Nev Smith

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Nev Smith
23.2
TSG Events Played
134
Courses Played
231
Courses Reviewed
214
Scorecards Entered
658
About me: Just looking to play some new courses really.
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Age
61 - 70
Gender
Male
Location
Bracknell, Berkshire
Work
TBC
Joined TSG
2008 July
Available To Play
Anytime
Years Played
0
TSG Events Played
No
Walk or Cart
Walk Only
Etiquette Important
Yes
Preferred Format
TBC

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Latest 5 Scorecards

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Game Course H'cap Gross Score S/f Pts Slope / Rating Adj. Score Score diff New H'cap Index
13 Jul 2020 @ Rookwood Golf Course 22.6 112 22 110 / 65.2 109
45.0
23.2
10 Jul 2020 @ Oakland Park Golf Club 21.8 100 29 106 / 64.2 96
33.9
23.2
6 Jul 2020 @ Dummer Golf Club 25.0 99 33 122 / 69.2 98
26.7
23.2
29 Jun 2020 @ Merrist Wood Golf Club 27.6 102 34 135 / 71.4 102
25.6
23.2
22 Jun 2020 @ Bird Hills Golf Club 22.9 104 31 114 / 68.3 99
30.4
23.1

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Croydon
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Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???
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14.6
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My Course Reviews

More Course Reviews
Nev Smith
23.2

Shiskine Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely Course, Gorgeous Location

I can't say that everyone is going to be lucky enough to get the same weather I had today, calm and sunny, but this is still worth a trip no matter the weather. There are 7 par 3's and only one par 5 in amongst the twelve holes, but there are some very pretty holes in there, especially at the far at end of the course.

There are three blind par 3's where you're just aiming at a pole at the top of a grassy mound, which are probably the most intimidating holes. Depending on the number of tourists walking along the LH side of the 1st fairway, that can also get a bit hairy.

The fairways and tees were mostly in a great condition, although the greens had just been treated so I probably didn't see those at their best. I'd certainly play there again, although £26 for 12 holes on a short course is bordering on expensive.
Date Thursday, 17, September 2020
Nev Smith
23.2

Machrie Bay Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely Location

I'd been told by a couple of people to take a trip to Machrie Bay while on Arran, so I imagine that it's recently been in a better condition than it is now. The fairways were pretty wet underfoot after recent heavy rain, which happens at most courses, but the biggest letdown was the amount of moss on the greens. It's a shame because it's in a lovely occasion, and otherwise this is a very pleasant 9 hole course.

One thing to be aware of is the 2nd hole, which is not very obvious even once you find the tee (which is also fairly well hidden), so maybe ask someone before you head out. The 9th green is also well hidden, this time on the other side of the road and hidden behind bushes. I guess the clue is in the name of the hole (The Road Hole).
Date Tuesday, 15, September 2020
Nev Smith
23.2

Lamlash

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short, Hilly with Gorgeous View

Not a long course, but in those 4000 yards are some of the prettiest holes you're likely to play anywhere. This is especially true of the holes heading back towards the town and the backdrop of Holy Isle.

This isn't a flat course however, and I was warned that I should consider a buggie. It certainly is worth thinking about if you have issues with climbing, as there aren't many holes that don't appear to be either very uphill or downhill.

There are 11 par 3's, 7 par 4's (from the yellows), and only a couple of holes over 300 yards. The greens all seemed to be raised, so bring your chipping A game if you're not hitting the green (I didn't).

I simply loved this course.
Date Monday, 14, September 2020
Nev Smith
23.2

Corrie Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Scenic 9 Holer

This isn't a long course, it's 1600 yards from the yellows, but it's a lovely way to spend an hour or so.

There's a bit of a climb to get to the 7th tee and the views back down to the Firth of Clyde, but it's worth it. There's an even better view from the 2nd tee, where you're looking up at the mountains that surround Glen Sannox. This is one pretty course.

A number of the holes feel like they're a little to close to each other, but at the same time there's a fair bit of room if you're going to miss the smallish greens. The tightest hole is definately the short par 4 9/18th.
Date Sunday, 13, September 2020
Nev Smith
23.2

Eastbourne Downs Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

It Can Get Windy!

I played here the day after Storm Francis and it was still really windy, and we quickly found out that there are few places on this course that give you much shelter outside of the clubhouse. I'm certainly happy I played here though, as this is a really lovely course with some really pretty holes. The downhill 5th and 6th holes are both very pleasant on the eyes, although these certainly aren't the only ones, and there are plenty of gorgeous views of the South Downs and over Eastbourne.

The fairways are generally fairly generous, so it's a course that will suit all handicaps, and the greens were looking really good. This isn't a flat course, but it didn't seem to be overly strenuous either. There is a bit of a climb up to the par 3 12th though.

I'll certainly look to go back again soon. Maybe not when it's quite so windy though
Date Sunday, 13, September 2020
Nev Smith
23.2

Thorney Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

A course I hadn't played for well over ten years, but it certainly won't be a ten years wait before I play here again. Not an overly long course, but a decent amount of bunkers, a few ponds and tree lined fairways means that you still have to work for a decent score.

The fairways and greens were in really good condition, and this is the first time I've seen a green fairway after the hot summer we've just had.

There's a really nice clubhouse, and the bar staff seemed to be very welcoming and friendly.

The only slight downside is the noise, which comes at you from the M25, the Paddington line, and Heathrow airport. However, don't let this put you off, because this is a very lovely course and well worth playing.
Date Sunday, 13, September 2020
Nev Smith
23.2

Richings Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Pleasant Enough

I played here after a lot of hot & sunny days, so I doubt that I saw the course at its best. That all said, it's certainly pleasant enough that I'd come back again soon.

There seems to be two distinct sections to the course, The first 6 holes are fairly open, and the fairways seem to have struggled in the recent heatwave. The next 12 holes are much more tree lined, and while the fairways are still brown, they look like they'll come back quite quickly given a spell of wet weather. The greens were all in great condition.

There are a couple of tight holes, and there's water that comes into play on a few holes (15, 16, and in front of the 18th green) but generally this is a mostly forgiving and short-ish course that players of all handicaps can enjoy.
Date Sunday, 13, September 2020
Nev Smith
23.2

Oakland Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short & Pretty Parkland Course

There are seven par 3's, only two par 5's, plus five par 4's under 320 yards, so this certainly isn't the longest course you're ever going to play. What it lacks in length it makes up for in the condition though, with excelent greens, tees and fairways. It's not a course that always makes it easy for you either, with a number of narrow, tree lined fairways, and a few ponds here and there. If you're wide from the tee (like I was), then be prepared to reload.

The most memerable hole was probably the par 4 9th, which has trees up the left, and a pond on the right that eats into the fairway right where you want to land your tee shot.

I wsn't able to check out the clubhouse due to the plague that's overstaying it's welcome, but from what I could see it looked very pleasant.

Not long, but certainly worth a visit.
Date Friday, 10, July 2020
Nev Smith
23.2

Henley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous Course, Gorgeous Location

I pretty much only have good things to about Henley GC. It started with the very pleasant welcome in the well stocked proshop, and continued once out in the scenic Oxfordshire countryside.

Be aware that a lot of the holes on this course are on the top of a hill, and that to get to those holes it involves some climbing. I could be wrong, but most of that climb seems to come on one hole, the par four sixth. Once up there though, it's mostly level walking until it's time to head back down again (16th & 17th holes).

The whole course is very scenic and there are are some very lovely holes to be played. You can take your pick on your favourites really. Mine starts with the short par 3 thirteenth, which I imagine is georgeous once the surrounding oaks have leaves on them. Both the downhill 16th and 17th holes have wonderful views as a backdrop, but that might just be my lungs choosing those particular holes.

The greens had recently been treated so it would be unfair for me to be too critical of those, but I would expect them to be better once Spring is here. The fairways seemed fairly freindly, I don't recall any super scary tees shots anyway, and most of the tees were in great condition for early March.

I don't know if it's open all of the time, it was on the Monday that I played here, but there's a halfway hut after the 9th.

My advice is play here and make up your own mind about Henley GC. I'm pretty sure you'll enjoy it though.
Date Monday, 16, March 2020
Nev Smith
23.2

Waterhall Golf Club (closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Excellent views (probably)

It wasn't really tricky finding Waterhall, my GPS pretty much led me to the front door, but seeing it was another matter. The mist meant that greens were often hidden until the last minute (which gave me a perfect excuse for my score!). This was a shame though, as from what I could tell there are some excellent holes and wonderful views.

