Thorpeness is home to a tremendous golf course, designed in 1922 by the esteemed James Braid, who was a particularly prolific architect, predominantly in Scotland.
This Suffolk gem is heathland in style, and though not long - measuring 6,432 from the tips - is a fantastic test. Visiting golfers will be charmed as the layout winds its way through silver birch and pine, gorse and heather, in a fashion reminiscent of the world-renowned courses at Sunningdale and Woodhall Spa. The sandy soil gives Thorpeness a superb links accent, while the course's quality has been recognised with the award of a number of regional, national and international tournaments.
The charming Suffolk landscape makes for a delightful setting, while on the course itself Braid has created a great variety of holes. Some of the best are the signature 3rd, where a good drive is the key to negotiating the sharp dog-leg right, the short 7th, where a poorly-struck iron will disturb the lilies that cruise the lake, and the terrific closing hole, which demands two great shots to find the green, under the watchful gaze of the famous windmill.
Braid's famous creativity is extremely evident at Thorpeness, and his tremendous course makes this an educated choice for your next golf holiday.
The Thorpeness Hotel is situated on the shores of the Meare, a 64-acre lake that was created in the early 1900s by a Scotsman who realised the potential of Thorpeness as a holiday village.
Just ten minutes walk from the superb beach on Suffolk's famous coastline, the hotel prides itself on providing traditional hospitality for all those fortunate enough to visit. The thirty guest rooms are extremely comfortable, and all overlook either the Meare or the golf course. Old-fashioned values like personal, attentive service are married perfectly with modern comforts in the hotel, and the warm welcome will ensure that all visitors will be put at ease immediately upon arrival.
During the winter months, the golf course's sandy turf remains perfectly playable, while the open fires will be roaring in the lounge to greet the hardy golfer's return, emphasising perfectly the charm inherent in a Thorpeness golf break.
Hotel guests are welcome to rack up the balls for a few frames of snooker, or use the golf simulator, while the Meare and its surroundings offer a variety of pursuits: try rowing, tennis, boating, fishing, cycling or clay pigeon shooting.
Suffolk's coastline has some of the most spectacular beaches in England, ideal for sun-bathing in the summer, or for a bracing walk in the winter. Thorpeness itself is a delightful little holiday village, while neighbouring Aldeburgh is home to the famous Snape Maltings concert hall, and also the Adnams brewery, a great draw for lovers of good English beer.
It is crucial to avoid the bunkers at Thorpeness, which are built in the true links style with steep faces.
Overlooking the 3rd tee, Thorpeness' restaurant is a sumptuous experience, where the ever-changing menu reflects the fresh and seasonal local produce.
The Patio Bar serves drinks and fine light snacks, including homemade Thorpeness fishcakes.
GOLF TOURS INCLUDING THORPENESS HOTEL & GOLF CLUB
The Suffolk Hidden Gems Tour
FROM £299 pp
Three Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
(18 holes Thorpeness, 18 holes Aldeburgh, 18 holes Felixstowe, 18 holes Woodbridge)











































