Club History

Created more than 100 years ago through a desire to encourage more families and ladies to take up golf, the club remains true to its origins today, with a deep-seated community-spirit and friendly, family atmosphere.

Men, ladies, elders and juniors of all abilities and handicaps are well-represented among the diverse and thriving membership and warmly welcomed as visitors. Newcomers to the game are encouraged, supported and have access to highly-experienced professional coaches.

The club has its own practice ground just a short drive from the clubhouse. Measuring 350 yards by 150 yards and with grass tees, a covered teaching bay, a practice bunker plus practice chipping and putting green it has space and facilities for golfers to warm-up or learn and hone all aspects of the game.

Foundations on the Clifftops

Founded in 1909, Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club has, from its earliest days, been defined by its remarkable setting and welcoming spirit. Laid out to the designs of the great James Braid, the course was created to provide both enjoyment and a true test of golfing skill.

Perched high on the cliffs above the English Channel, the course commands magnificent views across to the French coast — from Boulogne to Dunkirk — and along the Kent shoreline from Deal and Pegwell Bay to the North and South Foreland. From almost every hole, players can watch the ever-changing procession of ships passing along one of the world’s busiest sea routes, a backdrop that has always set Walmer & Kingsdown apart.

Though never intended as a championship course, it has long been regarded as a fine and sporting test. The original brochure described it as a “holiday course” — a place where golfers, good and bad, old and young, could spend a pleasant day enjoying their favourite game. That inclusive philosophy remains central to the Club’s character today.

A Course Reborn – 1949

On 11 June 1949, the Club celebrated the official re-opening of the course with a memorable occasion. Three-time Open Champion Henry Cotton drove off the 1st tee before members, guests and spectators gathered along the clifftop. The moment marked a proud chapter in the Club’s post-war story and reaffirmed its place in the rich tradition of the Royal and Ancient game.

Club Life Through the Years

Historic photographs from the period show the heart of the Club as it was in the mid-20th century — the modest but welcoming clubhouse standing against the open skies, and Club officers greeting members and visitors at its doors. These images capture the spirit of fellowship and continuity that have always defined Walmer & Kingsdown.

From its Braid-designed origins to its celebrated re-opening in 1949, the story of Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club is one of heritage, scenery and community — a clifftop course shaped by the sea air and sustained by generations of members.

Further photographs and memories will continue to build this history, telling the story of the Club through the decades.