The course plays out in two loops, first returning you to the clubhouse at the 7th, and then you don't see it again until the 18th (in the weather we had today, we almost never saw it at all!). This isn't a flat course, I barely even remember a flat hole, so if you have any issues with climbs then maybe give it a miss.

The holes I remember most are the 9th, 10th, and (I think) the 14th. All of them involves a climb to the green, and I imagine all are very pleasing on the eye good weather.

There's been a lot of wet weather over the previous couple of months, and the expectation might well have been a course that's been struggling to cope. This is especially so given that it rained throughout our round. However, apart from a number of very damp tees, thanks to the chalk base it was pretty much water off a duck's back. The greens, which were frequently small, scarcely look troubled by the rain.

Most of the fairways were very generous, and I imagine that it's a course that people can score well on. The bunkers didn't look especially great though.

The shame is that this course is due to closed by the council at the end of March due to poor numbers. It's one I'd happily travel to to play. My hope is to play it again over the next couple of months and maybe see it on a sunny day. I imagine it's well worth seeing.
Date Thursday, 30, January 2020
Nev Smith
23.2

North Shore Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely Course, Lots of Water

From the warm welcome at the pro shop to the final putt at the 18th, I totally enjoyed my round at North Shore. The course was in really good condition, with the greens especially quick and smooth.

There's lots of water to be seen, although not all of it should(!) come into play. There's a lovely mix of holes, with some tighter driving fairways to make up for the more generous ones.

My favourite hole was the 12th, with a carry over water from the tee, and a funnel of trees narrowing the landing area the further you hit it (not one of my better played holes, sadly).

It's a little bit out from Disney (30 minutes or so), but closer if you're staying near to the airport. If you don't mind the drive, then North Shore's a great place to play at a very reasonable rate.
Date Wednesday, 13, November 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Arlington Ridge

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely Florida Course

I was advised by a playing partner to give Arlington Ridge a go, and was very happy I did. This isn't the toughest test you'll face, and the fairways are pretty generous, but the course is really pleasing on the eye, and the conditions are really good.

There's food, drink, and practise facilities, so everything you might want from a trip to a golf club.
Date Friday, 08, November 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Red Fox Executive GC

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

9 Holes of Fun

This is my third time at one of The Villages 40+ executive courses, and this one certainly didn't change my mind on how good they are. Red Fox has water pretty much on every hole, with an intimidating carry at the 9th, and contoured greens that have to be taken seriously. The condition of the course is very good, especially considering the amount of golfers that play here. My advice is just go out and enjoy a very scenic course.
Date Wednesday, 06, November 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Continental Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

okay

I maybe didn't see this course at it's best, and it is due to close shortly for reseeding. There were certainly lots of bare areas on the fairways, which was a shame as in decent condition this would be a good place to play. Not that it's really bad, it just could be better.

The fairways are generally pretty generous, so this is a course that would suit all standards of golfers. The tees were functional, but not especially great, but the frequently sloping greens were decent and ran well. The bunkers I went in all had loads of sand in.

I'd definitely play here again, although hopefully there will be more grass on the fairways.
Date Tuesday, 05, November 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Loblolly Executive Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely par 3 course

This is one of 43 (at the time of writing) executive courses in the Villages, and is the sister course to Longleaf which shares the same car park. There isn't as much water on this course, and is possibly a little easier than Longleaf, but the condition of the tees and greens is certainly as good.

The Executive courses in the Villages get a LOT of use, so it's testament to the green keepers that they're able to keep them in such good condition.

It's the perfect place to sharpen up your short game, or just a great place to get 90 minutes of golf in.

One warning if you're looking to walk here, there's a ten minute trek between the 6th green and 7th tee.
Date Saturday, 02, November 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Longleaf Executive Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Decent Executive 9 Hole Course

This is one of the numerous Villages executive courses, and is one of the newer ones having been opened in 2018. With only one short par 4, this is a fun course where you can shoot low if you play some decent golf. It isn't without its hazards though, and water comes into play on a number of the holes, especially on the 7th where almost anything right will risk a watery grave.

There isn't a club house, and the practise facilities end at the practise green, but the greens were in really good condition and the layout is well thought out,
Date Saturday, 02, November 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Weston Turville Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Very good condition, very nice course!

I had read mixed reviews of Weston Turville, although most recent ones I'd seen were fairly positive. It certanly worked out that way, as the course was in a pretty impressive condition. The fairways, which at a lot of courses are still struggling due to last year's summer heatwave, were a match for the high quality of the tees and greens.

This isn't a long course, but most holes are tree lined and a number of fairways aren't especially wide, so you'll still have to work to get a decent score.

I found the course to be quite delightful, and one that I certainly would visit regularly if I only lived a lot closer. Of my 'on course' tips, one would be to be aware of the pond that guards the front of the 14th green. I was quite happy with my approach until it suddenly disappeared from view. My second is to get a course guide, or take a photo of the course layout on the wall outside the pro shop. There are a few tees that aren't especially well signposted.

One other plus from my visit today was the welcome in the pro shop, which was everything you could hope for.
Date Tuesday, 02, July 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Royal St Davids Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Scenic links course in shadow of Harlech Castle

With seven par 4's over 400 yards from the yellows, this isn't a course to be taken lightly. Up until the 13th the holes are mostly long with reasonably generous fairways, but that changes from the par 3 14th, a 209 yard par 3 partly hidden by dunes. From there on it's a battle to keep your score going (not that that was an issue for me today!), with the pick of the bunch being the par 4 16th. The 16th is a slightly downhill dogleg from a raised tee, and is probably the prettiest hole on the course.

You don't actually get to see the adjacent sea from the course, but there are lots of views of the mountains, and there are a couple of holes where your eyes are drawn to Harlech Castle high above you. It's a lovely location for a golf course.

I couldn't fault the tees and greens, which were in really great condition. Not all of the fairways were up to this standard however, and maybe I expected more given the cost of the green fees. This is a lovely course to play, I'm just on the fence about whether it's worth the cost.
Date Wednesday, 19, June 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Nefyn & District Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Wonderful scenery, Gorgeous Course

Nefyn has been on my 'must play' list for some years, and the worry was that it wouldn't live up to expectations. On this occasion I'm happy to say that it did.

The bit of the course which seems to divide opions is the 'old 9' or Point, which heads out to sea and back over a narrow peninsular. Golfers share the route with lots of tourists there for the spectacular views, so make sure your insurance is up to date. Some of the footpaths stray way closer than you might like.

The holes are a bit quirky, and I spoke to someone after the round that clearly didn't enjoy the experience, but I thought it was awesome. There are so many great looking holes on this 9. The 4th has to be played over the rocks and cliffs to find the fairway, while the 5th is played from alongside the lighthouse. At weekends these holes are closed in the afternoon, but with 27 holes you'll still get to play 18 seperate holes.

The remaining 18 holes (The Front & New) appear to be far more standard fare, although still very enjoyable and in a spectacular setting. Fairways on these holes (or rather on the Front holes that I played) are wide and friendly, and a pleasure to play. They're also a lot flatter (but not flat) than the climbs and drops that you'll face on the Point.

I didn't really get to experience the club house, but the girl in the pro shop was very helpful and welcoming.

Did I love playing here? Totally! And if you get a chance, about 100 yards from the GC car park there's an ice cream parlour that definitely deserves your attention!
Date Tuesday, 18, June 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Pedham Place Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Undulating

I'm not entirely sure what I expected after reading some of the reviews, but it's safe to say Pedham Place exceeded them.

There are lots of undulating fairways separated by mounds, a good mix of generous and tighter fairways, doglegs, raised greens and strategically placed bunkers.

There are quite a few great looking holes, and throughout the tees, fairways and greens were all in really good condition.

Add in a very pleasant welcome at reception and all the practice facilities that you could ask for, and you've got a course that's well worth visiting.
Date Saturday, 01, June 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Witney Lakes Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

For a course that has 'lakes' in the name, I maybe expected to see more water. It is still a nice course though. It's fairly flat, so very easy walking. There are a couple of holes where they could certainly provide a sign to get you to the next tee the (the 9th and 17th, I think).

The fairways mostly seem fairly wide from the tee, but the 2nd cut creeps in a lot closer to the middle than you may think. Having played it only the once I didn't remember too many of the holes, but the par 3 8th (water from tee to green) and the par 4 18th (water and clubhouse left of the green) appeared to be the nicest looking. The whole course will test you though.

