I have been fortunate to play East Sussex National on many occasions. I still find it difficult to decide which of the two courses I prefer. There is a magnificent feel to the whole complex and it is easy to see why it hosted the European Championships on the European Tour in the mid 1990’s.

Sadly, that was too long ago and whilst the club house retains much of the look and feel of a prestigious venue the courses are beginning to show signs of neglect. Do not get me wrong, the East Course is of a championship standard, but the cart paths and general refinements you would expect are beginning to age.

Having said that the course itself, the design, the bunkers and greens are still a joy to play. The driving range facility is a classy affair particularly when the actual turf bays are in use with a multitude of targets to aim for. You have 2 practice greens which generally replicate the speed of all 18 greens and as members there are a par 3,4 and 5 practice holes which add a nice touch.

Personally I think the stroke indexes are fair and consistent and you are made to feel welcome by all the staff including starters and course marshals. The green fees are about right.

I would like to see more of the course manicured and tidied up around the edges as that would make an immediate improvement. Overall though I think it is a great course and continues to attract societies and golf trips which can take advantage of a great hotel and spa if you want to make a weekend of it.