Dale Hill Hotel, Golf & Country Club, Old Course
The Old Course carves through the mature woodland that is characteristic of the whole estate and provides visitors with splendid views of the Sussex Weald. Despite not being particularly lengthy, the Old measures 5,856 yards, the par of 69 remains a considerable test. The front nine is more open, while the woodland that dominates the final holes makes for an exacting closing stretch.
The Old Course is the more traditional of Dale Hill's two layouts, with tree-lined fairways and a classic parkland feel that contrasts nicely with the Woosnam's modern design. At 5,856 yards off the back tees, it's not about length, it's about accuracy and course management. The par of 69 means there's little room for error, and the tight lies and mature trees demand straight hitting.
The front nine opens up the shoulders a bit, with wider fairways and more forgiving landing areas. But once you make the turn, the woodland closes in and the challenge ramps up. It's not long, but it tightens up on the back nine. If you're playing in a society, it's the sort of track where a sensible three-wood and a wedge can beat driver trouble.
The views across the Weald are superb, particularly from the higher holes, and the mature woodland gives the course a timeless, established feel that's rare on modern layouts. The Old Course is ideal for mid-handicappers who want a fair test without the intimidation factor of a 7,000-yard monster. It's also a great warm-up or second-round option if you're playing both courses during your stay.
Dale Hill Hotel, Golf & Country Club, Woosnam Course
Dale Hill received a shot in the arm in 1997, when Ryder Cup legend and US Masters winner Ian Woosnam added the resort's second championship course. The modern parkland layout, measuring 6,512 yards, is designed in line with USGA construction principles and features many challenging holes as it sweeps across the natural undulations of the landscape.
The Woosnam is the perfect balance, as it challenges the highly skilled players without becoming too difficult for the average visitor. Highlights include the spectacular 16th, a short hole played across a severe gully. Pick the right club, commit to it and don't let the view talk you into steering one.
At 6,512 yards, the Woosnam offers genuine championship length without being overly penal. The fairways are generous enough to encourage aggressive play, but the approach shots demand accuracy, particularly on the longer par fours. The greens are built to USGA-style construction principles, meaning they hold well but run true and fast when conditions allow.
The routing takes full advantage of the estate's natural contours, with several holes offering panoramic views across the High Weald. The closing stretch is particularly strong, with a series of demanding par fours that test every club in the bag. For societies and groups, the Woosnam provides a fair but thorough examination of your game. It's a strong modern parkland test and a real step up from what you often find this close to London.
