The present golf course is situated on the grounds of old local Manor house which had 2000 acres of land. Various ownerships, death of the last owner (Edmund Byron, but not related to Lord Byron), the Estate was broken up, sold by lots etc. The park became the golf course(leased to Croydon Council), 150 types of mature trees providing a perfect setting with the addition of numerous bunkers (USED to one for each day of the year). A Harry Colt design, circa 1920/1938.
A pleasant layout, some spectacular views over Central London with wide well kept fairways, a few were sloping., lots of bunkers (did not count the CURRENT numbers) providing the challenge with the clumps of mature trees always strategically placed, dog legs etc. No water hazards, nor ditches but interesting all the same. Our party varying from 16 to 22 hdcp (not counting me) thought the course was attractive & perfect for a round of golf. I expect, summer play should provide high scores if the game is well managed as the course is not excessively long but the Driver is useful as there are 2 long Par 5s (over 500 yards).
My favourite:
Hole 3, Par 3 (170/158/149 yds), very picturesque and always a dilemma for strong hitters, but do they choose the right club ?????
Fairways: excellent condition. Some rough, better avoided, or take penalty drop..
Bunkers: everywhere.. some had standing water... but enough room to take a free drop within. There seemed to be a lot of bunker play today....
Greens had interesting shapes etc. but it was that time of the year, yet again, where work had been done and the putts were not going in as expected.
Easy way finding. Green Fees was £10 after 2pm, and plenty of time for a 4-ball to go round before dark. The course was empty, the sum was shining, the company was great fun. Pro-shop: friendly reception, stock a little depleted but all the necessary golf sundries available. Clubhouse is situated in what was the old Manor House, the décor needs a little attention but it feels cosy and one can appreciate the original features still so apparent. Works is in progress as I managed to speak to the Maintenance Manager who also told me about the "Gun Room", the "Basement Room" & the "Cellar" . A very attractive stained glass ceiling over the reception area, it certainly must have been a very pleasant place to live in the 19th/20th century.
Must mention the extremely pleasant outside terrace area, with hanging baskets still in full bloom around the L shaped veranda, a pergola covered with grape vine, a little wooden bridge leading to the golf course and the practice putting green. Will post some photos. Friendly staff and members, 2 bar areas + dining area. A popular place for golf stay, also for travellers & locals.
Would like to return as easily accessible, friendly all around & good value. I personally did not PLAY a proper round of golf due to injury, but managed some shots from a 100 yards mark and some putting & hope to use "my electronic pen" to keep the scores on my next visit...THE END... no, not quite...
For some unknown reason, I had programmed my GPS to Selsdon Park so made an interesting little detour, but that was a blessing in disguise as I discovered another superb golf course: PURLEY DOWNS, a "must play" course for many reasons... that will be another reading.
THE REAL END!
Date Wednesday, 16, October 2013