The course is certainly a pleasure to play, without ever really being spectacular. The tees and greens are in good condition, there are nice practice facilities to get you warmed up, and the clubhouse (part of the hotel) seemed nice enough too.
Date Tuesday, 21, May 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Abbey Moor Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Decent 9 holer

The course is less than 5000 yards, but don't be fooled into thinking you only have to turn up to get a good score. The fairways aren't especially wide, and stray drives can lead to tricky second shots from the trees, but keep it straight off the tee and you should shot low.

The condition of the course is very acceptable, with decent greens and fairways that have a good length of grass on them (too many courses are still struggling from last summer's heat).

The clubhouse isn't the best, and there isn't a pro shop anymore, but There was a great welcome behind the bar and you're mainly there for the course anyway. I don't think it will let you down.
Date Monday, 20, May 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Shendish Manor Hotel & Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

As has been mentioned in other reviews, there's a bit of a 'warm up' start to this course. There's a section from the 2nd through to the 6th where it's fairly flat and reasonably open, I'm guessing this bit of the course has been added on at some point, before the course starts to get a bit more interesting.

While it does get a little tighter from the 8th onwards, there are a fair number of shortish par 4's where you can score well. The course has a number of good looking holes, the nicest of which to my mind is probably the par 4 14th, which is a slightly uphill dog leg right. The 18th is a par 5 climb back up to the club house.

While it isn't the longest, it certainly is a pleasant course, and well worth a visit.
Date Saturday, 18, May 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Bramley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous course

You pretty much know as you drive into the car park that this James Braid designed course isn't going to let you down, and after that it's just about enjoying the round.

This isn't the longest course, there are only a couple of par 5's, but the fairways aren't always the widest and the greens have a lot of bunkers protecting them, so you're going to have to play well to score well.

There are so many varied, pretty and interesting holes, that it's hard to pick a favourite. The par 3's all seem to be very pleasing on the eye, with the pick probably being the downhill 17th, where a lake awaits all tee shots straying left.

As for the condition, the tees and fairways were really good, while the greens were decent without being spectacular. The bunkers were the only area which I thought were a little disappointing, with very little sand on top of any of the (numerous!) bunkers I visited.

This certainly isn't a flat course, and expect to do a decent amount of uphill walking over the first 5 holes. After that it flattens out a little. The walk is worth it though.

Whilst I didn't visit the clubhouse, it does look a very impressive building standing above the 1st/18th holes. The welcome in the pro shop was very warm and friendly too.

In case you haven't worked it out yet, I totally recommend Bramley GC!
Date Thursday, 16, May 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Magnolia Park Golf & Country Club (closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Long and scenic, but mostly long

If you're looking at scoring well then you'd better hit it long, because this course is 6556 yards from the yellows, and six of the par 4's are 400+ yards. To be fair, the mostly wide fairways do allow you to open your shoulders, so that helps a little.

A lot of the courses I've played on recently are still struggling from last summer's heat, but that doesn't seem to be an issue with the quite lovely Magnolia Park's fairways. The greens and tees were very acceptable too.

As for the holes, there's a very scenic stretch from 5 through to 8, assuming you can block out the M40 running through the view. The 12th is a par 4 that forces you to choose between going left or right of a bunker and a line of trees that splits the fairway. Left is shorter and tighter, right is longer and wider. I chose the trees, but I suggest you don't do that. The 15th is a beast of a par 4 - 425 yards, and with a huge lake in front of the green.

I can't imagine that you'd be disappointed with a round here. Along with an excellent course, there's a clubhouse and practise facilities to match.
Date Tuesday, 14, May 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Mitcham Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely greens

First time playing at Mitcham, and it turned out to be a fairly pleasant experience. Mostly you're playing to fairly generous fairways, although there are a few where you might be wondering about the tram lines bordering the course.

You certainly won't have to worry about any climbs, as the terrain is as flat as they come. I say flat, although some of the fairways are often anything but, and on days when the ground is firmer I can imagine a few unusual bounces.

The greens seem to have a lot of protection from numerous bunkers, but miss those and you'll be playing on really good greens. I was surprised how good they were given that we're in the back end of January, and they are a total credit to the greens staff.

There is one stretch, over the other side of tram lines, where the holes seem to cross each other. There's also one hole, the 7th I think, where you have a small copse of trees guarding the green. Otherwise the course is good without being great, and there are only a few memorable holes. It's certainly worth playing though.

The clubhouse is certainly decent, but the toilets and changing areas look like they've just been refurbished and have a “I wasn't expecting that” wow factor. I can only speak for the Men's changing rooms, btw.

Date Saturday, 26, January 2019
Nev Smith
23.2

Chartridge Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely location

I probably didn't see the course at its best, and it looked like it had suffered more than most through the hot summer we've been having. The greens, tees and fairways looked in need of rain, which is a shame as the course layout has lots of positives. The par 3's especially enhanced the experience, and the course itself is in a very scenic location.

The course appears to be on the side of a hill, so expect a few climbs and a number of sloping fairways. I have no idea how anyone is supposed to play the 5th hole without it running into the right-hand rough though.

In addition to the pleasant welcome in the pro-shop, there were quite a number of red kites following me around the course.
Date Tuesday, 07, August 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Avington Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short 9 holer in lovely setting

Opened in 1995 within the grounds of Avington Park, and with views across the River Itchen valley, this is certainly a scenic location for a 9 hole course.

The holes are either par 3's or short(ish) par 4's, with most of the defense coming in the shape of very small greens and well raked bunkers (they were raking them as I played, something a lot of courses could learn from). The greens looked like they'd suffered a little in the recent heat wave, but they ran fairly quick and true. The rough can be fairly brutal if you find it too.

The clubhouse and shop are both pretty small/basic affairs, but there was a warm welcome in the shop.

At 3800 yards for 18 holes, the course is probably more suitable to higher handicap players, and lower handicap players would probably find it too easy. That said, there's lots to enjoy about playing here if you're in the area.
Date Tuesday, 31, July 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Blacknest Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely Parkland Course

Although the course is fairly short, 5478 yards from the yellows, it is far trickier than you might first think. The frequently tree lined fairways aren't the widest, but there's a good mix of holes, and quite a few of them where there are opportunities to drop shots. Water, ditches and bunkers play a part on most holes.

The greens aren't huge, but they were in a very decent condition, and with the recent hot/dry weather it made finding them a little awkward.

The clubhouse is on the smaller side, but it is very friendly and the food was good, and the welcome there and in the proshop was very pleasant.

I certainly intend going back again soon!
Date Tuesday, 26, June 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Hawk's Landing Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely Course with lots of water

Hawk's Landing is course that's on the doorstop of the Orlando attractions, and as a result you'll be paying a little bit more for the priviledge. Is it worth it? The course has a lot of varied, pretty and interesting holes, the greens were as quick and smooth as any I've played recently, and if you play well then you'll really enjoy the experience. Have an off day though and you'll really see it on the scorecard.

To get the best from your round I think you'll have to choose your tees carefully. There's a lot of water in front of quite a few of the greens, and you really don't want to keep taking that approach shot with a longer club. There's lots of sand too, just in case the water doesn't get you. I'd suggest that the lower your handicap, the more suitable this course will be to you.

The clubhouse, practise facilities and pro shop are all top class, so if you can get a deal and have your A game, then you can do far worse than Hawk's Landing.
Date Thursday, 21, June 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Disney's Magnolia

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fantastic course in excellent condition

Disney's Magnolia is one of two 18 hole courses close to the front door of the Magic Kingdom, the other being the Palm. Both were used during the years that the PGA's Disney Classic used to be held here.

There's everything you might look for in a golf club, from excellent practice facilities to a lovely clubhouse and pro shop.

The Magnolia has 5 sets of tees ranging from 5127 yards all the way up to 7516 yards, and with mostly generous, tree lined fairways this is a course that's suitable for all handicaps. There's lots of water, I think it's present on 13 of the holes, and lots of sand, so plenty to make you think about the club you're going to choose. There's also a Mickey Mouse shaped bunker on hole 6.

The course is visually gorgeous, and the condition of the tees, fairways and the contoured greens were all really good. The toughest hole, in my mind anyway, is saved for the 18th. The fairway narrows a little more than most of the other holes, and it also happens to be the longest par 4 from any of the respective tees.

