Churston Golf Club: A Lifetime's Journey
A Personal Journey Since 1989
I'll admit from the outset, I'm pretty biased when it comes to Churston Golf Club. Having joined as a junior member back in 1989 and remaining a member through to my turning professional in 2006. This place isn't just my home club, it’s where my golfing soul was forged. Over more than three decades, I've witnessed my home course evolve whilst never losing its fundamental charm.
From Humble Beginnings to Harry Colt's Masterpiece
Churston's story begins back in 1890 when it started life as a basic 9-hole layout. What fascinates me is how the original course worked differently, after finishing the first hole, you'd head left rather than right as we do today but some on the old routing can still be seen today.
The real transformation came in the 1920s when Harry Colt was brought in to redesign the course. Having played here for decades, I can see Colt's genius throughout the layout. His design philosophy runs through every hole, creating challenges that remain as relevant today as they were nearly a century ago.
The Famous Opening Challenge
Ask any golfer about Churston, and the first thing they'll mention is our opening hole, that monster par 3 of 240-plus yards. It's become our calling card, and rightly so. When people discover I'm from Churston, they immediately ask: "Is that the place with the long par 3 that opens the course?" And yes, they're absolutely right.
It's a real statement of intent, throwing down the gauntlet from the very first swing. I've seen countless golfers stand on that first tee looking slightly intimidated. Many days, walking off that opening green with a bogey 4 feels like a comfortable start, and you're quite content to move forward from there.
A Spectacular Coastal Journey
What makes Churston truly special is its stunning location working along the South Devon coastline. The course takes you on a journey from Broadsands Beach right through to distant views of Brixham, creating a constantly changing backdrop that never fails to impress.
As you work your way through the round, you're treated to incredible views across Torbay. Some holes offer glimpses through the trees, others open up completely to reveal the sweeping bay below. It's these moments that remind you why people travel from around the world to experience English golf.
The variety is remarkable, one minute you're threading your way through woodland, the next you're enjoying panoramic coastal vistas that take your breath away.
Personal Favourites and Signature Moments
My favourite hole has to be the 14th, though most visitors gravitate towards the 13th for obvious reasons. The 13th seems to have been the signature hole, and it's easy to understand why. The views from there across the bay are simply spectacular, it’s the hole that appears in most photographs and promotional materials, and deservedly so.
Both holes showcase what Churston does brilliantly: combining challenging golf with stunning natural beauty.
The Greens: Our Greatest Defence
At just over 6,200 yards, some might consider Churston a bit short by today's standards, but that misses the point entirely. Our real defence has always been the greens. These putting surfaces are our secret weapon, small, wickedly contoured, and capable of running frighteningly fast during the summer months.
I've watched countless visitors and members underestimate these greens only to discover they're facing a completely different challenge than expected. They can be wonderfully sloppy and tricky, demanding precision and respect from every approach shot. Get them right, and you'll score well. Take them lightly, and they'll humble you quickly as I have experienced many times!
Modern Facilities, Traditional Values
The clubhouse transformation in the early 2000s created a more modern approach. We now have a functional facility that serves both members and visitors brilliantly. The pro shop is large, well-stocked and competitive, whilst the food service has earned an excellent reputation throughout the area.
From the clubhouse, those stunning views across Torbay provide the perfect backdrop for post-round pint.
Practice Makes Perfect
The practice facilities are excellent, just a short drive from the main clubhouse. The practice ground stretches 350-400 yards, giving you plenty of room to work on your game. The putting greens at the clubhouse and short game area alongside the 4th hole provide everything you need for comprehensive practice sessions.
The Charm of Steam and History
One of Churston's most endearing quirks has nothing to do with golf itself. Throughout your round, you'll hear the distinctive whistle of the steam railway train arriving at Churston station, chugging past the 18th hole. It's a wonderfully nostalgic touch that adds character and connects you to the area's rich heritage.
Why Churston Remains Special
After more than 30 years of being part of the Club, I genuinely believe Churston offers something unique in English golf. The combination of Harry Colt's brilliant design, that spectacular coastal setting, challenging greens, and genuine warmth creates an experience that stays with you.
From that intimidating opening par 3 to the final putt with steam trains whistling in the background, Churston provides memories that last a lifetime. It's not just a golf course – it's a piece of Devon's heritage where traditional values meet outstanding golf.
For me personally, it's where everything began and where my passion for the game continues to thrive. After three decades, I'm still discovering new nuances and still falling in love with different aspects of this remarkable place.
For any golfer visiting Devon, Churston isn't just recommended – it's absolutely essential.
Dan Hendriksen, PGA Professional