COURSE NEWS
As part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest and with spectacular views over Poole Harbour the golf club has always had a magical quality – King Edward VIII once described the view from the fifth tee as one of the finest in his kingdom.
Breathtaking vistas from the Isle of Purbeck golf course are already legendary in the golfing world.
‘If there is a golf course where you could drag your non-golfing partner along, this is it. He or she will be more than happy to drink in the views.
‘Whilst this is seaside golf, this is not links golf. Isle of Purbeck Golf Club is set in a heathland nature reserve, decorated with a profusion of gorse, heather, rare flora and fauna.’
Respected magazine Today’s Golfer has just placed the Isle of Purbeck course at number 67 amongst all 3,000 clubs in Great Britain and Ireland in its new 2024 guide of X-Factor courses.
And now an ambitious programme working with the RSPB, the National Trust and Natural England is underway to tame the course’s gorse bushes, reintroduce heathland and encourage rare birds, reptiles and animals to return. Some 80 percent of the gorse and non native trees on the golf club is being removed and more natural heather and long grass landscapes planted in its place.
Today's Golfer Magazine editor Chris Jones said:
“I can’t think of a more spectacular setting in English golf than the fifth at the Isle of Purbeck. The view down that hole alone is almost worthy of a place on the list. Conditioning has improved significantly over the past few years and this is a course that thrills. On a beautiful summer’s day there cannot be many more attractive places to play, with not only good views but nicely shaped holes. Purbeck offers a memorable journey, with great views and wildlife in abundance, don’t expect its rise to stop here!”
We work quite closely with the RSPB, National Trust and Natural England to try to help balance their objectives with the drive and the desires of a modern day golf club.
We realised that we can preserve and encourage wildlife while creating an experience where people don’t just set out to have a game of golf but come here to experience the very best of Purbeck.
WELCOME TO THE ISLE OF PURBECK GOLF CLUB
The Isle of Purbeck GC was founded in 1892, the coming of the railway meant hotels were being built and Summer visitors were increasing rapidly. Among its past owners were Dr Darrell-Waters, a consultant of distinction and his wife Enid Blyton, the legendary writer of children's books. At the time the club was called the Studland Bay Golf Club and the clubhouse was located on the left hand of the Swanage to Studland road. In 1965, after 14 years in charge, Darrell-Waters sold the club to Mr Randolph, who was about to retire from his positions as Chairman and Managing Director of the family firm, The Wilkinson Sword Company. It was Randolph who in 1966 restored the club to its original name "The Isle of Purbeck GC". This was also the year the new clubhouse, still in use today, was built. It features giant fossils in the walls and the connection with the Wilkinson Sword Company , is present throughout. Swords are played for annually by the members in the Randolph Trophy.
When you play at the Isle of Purbeck, you'll enjoy a wonderfully traditional course set in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The first thing that strikes visitors is the spectacular views, looking out over Brownsea Island, Bournemouth and the Solent. Indeed, the fifth tee possesses one of the finest views in British golf. The late King Edward declared the view from this point as one of the finest in his kingdom and that opinion is not likely to be disputed by anyone who has had the chance to stand there. Each hole is located in its own unique setting, providing magnificent views and challenges. The 4 par 3's are unique in that they each face a different compass point. Consequently, each poses a different challenge based on wind direction. If you want to post a good score, be prepared for a game of strategy, brains over brawn!
DORSET HEATHLAND TOUR
We are part of the Dorset Heathland Golf Tour. If you are looking to play the Isle of Purbeck GC as part of a "Stay and Play" package, please click on the following logo:
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