Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club

The Club on the Cliffs – Europe’s Closest Golf Course

Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club enjoys the most spectacular setting of any golf course in England, perched dramatically atop the world-famous White Cliffs of Dover with breathtaking sea views from every hole. Designed by legendary James Braid in 1909, this unique clifftop course is not only the closest golf course to continental Europe but one of only a few in the world where golfers can see another country while playing – with stunning views across the English Channel to the French coast.

Historic Clifftop Design Heritage

The course has a fascinating wartime history, having been quickly constructed by James Braid and opened by Braid and Harry Vardon on 10th April 1909. During World War I it reverted to nine holes, and in World War II the War Office requisitioned the land, covering it with barbed wire and defensive positions. The course was lovingly restored and reopened in 1948, with subsequent improvements by John Lawrie in the 1960s and modifications to holes 7-9 and 14-15 in 1974.

Spectacular Downland Golf Experience

• Championship Layout: 18-hole par-73 course measuring 6,471 yards from white tees
• Unique Location: Sea views from every hole with views to France on clear days
• Course Character: Downland design with distinctive square-shaped plateau greens
• All-Weather Golf: Chalk base provides excellent drainage ensuring year-round playability
• Strategic Challenge: Tree-lined fairways and elevated greens protected by grassy banks

Modern Clubhouse & Hospitality

The recently refurbished clubhouse offers panoramic views across the English Channel and provides exceptional hospitality that has earned the club a reputation as one of the friendliest in Kent. The modern restaurant and bar feature new lighting, furniture, and decoration, serving everything from casual lunches to formal dinners. The popular Sunday carvery and regular themed events create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for members and visitors alike.

Comprehensive Golf Facilities

The club features a well-equipped pro shop, golf simulator and fitting studio, plus coaching facilities run by the professional team. The Academy & Get into Golf programs welcome beginners, while experienced golfers can challenge themselves from the medal tees. The chalk-based course provides interesting tight lies while rarely presenting awkward stances, with fast, true greens that demand precision.

Complete White Cliffs Experience

Explore the iconic Dover area with visits to historic Walmer Castle and Deal Castle, both Henry VIII Device Forts. Stay at the charming Kings Head Pub with sea-facing terrace or Channel View Guest House. Discover nearby Dover Castle and the famous White Cliffs of Dover. Complete your golf tour with Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club in Deal and Royal St George’s Golf Club. Explore the historic Deal town center and enjoy excellent local cuisine.

Visitor Information & Booking

Contact & Booking: Phone 01304 373256 for tee times and visitor information. Online booking available through club website.

Society Golf: Societies welcome primarily on Thursdays (afternoon tee times), with weekend options available. Saturday societies from 3pm.

Opening Hours: Open seven days a week year-round. Excellent drainage ensures consistent playing conditions regardless of weather.

Green Fees: Contact club office for current rates and seasonal variations. Society packages available with catering options.

Additional Information

• Par: 73
• Length: 6,471 yards from white tees
• Designer: James Braid (1909)
• Course Type: Clifftop downland with chalk base
• Founded: 1909 (restored 1948 post-WWII)
• Unique Feature: Views to France from every hole – closest course to Europe
• Location: 70 miles from London, between Dover and Deal
• Facilities: Pro shop, golf simulator, fitting studio, restaurant & bar
• Professional Services: Coaching, custom fitting, Get into Golf programs
• Hospitality: Sunday carvery, themed dining events, private functions
• Course Conditions: Excellent year-round drainage, no temporary facilities
• Access: M25, M20, M2 motorways – convenient from Southern England
• Special Events: Open Week, Ladies Pairs Open, Tour Players Pro-Am