ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
A walkway of fame at the entrance commemorates winners of the SA Opens and Joburg Opens, carved into pavement stones leading into the clubhouse.
About
Founded in 1890 and recently renovated, Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club features two renowned parkland layouts. The East Course, originally designed by Bob Grimsdell and updated by Golf Data, is known for championship standards and memorable tournaments. Its lush fairways, strategic bunkering, and Bentgrass greens make it one of South Africa’s premier clubs.
Caddie Tip
Accuracy off the tee on the East Course is crucial—avoid water hazards and deep bunkers by favoring the left side of many fairways. Approach shots demand control due to undulating Bentgrass greens; players should survey pin positions closely and stay below the hole for best scoring chances.
The Main Challenge
The sheer length of the East Course, coupled with narrow fairways, thick rough, and water hazards, punishes off-line shots. Greens are undulating and fast, requiring precise approach play and short game skill. High altitude can affect club selection, adding complexity for visitors.
The Good
Golfers praise the East Course’s demanding yet fair championship layout and immaculate Bentgrass greens. Hosting major events, its routing and subtle elevation changes create strategic interest and reward smart play, while the mature trees and history add charm to every round.
The Not So Good
Some golfers wish bunker conditions were more uniform and fairway maintenance more consistent, especially in winter months. The West Course’s layout gets less attention, leading to minor complaints about pace of play and the need for more diverse hole variety.
Signature Hole:
#
4
The West Course’s signature hole is the par 4 4th, stretching 372 yards. A tributary of the Jukskei River runs down the left of the narrow fairway, with trees on the right and a stream crossing in front of the green. Bunkers cover the left, making approach shots demanding and highly strategic.
Clubhouse
The modern clubhouse features locker rooms, pro shop, restaurant, bar, and lounge overlooking the finishing holes. Members and visitors can also access meeting rooms, event spaces, and outdoor terraces, with hospitality known for attentive service and local cuisine.
Practice Facilities
Extensive driving range, short game area, and putting greens are available. Practice zones are well maintained with a variety of targets and surfaces, supporting warm-up and coaching for all levels. Onsite golf academy offers lessons from certified professionals.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
.avif)
.png)
.png)
