Royal Cromer Golf Club Review

Originally founded in 1888, Royal Cromer Golf Club attained its Royal status through the patronage of The Prince of Wales who became King Edward VII. Originally set over nine holes it was none other than Old Tom Morris, who in 1891 advised the club on the changes that would need to pave the way for an 18 hole course. The current layout has been in play since 1979. Now renowned as one of the finest cliff top course in the UK, Royal Cromer not only boast a very strong membership but also attracts visitors from far and wide due to the stunning scenery, excellent conditions and quality layout.

Highly Recommended on Golfshake

Pre-Round Thoughts

Upon arrival you instantly get a feel for a venue that is steeped in history. The clubhouse and changing rooms are charmfully rustic. The pro shop is compact but holding everything that is needed - including some crested items for the visitors. The pro we spoke to was very knowledgeable on the course and history and really helped towards building the excitement of the round. There is a chipping area just through a walkway and the putting green sits proudly in front of the clubhouse that has a great view of the 1st tee and 18th green.

Front 9 Overview

After a fairly tough opening hole, the 2nd and 3rd really give a sense of the variety that is on offer at Cromer. Lovely elevated tee shot greet you on the 2nd with a well placed fairway bunker waiting to trap any errant tee shot. The lush green is also guarded by three 'links style' pot bunkers that will need to be avoided to escape with a par. The 3rd is shorter in length, with a tree-lined approach up to the secluded green with probably the deepest pot bunker grabbing anything short right.

The 4th offers some stunning views from a raised tee once again but its the 6th hole where you will get the first real sighting of the sea and cliffs - which also comes into play! At 444 yards with the North Sea at the bottom of the cliffs this is a true test of golf for any ability but an enjoyable one at that. With the green blind from the tee you have your work cut out finding the fairway depending of the direction you face the wind. Fairway bunkers either side and a long approach in really does leave you wanting more - regardless of score.

To finish the front with what would be regarded as the signature hole. 161 yards. down the slop to the green which is surrounded by seven round pot bunkers leaving no real miss. A stunning looking hole and a delight to have played.

Back 9 Overview

The back starts with two pars 5's. Both offer genuine scoring opportunities that could lure you into thinking you might be in for an easy ride. Which couldnt be further from the truth.

The 12th is called 'The Plateau' due to the fact that your second shot plays up a steep rise to the thin green followed by a testing par 3 with a fairly blind green.

The 14th and 15th move around the famous lighthouse that sit proudly atop of the cliff as you head towards the finish.

Big hitters might fancy their chances down the slop to the 16th green which is another good scoring opportunity before a delightful finishing hole with a challenging tiered green.

It would have been very easy for me talk you through each and every hole given the quality and variety. But you will have to pay Royal Cromer a visit and find out more for yourself!

Post-Round Thoughts

The course plays tough, but fair. The condition is perfect. Tees flat, lush green fairways and slick true putting surfaces. The bunkers are well kept and strategically placed all round providing an extra test.

The difficulty will vary from hole to hole depending on the wind but Royal Cromer is not a venue where you go to post a score.

The food and drink on offer after the round was exactly what you would look for from a venue of such stature.

Verdict/Round-Up

In conclusion, Royal Cromer is a top class venue with a golf course that is right up there with the UK finest. Variety on every hole and a treat for golfers of any ability. A must play.

Overall Rating - 9

Course (Conditions) - 9
Course (Hole Variety/Layout) - 9

Course (Green Condition) - 10
Course (Challenge/Difficulty) - 9
Club facilities & 19th/Clubhouse - 8
Practice Facilities - 8
Friendliness/Hospitality - 9
Pace of Play - 9
Value for Money - 10

Reviewed in June 2018 by Matt Holbrook (Handicap 11).