Stoke Rochford Golf Club, nestled within the historic Stoke Rochford Estate just off the A1 south of Grantham, was founded in 1924 by Christopher Turnor. What began during World War I as a few makeshift tees in front of Stoke Rochford Hall soon evolved into a proper nine-hole course played in February 1924. That inaugural year saw membership grow to 32, with modest fees and Turnor serving as the club’s first president. By 1929 a new layout by Scottish international W.H. Aitken expanded the course, and in 1935 Colonel Stafford Vere Hotchkin – renowned for Woodhall Spa – designed the current 18-hole par-70 layout that meanders through parkland and crosses the Cringle Brook across four memorable river holes. The course is known for its superb drainage and rarely requires temporary greens, even during winter storms, making it well suited to year-round play. Its gently undulating fairways, mature trees, and abundance of wildlife create a scenic yet testing experience appreciated by golfers of all skill levels.
Stoke Rochford hosts numerous open competitions throughout the year, including men’s and ladies’ opens, mixed team stablefords, and a winter series, all popular with golfers from across the region. Since 1983 it has annually hosted the Midland Golf Union Youth Championship and in May 2024 staged the England Golf Race to Woodhall Spa regional final, part of its centenary celebrations. The club’s clubhouse history reflects its evolution: early members used a roadside eatery called the Roadhouse until a wooden hut replaced it after a fire, before the current brick clubhouse was completed in 1985 with further enhancements in the 1990s and 2000s.
Beyond golf, the club plays an active charitable role. Its biennial President’s Day has raised significant funds for veterans’ causes – one event alone generated over £8,500 for the Army Benevolent Fund. The centenary year saw members raising sizable donations for local mental health and hospice charities.
Combining classic design, strong community spirit, and high standards of course condition, Stoke Rochford Golf Club stands out as one of the most scenic and enduring golfing venues in Lincolnshire.
Photos courtesy of Stoke Rochford Golf Club.