It is one of the more expensive courses in the Disney area, but if you get a good deal here then you certainly won't be disappointed.
Date Wednesday, 20, June 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

My new favourite Disney area course

Crooked Cat Course - From the moment you arrive you just know that this course isn't going to let you down, and it turns out that it's just as lovely to play as you get from your first impressions.

The tees were good, and the greens were simply a pleasure to play on. The fairways in places perhaps didn't hit the condition of the rest of the course, but that's probably just me being picky.

With mostly wide fairways and numerous tees, this is a course that's playable for all handicaps. The greens are pretty well protected by lots of bunkers, and a few have some water to worry about. Once you're on the putting surface there are more than a few breaks to contend with too.

The clubhouse and proshop are lovely, and everyone working there was a pleasure to deal with.

Highly recommended!
Date Wednesday, 13, June 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Shingle Creek Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lots of water

There really isn't a lot to dislike about playing at Shingle Creek. The course itself winds around the huge Rosen Shingle Creek hotel, and it all oozes luxury. Actually, I haven't decided whether I like the hotel. I can't make out whether it's gorgeous or ghastly, but it's certainy one of those.

The proshop is huge, you get a really good welcome, they have free valet parking, GPS in the carts, and a starter who has opposing views to mine on the merits of the current president.

The course itself certainly isn't one of the cheaper courses around Orlando, and in this case you get what you pay for. The tees, fairways and greens were all in very good condition, although I came away not really remembering a lot of the holes. They were all nice, there was lots of water, tricky well protected greens, but I came away thinking that maybe I expected it to be more memorable.

The fairways are mostly wide, and with lots of tees to choose from it's a course that's suitable for all handicaps.

My playing partner had it down as one of his favourite courses in the area though so perhaps it's just me, but I'd certainly be up for playing it again.
Date Wednesday, 13, June 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

West Byfleet Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely Course

Driving past West Byfleet GC on the A245 gives little away of the delights it has in store, and even once you're in the car park there's little to get excited about. However, once the course comes into view you just know that you're at one of the nicer courses that Surrey has to offer.

The course is very much tree lined, although I don't remember many holes where the trees made the fairways tight. Not that there aren't any tricky tee shots, because the large number of very well maintained bunkers means that you'll still have to hit good shots to hit the fairways. The greens are also well protected by bunkers. Water (I think) only comes into play in front of the pretty, and tricky, par 3 13th.

As for the condition of the course, the fairways were great, the greens were excellent, and the fairways don't let the course down either.

I would say that all standards of golfer would enjoy playing here.

The only downside to playing here is the huge number of trains that thunder past the course, but perhaps that isn't the worst thing in the world.

I didn't use it, but that clubhouse looks really lovely, and there's a well stocked pro shop with a warm welcome for visitors.

West Byfleet is a course that'd been around for 112 years by the time that I finally got to play it, and after playing it once I'm now hoping I don't have to wait quite as long to visit it again.
Date Friday, 25, May 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Bramshaw Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Manor Course

Having played the Forest course the day before, I was expecting a bit of a step up in quality from the Manor course. I certainly got that and more. The Manor course is one that you'll happily drive that little bit further to play.

It's mostly tree-lined, but not tight enough to make it scarily so. I would say that pretty much any standard of golfer can play here and get a fair test of their game. There are some ditches to watch out for, so my tip is to make sure you take a look at the picture guide by the tee before each hole.

As for the quality of the course, the tees, greens and fairways were all in beautiful condition. The course is simply a great mix of holes that are interesting, pretty and enjoyable to play.
Date Monday, 07, May 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Bramshaw Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Forest Course

First thing to say is if you're playing the Forest course, don't take you clubs out of the car when you get to the Bramshaw clubhouse/pro shop. The Forest course is actually about half a mile away, and when you get there there's nothing there apart from the 1st tee and a car park.

I say this not having played the Manor course yet, but the Forest course does clearly appear to be the lesser of the two courses. We were told that the club are only allowed to do work to the greens and the tees, so the fairways are left to nature and the numerous cows and horses that wander around. Hoof marks are everywhere, along with other substances best found on rose beds. The greens and tees are very decent though.

I think I only saw two or three 150 yard markers out on the course, so be prepared for a few waits while golfers shuffle clubs until they pick one that might be right. If you were playing behind me today then I apologise for doing that!

The fairways are wide. Very wide! I think the first hole that really feels anything close to tight is the 9th, and after that it opens up again. I only saw a few holes that had any bunkers on, and most of the course's protection comes from streams in front or behind the greens, and a number of raised greens that make sure only accurate approach shots remain on the putting surface.

There are some lovely holes on the course and its certainly worth giving a go, but I imagine that it's probably suited best to mid to high handicappers.

The welcome in the (well stocked) pro shop was everything you'd hope for, and as for the clubhouse, it's just really lovely. There's a wonderful balcony for sitting out and watching the world go by. Or the Bramshaw GC bit of the world anyway.
Date Saturday, 05, May 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Carswell Golf & Country Club (Closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Very nice course

If you take away nothing else from this review then take this: The fairway you see as you stand at the 1st tee is NOT the 1st fairway. It looks like it should be, but it isn't. The one you want is actually the one to right of that, the one that looks like it shouldn't be. Also, the 5th tee is to the right of 4th tee. You'll be glad of that information as you wander around the 4th green wondering where to go next.

There's at least one more instance where the next tee isn't especially obvious (after playing the 8th), but I don't want to suggest that Carswell is a negative experience, because it really isn't. This is a very tidy, easy walking course, that's quite scenic in places. The tees are in great condition, the greens look like being a cut away from being very good too. The fairways seem to get a little narrower on the back 9, but none are really what you would call tight. The bunkers aren't the best, some had grass growing in them, and some looked like you'd struggle to get a rake to go through them, but keep out of them and you don't have to care what they're like.

The clubhouse has been converted out of an old farmhouse, and it certainly compliments the course. The welcome at the pro shop was very pleasant, and the club has all the practise facilities you could ask for.

The question to ask is would you come back and play here again, and the answer here is a definite 'yes'.
Date Tuesday, 24, April 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Basset Down Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Friendly Course

Basset Down is a 9 Hole course that's not going to be the toughest challenge that you'll ever face. The fairways are mostly wide and welcoming, the bunkers are shallow and often hidden away to the sides of the greens, and if you play well then you're going to score well.

There are a couple of holes that will make you think, like the 2nd where the tee shot has to be in the right spot on the fairway to give you a short shot to the green, or the 7th where your tee shot has to find a gap between trees and bushes. Generally though the course is fairly open and probably better suited to mid and high handicap players.

I didn't see the course at it's best thanks to a lot of rain that's fallen over the weekend, but I was surprised to see that the greens and tees handled it far better than a lot of courses that I've played recently.

I imagine that the course is one that looks a lot better once the trees get some leaves on them, but there are some nice views and I imagine that the greens will be very good once Spring eventually gets here.

I'd just like to add what a pleasant & friendly welcome I got both before and after my round in the clubhouse.
Date Tuesday, 03, April 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Dale Hill Hotel & Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Great views

Woosnam Course - This is probably a review I should have saved until having played it in better conditions, because this was as wet a course as I've played for some time. Which is a shame, because there was lots to be positive about once you looked past the condition of the course.

The 1st hole on the Woosnam course is 581 yards from the yellows, so certainly not a hole that warms you up gently. In summer I imagine it would play a lot shorter than that, but hey, this is March and we've had a lot of rain.

After the first 4 holes I was wondering whether it was worth my 80 minute drive to get here, but I think the holes get a bit more interesting after that. The dog leg 6th is where the views of the surrounding hills opens up, and it was probably my favourite hole too. Find the fairway, and you get a view of the green down and left. The 9th is a great risk and reward hole, where the hole dog legs right over a ravine. The ideal tee shot will go down the RH side of the fairway, which is also where all of the trouble is if you miss. The 10th is probably the pick of a number of lovely par 3's.

The downside to all of this was the course conditions. Everywhere was wet underfoot, and even on the tees it was hard to find somewhere to tee the ball where you didn't feel your feet sinking into the turf. The bunkers were frequently under water, and those that weren't had almost no sand underneath the ball. The greens were in need of a cut, but clearly the weather had made sure that that couldn't happen.

Mostly the fairways were generous, and I think that it's a course that players of any ability could enjoy. That said, I don't think that there were too many holes which could be described as easy.

