Bath Golf Club

The course and its character

The club was founded on 28 February 1880 and is one of the two oldest golf clubs in South West England. Play moved to The Warren on Hampton Down, within a mile of the city, and by 1883 the course had 18 holes laid out with advice from Tom Dunn. Harry Colt was brought in to redesign the course in 1937, and the club belongs to the Association of Harry Colt Courses. The par-71 layout sits on high ground that was once quarried, so the turf drains well and wind is often a factor. Harry Vardon and J. H. Taylor played an exhibition match here in 1902. The nickname comes from Sham Castle, the 18th-century folly built by Ralph Allen, which also appears on the club logo.

Booking and visitor practicalities

Visitors book through the tee booking system on the club website, and tee times open seven days in advance. Saturday times are limited because of club competitions, and in winter by the short daylight. Rates vary by season and day, and the club accepts Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire County Cards by arrangement with the office. Members of other Harry Colt clubs receive a discount. There is a driving range and a pro shop; for trips and group visits, contact the pro shop or club office.

Getting there

The course is on Golf Course Road off North Road, on the eastern edge of Bath, close to the Sham Castle folly. It is one of the closest courses to the city centre and a short drive from the Georgian streets around Pulteney Bridge.

Highlights

• Founded in 1880, one of the two oldest clubs in South West England
• Redesigned by Harry Colt in 1937
• Hilltop downland setting with views over Bath
• Harry Vardon and J. H. Taylor played an exhibition here in 1902

Good to know

• Tee times can be booked online up to seven days ahead
• Saturday visitor times are limited because of competitions
• County Card rates cannot be booked online; contact the club office
• The club has a driving range and pro shop

Frequently asked questions