H.S. Colt was one of the founding members and the first Captain of the Club. By 1895 he had designed a full 18 holes which became the permanent course. Many alterations have been made since as the course has moved south from the marshy land towards the sea, but two of his original holes, the 12th and 17th, survive to this day.

The Old Course consists of two nine-hole loops to the east and west of the Clubhouse, unlike many of the old 'out and back' links. As a result it has an intimate feel. Although measuring only 6,500 yards off the 'black' tees, it presents a most demanding par of 68, with only two par fours under 435 yards, especially in the prevailing cross wind. Rye is famous for the challenge of its five short holes. The often-repeated words, "the most difficult shots at Rye are the second shots to the par threes," are richly deserved.