GreenlitBETA
Braunton, North Devon

Saunton Golf Club - East Course

A legendary Herbert Fowler masterpiece where championship links golf meets unspoiled Devon dunes—a serious test that separates the great from the good.

About the Course

Saunton East is one of England's finest and most uncompromising links courses, set among the dramatic sand dunes of Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage site. Redesigned in 1919 by legendary architect Herbert Fowler, the course is renowned for its relentless challenge, particularly the front nine where eleven of the first twelve holes are par 4s—a unique characteristic that demands accuracy and precision from the opening drive. The course plays firm and fast over naturally rolling terrain, with minimalist bunkering but strategically placed pot bunkers that can be invisible from the fairway. What makes Saunton East extraordinary is its commitment to traditional links golf—it's built by the original hand-shovel methods with no modern heavy machinery, preserving both the course's historic character and the precious ecosystem beneath it. The greens are consistently rated among England's finest, quick and true, and the overall experience feels like stepping back a century into golf's golden era. For group play, the course offers a perfect blend of camaraderie, challenge, and scenery that will be remembered for years.

Why It's Great for Groups
  • It ranks 54th in Golf Monthly's Top 100 UK&I courses and sits in Golf World's top English courses—this is genuinely world-class golf with proven credentials
  • The uniquely demanding front nine with 11 consecutive par 4s creates an unforgettable gauntlet that tests every club in your bag and separates scoring confidence from reality
  • Exceptional practice facilities including two putting greens rated among the best in the UK, a covered range, and short-game area—perfect for warming up as a group before the challenge ahead
  • Caddies available with advance notice, adding authentic links experience and local knowledge essential for reading the subtle, treacherous greens
  • A companion 18-hole West Course on property allows groups to play a full 36-hole day in contrasting links styles, maximizing the visit and bonding time
Courses on Property
East Course18 holes · Par 71

The demanding championship course redesigned by Herbert Fowler, featuring 11 par 4s in the front nine and uncompromising links golf at its finest.

West Course18 holes · Par 71

A more playful complement to the East with greater variety, shorter overall length, and strategic demands that test precision and course management.

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Key Details
💰
Green Fees
$50–$140/person est.
🚶
Walking Friendly
Yes
🎒
Caddies Available
Yes
📅
Best Time to Visit
May through September offers the warmest, most stable weather and fastest greens, though autumn (September-October) provides fewer crowds and still-excellent conditions. Spring (April-May) and early autumn deliver ideal golfing conditions with moderate pricing. Avoid November-February when maintenance programs limit availability, though winter play is possible with discounted twilight rates. Wind is a constant factor, so March-April and September-October offer the most playable conditions for group golf.
LinksChampionshipParklandOcean ViewsBucket ListCaddies AvailableWalking OnlyHistoricOff the Beaten PathRyder CupMajor Venue
Nearby Lodging