Surrey & Berkshire Heathland
Overview
The pine-and-heather heathland belt southwest of London, home to Sunningdale's Old Course and some of England's finest inland golf.
Why Play Golf Here
Sunningdale's Old Course, designed by Willie Park Jr. and opened in 1901, is one of the most consistently admired inland courses in the world — a heathland layout through pine and birch that rewards precision and shot-shaping over raw length. The wider Surrey and Berkshire heathland belt is the historic heart of England's inland golf, within easy reach of London and Heathrow.
- Best time to visit
- April to October, avoiding the club's typical late-July to August visitor closure; spring and autumn offer the best combination of course conditions and availability.
- Nearest airports
- London Heathrow Airport (LHR) — approximately 9–10 miles / 20 minutes' drive
- Recommended stay
- 1–2 nights
Featured Courses
Where to stay
Ascot / Sunningdale village
Ascot and the village of Sunningdale itself are the most convenient base, putting the Old Course within a short walk or drive of most accommodation. The area is well known for Ascot Racecourse and sits within easy reach of Windsor and Windsor Great Park, giving non-golfing companions genuine options for a short stay.
- Golf access
- Sunningdale's Old Course is within the village itself, a short walk or drive from most accommodation in the area.
- Restaurants & evenings
- Ascot and the surrounding villages have a solid range of upmarket pubs and restaurants, reflecting the area's affluent character.
- Families
- Ascot Racecourse and Windsor Great Park are both nearby for non-golfing companions, along with Legoland Windsor for families with children.
Virginia Water
Virginia Water sits at the centre of Surrey's heathland golf belt, a few minutes from Sunningdale and within reach of several other well-known clubs in the area. The lake and surrounding parkland within Windsor Great Park give the village a pleasant, green character despite its proximity to London and Heathrow.
- Golf access
- Virginia Water is a few minutes' drive from Sunningdale and sits at the centre of Surrey's heathland golf belt, with several other clubs nearby.
- Restaurants & evenings
- Virginia Water village has a good range of restaurants and cafés for its size.
- Families
- Virginia Water lake, within Windsor Great Park, offers walking trails suited to a relaxed day away from golf.