Martin Hawtree

Martin Hawtree, born in 1947 in Beckenham, Kent, England, is the third generation in the Hawtree family to lead the acclaimed golf course architecture firm established by his grandfather in 1912. Educated at the University of East Anglia and the University of Liverpool, Martin joined the family firm in 1973 and took over as head architect in 1984. He has continued the long-standing Hawtree tradition with an international reputation for both designing new courses and restoring classic layouts.

Martin Hawtree's work is characterized by a respect for traditional design principles combined with modern innovations. He has been deeply involved in renovations of prestigious Open Championship venues such as Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool, and the Old Course at St Andrews, often working to restore original features while updating courses for contemporary play. His international projects span from Europe to Canada, Australia, and emerging golf markets, including courses in France, Belgium, Sweden, and India.

In addition to his design work, Martin has held leadership roles in industry organizations such as the British Institute of Golf Course Architects, where he served as president. His work balances strategic challenge with aesthetic beauty, and he is especially known for his passion for links golf.

Martin Hawtree's stewardship of the family firm has solidified Hawtree as one of the most respected and enduring names in golf course architecture worldwide, blending a rich family heritage with ongoing innovation.