The club dates to 1895, although the course at this location opened in 1924 with a design between teaching professional J.A. Steer and Open champion James Braid. In 2003, architect Donald Steel was brought in to re-do some of the bunkers and contours of the course. Golf World magazine included Fairhaven on their list of ten best Open Championship qualifying courses, while Peter Alliss called it "a real hidden gem."

Visitors and societies are welcome, but should book in advance. The peak-season (April-September) walking rates are £65/round or £90/day Mondays through Thursdays, then £80/round or £100/day on Fridays, weekends, and bank holidays.