Hankley Common at Hankley Common Golf Club

Hankley Common Golf Club sits on heathland near the village of Tilford in Surrey, roughly forty miles southwest of London. James Braid designed the course in 1922, taking advantage of the sandy, well-drained soil and natural heather that characterize the Surrey-Hampshire border region. The property occupies common land that has been used for grazing and military training, giving the course an open, rugged character distinct from parkland layouts.

The routing moves across gently rolling terrain with fairways framed by heather, gorse, and scattered stands of pine and birch. Braid's design philosophy emphasized strategic bunkering and natural contours rather than artificial earthworks, and Hankley Common reflects this approach with greens that follow the land's movement and hazards positioned to reward thoughtful play. The sandy subsoil ensures the course drains quickly and remains playable through much of the year, a valued quality in the English climate.

The club maintains a relatively quiet profile compared to more famous Surrey heathland courses, but the layout is well-regarded among those familiar with Braid's work in the region. The setting retains a sense of openness and exposure, with views extending across the common. The course measures over 6,400 yards from the back tees and presents a traditional test of links-style golf adapted to an inland heathland environment.