If you have issues with climbs then you probably want to consider getting a buggy, because this course will test your calf muscles.

I think I want to say that this is a good course that I played on a bad day, and I certainly wouldn't say no to giving it another go once the warmer weather got here.
Date Tuesday, 13, March 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Billingbear Park Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Vastly improved

It's been quite a while since I've played here, but in that time the course has really improved. There are far more grown trees giving a few of the holes some definition, there's a new clubhouse, and the course itself is in very good condition.

There's a 9 hole course (The Old Course) which when played twice stretches to 5587 yards from the yellows, plus a 9 hole par 3 course. This review is about the Old Course, although from memory the par 3 course was well worth playing.

Whilst the course isn't the longest, there aren't many holes that could be classed as easy. There are a number of holes with small, contoured greens, and 3 holes (6 if you're playing it twice) where water is very much in play. That said, it is a course that would suit all standards of player.

I was pleasantly surprised with the fairways and greens, which were in very good condition given the recent wet and snowy weather. The tees were decent. My favourite hole would be the 6th/15th, which is a very pretty dog leg hole around a lake.

The clubhouse is smaller than a lot of courses, but certainly pleasant enough, and there was a lovely welcome when paying the green fee.

I'll definately be back again soon.
Date Friday, 09, March 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Huntercombe Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Hidden Gem

Huntercombe, I don't think, is not a name that I remember croping up in a lot of lists of great courses, which is a shame because its an absolute delight. There are lots of excellent tree lined fairways, and greens that are as smooth as you could hope for. It's not without its quirks, with tiers on some greens that wouldn't look out of place on a rollar coaster.

I don't remember too many simple holes, but instead there were plenty with mounds and bush filled craters just waiting to claim an errant shot. I guess they're there to make up for the limited number of bunkers. The fairways generally aren't the widest you'll ever play, but they're not the tightest either. For the added views I'd probably pick holes 1 & 2 as my favourites, but there are a number of others that would run them close.

Is there anything that could be classed as a disappointment? The noise from the roads means you never quite get that away-from-it-all feel, and the flag colours don't really conform to the norm (FYI, blue flag front, red flag middle, and yellow flag back). Hey, the club is over 100 years old and it can do what it wants, and I should have just read the back of the card earlier. So, nothing to really stop you from playing here.

I played here for £30 for a January twilight time, which I think it certainly decent value. You won't see the course at its best, but you will see a course that's better at coping with winter than most other courses in the area. I didn't get to see inside the clubhouse, so I can't really comment on that.

There's a Red Kite on the club's merchandise, and I did get to see one or two flying above the course, so that was a bonus.

Would I recommend the course or go back? Yes to both!

*** Update - I just looked it up and Huntercombe featured in Golf World's top 100 courses in England ***
Date Tuesday, 30, January 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Chiltern Forest Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous Course

Quite simply this is one excellent golf course. The holes aren't the longest, but the climbs and drops, along with tree lined fairways that make sure that the driver can be left in the car, mean that few of the holes are easy pars. The greens and fairways were all in wonderful condition, although there were a number of mats for tees. It's is January, so I guess that's okay.

Standout holes? There are quite a few to choose from, but I am pretty sure that the par 3 8th, which almost needs an elevator to reach, is one that will stick in the memory. The 18th too, with it's two tier fairway, is as pretty as they come.

This is the complete opposite of an easy walking course, so if you have any issues with climbs then make sure that you get a buggy. Your calves will thank you later.

There was an excellent welcome at the pro shop, and the clubhouse has gorgeous views. If there's anything wrong with this club, then I didn't see it.
Date Tuesday, 16, January 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Risebridge Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Okay course

I'm not sure that first impressions really count here, as I was fearing the worst with the first three or four holes being very muddy (it's January). However, the course certainly dried up a little after that and it became a lot more enjoyable.

The course is okay, although there aren't a lot of holes that stick in the memory, and it appears to be in need of a little TLC. There's a mix of tree or mound lined fairways, mostly the fairways are nearer the generous side rather than tight, and there are a few where you have to be careful of ditches running across the landing area,

A number of the bunkers look like they are GUR, and I didn't see a single rake on the course. Most of the tees and greens were pretty soft, and today the greens were running really slowly.

I'm not sure that this is really a winter course, but I think I'd be okay with playing it again in the drier months.
Date Saturday, 13, January 2018
Nev Smith
23.2

Calcot Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Very nice course

This was my first time playing Calcot Park, but I'm hoping it won't be my last. The first impressions are excellent; the clubhouse is nice, you get a very good welcome in the pro shop, and the holes on display wet the appetite for the round to come.

After a fairly heavy frost the night before the greens were still very firm, and even without the frost these greens aren't easy. It seems like most of them are raised, and none of them are flat. They are all smooth and quick though, even now in the latter half of December.

The fairways are generally forgiving with only a few tighter driving holes, and just like the greens, they're in very good condtion. There are some wonderful looking holes here too, with the par 3 7th over the lake probably the most memorable. There are quite a few running it close though.

I played here as part of a £99/4 ball deal, and that was certainly worth the money. The summer rate would make me think twice though.
Date Tuesday, 19, December 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Verulam Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Hard to Fault

Playing Verulam for the first time in December, I probably didn't see the course at its best. That said, despite the damp conditions, I loved playing here. The tees were in excellent condition, the greens were smooth and quick, and the fairways were well worth finding.

The course unusually only has three par 3's and three par 5's, and while there are lots of trees to been seen, mostly the fairways are pretty generous and allow you to go with the driver from the tee.

There were lots of lovely looking holes, my favourite was probably the scenic 14th where water comes into play down the right hand side from the tee, but the hole which sticks out is the 17th. The 17th is a short par 3 that gets played over a fairly busy back road. There's a net to stop you from hitting the cars, but still...

The clubhouse and the welcome, both there and in the pro shop, were excellent. I can also recommend the huge bowl of chips from the bar menu.

The round was purchased as part of the TSG partner club deal, and is an absolute bargain. If you get a chance then I totally recommend playing here.
Date Sunday, 03, December 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Diamond Players Club Clermont

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

"Mountain" Course in Florida

This course actually changed it's name to Sanctuary Ridge some years back, but irrespective of its title it's well worth the trip.

A number of people had told me how good it was, and while I found the tees and fairways a little scruffy generally, the course itself has more than its fair share of really excellent holes. Forget the typical Florida course here, this one has some serious climbs and drops, and the design has used the terrain splendidly.

It does run through housing, but I don't remember any holes where the homes are really in play.

I've played a number of courses around Orlando where you'll enjoy the round, but come away not remembering any of the holes. That won't be the case here.
Date Saturday, 18, November 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Disney's Oak Trail

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely 9 hole warm up course

Disney's Oak Trail sits inside of it's far more famous Disney neighbour course, The Magnolia, and shares the outstanding clubhouse and facilities with that and The Palm.

This 9 hole course is walking only, which in itself is pretty unusual around Orlando. Despite it being described as a warm up to the other courses, it has it's own way of preventing you from beating it up. The fairways aren't the widest, and the raised greens can best be described as small to tiny.

There are some very pretty holes on the course, especially the stretch from 5 to 7, and there's an abundance of wildlife. I apparently wasn't the only turkey on the course! I'm not sure that it's worth the $39 prime time 9 hole fee, but if you get a deal then I'd suggest giving it a go.
Date Sunday, 12, November 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Alresford Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely Golfing Experience

There's almost nothing to dislike about a trip to Alresford GC, and pretty much everything to love. It's not the longest course you'll ever play, but there are a number of interesting and tricky holes, and you will have to bring a decent game with you to get a score you'll be happy with.

The condition was outstanding for the latter part of October, with very quick and tidy greens, and fairways and tees that clearly have been well looked after. Most bunkers even had at least a couple of rakes each, and the rakes are those posh ones with the V handle that stops the handle from laying in the sand. It almost made me want to visit a bunker or two during the round. Almost. Instead I visited the trees, but that's another story...

I'd say that the course is very fair, and I don't remember any holes that were especially narrow or tricky, although there are at least a couple of long par 4's that most players will do well to par. There are a few pretty par 3's, but my favourite looking hole is probably the par 5 17th, which doglegs both left and right, is up and down, and just very scenic.

The clubhouse is very pleasant, the members we encountered were friendly and welcoming, as was the greeting in the proshop. We also encountered deer, sheep, kestrels and red kites, but they pretty much ignored us.

