Banstead Downs Golf Club
The golf course on Banstead Downs was opened in 1890 as Sutton Ladies’ Golf Club, prior to the formation of the Metropolitan Commons (Banstead) Supplemental Act 1893. The course was originally designed by John Henry Taylor and later by James Braid. Both were winners of the Open Championship on five occasions and they created one of the UK’s finest chalk downland courses.
The natural topography of Banstead Downs provides ideal golfing terrain, rarely giving a flat stance, and challenging golfers of every level to use their full repertoire of shots. The greens are fast and true but the subtle undulations provide surfaces that will test even the best of putters. Its chalk base allows for excellent drainage helping to ensure the course remains open and playable all year round. With five sets of tee’s, the course is a par 71 measuring nearly 6,600 yards.
Today Banstead Downs Golf Club operates on registered common land know as Banstead Commons under licence from the land owners who are Reigate and Banstead Borough Council. Banstead Commons Conservators Act and Byelaws apply on the land. The Conservators work together with the Club to maintain safe public access and protect and enhance the priority habitats and species that thrive in harmony with the playing course and are enjoyed by Club members and other visitors.