China Fleet Country Club Marks 30 Years Since Royal Opening

China Fleet Country Club is marking 30 years since its official Royal opening by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, now His Majesty King Charles III, in December 1995.

Based in Saltash, the Club is commemorating three decades since the visit which helped establish it as a significant health and leisure destination in Cornwall and the wider South West.

A Royal Beginning

Originally founded in Hong Kong to support the welfare of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines community, the Club later relocated to Cornwall and was established through the China Fleet Trust. It continues to hold military charity status and maintains modern links with HMS TAMAR and 47 Commando (Raiding Group) Royal Marines, while also being open to the wider community.

Dean Bennett, Managing Director of China Fleet Country Club, said the anniversary marks an important moment in the Club’s history.

“Commemorating 30 years since our official opening by the then His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, is an incredible milestone for everyone associated with China Fleet Country Club. The Club’s military charity status and heritage demand a legacy of excellence and service, which is built into the fabric of our Club.”

Growth Over Three Decades

Since 1995, the Club has developed into what it describes as a high value, multi generational destination and an economic contributor to the South West.

It now offers facilities for tourism, business conferences, private events, golf, weddings, health, wellbeing and leisure. These include a championship 18 hole golf course, luxury spa facilities, an extensive fitness centre, self catering apartments and event spaces.

Investment, Impact and Awards

Over the past 30 years, the Club highlights several key areas of progress.

Significant investment has taken place, including multi million pound improvements such as a recent gym refurbishment, a high tech Toptracer Driving Range, a new look Brasserie and the dedicated Barn Spa.

The Club is also a major local employer and leisure destination, attracting the local community, commuters, the Cornish staycation market and visitors from across the UK and overseas.

Its work has been recognised through awards, most recently Gold for Business Events Venue of the Year at the Cornwall Tourism Awards 2025.

Remembering the Opening Day

Miles Coleman, Deputy General Manager and Director, was present at the Royal opening 30 years ago and is one of the Club’s longest serving employees.

“The atmosphere that day was electric; having Prince Charles here put us firmly on the map,” said Miles. “It was a powerful endorsement of the Club’s purpose, a place for both military families and the civilian community to thrive. Our continued connection to units like HMS TAMAR is a direct reflection of that original, Royal vision.”

Looking Ahead

Dean concluded by reflecting on the Club’s ongoing focus.

“Whether members are using our Gold standard business facilities, enjoying the Aqua Spa, or playing on the Championship golf course, they are engaging with a truly elevated standard of care and quality. Our strategy remains focused on being the premier leisure destination in the region, ensuring our facilities continue to serve our core community for the next three decades.”

China Fleet Country Club is owned by the China Fleet Trust, a military charity dedicated to the welfare of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines community.