OUR HISTORY
The Rich Heritage of Bryanston Country Club: A Journey Through Time
The club’s story began in 1940 when 301 acres were set aside for a golf course in the township of Bryanston. By 1943, Messrs Hedding, Allridge, and Bentwich initiated discussions that evolved from simply building a golf course to establishing a full country club.
An ad hoc committee of local residents was formed, and by the end of 1948, the first official committee was in place. In 1949, the club commissioned renowned golf course architect Charles Hugh Alison to design the course, with construction led by Tommy Tomsett and Koos de Beer.
The clubhouse, a charming Tudor-style building
With lofty ceilings and shingled roofs, the clubhouse opened in 1951 alongside the first nine holes. Sir Ernest Oppenheimer, the club’s first president, officially inaugurated the facility, and Mrs. Irene Douglas had the honour of driving the first ball. However, tragedy struck in August 1953 when a fire destroyed the entire clubhouse during a ball. Undeterred, the club rebuilt the facility by early 1955, adopting the Phoenix rising from the ashes as its emblem – a powerful symbol of resilience.
As membership increased…
The club expanded its facilities, introducing the Phoenix Room (now the Phoenix Restaurant) and launched a decade-long master plan to upgrade dining and service areas in the 1960s; the 1970s saw further growth with new squash courts and the Gallery function venue (now the Cumberland Room), as well as a major renovation in 1972 that improved the Pro Shop, dining areas, and changerooms.
Despite economic challenges and yet another fire in 1976 that damaged the changerooms and lounge, swift action minimised disruption, allowing catering and sporting activities to continue while the club quickly rebuilt. Since then, the clubhouse has continued to evolve, seamlessly blending modern enhancements with its longstanding traditions.
THE PRESENT
Today, Bryanston Country Club stands as a vibrant green oasis within a bustling city, renowned for its beautifully maintained golf course and exceptional facilities. The stunning new clubhouse, completed in 2016, honours the club’s rich heritage while providing an enhanced experience for members, ensuring the spirit of Bryanston thrives for generations to come.
OUR MISSION & VALUES
The club’s mission and values explicitly emphasise acting with integrity, fairness, and ethical conduct, fostering a cooperative and inclusive environment for members, staff, and guests.
Looking to the future, Bryanston Country Club aims to remain a leading, sustainable, and welcoming institution by continuously innovating its offerings and ensuring that its facilities and programmes reflect the diverse needs of its community, blending tradition with progressive social and environmental stewardship.
