Sandwell Park Golf Club

Overview: Sandwell Park Golf Club lies in West Bromwich on the edge of the Sandwell Valley, beside junction 1 of the M5. Despite the urban surroundings, the course feels secluded, set on sandy soil with heathland character, strategic bunkering and fast, subtle greens. The white tees cover 6,468 yards to a par of 71, and the firm turf rewards a running approach. The estate setting gives the course broad parkland corridors, while mature trees pinch several landing areas and encourage a controlled line.

History: The club was formed in January 1895 as West Bromwich Golf Club and first played nine holes at Churchfields. It moved to the present site at Sandwell Park and opened a new course on Christmas Day 1897. Harry Colt later shaped the layout, and Harry Vardon, J. H. Taylor and James Braid all played exhibitions here. The club has since hosted national amateur events including the Men's County Championship finals.

Did You Know? Early exhibition players praised Sandwell Park as one of the best inland links they had seen, a striking description for a course on the edge of the Black Country.