A Bit of Background
The Club was formed in 1904 on an area of farmland, leased from the Church Commissioners, which had been the hunting estate of the Bishops of London. The Club purchased the freehold in 1959.
Robert the Bruce was staying at the Lodge in late summer 1305, when Edward I heard of a secret agreement that would have made Bruce the King of Scotland. He moved to arrest Bruce but a warning was sent by a noble at court that he should flee. That warning, in the form of a spur with a feather attached, forms the basis of the Club's crest.
Though the original work design was by Billy Winton, between 1904 and 1905 the layout was refined by C.S. Butchart who would go on to design the original layout of the Berlin-Wansee Golf Club in 1913/14 and would spend the first two years of the Great War interned in Germany.
In 1928, the Metropolitan Water Board acquired 40% of the land for the construction of a reservoir and the course was modified to what is, essentially, the present layout.
The original clubhouse was destroyed by fire in 1926 and its replacement was similarly destroyed in 1962. The current clubhouse, with its well-frequented terrace facing the north west, boasts panoramic views of North London from Harrow on the Hill round to Potters Bar.
There are few more scenic places in London to enjoy a glass of happiness.
Being a Member at Highgate
Widely regarded as the best golf course in North London, the Club puts the interests of our members front and centre in every decision we take. Highgate's membership is buoyant and the Club is approaching the point when we will have a waiting list!
If that sounds unusual, there are a number of benefits that are mentioned, repeatedly, by people who ask about joining us:
We are the closest 18-hole golf course to central London, with journey times, on public transport, of 45 minutes from Charing Cross, Moorgate and Green Park. Golf is not just a weekend thing. Golf after work is possible;
The condition and presentation of the course. Playable all year round, the 6033 yard course is a fair challenge with the men's amateur course record standing at just 66;
Pace of play. A round of golf at Highgate takes less than three and a half hours;
Only members and their guests may play at weekends;
Although we expect standard golf-wear on the course, the casual dress code in the clubhouse creates the friendly and relaxed atmosphere which is enjoyed by our members and is welcoming to new members.
For more information about becoming a member at Highgate, please leave your details below and we'll get in touch.
