Club History

The Beginning

Golf was first played on Aberdovey common in 1886 when members of the Ruck family from Pantlludw, near Machynlleth, set out a course using flowerpots as holes, with the first ball being struck just north of the 16th tee box. Little evidence on the formation of the first layout exists, but it is believed that it followed alongside the Cambrian Coast Railway.

The Golf Club itself was founded in 6 years later in 1892, with the freehold of the common being bought for £2,250 in 1905. Golf has been played here ever since.

Over the years, the course has seen some significant redesigns by several renowned golf architect these include Harry Colt, Herbert Fowler and James Braid. To this day, the club remains a member of the Association of James Braid courses.

Bernard Darwin

Bernard Darwin was the first club Captain in 1897 and then club President in 1924 and 1944, his name is etched in history across the clubhouse. Bernard later wrote that Aberdovey was the “course that my soul loved best of all courses in the world” and is highly regarded in our club’s unique history.

Present Day

The present clubhouse opened in 1998 by a senior member of the Royal Family and has been the home to our members and welcomed guests since.

The links sits proudly on the Welsh Amateur Championship circuit with the club last hosting the event in 2017.