Leeds Castle Golf Club

Fantastic value for a great little knock

it doesn't start well because the car park is shared with the pub on the main road. You then walk down the path to a flat roof 'cabin' which serves as the Pro Shop and the Changing Rooms and the practice facilities comprise a small putting green (well kept though) and a net for loosening up.

However, lady in pro shop very friendly and cost was a very, very reasonable £9 for 9 holes plus with 10 minute tee times you were not rushed.

The course itself is short (2,600 yards off the back tees) but it's very well laid out and every hole is different with trees, bushes and rolling landscape making sure none are easy. Every shot has to be thought about.

The first few holes are good but the 5th, well the 5th is a Par 5 which starts on the raised ground behind Leeds Castle (reputedly the prettiest castle in the country) and runs down the hills to teh green which is next to moat. You then play a Par 3 away from the Castle and then play a Par 4 along the side of the moat and then another Par 4 away from the castle - fabulous views of the castle from three different angles.

The greens were generally big and well kept but needed a haircut. Some of the tees looked like the rabbits had been partying all night but overall the course was presented in good order for a public course.

In summary - the course layout, the interesting holes, the challenge, the views, the price (£9 !)... If the clubhouse had been more than a fridge with cold drinks and snacks and the practice facilities had been more than a net Leeds Castle Golf Club would definitely rank very highly in the TSG Top Ranked Courses.