The Royal St George’s Golf Club is located in Sandwich, Kent, accessible via fly and transfer from major UK airports. The club is best known for its historic 18-hole links course, which has hosted The Open Championship 15 times. The course features undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and elevated greens, offering a challenging test for experienced golfers. A minimum handicap of 18.4 is required. Ideal for a one- to two-day visit, the club suits serious golfers interested in championship-level play. Nearby accommodation is available, as there is no lodging on site.
Courses
1 course
Best months
May to September
Ideal length
2-3 nights
Golf Courses at The Royal St George’s Golf Club
England · Course 1
The Royal St George’s Golf Club - Championship Course
Holes
18
Par
70
Yards
7204
Est.
1887
A historic links course located in Sandwich, Kent, known for hosting The Open Championship and offering a challenging layout with undulating fairways and deep bunkers.
What to Expect at The Royal St George’s Golf Club
Why visit
The Royal St George’s Golf Club offers a championship-quality links course recognized for its challenging layout, including undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and elevated greens. The course has hosted The Open Championship more times than any venue outside Scotland, reflecting its historical significance and high standards. Practical for single-course trips, the club is accessible via fly-and-transfer and is located near accommodation options in Sandwich. Visitor play is available on select days, with a handicap requirement ensuring a consistent level of play.
Accommodations
Traditional clubhouse with dining rooms, bar, snooker and historic locker rooms; practice ground, short-game area and putting green; caddies and trolleys; pro shop; limited on-site accommodation and strong local hotel network in Sandwich and Deal.
Resort amenities
Open Rota Course
World Top 100 Golf Course
Designed by Laidlaw Purves
Founded in 1887
Ideal Location for South England Golf Tour
Plan Your Trip to The Royal St George’s Golf Club
Getting there
The closest major airport to The Royal St George’s Golf Club is London Gatwick Airport (LGW), located approximately 85 miles (137 km) away. The typical transfer time by private car or pre-booked taxi is around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Train service from Gatwick to Sandwich is also available, usually requiring a change in central London, with total journey times of 2.5 to 3 hours. Private car or taxi is the most practical and direct transfer mode for most visitors.
Best time to visit
The optimal months for golf at The Royal St George’s Golf Club are May through September, when temperatures are mild (typically 55–70°F/13–21°C) and daylight is longest. July and August offer the warmest, driest conditions but also see the highest demand and green fees, especially if coinciding with major tournaments. April and October represent shoulder seasons with lower rates and fewer crowds, though weather can be more variable with increased wind and rain risk. Winter months (November–March) are less suitable due to cold, wet conditions and limited daylight.
Who it's best for
Royal St George’s is ideal for experienced golfers seeking a single-course, championship links experience with historic prestige. Best suited for those with a handicap of 18.4 or lower, it appeals to travelers prioritizing elite course quality over variety. The fly-and-transfer access and lack of on-site lodging mean it fits those comfortable arranging nearby accommodations and transportation. The premium green fee and exclusive playing windows make it most practical for dedicated golf travelers with a moderate to high budget.
Address
Clubhouse, Sandwich CT13 9PB, United Kingdom
Location
The Royal St George’s Golf Club, Sandown Road, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9PB, United Kingdom
Nearest airport
s leading airport
Trip style
single-course
Best for
Championship golf, Links enthusiasts, Open Championship history
Frequently Asked Questions about The Royal St George’s Golf Club
What handicap is required to play at The Royal St George’s Golf Club?
Players must have a handicap index of 18.4 or lower and present proof of handicap upon arrival.
Are visitors allowed to play at Royal St George’s, and on which days?
Visitors can play on Mondays and Thursdays (singles or two-balls, 10:00 am–1:00 pm) and Tuesdays (three or four-balls, 9:00 am–2:30 pm). Play is not available to unaccompanied visitors from Wednesday to Sunday or on Bank Holidays.
What is the dress code at Royal St George’s Golf Club?
Golf attire is permitted throughout the club until 11:00 am. After that, gentlemen must wear a jacket and tie in the clubhouse. Denim, golf shoes, trainers, and hoodies are not allowed indoors.
Does Royal St George’s offer on-site accommodation for golfers?
There is no on-site lodging, but nearby options include The Bell Hotel in Sandwich and The Lodge at Prince’s Golf Club.
How do I get to Royal St George’s Golf Club from the nearest airport?
The club is accessible by flying into a major UK airport, followed by a ground transfer to Sandwich, Kent.
Who designed the course at Royal St George’s, and when did it open?
Dr. William Laidlaw Purves designed the course, which opened in the late 1880s.
How many times has The Open Championship been played at Royal St George’s?
The Open has been held at Royal St George’s 15 times, making it the most frequent host outside Scotland.