King's Lynn

The historic market town of King’s Lynn is the gateway to the North Norfolk Coast for many golfers travelling to play Royal West Norfolk and Hunstanton. The vast majority take the ring road around the town and most are completely unaware that one of East Anglia’s finest courses lies hidden away in the trees a couple of miles north of the town centre.

King’s Lynn Golf Club was originally founded in 1923 and a decision was taken in 1975 to move the course to its present location. It was a great decision. The new land is ideal golfing country, well drained, heavily wooded and exceptionally pretty. Peter Alliss and Dave Thomas were gifted the most ideal site and they have created a charming course which weaves its way between trees of all description.

There’s a hint of Wentworth, a touch of Woking and a sprinkling of Woburn here at Kings Lynn. There’s also a great deal of challenge. Course management is key to scoring well and position from the tee is crucial otherwise you can wave goodbye to any idea of making par. There are no tricks up King’s Lynn’s sleeve, everything is laid out clearly in front of you and it’s obvious what you need to do, but it’s easier said than done to find the correct position on the fairway.

Many holes are doglegged in shape and a couple feature the odd stray tree standing sentry in the middle of the fairway. You must plot your way round with care and precision. There is no signature hole as such, just a delightful collection of eighteen golf holes. The tee shot from the elevated 9th tee – a 513-yard par five – is perhaps the most visually inspiring. The hole is arrow straight, tunnelling its way through an endless avenue of trees. Only the straightest and stoutest hitters can hope to reach this green in two.

The conclusion to your round at King’s Lynn requires yet more precision and you’ll need to be careful, otherwise you’ll find yourself chipping back onto the green from the clubhouse patio. The final green is probably closer to the clubhouse than any 18th green in the whole of golf. Make sure you don’t three putt otherwise you must expect to see knowing smiles on the faces of the members.