White Cliffs Coastal Path © White Cliffs Country
WELCOME
The spectator stands are up , the greens are manicured , and the eyes of the sporting world are getting ready to focus all their attention on the glorious Garden of England for one exceptional week of championship golf ...
Yes , after a longer-than-expected build up , The 149th Open finally arrives to the Kent coastline this month , with all the action set to tee off at Royal St George ’ s in Sandwich between 11th and 18th July .
Call us biased , but we can think of no better destination to welcome this prestigious event . With 14 Open Championships to its name , more than any other course outside of Scotland , it ’ s safe to say Royal St George ’ s has truly earned its place among the world ’ s finest courses . Renowned for its stunning views across the Kent coast and those iconic white cliffs , the club has a long and distinguished history , even featuring as the setting for the match between 007 and Goldfinger in one of Ian Fleming ’ s famed James Bond novels ! And with those undulating fairways and tricky greens to master , The 149th Open promises to be just as nail-biting .
Beyond the greens , Kent has its own intriguing story to tell , with castles and cathedrals that have witnessed centuries of history , from murders and victories , to quarrelsome kings and queens , vineyards whose wines are lauded throughout the world , and a foodie heritage that has literally earned us the title of the Garden of England . Have we piqued your interest ? Take a read of our 18 Reasons to Extend Your Golf Break in the Garden of England on page 51 and discover our Blue Flag beaches , cultural hotspots and iconic landmarks for yourself .
Once you ’ ve read all about the many things that make our county a fantastic spot for a short break , we know you ’ ll be keen to hear about what makes it a world-class golf destination , so be sure to look at our round up of The Best of Golf in Kent on page 63 . If you didn ’ t already know , you ’ ll soon see our county is the proud home of three Open Championship hosts in White Cliffs Country - Royal St George ’ s Golf Club , Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club and Prince ’ s Golf Club . The east Kent coast also offers incredible links experiences atop of chalky white cliffs with views across the Channel . By contrast inland Kent with its rich , rolling countryside is the perfect backdrop to its heath land and parkland courses , including hosts of the Cazoo Classic , London Golf Club .
With all this and more to share , and as we prepare to welcome thousands of golf spectators to Kent , there couldn ’ t be a better time to launch the very first Golf in Kent magazine . Whether you ’ re watching the action from big screens by the coast , at home with a glass of Kent-brewed beer , or right at the heart of it at Royal St George ’ s , we ’ re excited to share our top tips to enrich your experience , from short break inspiration , to a behind-the-scenes peek at the incredible work that goes into designing our courses .
Remember to stay up to date with all the latest news and inspiration as it happens by following us on social at @ GolfInKent , and if you ’ re left yearning for yet more golf once the Claret Jug has been lifted this month , head straight on over to
www . golfinkent . co . uk to get planning your next golf escape to the Garden of England .
From all of us at Sideways Media and Golf in Kent , here ’ s to the longawaited 149th Open !
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