China Fleet Country Club, one of the South West’s premier health and leisure destinations, today commemorates the 30th Anniversary of its official opening by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales (now His Majesty King Charles III) in December 1995.
Originally founded in Hong Kong to support the welfare of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines community, the Club moved to Cornwall and was established via the China Fleet Trust. It maintains strong modern ties, including those with HMS TAMAR and 47 Commando (Raiding Group) Royal Marines and open to the wider community too.
Dean Bennett, Managing Director of China Fleet Country Club, commented on the significant milestone: “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.”
Over three decades, the Club has grown into a high-value, multi-generational destination and economic engine for the South West.
Since 1995, China Fleet Country Club has established itself as a leading provider, offering a comprehensive destination for tourism, business conferences, private events, golf, weddings, health, wellbeing and leisure. The Club’s journey is a testament to providing exceptional facilities, including its championship golf course, luxury spa, and extensive fitness centre, while honouring its military heritage.
Over the past 30 years, the Club has achieved:
- Investment: Multi-million-pound enhancements, including the recent substantial gym refurbishment, the high-tech Toptracer Driving Range, new look Brasserie and a dedicated Barn Spa, ensuring facilities remain cutting-edge.
- Impact: As a major local employer and a key leisure destination, the Club contributes significantly to the local economy, capturing the local community, the commuter market, the experience-driven Cornish staycation market, and tourism from both the UK and overseas.
- Awards: Consistent high-level recognition, including the recent Gold for Business Events Venue of the Year at the Cornwall Tourism Awards 2025, solidifying its prestige and ongoing commitment to excellence.
Miles Coleman, the Club’s Deputy General Manager and Director, who is one of the Club’s longest standing employees was at the official opening 30 years ago: “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.”
Dean Bennett, Managing Director of China Fleet Country Club, concluded: “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.”
Visit www.china-fleet.co.uk to find out more.
