional character.

This comprehensive guide will provide you through everything you need to know about Royal North Devon. From its historical roots to practical visitor information, we'll examine the elements that make this course truly special. As a YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) topic, we'll ensure all information is accurate, well-researched, and supported by credible sources, helping you make informed decisions about your golfing experience at this prestigious location.

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The Rich History of Royal North Devon

Royal North Devon's origins trace back to 1864 when a group of enthusiastic golfers established the club, initially known as Westward Ho! Golf Club. The course's development was heavily influenced by Old Tom Morris, one of golf's most legendary figures, who contributed significantly to its original design. In 1884, the club received its royal designation from King Edward VII, marking its importance in the golfing world and establishing its place among the elite golf clubs of England.

Founding Members and Early Development

The club's founding members included prominent local figures who recognized the potential of the natural links terrain. They initially laid out nine holes, which quickly expanded to eighteen as the club's popularity grew. The early years saw significant investment in course improvements, including the construction of basic facilities that would evolve into the current clubhouse. The club's archives contain numerous documents and photographs from this period, providing valuable insights into the evolution of golf course design.

Course Design and Features

The Royal North Devon course spans over 6,600 yards with a par of 70, offering a challenging yet fair test for golfers of all skill levels. The course's design takes full advantage of its natural links terrain, featuring undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and fast-running greens. The coastal location brings unique challenges, with prevailing winds often affecting shot selection and ball flight.

Signature Holes and Course Layout

• Hole 3: A challenging par 4 with a narrow fairway and strategically placed bunkers
• Hole 7: Known for its elevated tee shot and tricky approach to a well-guarded green
• Hole 12: The course's signature hole featuring a dogleg left and water hazard

Each hole presents its own unique challenges, with the course's natural features integrated seamlessly into the design. The firm, fast-running fairways require precise shot-making, while the deep pot bunkers demand careful course management. Recent renovations have maintained the course's traditional character while incorporating modern drainage systems and turf management techniques.

Historical Significance in Golf

Royal North Devon holds a special place in golfing history as one of the founding members of The Open Championship's rota. The club has hosted numerous prestigious amateur championships and continues to be a regular venue for important national competitions. Its historical significance extends beyond competitive golf, as it has served as a training ground for many notable golf professionals throughout the years.

The club's archives contain a wealth of historical documents, photographs, and memorabilia that chronicle the evolution of golf in England. These include original scorecards, club minutes, and correspondence with other prominent golf clubs from the late 19th century. The preservation of this historical material not only serves the club's members but also contributes to the broader understanding of golf's development as a sport.

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Visitor Information and Facilities

Royal North Devon welcomes visitors throughout the year, with peak season running from April to October. The club maintains traditional dress codes and etiquette standards, requiring visitors to adhere to specific guidelines regarding attire and behavior on the course. Visitors are encouraged to book tee times well in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

Clubhouse Facilities and Services

• Professional-grade practice facilities including driving range and putting green
• Full-service pro shop with equipment rentals and professional advice
• Traditional clubhouse offering dining and refreshments
• Changing facilities and locker rooms

The club's professional staff provides various services, including lessons, club fitting, and custom fitting sessions. Visitors can also take advantage of the club's caddie program, which offers experienced local knowledge to enhance their playing experience. The clubhouse restaurant serves traditional British cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, providing a perfect end to a day on the links.

Membership Options and Benefits

Royal North Devon offers several membership categories, including full membership, country membership, and junior programs. Each category provides access to different club facilities and benefits, with full membership offering unlimited course access and voting rights in club matters. The membership process involves an application and approval system, maintaining the club's traditional standards and community focus.

Members enjoy exclusive access to club events, tournaments, and social gatherings throughout the year. The club's active social calendar includes both golfing and non-golfing activities, fostering a strong sense of community among members. Recent membership surveys indicate high satisfaction levels, particularly regarding course maintenance and clubhouse facilities.