This is a really lovely golf club and well worth a visit.
Date Sunday, 22, October 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Coombe Wood Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely Short Course

This a course that could easily be described as a hidden gem, especially as once you're out on the course you can easily forget how close you are to London. The course isn't the biggest you'll ever play, 5100 yards from the yellows, but you'll probably get to use a far wider choice of clubs from the tee than at most courses.

There are a few holes which are probably a little too close to each other, for example the 10th green which is sandwiched between the 1st and 7th tees, but overall the course is a very pleasant walk with some lovely holes. Most of the par 4's, and the one par 5, have fairly generous fairways, so this is a course that can be enjoyed by all handicaps. The lower handicappers would probably murder the course though.

The round started with a very pleasant welcome in the pro shop, and he was kind enough to give me a map of the course. I'd have probably found my way around without the map, but there are a couple of holes where the next tee isn't especially obvious.

As for the condition, I was surprised at just how good the fairways and greens were given that I played it in mid-October.
Date Thursday, 12, October 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Addington Court Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Very Scenic

This wasn't a great start. I'd bought a 7am tee time online, their website said the course was open from 7am, and when I got there I found out that they don't open until 7.30. The guy in the shop apologised, which was appreciated, but you kinda think that someone needs to be making sure the details don't get forgotten.

There are two 18 holes courses here, the Falconwood and the Championship, and neither are especially long (both are under 5300 yds from the yellows). There are a few climbs though, so consider a buggie if you aren't a fan of hills.

The Falconwood is the cheaper course, and it certainly feels like that when you play both on the same day. The fairways are wide, the greens are small, but the condition is far better than a lot of reviews I'd seen had suggested. The bunkers aren't great and some are GUR, but you have the option to just not go in them :)

The Championship course just feels a lot nicer. The fairways are still pretty generous, and the greens are both larger and in very good condition. The bunkers looked a lot better too, although I didn't get to experience any of them first hand (yay!).

Both courses are very scenic, and both have great layouts and some pretty holes. If I lived closer then I'd certainly be playing here more often.
Date Tuesday, 03, October 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Glossop and District Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fantastic location lovely course.

This isn't the longest course in the world, but it is set in a stunning location and a number of the holes will definately test you. It's basically a 9 hole course, except with 11 greens (the 5th/14th and 6th/15th are played to different greens) and a number of different tees. The tricky bit the first time you play here is knowing where you're actually going on some of the holes, especially when playing the 5th/14th and 6th/15th. The guy in the pro shop kindly pointed out to me where to go, although maybe he should have told my clubs!

This isn't an easy walking course, so be prepared for a number of climbs if you're playing all 18. It is certinly worth the effort though, as the views from the top of the course are stunning.

Would I recommend playing here? If I lived nearby I think I'd want to be a member, that's how much I recommend it.

Date Wednesday, 20, September 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Silkstone Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fantastic Course

I'd seen a number of reviews that said that this was a course worth visiting, and the worry is always that it can't quite match expectation. That wasn't the case here. The only disappointment today was the way I played it.

Tees, fairways and greens were in excellent condition, and the course has a lot of interesting and scenic holes to go with it. This isn't a flat course, so be prepared for a number of climbs, but it is worth the effort.

The fairways are mostly fairly forgiving, but there are a number of holes where par will be a very good score, and the course is certainly not a pushover.

My one tip, other than play here, is the big lake in front of the 11th green. I didn't see it until the same time my ball did.
Date Tuesday, 19, September 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Bradley Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Excellent condition

First impressions as you arrive at Bradley Park are really good, and nothing on the course itself lets itself down afterwards. Tees, fairways, and especially the greens, were all in really good condition. The greens were unbelievably smooth and quick, and something you might not be expecting from a muni course that charges £10/12 (depending on whether you're registered at the golf course) on Mondays.

The fairways are generally wide and forgiving, but they are pretty much all tree lined and can certainly make you think before you pull out the driver. My one critisism of the course is that a number of the holes are a little "samey", but that shouldn't detract from the quality of the course.

There aren't a lot of markers showing you where the next tee is, so make the most of the map on the card otherwise it will get confusing. I also struggled with distances to the green, but again, look at the card for guidance (I didn't realise this until after my round).
Date Monday, 18, September 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Old Thorns Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well worth the visit

My first impressions were of a course that's just growing in stature, with lots of new hotel rooms being built alongside the 9th fairway. The facilities there are already impressive, with a huge spa, health club, and restaurants onsite. There was also a very pleasant welcome in the proshop, something that a few courses could learn from.

As for the golf course itself, with the greens having recently been treated I certainly didn't see it at its best. However, forgetting the greens on this occasion, the course is certainly lovely.

There are climbs to be made and wonderful views to be seen, and a large number of really great holes. There aren't really any bad holes, and none of the eighteen will feel the same as any of the others. The course is very fair and reasonably generous from the tee, although it's certainly not easy and there are a few holes which will require fairly tight drives or irons.

Highly recommended!
Date Wednesday, 23, August 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Aldenham Golf and Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Decent tree lined course

First impressions are very good as you walk to the first tee with the impressive clubhouse behind you. As for the course, individually the holes are all very nice, with lovely greens and very good tees and fairways. However, as I walked off the course I was trying to think of any memorable holes and struggled to do so. With the exception of the 13th, the only hole with a view of the local countryside, the rest of the holes are fairly tight and tree lined. It all just felt a bit samey.

We did (I think) see the course marshall chase the slow group up in front of us, which is something more courses should do, but we'd had a pretty slow 15 holes up to that point. It was a warm and sunny Sunday afternoon, so maybe it's to be expected that the round is going to be slow.

It's a decent course in very good condition, and we had a very pleasant welcome at the shop, but it's not one I'd rush back to.
Date Sunday, 13, August 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Amarilla Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

If you like sea & mountain views, great greens, tees and fairways, and you happen to find yourself in the SE of Tenerife, then you can do far worse than by playing Amarilla. There are some lovely holes here, especially the two par 3's down by the ocean. The 5th is a short hole where you play over the Atlantic, the 12th plays alongside the marina.

Mostly the fairways are fairly generous, and any houses are a decent distance away from trouble, but I wasn't especially impressed with either the 4th or 6th, where the homes came more into play than I'd have liked. Another downer were a couple of holes with distance markers missing.

There was a very pleasant welcome in the reception when booking myself in, and the clubhouse is just gorgeous.

Date Saturday, 24, June 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Golf del Sur

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Very scenic course

Three things to start with. It gets windy here. Don't use your best clubs out of the bunkers. If hills and heat aren't your thing then get a buggy.

There are 27 holes, but during my time here the Norte 9 was closed for maintenance. The Sur and Links however were both open and well worth playing. Both have great views of the mountains and the coast, and while a number of holes have fairly accommodating fairways, there are a few which do not suit a driver. The greens were excellent, and the condition of the fairways and greens weren't far behind.

There are a lot of very pretty holes on both sets of nines, and while low scores are possible, there are plenty of opportunities to rack up a big score too.

The cost per round (in June) was €52, which is reasonable compared to a lot of Spanish courses. Three round tickets were available for €142, which brings the price down a little.
Date Thursday, 22, June 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Badgemore Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely parkland course

You pretty much know the sort of course to expect when you drive through the gates, and when you get out onto the course it pretty much meets those expectations. At 6000 yards from the yellows and with only one par 5, it's not going to give up a good score easily, but it's a very scenic ride no matter how your round goes.

Of the two, I much prefered the back nine, which I felt had the more interesting and prettier holes. Most of the holes are tree lined, with a decent mix of medium to tight fairways. As for the condition of the course, the greens, fairways and tees were as good as you're going to get anywhere.

My one gripe about the course were the distance markers, with a lot of sprinkler heads showing distances that conflicted with the 150 yard markers. It's a small niggle though.

Badgemore Park is a lovely course that's certainly worth a visit.
Date Wednesday, 31, May 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Sonning Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fabulous Golf Club

All I can say to anyone thinking about playing Sonning is to take the oportunity, especially if you can get a good deal on one of the tee time sites. There are 18 lovely holes of parkland golf to be enjoyed, with tees, fairways and greens that were all in very good condition. The fairways are generally pretty wide, with a lot of the holes/greens protected by a number of bunkers and subtle breaks.

