The Club was formed in 1888, as a result of a growing interest in the game of golf, shown largely by the masters of Winchester College, the Officers of the Military, and a number of local gentlemen.
The man who decided to do something about this, in a practical way, was The Rt. Hon. The Earl of Northesk. He called a meeting of all interested parties, which was held in the Winchester Guildhall. At this meeting, it was decided that a Golf Club be formed. Mr Richard Moss was elected as its first President, and Lord Northesk, Captain.
Sufficient land was rented at Morn Hill on the Winchester/Petersfield Road, and a Golf Links was laid out. The cost of this was met by the issues of Debentures, to be subscribed for by the members. These were valued at £5 each, and were re-payable on request. With the aid of the £50, loaned to the Club by Lord Northesk, a hut was erected on the Links, and a Sgt Shawford, recently retired from the Rifle Brigade, hired to look after things. It was decided that the Club would be known as ‘The Winchester Golf Club’, and a hope was expressed that it might be called ‘Royal’, if and when they deserved it. So, prophetically, spoke the Earl of Northesk in 1888. Unfortunately, he did not live to see his prophecy come true...

Royal Winchester History

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