In the 1920’s the legendary James Braid laid out the 18-hole, 6241-yard heathland golf course at Thorpeness Golf Club, Suffolk which today boasts the reputation of being one of the best of its kind in the country.
Set amongst the coastal heathland, the golf course offers a tough challenge for all levels of players. This Suffolk golf course winds through silver birch, pine trees, gorse and heather and was described by the Sunday Telegraph Golfing Guide as “Reminiscent of the inland glories of Sunningdale and Woodhill Spa”.
The course and club are set within the very individual village of Thorpeness, a unique mock-Tudor seaside holiday village created nearly a century ago by the architect, barrister and play-write Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie. In addition to the hotel and golf club, there is a 1930’s country club, a 65 acre ‘Swallows and Amazons’ Meare (lake) and the very quirky ‘House in the Clouds’.
Thorpeness golf course is, in fact, an integral part of the 3 star Thorpeness Hotel and Golf Club and is situated in a peaceful location next to the Meare, only 5 minutes’ walk from the beach. As soon as you arrive, you can’t help but leave the stresses of everyday life behind you. Offering traditional hospitality throughout the year and operating to the highest of standards, facilities include thirty spacious and comfortable bedrooms, some with new bathrooms, many of which have views of the Meare or the golf course.
The relaxing and stylish lounge overlooks the landscaped gardens leading down to the Meare boating lake and open fires in winter provide a warm cosy feel. The hotel’s bar and restaurant have been refurbished, introducing a warm and subtle marriage of the contemporary with the traditional.
The ideal way for golfers to enjoy the big skies and unspoilt coast is to take a golf break at the Thorpeness Hotel. Throughout the year they offer short breaks where you can meet the challenge of this wonderful course whilst also enjoying comfortable accommodation, great food and a friendly bar.
Only two miles along the coast from stylish and fashionable Aldeburgh, Thorpeness is great for a Summer break. Either to play golf on an inclusive package or for a more flexible visit, stay on bed and breakfast rates and add golf and meals as required.
Dinner may be taken in the restaurant or choose a lighter meal from the new Patio Bar menu. On warm days dine al fresco on the terrace. A children’s menu is available for our young guests.
Boating on the Meare, cycling along the coast and playing tennis are alternatives to golf. The hotel offers both boat and cycle hire and free tennis excluding July and August.
Kris Smith has been living and writing about Suffolk for several years, For more details on golf and accommodation at the Thorpeness Hotel and Golf Club go to www.suffolkcoastgolf.co.uk & www.thorpeness.co.uk or Telephone 01728 452176.
