Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club

Perched high on the white cliffs, virtually equidistant between Dover and Deal, Walmer & Kingsdown celebrated its centenary year in 2009 as a tough, but very charming downland course. Mapped out by James Braid to take advantage of the rolling downs and elevated views across the English Channel and nearby Kingsdown, the course cascades down both sides of a prominent chalk ridge, and can be breezy in the extreme.

The dark-wood single-storey clubhouse, a war-time billet for 60 soldiers, is well appointed, functional and reminiscent of Canterbury’s, but the panorama and sea views here have an ability to capture the breath. Walmer & Kingsdown prides itself on offering a friendly welcome to beginners and single-figure players alike and, mercifully, has none of the stuffiness associated with some courses in the south east. 

Set on the very edge of the White Cliffs, on a clear day France can be seen from the lofty fairways of W&K. Played on the east and west side of a ridge on top of the Downs overlooking Kingsdown village, it measures a meaty, wind-swept 6,471 yards. The stroke index one 7th is 451 yards and requires you to hit a long, accurate drive to get to the corner of this left-to-right dog-leg and then try to feed an approach in from the right to avoid the two bunkers.

More Top 2-FORE!-1 links courses

Established in 1909 this Par 72, James Braid designed golf course is in the 'White Cliffs Country' set on the cliffs between Dover and Deal. The golf course offers stunning views of the Channel from every hole and offers a unique challenge to golfers. Based on chalk, the golf course drains exceptionally well and is an excellent winter venue. Food is available throughout the day and visitors can always be assured of a warm welcome.

• Course has: Bar
• Course does not have: Buggy Hire
• Course does not have: 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 Greater than the sum of its parts 23 September 2008

  By silverbullit

  This course is set alongside the famous coastline along the white cliffs of Dover. Almost every hole gives fantastic views of the English channel and it plays like a links course with the wind normally a big factor in the challenge. The greens are not the best and there are few practice facilities, but the course is greater than the sum of its parts. Enjoy a hot dog at the halfway house or a pint at the 19th in the superb clubhouse. Overall, a lovely course to play. Just hope the greenkeeper sorts the greens out!