Bernard Hunt: The Quiet Champion Behind Foxhills’ Finest Tribute

It is hard to imagine that this secluded Surrey enclave sits just beyond the manicured bustle of the M25 and within sight of London’s high-rise business districts. From the moment you arrive, the estate feels wonderfully removed from the life that surrounds it, while still carrying the unmistakable character of a modern country club, steeped in history yet looking confidently towards the future.

Golfers make their way towards the first tee, families drift between the hotel and spa, while tennis balls echo across nine immaculate courts, from acrylic to artificial clay. Around them, country club life unfolds with an ease that feels entirely natural to Foxhills. Nothing appears hurried. Instead, there is an almost imperceptible calm that settles across the estate, a rare sense of peace that seems to be shared by everyone who passes through.

Here, the activity of the outside world becomes little more than a backdrop. It is always there, but somehow never intrusive. London remains close enough to be felt, yet distant enough to disappear from thought. Like a photograph taken with a wide aperture, the city softens into the background while Foxhills itself comes sharply into focus.

There is a certain gravitas to the place, too. Foxhills has long attracted some of the most recognisable names in the game, players who have competed at its highest levels and provided moments that have helped define modern golf. Nick Dougherty, Dame Laura Davies, Andrew Coltart and Wayne Riley are familiar faces across the courses and wider facilities. Solheim Cup winner Charley Hull can often be found on the practice grounds, quietly working through her putting drills, while Ryan Fox, this year’s Champion Golfer of the Year following his victory at Royal Birkdale, has been a member for around nine years. Their presence adds another layer to an estate already rich in golfing heritage.

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