I played it on a day when the ground was dry, which certainly helped reach a number of the longer par 4's. There are four par 4's longer than 435 yards from the yellows. To balance that there are only a couple of par 5's, neither of which is especially long.

The welcome at the proshop was very friendly, as were the staff working behind the bar.
Date Thursday, 11, May 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Sunningdale Heath Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely setting

Previously Sunningdale Ladies and now Sunningdale Heath, this is a short course of fourteen par 3's and four par 4's. With lots of small greens, tricky bunkers, lots of trees, and no holes shorter than 138 yards, there aren't a huge number of simple pars. There aren't that many difficult bogies either though, so along with the lovely setting it's a course that you can't fail to enjoy.

The clubhouse isn't the biggest, and the practise facilities are a net and a putting green, but if you can get a good deal here then this is totally worth a visit.
Date Friday, 21, April 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Mardyke Valley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Okay course

This is a course that probably doesn't give a great first impression, with a lot of holes visable from the front of the club house. The holes on view look very up and down (adjacent fairways), very flat, and seperated by recently planted trees. Indeed, a lot of the holes aren't especially memorable, but there are some nice holes here. The par 4 17th is probably the standout hole here, and it's one that will really test your game. The fairway is certainly narrow, and there's a lot of water to cross before you reach the green.

The greens had all recently been spiked when I played here, but I can imagine that they'll be very good once the holes have closed up. The (mostly wide) fairways aren't the best though. They were very dry and there wasn't a lot of grass underneath the ball.
Date Sunday, 09, April 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Flackwell Heath Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Really Nice Course

Firstly I have to mention the very warm welcome I got in the pro shop. The guy went out of his way to make sure I knew where everything was, and when you get a great welcome like that a part of you already has an upbeat feeling heading to the first tee.

As for the course, it was every bit as enjoyable. The front twelve(!) have a number of fairly steep climbs to them, although it mostly flattens out once you return to the clubhouse to play the remaining six holes.

While there are a number of really good holes here, the par 3's probably stand out from the rest. All four of them are far from simple pars, and really easy on the eye.

The fairways, tees and greens were all in very good condition, and I imagine would be excellent once the weather warms up.

I'm looking forward to playing here again very soon!
Date Tuesday, 14, March 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Datchet Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Nice enough

This is a nine hole course with a few different tees when played as an 18.

Mostly the trouble is on the right hand side, with a rail track on one side on the way out, and a road on the other coming back to the clubhouse. A few of the holes are fairly narrow, so wait for the trains to pass before teeing off!

The course was okay without being spectacular, although the greens ran fairly well.
Date Tuesday, 14, March 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

The Darenth

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Scenic Course

The course is aptly named, as from pretty much any of the holes you're aware that the course is along one side of a valley. What this means is that there are a number of holes where you're playing uphill, downhill, or on sloping fairways.

We could certainly have played here in better conditions though, with heavy rain before, during, and as we left the car park, but the course handled it pretty well. The greens all rolled beautifully given the amount of water in them, and I imagine will be excellent once the warmer months get here.

The fairways are mostly on the generous side, with maybe only a few that one might condsider to be narrow. Other than the slopes, the main protection is probably a number of raised greens and greenside bunkers.

The round finishes on a par 3, which is fairly unusual, and it's a hole you defintely do not want to get on the wrong side of, as there's a huge slope right down the middle seperating the left and right sides.

One area I do think it needs to improve on is its signage, as there were a couple of occasions where we struggled to figure out where the next tee was. We actually played halfway down the 9th thinking it was the 3rd, and it was only when the GPS pointed out that we were 700+ yards away from the green that we guessed that we might not be on the correct hole.

Despite the way I played it, I certainly enjoyed the course, and it's one I'd like to play again during the summer months.
Date Sunday, 05, March 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Cowdray Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

What's not to like?

Despite high expectations, this is both a course & club that doesn't disappoint. Actully, that's not true. If you're looking for a course where you're guaranteed a flat lie from the fairway then you've come to the wrong place. However, if you're okay with a course where it helps to be part mountain goat, then you'll love Cowdray Park.

When we played the course it had been after a couple of days of heavy, February rain, so the greens and fairways were a little softer than one might hope for, but it was clear to see that this is a track that receives a fair bit of TLC.

The fairways are pretty forgiving from the tee, but the greens are fairly well protected by a lot of deep bunkers. The heavy sand doesn't make them any easier to navigate out of them.

As suggested earlier, there are a number of climbs and drops to be negotiated, but that's just part of the local terrain that provides a very scenic backdrop to Cowdray Park, and is a big part of why it's such a delight to play there.

You can pick any number of favourite holes here, but I'm going to go with the 4th, a dogleg par 4 that climbs left and up around trees, with views of the South Downs to the right.

As for the club, I got a very warm welcome in the pro shop, and the breakfast was as good a breakfast as I've ever had anywhere.

Date Saturday, 04, February 2017
Nev Smith
23.2

Hunter's Creek Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Great value course close to Disney

This is a nicely laid out course that's not too far from Disney, and yet is pretty reasonable on the green fees.

The course's main defence is it's length, which plays up to 7400 yards, but there's lots of water and sand to keep you honest no matter which tees you choose.

The course itself was a little dry looking when I played it, and the tees weren't the best that I've seen. The greens were okay, but nothing special.
Date Wednesday, 16, November 2016
Nev Smith
23.2

Providence Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Worth travelling to

Providence is a 35 minute drive from the Disney area, but it's certainly worth the trip. There's almost nothing to fault Providence, from the large clubhouse, the practise facilities, or the the golf course itself.

The course won't be the toughest around, but it's not a walkover either. The fairways are fairly generous, but there's water or trees in play on a number of holes. There are a few houses too lining some of the fairways, but certainly nowhere near as many houses as a lot of other courses in the area. A lot of the holes are completely house-free.

When I played it today the greens were outstanding, and the tees and fairways were in very good condition too. With very reasonable green fee rates, there's almost no reason not to play here.
Date Monday, 14, November 2016
Nev Smith
23.2

Ridgewood Lakes Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

In need of some TLC

The course itself has some interesting holes on it, but the most obvious thing about it on the day I played there was the condition of the tees and greens. The tees were very patchy, while the greens were covered in weeds. To be fair, the greens rolled reasonably smoothly, but they don't look good.

Unsurprisingly, given the name, there is a lot of water in play on this course, with the back 9 being a little more in play than on the front.

Would I play here again? If the condition of the tees and greens improved then this would be a very good course, but otherwise I'd likely find somewhere else to play.
Date Wednesday, 09, November 2016
Nev Smith
23.2

Selkirk Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely views, tight fairways

This is a 9 hole course that's situated on the side of a hill, with lots of gorse, grass, and bushes to protect itself from low scores. I played here on a very windy day, and with some narrow, exposed fairways and a driver that doesn't do as it's told, I wasn't going to score very well. I didn't...

The course itself was in very good condition, with a lovely fairway and smooth greens. There are some pretty holes too, with the dog leg 5th probably my favourite (even if it didn't do me any favours). The par 5 8th and par 3 9th were also very lovely.

There are some decent climbs here, so perhaps not suitable for all levels of fitness. It probably doesn't favour the higher handicap players either. Certainly worth a look if you're able to hit it straight.
Date Thursday, 29, September 2016
Nev Smith
23.2

Torwoodlee Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely Course, Lovely Views

My round was played after a fairly wet spell, so the course was likewise wet and I probably didn't see it at its best. This is a parkland course with gorgeous views of the nearby hills, and once you cross over the railway bridge it starts to play like you're on a hill, with lots of sloping lies and a pretty fierce climb up to the 5th green.

While the fairways aren't wide, there isn't a huge amount of trouble that will stop you from at least finding your ball. The course is generally in good condition, although a few of the tees looked in need of some TLC.

The clubhouse isn't huge but it is very friendly a welcoming, and I was indebted to the guy behind the bar who lent me an umbrella for my round. You certainly don't get that at a lot of clubs.

Lovely course, lovely views.
Date Wednesday, 28, September 2016
Nev Smith
23.2

Chelsfield Lakes Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Only two lakes!

For a course that includes "lakes" in its name there are suprisingly few lakes, two, and probably only two holes where they are really in play. There are far more apple trees on the course, so maybe they should have called it Chelsfield Orchard instead? I had one of the apples though and it was good!

There are some lovely views as you make your way to the bottom of the course (holes 3 to 5, I think), but mostly it's a parkland style course. The holes aren't especially long, with most par 4's between the 300-350 yard distance, and with reasonably generous fairways you can really rip this course up if you have a good day.

