At a glance

6,001 yards · par 71

Bulbury Woods is an 18-hole course laid out across roughly 100 acres of rolling Dorset countryside. The club itself emphasises accuracy from the tee, which fits the course’s tree-lined character and the importance of keeping the ball in position.

Its location between Poole, Bournemouth and the Purbeck corridor makes it a practical addition to a multi-course Dorset break rather than a round that requires a separate day of travel.

Playing character

Accuracy before distance

Tree-lined holes reward commitment to a sensible line and punish unnecessary aggression. The scoring opportunity comes from reducing avoidable mistakes rather than overpowering the layout.

Bulbury Woods also encourages ability-based tee selection rather than treating tee choice as a gender marker. That makes it easier for mixed groups to choose a course length that keeps the round enjoyable and strategic.

Visitor planning

Simple to book, useful within a Dorset itinerary

Visitors are welcomed and tee times can be booked online. Current green fees are seasonal, so confirm the latest rate at the point of booking rather than relying on an old fixed price.

Pull trolleys, electric trolleys with GPS and ride-on buggies are available for hire, with advance reservation sensible for busy periods.

Stay · Play · Recover

Use it as a lower-friction Dorset round

Stay: Poole, Bournemouth and the Purbeck corridor all work as practical bases depending on the rest of the itinerary.

Play: use Bulbury Woods as a contrast to more exposed coastal or heathland courses elsewhere in Dorset.

Recover: the more sheltered setting makes it a sensible round between physically tougher coastal days, leaving space for a lighter afternoon or recovery-led evening.