Sherwood Forest Golf Club is one of the finest heathland courses in the Midlands and a serious test of golf within easy reach of Nottingham. Often mentioned alongside Hollinwell when discussing elite Nottinghamshire venues, Sherwood delivers championship character with a slightly different personality.
This guide explains how the course plays, who it suits, what to expect as a visitor, and what to consider if you are exploring membership.
← Back to Golf Courses in Nottingham (Complete Guide)
Official website →
Quick navigation
Course overview
Sherwood Forest is a classic heathland layout set among mature pines and heather. Built on free-draining sandy soil, it offers firm turf, strategic bunkering, and subtle green complexes that reward thoughtful golf.
While it shares heathland DNA with Hollinwell, Sherwood often feels slightly more contained visually, with tree-lined corridors framing many holes. It has hosted major amateur events and Open Championship qualifying, underlining its reputation as a championship-standard venue.
- Course style: Heathland
- Terrain: Sandy, undulating, pine-framed corridors
- Reputation: Elite amateur test
- Location: North of Nottingham, easily accessible via main routes
Design and character
What defines Sherwood Forest is clarity. From the tee you can usually see what the hole is asking, but executing the right shot is another matter.
Strategic bunkering
Bunkers are positioned to influence decisions rather than simply punish mishits. They shape angles into greens and force players to commit to a line.
Heather and pine framing
The presence of heather and tall pines gives the course a distinct visual identity. Misses offline can be costly, so accuracy is more valuable than raw distance.
Subtle greens
The greens rarely rely on severe slopes. Instead, they demand precise approach distances and thoughtful lag putting. Being above the hole is rarely comfortable.
How the course plays
Sherwood rewards controlled aggression. You can make birdies, but only if you earn the right position from the tee.
Tee shots
- Placement over power: hitting fairways matters more than maximum carry.
- Angle awareness: the correct side of the fairway often opens up the green.
- Disciplined club selection: not every hole requires driver.
Approach play
- Distance control is critical on firm summer turf.
- Missing in the correct area can save strokes.
- High, soft approaches are useful on certain holes.
Short game and putting
The putting surfaces are true and consistent. Good pace control separates strong rounds from frustrating ones.
Who the course suits
Low handicaps
Single-figure players will appreciate the strategic challenge and the need for precise ball striking. It is a course that tests the full game.
Mid handicaps
Mid handicappers can enjoy Sherwood if they accept that positioning and patience are more important than chasing risky lines.
Higher handicaps
The course can feel demanding if accuracy is inconsistent. If you are newer to the game, choose appropriate tees and focus on keeping the ball in play.
Visitor golf and booking
Sherwood Forest is a members’ club with structured visitor access. Peak weekend times may be limited, especially during competition season.
Planning a visitor round
- Check availability well in advance.
- Midweek bookings often provide the best access.
- Be aware of dress and etiquette expectations.
Membership guide
Joining Sherwood Forest is about embracing a competitive, traditional club environment built around high-quality golf.
Who membership suits
- Golfers who value competitive medals and structured competitions
- Players who enjoy testing their game against strong peers
- Members seeking a long-term golfing home with heritage
What to consider
- Travel time: ensure the journey fits your routine.
- Competition access: ask how entry and booking works.
- Tee availability: understand peak-time demand.
Practice facilities
Serious golfers will want to understand practice options before committing.
- Putting green: essential for adapting to green pace.
- Short game areas: helpful for sharpening scoring shots.
- Range access: confirm availability if you rely on regular full practice sessions.
For winter development or structured improvement, pairing outdoor golf with indoor practice sessions can maintain form through colder months.
Club culture and atmosphere
Sherwood Forest has a traditional club atmosphere built around competitive golf and mutual respect for the course.
- Strong amateur heritage
- High standards of etiquette
- Serious but welcoming golfing culture
If you enjoy competitive golf and structured events, the environment will likely suit you well.
Best time to play
Summer
Firm, fast conditions showcase the heathland character. Strategic play becomes even more important as the ball runs on landing.
Winter
Heathland soil typically drains better than clay-based parkland, but weather still influences playability. Always check course updates before travelling in prolonged wet spells.
Nearby alternatives
- Notts Golf Club (Hollinwell): another elite heathland venue nearby. Read our guide →
- Oakmere Park Golf Club: offers multiple courses and flexible visitor access. Read our guide →
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sherwood Forest Golf Club a championship course?
Yes. It has hosted major amateur competitions and Open Championship qualifying, confirming its championship credentials.
Can visitors play Sherwood Forest?
Visitor access is available but structured. Availability may vary depending on competition schedules and peak times.
Is Sherwood Forest suitable for beginners?
It is playable for all abilities but can be demanding for inconsistent drivers. Choosing appropriate tees is important.
Does Sherwood Forest drain well in winter?
As a heathland course built on sandy soil, it generally drains better than many parkland venues, though extreme weather can affect any course.
How does Sherwood compare to Hollinwell?
Both are elite heathland venues. Hollinwell is often described as slightly more expansive, while Sherwood feels more framed and strategically contained, but both demand accuracy and disciplined golf.
Final thoughts
Sherwood Forest Golf Club is a serious test of golf and one of Nottinghamshire’s standout venues. It rewards intelligent play, disciplined course management, and precise ball striking.
If you are building a shortlist of the best golf courses near Nottingham, Sherwood Forest belongs firmly near the top.
Back to the Nottingham golf hub →
Visit Sherwood Forest’s official website →