Broadway Golf Club

Having listened to Abba throughout my adult life I have a sneaking respect for all those "stars" who stopped acting and tried singing - Pierce Brosnan might be a damned fine Bond but a mellow tenor he ain't. But if you've seen the show, watched the DVD or seen it at the cinema it really is a fun thing to do that leaves you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling. I know it's a particular woman thing but even blokes can enjoy a harmless amusing couple of hours where no-one dies little swearing and general feelgood is all about despite the economic climate.

And so to Broadway - yes in the Cotswolds on the edge of Fish Hill with panoramic views from the clubhouse over most of the south Midlands.

It really is a delightful place - with a hugely warm welcome from the pro-shop and the general manager.
It is recognised as one of THE 19th holes with catering and welcome awards galore - and a reputation it richly deserves.

The course is mature and the front nine is rather cleverly built in to the ridge edge. Driving is generous but not always advised as the approaches to the greens require skill and finesse. The greens are fast and have borrows that will kill a good card in an instant. Position on the green is crucial and should you dare to try the long down hill putt on the 9th take your chipping wedge for the shot back (it saves you looking silly to all those that have done the same who are watching from the huge glass windows of the balcony clubhouse.)

The back nine is much flatter and the careful placing of bunkers again makes accuracy all important. Slippery greens abound and with only 3 par 3s on the course you need to take your chances on the shorter par 4s to run a good card. The monster 16th stands up with a drive needed straight between two drystone walls (a feature of a number of holes which will catch all levels of golfer. The saucer like green gives a nightmare finish to what looks a simple big hitting hole.

And then back to the clubhouse for a drop of real ale sourced locally served by smiling staff and a chat with the members who are always keen to know where you hail from and what you thought of the course.

Me - I love it - and its one of the best in the country.......... "take a chance... take a chance" Pierce Brosnan eat your heart out.