Luffenham Heath Golf Club

It may be in the smallest county in England, but Luffenham Heath is a prince among heathland courses and is the handiwork of Harry Colt and James Braid. Chosen to host Open regional qualifying between 2013-17, the wonderfully gently undulating layout has a particularly testing finish, including a classic downhill par-3 17^th.

Luffenham Heath is set in rolling rural countryside with spectacular views of the river Chater valley. The land is designated a Site of Special Scientific interest. The course has been extended and new bunkers added. Tip: the greens generally break towards the river Chater.

Click here to find out where Luffenham Heath Golf Club ranks in Golf World's Top 100 Courses England

Luffenham Heath, a golfing gem, was opened in 1911 with a celebrity match between James Braid and Harry Vardon.

Widely acknowledged as one of the finest and most challenging heathland courses in the Midlands and beyond, it lies in the gentle rolling countryside of Rutland surrounded by woodlands and delightful stone villages.

Classic Luffenham Heath conditions will be firm fairways and greens. A premium in hitting the fairway allows the golfer to fly into the green. From the rough its very difficult to hold the green and in some circumstances fool hardy to try.

The entire course is a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of the rare flora and fauna that naturally exists there.

• Course has: Bar
• Course does not have: Buggy Hire
• Course has: Driving Range
• Course does not have: Practice Green
• Course has: Pro Shop
• Course has: Restaurant
• Course has: Trolley Hire
• Course has: Dress Code
• Course does not have: Club Hire
• Course has: Handicap

• 3.5 out of 5 Beaut! 02 April 2009

  By richie_rich

  Hidden away, this a gem of a course.  Situated on heathland and with virtually every hole secluded from its neighbour, this is a delightful course.  Improved over the last few years by additional bunkers, its not a long course, nor difficult by modern standards.  But that is its charm.  It is not a course that surrenders to big headed drivers and multiple wedges, but requires more intelligent use of irons, and it is in some respect an old fashioned design, where guile and skill will reward the player rather than brawn and agression.  Think Audrey Hepburn rather than Madonna! Its not cheap by 2fore1 standards, but as a treat you should reward yourself with a day out, and should an elderly wealthy Aunt pass on a small inheritence, then a membership would be a fitting memorial.

• 3.5 out of 5 top quality course for the area 28 October 2008

  By simonp

  Cambridgeshire are isn't well endowed with amazing courses and Luffenham really stands out amongst them as a top course. Rolling fariways are encased in forest and they afford great views of the surrounding countryside. I loved it.