The Golf Courses of the British Isles by Bernard Darwin

"The Golf Courses of the British Isles" by Bernard Darwin is a detailed exploration of golf courses, written in the early 20th century. This book serves as both a practical guide and a historical account, delving into the evolving nature of golf courses in Britain, highlighting not only their design but also the changes in the game itself. Through a combination of personal anecdote and objective analysis, the author showcases several notable golf courses, reflecting on their unique features and characteristics. At the start of the narrative, Darwin sets the stage by discussing the transformation of golf courses in London over the past decade or so. He contrasts the former state of these courses—often muddy, rudimentary, and less appreciated—with the emergence of more sophisticated and well-designed courses like Sunningdale and Walton Heath. The opening portion serves to illustrate the development of golf course architecture, emphasizing how modern designers have learned from the past to create better golfing experiences, and it introduces various courses that will be examined throughout the rest of the work. This engaging commentary invites readers to appreciate golf not only as a sport but also as an evolving art form intertwined with the landscape and culture of Britain.