Vine | September 2011 | Issue 51

Page 59

SPORT

THE GOLDEN AGE OF GOLF With a historic location dating back over 400 years and a club almost a century old, Knole Park Golf Club is one of the richest places to play in terms of both the fine course and its past

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eyond the formal garden walls of Knole House (seat of the Sackville family for over 400 years) lies Knole Park Golf Club. It was the brainchild of the 3rd Baron Sackville, who formally opened the layout by driving from the first tee in 1924. From a golfer’s perspective, Sackville’s decision to include a course within his 1,000-acre estate was a true blessing. The rolling parkland was covered in a rich carpet of bracken and ancient oaks that have come to epitomise quality inland golf. The club emblem of an antlered stag celebrates the deer

numbers remain limited to ensure that the course is not overcrowded. Applications for membership are welcomed from ladies and gentlemen who wish to contribute both on the course and socially in an active private members’ club. Junior membership is also available to those aged under 18 on January 1 of each year, and most of the 80-strong membership is in the age range of 12 to 17.

that freely roam the course, adding to the tranquillity of the place. The clubhouse is equally impressive with recent renovation work to the exterior restoring it to its former grandeur and the interior re-fit is well underway. The conservatory and dining room look directly onto the course; the summer’s long evenings can be enjoyed on the south-facing terrace and in the winter a roaring log fire provides a welcome back to the clubhouse. In addition, the club boasts extensive practice facilities, nestled between the 1st and 18th fairways, and in the clubhouse there is a snooker room for those who wish to continue competing off the course. If you want something more vigorous, there are also squash facilities within the grounds, housing Sevenoaks Squash Club. Back out on the course, you will never find yourself waiting for a large group to clear as Knole Park is essentially a two-ball course and membership

n For more information about membership, visit www.knoleparkgolf club.co.uk or call 01732 452150

A PRIVATE MEMBERS’ CLUB RUN BY THE MEMBERS, FOR THE MEMBERS MEMBERSHIP OFFER SEP & OCT

PAY NOW AND RECEIVE 18 MONTHS MEMBERSHIP NO JOINING FEE LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY

FOR DETAILS CONTACT CRAIG SUTHERLAND 01959 572989 Founded in 1969, our superb course is set in 130 acres on the North Downs, 600ft above sea level. We are located on the outskirts of Biggin Hill, within five miles of Westerham. The course measures 6,593 yards and is a par 72, undulating course with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. As members, we have the luxury of playing golf when we want to, without having to book tee times. What’s more, unlike many private clubs, Cherry Lodge has a truly unique, unpretentious atmosphere – many tell us the camaraderie at our golf club is second-to-none. Visitors are always welcome, so come along and see for yourself why we are the envy of many clubs in the area.

www.cherrylodgegc.co.uk | 01959 572989

vinedigital.co.uk September 2011 vine 59


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