The History of

Coulsdon Court Ladies' Golf Club

Coulsdon Manor Hotel

Coulsdon Court Ladies Golf Club (CCLGC) in Coulsdon on the southern outskirts of London is very fortunate to have as its home ancient parkland once owned by the Byron family. The Course occupies the estate land which surrounds the old Coulsdon Court house which has now been greatly extended to form the Coulsdon Manor Hotel.

In 1922 Coulsdon Urban District Council acquired the bulk of the estate and recruited Harry S Colt to design and lay out the land as a municipal golf course with Coulsdon Court as the club house. Little is known about the golf club at that time except that it was a private club (and that Leslie Cotton, brother of Henry, was the Pro at the time). When the Second World War started in 1939 the club was disbanded.

By the 1980s it was Croydon Council who was responsible for the course and the house, but because of the expense of the upkeep was anxious to rid itself of its responsibility and both were taken over by "All Weather Sports" - later known as "All Weather Sports Activities". Croydon Council however still keeps an interest and it remains a public golf course.

In 1990 planning permission was granted for a Hotel to be built onto the old house, unfortunately against much local opposition. In 1993, Coulsdon Court Hotel was bought by the Marston Hotel Group and they immediately renamed it Coulsdon Manor. The Ladies' Club have, however, retained the historic name of Coulsdon Court. Since June 2005 the hotel has changed hands twice and is now run by Bespoke Hotels.

CCLGC as we know it today was established on 2nd October 1947. Over the years it has continued to grow and is now well established with a busy fixture card and a good reputation.

Over the years many members and their families have donated trophies to the club, and a large proportion of the weekly competitions are played for a trophy which reminds us of the history of the club and its previous and current members. We have celebrated our 50th, 60th and 70th anniversaries with a number of special fixtures and have welcomed past members and invited guests.

Around our lovely course there are many trees which have been donated by the Ladies' Club and by individual members to commemorate special occasions. There are also seats erected in memory of past members and in the spring splashes of yellow daffodils can be seen which commemorate our anniversaries. It is in this way that we, the ladies of Coulsdon Court Golf Club, are adding our own piece of history to an historic area.

It is appropriate that we remember all those members who have "trod" this course before us. Each has made her own contribution - giving so much time and effort in making this club what it is today. Whilst golf is our primary function, our club remains special because it cares. Its members are supportive of each other and value friendship above all else. Let us hope that future generations of golfers will continue to build on and maintain the traditions which have gone before.