West Essex Golf Club Top 100 Review

West Essex Golf Club is a championship parkland course founded in 1900 and designed by legendary architect James Braid. Located 15 miles northeast of Central London in Chingford, the 18-hole course measures 6,385 yards and plays to par 71.

The course features two distinctive halves. The front nine comprises undulating narrow fairways with well-bunkered greens and out-of-bounds hazards that provide a strong defence against low scoring. The back nine is longer and more open, with significant elevation changes, water hazards, and copse-lined fairways on the closing six holes.

Set partially across the folds of ancient Epping Forest, the course offers 270-degree elevated views of the London skyline from the front nine, creating a memorable setting. The layout demands accuracy and positional play, presenting a stern test for players of all levels. The course regularly challenges professionals competing in PGA events and is recognized as an outstanding example of Braid's extensive body of work.