The Berkshire Golf Club: Blue

Land once used for hunting parties organized by Queen Anne was repurposed by the Office of Crown Lands in 1928 to create two renowned golf courses, designed by the esteemed Herbert Fowler. The club has strong ties to amateur golf, having hosted prestigious events such as The English Amateur Championship, The British Seniors Open Championship and The English Ladies' Close Amateur Championship. It also hosts two annual tournaments: The Astor Salver for Ladies, first played in 1951, and The Berkshire Trophy for Gentlemen, which began in 1946. The fast-draining, springy soil provides some of the best golfing conditions in the country. While the Red Course's unconventional par distribution adds a distinctive challenge, the Blue Course adheres to traditional design principles with an intimidating opening par 3 with a long carry over a field of heather. Although some may rank the Red Course higher, members argue that the Blue Course's difficulty highlights the true success of Fowler's design.