Canterbury Golf Club

Canterbury Golf Club is a classic Kent course with serious pedigree. Designed by Harry Colt and opened in 1927, it started life as heathland and has matured into a wonderfully strategic 18 holes where placement beats power most days.

You'll see Colt's touch throughout. Tee shots are better for finding the right side of the fairway than simply smashing driver, while the greens reward a well-planned angle in and a tidy short game. Natural contours do plenty of the defending, with heather and gorse adding texture to the look of the holes and a few awkward recoveries if you drift offline. As the course has evolved, woodland has framed many holes and the setting now feels pleasantly private, with plenty of birdlife around the quieter stretches.

In playing terms, this is a smart test rather than a brute. Higher handicappers can plot their way round by keeping it in play, while better players will enjoy the decisions created by bunkering, green shapes and the stronger par fives. The sandy heathland base typically helps it drain well after rain, so conditions hold up across the season.

Off the course, it has the welcoming feel of a traditional members' club, with visitor tee times available and practice facilities for a quick warm-up before you head to the first. If you're building a Kent or South East golf break, Canterbury is an easy course to pair with other well-known names in the region for a varied few days.

Who is this for?
Golfers who enjoy classic design, a peaceful setting and a course that rewards good decisions as much as good swings.

Who is it best for?
Societies and small groups, plus mid-to-low handicappers who like plotting their way round a Colt layout.