Ferndown Golf Club is a beautiful sanctuary of pine and heather, nestled in the well-maintained Dorset countryside just a mile or two north of the popular seaside town of Bournemouth. This is where Peter Alliss developed his skills, as his father, Percy, served as the club’s professional for over 25 years.
Founded in 1912, the club’s course was designed by Harold Hilton, one of the greatest amateur golfers in history, and opened for play in 1914. Hilton won The Open Championship as an amateur twice, a record only surpassed by Bobby Jones, who claimed the title three times, also as an amateur. The Old Course at Ferndown is set on sandy terrain abundant with heather and pine, creating a naturally stunning golf experience. Ferndown is often compared to Augusta due to its impeccable maintenance from tee to green.
The course features subtle hazards; while the heather and trees are the most obvious challenges, the bunkers are cleverly designed and strategically placed. Steep-lipped sand traps are prominently visible from both the tees and fairways, adding an extra layer of focus to each shot. Many holes are dog-legged, making tee shot placement critical over sheer distance. Success at Ferndown hinges on keeping the ball in play.
Although the course measures just under 6,530 yards from the back tees—considered short by today’s standards—it presents a challenge even for the best golfers while captivating average players with its inherent beauty. The Old Course has hosted numerous significant amateur and professional events, including the Women’s British Open in 1989.