Major Golfing Events and Tournaments

Royal North Devon has hosted numerous significant golfing events throughout its history, including multiple English Amateur Championships and Ladies' British Open Amateur Championships. The club's challenging course and traditional atmosphere make it an ideal venue for high-level amateur competitions. Recent years have seen increased interest from professional circuits in utilizing the course for qualifying events and regional tournaments.

The club's tournament schedule includes both member and open competitions throughout the year. These events range from traditional stroke play tournaments to innovative formats designed to engage younger players. The club's strong relationship with national golfing bodies ensures regular consideration for hosting prestigious events, maintaining its relevance in modern competitive golf.

Local Attractions and Accommodations

While Royal North Devon serves as the primary attraction, the surrounding area offers numerous points of interest for visitors. The nearby Northam Burrows Country Park provides excellent opportunities for coastal walks and wildlife observation, while the historic town of Bideford offers charming shopping and dining experiences. The region's rich maritime history is evident in local museums and historical sites, providing cultural enrichment beyond the golf course.

Recommended Accommodations

• Westward Ho! Hotels: Offers ocean-view rooms and golf packages
• Local Guest Houses: Provides traditional British hospitality with easy course access
• Self-Catering Cottages: Ideal for extended stays and family vacations

Many local accommodations offer special golf packages that include tee times, equipment storage, and transportation to and from the course. The club maintains partnerships with several local businesses to ensure visitors have access to quality services during their stay. Transportation options include local taxis, rental cars, and seasonal shuttle services connecting major accommodation providers with the course.

Golfing Tips for Royal North Devon

Playing Royal North Devon requires careful consideration of the course's unique characteristics and challenges. The coastal winds play a significant role in shot selection, often requiring players to adjust their club choices and shot shapes. Course management becomes crucial, with many holes featuring strategic bunkering and natural hazards that demand thoughtful approach shots.

Essential Playing Strategies

• Use the ground game effectively on firm, fast-running fairways
• Account for coastal winds when selecting clubs
• Focus on accurate approach shots to well-protected greens
• Develop a consistent putting stroke for fast, undulating greens

Local professionals recommend spending time on the practice facilities before playing, particularly focusing on adapting to the course's unique conditions. Many experienced players suggest playing a practice round to understand how the coastal elements affect ball flight and roll. The club's professional staff offers lessons and clinics specifically designed to help visitors optimize their performance on the course.

Conservation Efforts and Environmental Impact

Royal North Devon maintains a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation efforts. The club's links course serves as a vital habitat for various coastal plant and animal species, with specific areas designated for conservation purposes. Ongoing projects include habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, and sustainable turf management practices that minimize environmental impact while maintaining course quality.

The club participates in national initiatives to promote sustainable golf course management, working closely with environmental organizations to develop best practices. Recent projects have focused on improving water management systems, reducing chemical inputs, and enhancing biodiversity across the course. These efforts not only protect the local ecosystem but also contribute to the long-term viability of the course itself.

Future Developments and Innovations

Royal North Devon continues to evolve while maintaining its traditional character. Planned developments focus on enhancing the visitor experience through improved facilities and technology integration. Upcoming projects include clubhouse renovations, expanded practice facilities, and enhanced digital services for members and visitors alike.

The club's strategic plan emphasizes sustainable growth, with investments in modern irrigation systems and renewable energy sources. Future initiatives will focus on expanding junior programs, developing women's golf initiatives, and creating more inclusive membership opportunities. These developments aim to ensure the club's continued relevance in the modern golfing landscape while preserving its historical significance and traditional values.

Conclusion

Royal North Devon stands as a testament to golf's rich heritage while continuing to evolve with the times. From its historical significance as England's oldest links course outside Scotland to its modern commitment to sustainability and innovation, the club offers a unique golfing experience that combines tradition with contemporary excellence. The course's challenging layout, stunning coastal setting, and rich history create an unforgettable experience for golfers of all levels.

We encourage you to share your experiences at Royal North Devon or ask any questions you might have about planning your visit. Consider exploring our other articles about historic golf courses and destinations across the UK to deepen your understanding of the sport's rich heritage. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for another round, Royal North Devon promises an authentic links golf experience that honors the game's traditions while embracing its future.

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