Bloody Brilliant Coombe Hill
Discover the Charm of a Parkland Gem Situated Merely Two Miles Away from the Tennis Court at Wimbledon
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the heart of London, you'll find the picturesque Coombe Hill Golf Club nestled in the leafy suburbs of Kingston upon Thames. This beauty was the brainchild of JF Abercromby, a name as famous in golf course design as a Bloody Mary on a Sunday morning. Coombe Hill opened its fairways to the public back in 1911, and since then, it's been a magnet for the likes of Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George, and even Ian Fleming, author of the James Bond series. It's no wonder this haven of greenery, just eight miles from the city centre, is known for being one of the best golf courses in London.
Struggling to draw members after the devastation of WWII, the club was bought by the forward-thinking businessman Lou Freedman. His philosophy of an open-door policy towards anyone, regardless of their color or creed, attracted not just the local celebrities but also some of the leading professionals in the sport. No fewer than four Open Champions; Sandy Herd, Arthur Havers, Henry Cotton (three times!), and Dick Burton, all graced its fairways.
Design Mastermind
While Abercromby's design portfolio might not be all that expansive, it's certainly bursting with quality and flair. To lend a hand, he enlisted the assistance of Willie Park Junior, a prolific architect known for designing the Old Course at Sunningdale in 1901. Despite being somewhat space-restricted by its flashy neighbors, the lovely Coombe Hill course is no slouch. Abercromby's subtly scenic design has aged like a fine scotch, offering a proper test without skimping on the fun.
Stunning Holes
If you can keep your ball in play on this tree-lined course, where par 4s are few and far between, you'll be well on your way to scoring well. The greens? Well-protected and subtly sloping. The par 3s? A particular joy; none are particularly long, and there's no need for them to be. Trust me, when the rhododendrons are in bloom, it's a downright beautiful place to play, a challenging yet fair test of golf.
So, if you're after a round of golf with a side of history and a dash of luxury, head on down to Coombe Hill. Just don't forget to book a tee time – these greens don't just roll themselves, you know.
Stay tuned for more golf news, equipment reviews, and top tips straight to your inbox. Subscribe to Golf Monthly's newsletter today!
Coombe Hill Golf Club, with its rich history and stunning design, is not only a haven for golf enthusiasts but also a showcase for sports excellence. The course, which has hosted numerous golf champions, offers a proper test of golf skills while maintaining an enjoyable experience for players.
