We last visited Aldeburgh in 2016 but the return to Woodbridge has taken much longer as our previous visit was back in 2003.
Aldeburgh GC is generally regarded as the finest course in Suffolk and is a venue that GSGB always relishes revisiting. Founded in 1884 the Championship course at Aldeburgh is the second oldest maritime heathland course in England. Famous architects such as Harry Colt, Willie Park Junior and JH Taylor have all made contributions to the layout we play today. A Par 70 for men and Par 74 for ladies with yardages ranging from 6,916 (Blue tees) to 5,025 (Black tees) has recently undergone a substantial redevelopment by Mackenzie and Ebert. The new layout introduces significant variety with the new holes making the most of some stunning views across the course to the river, the iconic clubhouse and the sea. Aldeburgh is a traditional 2-ball course and has hosted a number of important amateur events over the years.
Although the society has played at Woodbridge on numerous occasions in the past, it was during the summer of 2003 season when we last visited. Founded in 1893, James Braid and Fred Hawtree were mainly responsible for the course we play today although a bunker renovation was completed by Martin Hawtree in 2020. Set in spectacular surroundings Woodbridge is an oasis of heathland golf with bracken, gorse and fast running fairways to enjoy. Like Aldeburgh, Woodbridge offers 27 holes of golf with the Heath Course being the main attraction. The run of holes from the 11th to the 16th is incredibly good and the downhill 14th and beautiful short 15th, the green ringed by bunkers, are arguably the best of all.