A tale of two nines

One of the highest golf courses in Surrey and ranking among the very best of Britain’s heather and heathland courses, Hindhead’s principal feature is the unique contrast between the two halves of the course.  The holes from the second to the ninth follow the valleys formed in some long gone Ice Age and here the narrowness of the fairways, the rising slopes of heather, bracken and trees add not only to the challenge of the game but to the breathtaking beauty of the course. 

The first hole and the last nine are laid out on an “upper” plateau more in keeping with the traditional Surrey heathland course.  The fairways of this top nine look deceptively wide after the previous valleys, each of them appearing to allow us all the room we want for our drives.  But beware, it can be found that it is only to go wrong!  While not excessively long at something over 6,300 yards Hindhead is a fine test of golf.

Claim to fame

Hindhead Golf Club was formed in 1904 when a small group of enthusiasts, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the first President, began the task of converting barren moorland into the course that members and visitors alike now enjoy.

Each member of that first Triumvirate – J H Taylor, J Braid and H Vardon – played exhibition matches here as did E Ray, another Open Champion.  Dai Rees was the third professional employed at Hindhead (1938-1947) and credited those narrow fairways on the front nine for his accurate driving during his career.

Famous neighbours

One of Hindhead's most fervent supporters and admirers is the renowned TV commentator Pater Alliss, who not only lives a mere 9 iron away from the 16th fairway, but is also now an honorary life member of the club.