In an era where the demands of daily life make leisure time scarce, Chiddingfold Golf Club in Surrey has boldly redefined the traditional golf course structure.
Inspired by the vision of golf legend Sir Nick Faldo, the club recently transitioned from an 18-hole layout to a 12-hole format, prioritising a faster and more flexible game that appeals to today’s time-conscious golfers.
This innovative redesign, credited to long-time club consultant Terry Edwards, was strategically implemented to attract a new generation of players and make golf more accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience.
We’re busier with 12 holes than we ever were with 18. It’s a different clientele – younger, more relaxed.
The decision to switch to a 12-hole course has paid off in spades. Head pro Phil Stevens revealed to bunkered.co.uk that the response since the course reopened in March has been overwhelmingly positive.
“We’re busier with 12 holes than we ever were with 18,” Stevens explained. “It’s a different clientele – younger, more relaxed. People who play for two hours tend to be more cheerful and are staying at the clubhouse longer for a post-round beer. It’s a lively, social atmosphere we hadn’t seen before.”
However, the shift didn’t come without resistance. As with any change to a cherished tradition, some golfers were initially sceptical. “The conventionalists initially pushed back, calling it a disruption to tradition,” Stevens shared.
But he’s seen many minds change over time. “A lot of our regulars now love the option to play eight or 12 holes. For them, it’s a refreshing change, and they’re enjoying the social aspect more than ever.”
The new Academy Course
In addition to the 12-hole main course, the club used the redesign as an opportunity to introduce a dedicated academy course, specifically designed to welcome young players as young as six.
“We let kids play for free on the academy course and offer a complimentary round for one junior under-14 with an adult on the main course. We’re serious about making golf family-friendly,” Stevens added. The repurposing of the former 17th hole as a driving range has also drawn in skilled players who appreciate the grass practice facility.
The 12-hole format attracts attention from far and wide
Since the course renovation, Chiddingfold has seen a rise in enquiries from both domestic and international golfers. “I’ve had requests from as far as America to learn more about what we’ve done,” Stevens said. This surge in popularity is a remarkable achievement in an industry where many clubs face closure.
Sir Nick Faldo himself would likely support Chiddingfold’s bold move, having long championed shorter course designs to meet the needs of modern golfers. “Eighteen is a lot,” Faldo has said, reiterating his support for alternative layouts.
Chiddingfold’s embrace of the 12-hole format could well mark the beginning of a broader shift in golf, highlighting an approach that combines tradition with progressive, accessible play for golfers of all ages.
