The Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, Thailand’s oldest international standard golf course, is celebrating a milestone: its 100th anniversary. This centenary marks a century of golfing tradition, making the course not just a landmark, but a living piece of history in the Kingdom.
As the first golf course in Thailand to meet world class standards, Royal Hua Hin stands as a testament to the country’s rich heritage in the sport. Its journey began in 1919 during the reign of King Rama VI, with construction completed in 1928 under King Rama VII. Designed by Scottish railway engineer Mr. A. O. Robin, the course was meticulously laid out on natural terrain, incorporating traditional British golf course characteristics. Set against a backdrop of rocky hills and lush landscapes, Royal Hua Hin has become a beloved destination for golfers from across the globe.
Reflecting on the course’s storied past, Mr. Amnaj Pankaew, Manager of Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, remarked “This course is not just a place to play golf; it’s a living piece of history. We are proud to have preserved its original charm while continuing to offer a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels.”
The course’s history is rich with royal connections. The first nine holes were opened on October 26, 1922, and His Majesty King Vajiravudh played the inaugural round on June 28, 1924. The back nine were completed in 1928, with King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) officiating the opening ceremony. Over the decades, the course has undergone several upgrades, including the addition of modern facilities and its transformation into a standard 18-hole, par-72 course in the late 1950s. Today, the course stretches 6,678 yards for men and 5,713 yards for women.
One of Royal Hua Hin’s most iconic features is the diverse range of flora and fauna that inhabit the grounds. Majestic trees, some over a century old, line the fairways, and the course is home to various bird species and wild chickens. Mr. Pankaew notes, “Playing here is a unique experience, Golfers are not only challenged by the course but are also treated to the sights and sounds of nature at every turn.”
The course’s design remains faithful to its British roots, featuring moderately hilly terrain that winds around impressive limestone cliffs. Golfers can enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand and Hua Hin’s city center from several vantage points on the course. The layout includes tight, tree-lined fairways, dogleg holes, and relatively small, elevated greens, adding to the challenge. Though the bunkering is modest, and the course may not have the meticulously manicured appearance of some modern courses, its charm and historical significance are undeniable.
Throughout its history, the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the King’s Cup, the Queen’s Cup, the Close Amateur Cup, the Open Amateur Cup, the Mixed Foursome Cup, and the Open Junior Cup. These tournaments have further cemented the course’s place in Thai golfing history.
As part of the centenary celebrations, the course is offering special promotions until October 2024. Golfers can enjoy a round at this historic venue for 1,950 THB, which includes a green fee, caddy, and golf cart cart. Early Bird and Twilight packages are also available for 1,450 THB, with the same inclusions. “We want to make it as accessible as possible for golfers to experience this remarkable course during its centenary year,” said Mr.Pankaew.
To experience this slice of history, golfers are encouraged to book their rounds in advance. Reservations are encouraged 2-3 days prior and can be made by calling 032-512475 or 095-370-2010, or by emailing royalgolfhuahin.booking@gmail.com.
Reflecting on the course’s legacy, Mr. Pankaew added, “The Royal Hua Hin Golf Course is more than just a place to play golf; it’s a symbol of Hua Hin’s rich cultural and sporting heritage. We are honored to be part of its history and excited for what the future holds as we enter the next century.”
As the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course celebrates its centenary, it invites golfers and history enthusiasts alike to step onto its fairways and experience firsthand the blend of tradition, challenge and natural beauty that has made it a cherished landmark for the past 100 years.
