Amid a significant development in the UK golf and lifestyle sector, Ultimate Golf was founded by golf veterans Kristian Baker and Tom Reid, announcing the acquisition of Merrist Wood Golf Club in Worplesdon, Surrey.
The deal marks an important step in the eventual golf redefining the vision of modern golf experience. Set in a picturesque estate on the edge of Surrey Hills, Merrist Wood will make a complete turn for the founder to call “super-premium, family-centric golf and health estate.”
“It’s a rare opportunity,” Baker said, who is also a partner at Sunningdale Heath Golf Club. “Our goal is to create something truly world-class in this place where quality, nature and innovation continue to blend together.”
The vision of Murrist Wood
Redevelopment starting in 2026 and set to restart, including:
-
Brand new architect-designed golf course
-
State-of-the-art health and recovery facilities
-
Luxury club focused on excellent service
-
The most advanced coaching and acting academy in the UK
After restarting, member invitations are expected to be published.
Strengthen, not replace Sunningdale Heath
While Merrist Wood represents a bold new chapter, Baker stresses that expansion does not dilute the focus of Sunningdale Heath, which remains the heart of ultimate golf.
“Sunningdale Heath continues to receive all our care and attention. This move enhances both clubs and allows us to further invest in what we have already cherished.”
While the two clubs will remain different entities, they will share a unified leadership approach, a long-term vision, and a commitment to strategic and operational excellence.
The club of the future
Baker summed up the news and worked on the broader ambitions behind the project.
“It’s not just golf. It’s about creating a heritage that welcomes generations, where communities, performance and well-being exist in harmony in a special environment.”
As plans for members and the wider golf community grow, Ultimate Golf’s Merrist Wood project is expected to be one of the most anticipated launches in the history of the UK golf.
