Saunton Golf Club
Two links courses on the dunes above Saunton Sands, rated among the best in Britain. A practical guide for visiting golfers and those travelling with non-golfers.
The club
Saunton Golf Club: overview
Saunton Golf Club is a private members' club established in 1897, set on the dune system above Saunton Sands beach on the North Devon coast. It has two 18-hole links courses, both running through natural duneland with fast-running fairways, natural dune features, and coastal wind as a permanent factor in every round. The club is approximately 9 miles from Woolacombe, 8 miles from Barnstaple, and a short drive from Croyde.
Links golf in Britain tends to be seasonal in feel even when courses are open year-round, and Saunton is no exception. The courses play very differently in summer calm and autumn wind, and the dune setting means conditions change significantly across the course of a single round. Visitors who come specifically to experience championship links golf will not be disappointed; visitors looking for a casual social round may find the challenge demanding.
The main event
The East Course
The East Course is the primary draw. At 6,703 yards from the championship tees (par 71), it is regularly listed in UK top 50 links course rankings and has hosted the British Ladies Open, various English golf championships, and England Golf events over the years. The greens are large and undulating, the bunkering is strategic rather than punitive, and the routing takes advantage of the full scale of the dune system.
It is not a course for beginners or casual golfers. Visitors should be comfortable playing in wind, on tight lies from links turf, and reading fast greens. A prior handicap certificate may be required — check when booking. For golfers who have the course on their list of places to play before they die, this is the one. For anyone else considering Saunton, the West Course is the more appropriate starting point.
The second course
The West Course
The West Course is slightly shorter and marginally more forgiving than the East in terms of difficulty, but it is still a proper links challenge and not a beginner-friendly option. Its shorter yardage and slightly less severe routing make it the better choice for first-time visitors who want to experience Saunton before tackling the East, or for visiting groups where ability levels vary. It is also a strong choice as a second round when visiting for multiple days.
Both courses share the same setting and general character: duneland turf, coastal wind, and sea views across Saunton Sands and the Bristol Channel on clear days. The West Course has its own distinct routing and should not be thought of as simply the easier version of the East.
Booking a round
Visitor access and what to expect
Saunton Golf Club welcomes visitors but operates as a private members' club. Visitors are most welcome Monday through Friday; weekend tee times are more restricted, particularly in peak season. Book in advance through the club's own website or by calling the pro shop. Do not arrive expecting to play without a booking in the main season.
Green fees change seasonally and are set by the club; do not rely on any specific figure found online. Check the club website or call the pro shop directly for current rates. Smart-casual dress code applies throughout the clubhouse and course; soft spikes only. The clubhouse has a full bar, a dining room, and locker facilities. The pro shop stocks equipment and club hire is available, though it is worth confirming availability when booking if you need it.
Logistics
Getting there
Saunton Golf Club sits adjacent to Saunton Sands beach, directly off the Croyde-to-Saunton road. From Woolacombe, allow 25 to 30 minutes by car via Croyde. From Barnstaple, roughly 20 to 25 minutes via Braunton. There is no practical public transport link to the course. Parking is on site at the club.
The nearest village for supplies or breakfast before a round is Braunton, about 4 miles from the club. From Barnstaple, the A361 to Braunton then the B3231 towards Saunton is the standard route. For wider North Devon travel information, see the getting here guide.
Mixed groups
Non-golfers in the party
Saunton Sands beach is directly below the golf course and is one of North Devon's finest beaches. It is long, wide, and allows dogs year-round with no seasonal restrictions, which distinguishes it from Woolacombe's summer dog restrictions. Non-golfers in a group can spend the day on the beach while golfers play, then meet up afterwards. This arrangement works well for mixed golf-and-family trips.
For an alternative beach nearby, Croyde beach is a short drive north. For the broader day-trip picture, see day trips from Woolacombe and the North Devon day trips hub.
For golfers based at Woolacombe for the trip, the full range of accommodation options is at Woolacombe accommodation and Woolacombe hotels. The North Devon accommodation guide covers the wider regional picture if you are considering alternatives to Woolacombe as a base. See golf near Woolacombe for an overview of all golf options in the area, including shorter and more accessible courses.