What is the oldest golf club in England?

While it was Scotland where golf originated, England has a pretty extensive history in the sport too.

To find the oldest club in England though, you first need to make an important distinction. If you are looking for the oldest course in England, you’ll find Royal Devon. However, if you want the oldest club in the country, you’ll be looking at Royal Blackheath.

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Firstly, the course at Royal Devon has been open since 1864, making it the oldest in the country. Thanks to this history and the links style of golf, it has earned the nickname of the “St Andrews of the South.”

The club is rightly very proud of its history. Inside the clubhouse, you’ll find a museum, trophy room and an honours board dating back many years. Additionally, in keeping with the tradition of the club, they still have a President, rather than a Club Captain.

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While Royal Devon Golf Club is the oldest course in England, the oldest club is Royal Blackheath. Situated in London, the club was founded in 1608, originally named the Society of Blackheath Golfers. However, nowadays, the members don’t play on the original golf course. Therefore, it cannot be classed as the oldest course in England. 

Nowadays, Royal Blackheath is a private members’ club, with a course designed by the legendary James Braid. It also boasts a Grade-1 listed clubhouse that overlooks the golf course.