West Cornwall Golf Club

West Cornwall Golf Club at Lelant is the oldest golf club in Cornwall, founded in 1889, and plays over a true links course shaped by the sand dunes between the Hayle Estuary and Porth Kidney Sands. From much of the course there are views across St Ives Bay to Godrevy Lighthouse, and the wind off the bay is a constant factor in how it plays. Because the ground is pure sand it drains almost instantly, so the full course stays open all year with no winter tees or temporary greens, which makes it a good bet for a round in the quieter months. Visitors are welcome, with green fee rounds, society packages that include meals and a family friendly golf academy for beginners and juniors. The club now operates under a public licence, so the clubhouse is open to non golfers as well: the No. 19 restaurant serves bar snacks and a la carte dining, and the bar keeps real ales including a rotating guest beer. A well stocked pro shop sits by the first tee. Lelant station on the St Ives branch line is close by, and Lelant Saltings and the estuary bird reserve are a short walk. It suits golfers who want a classic seaside links and anyone wanting lunch with a view over the dunes.

Good to know

• Founded 1889, the oldest golf club in Cornwall
• Links course in the dunes between the Hayle Estuary and Porth Kidney Sands with views to Godrevy Lighthouse
• Sand base drains so well the course plays all year with no winter tees or greens
• Visitors and societies welcome; family friendly golf academy
• Public licence: No. 19 restaurant and bar with real ales open to non members; pro shop by the first tee

Official site: West Cornwall Golf Club website.