Kingsdown Golf Club

Founded in 1880, Kingsdown Golf Club, situated five miles from Bath and close to Box station on the GWR main line, is recognized as the second oldest club in the West of England and the oldest club in Wiltshire. This establishment followed a meeting of six gentlemen at the Swan Inn in Kingsdown, who under the guidance of professional John Allan, marked out a round of 18 holes and sought to attract members locally and from the wider golfing community.

The golf course itself has historical significance, with the Kingsdown area serving as a burial ground as far back as 2000-3000 B.C. Early legends even suggest that three kings are buried along the 16th fairway of the course, a narrative that has influenced the club's logo featuring three crowns.

The course layout, as appraised by professional John Allan, was commended for its turf quality, abundance of hazards, and interesting holes, making it suitable for both casual play and competitions. Notable members from the early days include Horace Hutchinson, captain of the R&A in 1908, W H Fowler, a golf course designer, and John Dun, a founder member of Royal Liverpool Golf Club.

In 1883, to accommodate members residing in Bath, the club temporarily relocated and adjusted its name to Bath and Kingsdown Golf Club, before reverting to its original moniker in 1890. Despite the disruptions of the First World War, which caused the course to close in 1917 with the exception of General Meetings, the club reopened in March 1919 and resumed normal operations.

Developments at Kingsdown Golf Club included the official opening of a new clubhouse on the existing site in 1924, with a construction budget capped at £550, and the appointment of Mr. East as the Club’s Professional in 1927 under the unconventional condition that his presence would not incur cost to the club. Subsequent clubhouse renovations occurred in 1969 and 1979.

In recent history, Kingsdown Golf Club formed a Development Committee with the objective of ensuring the club meets the needs of its members and guests sustainably into the future. The golf course at Kingsdown continues to be an integral part of the club's heritage and ongoing evolution.

Green fees are charged at a daily rate, allowing you to play as many holes as you like. Twilight rates are available Monday to Friday from 3 PM (1st April to 30th September) and from 12 PM (1st October to 31st March).

Weekend tee times are subject to availability and can be arranged by calling the Pro Shop. County Cards are accepted Monday to Friday only.