Observatory

Course History

Situated in the beautiful northern Johannesburg suburb of Linksfield lies one of the finest golfing venues in the Southern Hemisphere. The East and West were always stunning examples of golf course design and architecture at its very highest level, and in 1998 when Kensington Golf Club joined forces with Royal Johannesburg - a major event in the history of South African Golf in itself - the sale of their property provided added funding which was utilised for improvements to the clubhouse and both courses, the results of which are the outstanding facilities that await any golfer who is fortunate enough to play on these picturesque parkland layouts.

A stunning array of wonderful par threes, fantastic par fours and challenging par fives in scenic surroundings, will test your skills with every club in the bag and your short game and putting stroke can be expected to come under close examination on super-quick, large and undulating USGA Spec Bentgrass greens. Depending on the Course Superintendents' mood, some tricky pin placements can be encountered on these perfectly manicured surfaces which may add pressure to, shall we say, an unsteady putting stroke?...!   

The East Course was designed in 1935 by the then Club Professional Robert Grimsdell. Golf course architect Mark Muller revamped the original construction in 1998. Some holes were altered but it was mainly the greens that were dramatically improved. This championship layout has hosted seven South African Opens, South African Amateur Championships and numerous other Tour events. 

The West Course was the site of the Johannesburg Golf Club when it moved to its current site in 1909. The course has been upgraded over the years and underwent a major revamp in 1999. Beautiful sweeping fairways and large greens can lull the unsuspecting golfer into a false sense of security, but miss these targets and this course will exact a heavy price.

Both courses have benefited from what is known as the Stream Rehabilitation Project, which was undertaken in 2002, to rectify erosion of streambeds and reinforce the banks of the spectacular watercourse that runs from west to east through the property.

The highly proficient, friendly staff and amiable club members will make the tough nineteenth at Royal a relaxing and memorable experience, with exceptional scenery on display from various vantage points around the palatial clubhouse, which can cater for all occasions and offers exceptional restaurant, bar and conference facilities.

To arrange your round of golf, company day, function or event call Keith Clarke on 082 657 6434 or 084 520 4633.
Email; africa.alive@mweb.co.za