East Brighton Golf Club

The course and its history

The club was founded on 14 October 1893 as Ovingdean Golf Club and renamed Kemptown Golf Club at its first AGM. The clubhouse opened in 1905, and after more land was leased, James Braid won the contract to design a course on 130 acres; it opened on 23 May 1908 and has changed little since. The members later bought the course from the council. At 6,346 yards and par 72, it is a genuine test without impossible carries, and the generous fairways keep the round enjoyable. Because it is built on chalk, the course drains well and stays playable through the year, with trolleys and buggies rarely banned.

Booking and visitor practicalities

Book a visitor tee time through the club's online booking page, where special rates are offered at off-peak times. Buggies can be hired from the pro shop, and advance booking is recommended. There is a halfway house for drinks and snacks during the round. On the course, recognised golf clothing is expected, with shirts tucked in, caps worn peak forward and golf shoes. The relaxed 19th bar allows clean soft-spike shoes, while the historic Oak Room asks for smart casual clothing and no phone use.

Getting there

The club is on Roedean Road on the eastern edge of Brighton, just above the Marina, so it is close to the seafront and Kemptown.

Highlights

• James Braid course opened in 1908
• Club founded in 1893 as Ovingdean Golf Club
• Par 72, 6,346 yards on free-draining chalk
• Sea views across Brighton from the downs

Good to know

• Off-peak green fee offers are available online
• Buggies should be booked in advance with the pro shop
• Shirts tucked in and golf shoes on the course
• Smart casual dress and no phones in the Oak Room

Frequently asked questions