Discover Prince's Golf Club History & Layout in Sandwich
Prince's Golf Club, located in Sandwich, England, has a storied history that dates back to its founding in 1906 by Sir Harry Mallaby-Deeley, with course design credited to Charles Hutchings. The club first opened its doors to players in 1907, emerging as a contender during a transformative era for the game of golf marked by the introduction of the Haskell golf ball.
A significant milestone in Prince's timeline occurred in 1932 when it hosted the Open Championship, a prestigious tournament won by the legendary golfer Gene Sarazen. This victory was noteworthy not only for Sarazen's skill but also for his innovative use of the newly invented sand wedge, which he famously employed to secure the win.
The club's history, however, was not without its challenges; during World War II, Prince's Golf Club was repurposed as a battle training ground, leading to considerable damage. Following the war, efforts to restore and redesign the course were spearheaded by renowned architects Sir Guy Campbell and John Morrison, ensuring the club's resilience and beauty were preserved.
Today, Prince's Golf Club is distinguished by its 27 holes, meticulously arranged into three distinct loops known as Shore, Dunes, and Himalayas. This setup allows for varied and engaging gameplay, attracting golfers from around the globe. With its rich history, hosting of major tournaments, and significant post-war restoration, Prince's Golf Club remains a notable destination in the world of golf.
Princes Golf Club
Prince's Golf Club is widely renowned for having hosted the prestigious 1932 Open Championship, a significant event where the legendary American golfer Gene Sarazen claimed a well-deserved victory. This memorable tournament also marked the debut of his revolutionary sand iron, a golf club that he introduced to the world during the event and which was proudly displayed at Prince's for many years. However, due to escalating insurance costs, it ultimately became impractical for the club to continue showcasing it. To honor Sarazen's remarkable achievement, the greenside bunker adjacent to the 9th green on the picturesque Himalayas course—a location he played from on his way to securing the championship—was officially named The Sarazen Bunker in a ceremony led by Pádraig Harrington in June 2011.
The Old Club House at Prince’s Golf Club
The original clubhouse at Royal St. George's remains a historic landmark at the course entrance, adjacent to the 14th tee. Now known as the Lodge, this beautifully renovated space opened in May 2012. It features two adjoining buildings that encompass 38 luxurious bedrooms, along with a brasserie and lodge for dining and relaxation.
