St. Clements Golf Club, located in Ipswich, Suffolk, is a picturesque nine-hole golf course that was founded in 1969. Originally, the facility served as a leisure facility for NHS patients and staff and is situated on the grounds of the old Ipswich Borough Mental Health Hospital. The buildings designed by William Ribbans in the Italianesque style have been transformed into luxury apartments known as Belgrove Place, while the rest of the area has been developed into a modern housing estate.
Despite attempts to build on the golf course, St. Clements Golf Club has managed to survive and thrive, boasting nearly 300 members, two greenkeepers, and a team of volunteers. The course has been hailed as a “hidden gem” by the Ipswich Star, offering a heathland layout that is playable throughout the year due to its excellent drainage. The greens have been specially treated to ensure high quality and are comparable to those found on local championship courses.
One of the standout holes at St. Clements Golf Club is the signature hole called the “Mickey Mouse. ” This short par 4 measures around 250 yards and features a sloping green that is well defended by a deep bunker at the front. It poses a challenge to both novice and experienced golfers, making it a must-play hole for all visitors.
Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the game or a seasoned golfer wanting to improve your skills, St. Clements Golf Club is the perfect venue. With its nine-hole, par-31 layout, it is ideal for players who may not have the time or ability to complete 18 holes on a larger course. Despite its smaller size, the course offers a delightful and testing experience, providing a reminder not to judge a book by its cover.
St. Clements Golf Club hosts various events and activities throughout the year, such as the Vet Captain's Drive-In and committee meetings. The club's diary provides an overview of upcoming events to keep members and visitors informed.
The team at St. Clements Golf Club is dedicated to providing excellent service and facilities. The club secretary, Martin Pilbrough, can be contacted at 07549170172, while Richard Allan serves as the club captain. Other important roles within the club include Rod Day as chair, Philip Boggis as treasurer, Gary Richardson as membership secretary, and Bryce Kelly as competition secretary.
Anne Day serves as the ladies' captain, and Bob Clarke is the vets' captain, among others.
The club's website offers further details about the privacy policy, terms and conditions, and cookies policy. It is powered by HowDidiDo. Com and provided by Club Systems International Ltd. Visitors can also take a virtual tour of the course by watching the video on the website.
For female golfers, the Belles of St Clements is a small but friendly ladies' section that welcomes players of all abilities. They regularly meet for a Thursday roll-up and emphasise the social aspect of the game.
St. Clements Golf Club is truly a special place, combining history, natural beauty, and a warm community atmosphere. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, be sure to visit and experience this charming golf course for yourself.