18 Hole Course
In 1912 land was acquired in the area then known as Gypsy Lane. The first 9 holes are believed to have opened just before the commencement of the World War, on the present sight (then on the outskirts of the town), with the full 18 open by early 1915. It was "laid out" by one of the best know architects of his day, a Mr Charles H Alison who was Secretary at Stoke Poges GC, an Associate of the more famous Harry Colt who had built the earlier course. Colt is believed to have modified the layout in the 20's. Kingsthorpe is recognised as a Colt Course by the Colt Association along with much more famous courses such as Wentworth, Pebble Beach, Augusta National, Troon, Royal St.Georges, The Berkshire and many many more.
Charles Alison went to design courses in America and Kawana GC in Ito City, as well as revising several other courses in Japan around 1936. His characteristic bump for which he is well known in Japan are also in evidence at Kingsthorpe. A press report at the time suggests of Kingsthorpe that "Its sandy soil, pronounced by experts to be admirably suited for golf, and the contour of the land will lend itself to making a really sporting course". This is certainly born out by the course today which provides a suitable challenge for golfers of all levels.
The problem is that on any one particular day an easy hole can play really hard, while a difficult one can be a breeze. That’s why Kingsthorpe is so deceptively tough!