Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club

Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, often referred to simply as Deal, is a historic links course situated in Deal, Kent, England. Founded in 1892, the club's name reflects Deal's historical connection to the Cinque Ports. The course, an 18-hole links layout, runs along the coast of Sandwich Bay, adjacent to other notable links like Royal St George's and Prince's. Originally designed by Henry Hunter, the course has seen input from other esteemed architects including James Braid, Guy Campbell (Sir Guy Campbell), and Henry Cotton over the years. It features a classic 'out and back' routing, with the inward nine, particularly the final seven holes, known for being a formidable test, often played into the prevailing southwest wind. The course is characterized by undulating fairways and challenging green complexes, with notable holes including the par-5 3rd with its punchbowl green and the demanding par-5 16th. Royal Cinque Ports has a rich championship history, having hosted The Open Championship in 1909 and 1920. While it was removed from the Open rota due to issues with high tides, it has continued to serve as a Final Qualifying venue for The Open Championship, most recently in 2024. The club also has a long-standing tradition of hosting The Amateur Championship and the Halford Hewitt Public Schools Championship.