The tees and fairways were in decent condition, and although the greens rolled okay, they weren't amongst the best I've seen. They certainly weren't bad though.

There were no complaints against the clubhouse, pro shop, or the very large driving range. There was a very warm welcome as I paid for my green fee, with advice on how to get to the bar, range, putting/chipping greens and 1st tee.

I'd have like to have scored better than I did, but that didn't distract from a very enjoyable course.
Date Sunday, 11, September 2016
Nev Smith
23.2

Celebration Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely experience from start to finish

I didn't see this course at it's best as the greens were heavily sanded, but even so I loved my first experience playing at Celebration GC. The clubhouse is one of the nicest I've seen, and the course fulfills your subsequently raised expectations of what's to come. It's just a very pretty course.

I'd seen a number of reviews saying that the course was pretty tough, and while there is a fair bit of water protecting quite a few of the greens, overall I'd say it was pretty fair. Expect to get punished if you're having a bad day though.
Date Saturday, 09, July 2016
Nev Smith
23.2

Highlands Reserve Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Great course

This is another course in the Disney area that tends not to disappoint. The two nines are similar in that they are both tree lined on the holes to and from the clubhouse, and both have more open fairways in the middle of the nine. I think it works well.

The course conditions were very good, and with good practise facilities and a great looking clubhouse this is worth a trip if you're in the area. There was also a very warm welcome in the pro shop.
Date Saturday, 09, July 2016
Nev Smith
23.2

Falcon's Fire Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course with lots of water

This is a course I've been looking forward to playing for some time, although I can't say it was in the best of conditions. The greens had recently been spiked, and a lot of recent rain left some areas and bunkers under water.

That all said, I loved the layout and would look to go back given the opportunity. There's lots (LOTS!) of water on the course, but generally it is a decent distance back from the fairways ensuring only bad shots get punshed. The biggest exception is the 13th, which is a par 4 where the fairway skirts around a huge lake.

The clubhouse is huge, and there are all the other golf related facilities that you could need.
Date Saturday, 09, July 2016
Nev Smith
23.2

Eagle Creek Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Could be my new favourite Orlando course!

I can't imagine that anyone will find anything not to like at Eagle Creek. The clubhouse is lovely and the course is excellent.

The tees, fairways and greens were all in very good condition and the holes were interesting. Fairways were fairly forgiving for the higher handicap player, and I imagine the back tees will make it more of a test for the better players.

The greens were quick and fairly undulating, so the hole isn't over once you get on the green.

There is a bit of water on the course, but it wasn't until the 18th that I really felt it came into play. With the clubhouse behind the 18th green it's a wonderful way to finish your round.
Date Wednesday, 18, November 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Champions Gate Golf Resort

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Country Club Review

I got a good deal on GolfNow to play the new Champions Gate Country Club course. There isn't acually a clubhouse there yet, but I am sure that it is coming soon.

Despite the course not having been open very long, the reviews I'd seen were all very complimentary. I am not going to disagree about that. The tees, fairways and greens were all in very good condition.

The front 9 have fairly wide fairways and are house-free, the back 9 is a little tighter and has a lot of houses bordering the holes.

There isn't a lot of water on the course, but it does come into play on the 15th (I think) and 18th. The 18th is probably the nicest hole on the course, but there aren't really any bad holes.

My one complaint is possibly the length of the tees. The whites are around 5700 yards, but the next length up is 6450 yards. I'd have hoped for something in between as well.

Highly recommended!
Date Tuesday, 17, November 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Grand Cypress Resort

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Great course

The New Course at Grand Cypress is just 18 of the 45 Jack Nicklaus designed holes at this complex. It was designed with St Andrews in mind, although I can't really compare the two having never played St Andrews.

I can tell you that you will be unlikely to play a course with wider fairways than the New Course. There are a lot of bunkers, some in view and a large number of pot bunkers, very undulating fairways, and there are some very severe slopes on the quick greens. There's a little bit of water too, which is mainly in play via a stream that runs in front of a few of the greens.

The course itself was in wonderful condition from tee to the green, and with superb practise facilities and clubhouse Grand Cypress ticks all the boxes and more.

Totally recommended!
Date Thursday, 12, November 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Legends Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Awful greens

I remember one of my playing partners telling me how good Legends GC was. That was around ten years ago, and he was right about the course and there are some lovely looking holes here.

The big downside was in the condition. The fairways and tees could probably be described as average, but the greens were really bad. I am hoping that they have just been overseeded and are awaiting a cut, but it wasn't a great experience putting on them.

Get the greens right and this is worth a trip from the Orlando/Disney area.
Date Tuesday, 10, November 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Cranleigh Golf & Leisure Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short but tricky

Don't be fooled by the length of the course because there are some tough, tight holes here, with the 10th and 12th being especially tricky to navigate. There are only two par 5's on the course and six par 3's. Possibly the toughest of the par 3's is the 1st hole, which has a stream running across the front and right, trees left, and a big bank behind a fairly narrow green. An easy start it isn't.

The course itself was in decent enough shape, with quick greens and tidy tees and fairways.

The clubhouse is actually part of a country club with (I think) a gym and swimmng pool, and it's all pleasant enough. I felt that the food was a little on the expensive side though.

Worth a trip, but make sure you're hitting it straight.
Date Tuesday, 29, September 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

East Brighton Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course, lovely views

Okay, so we got lucky with the weather, but on a gorgeous sunny September afternoon it was a delight to be playing at East Brighton GC. I can imagine that on a windy day the complexion of the course changes dramatically, but I was happy to be playing it on a fairly benign day.

The tees, greens and fairways were in great condition, and there are a lot of very pretty holes to be played. The stretch of holes from the 5th to the 8th (9th) was particularly picturesque, but there's lots to love about a number of the other holes too.

The fairways are pretty generous, which was very fortunate given the way I was teeing off! The bunkers, some of which were very deep, were also well looked after. Not that I went in all of them...

It's not an easy walking course and there will be a fair few climbs up and down, but it is worth it.

I can't really comment on the clubhouse, other than it looked very stylish inside.

Highly recommended.
Date Sunday, 06, September 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Twisted Stone Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Not at its best

It's been a number of years since I've played here, and in that time it looks like the course has only gone downhill. To be fair, the weather conditions didn't help, with the rain making both greens and fairways very soft, but the greens were in need of some TLC and the bunkers looked like they hadn't seen a rake in 2015.

The guy in the pro shop had told us that the course was under new management and that the course negligence of the previous company (Crown Golf?) would be dealt with soon. Hopefully that will be the case as there are a lot of good holes here, especially the four pretty par 3's.

Date Wednesday, 02, September 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Chiddingfold Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short but interesting.

It's been 10 years since I last played here, and in that time there have been a number of changes. The trees bordering the fairways have all grown up and the holes are a lot tighter. The 1st and 18th holes are now far shorter. The clubhouse is now in what appears to be a static mobile home, although it's certainly pleasant enough.

The course itself has five par 3's, one par 5, and lots of par 4's of around 300 yards. The trickiest hole is the 378 yard 16th, where you have to find the gap in the trees that leads to the drop to the green.

It's the sort of course where you should be shooting low, but the fairways are narrow enough for you to find trouble if you're struggling from the tee.

The greens & fairways were in an okay condition,the greens could maybe have done with a cut but were otherwise fairly smooth, while the tees could have been a little better. They weren't especially bad, they just weren't great.

There was a pleasant welcome while paying for my round, which is always nice. This won't be the toughest or greatest course that you will ever play, but I've always found it enjoyable.
Date Tuesday, 18, August 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

The Essex (Colchester)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Good test

The first impression you get playing Essex G&CC is how nice the course is. That doesn't really change, but you start to get the feeling that you've played the same holes again after a while as they all look fairly similar.

The holes tend to be fairly long, and while the fairways aren't exactly tight, they's not especially generous either. Miss the fairways and you tend to lose the ball either in trees or water, and don't expect finding your ball in either.

I can't fault the condition of the tees, fairways and greens, which were all really good. The bunkers however, the ones I went into anyway, tended to be hard and with little sand.

There's not a pro shop as you pay at the reception of the country club. The changing rooms are really lovely, and the bar looked really gorgeous too.
Date Wednesday, 12, August 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

North Weald Golf Club (closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fairly open course

I don't think that North Weald will likely be most player's favourite course, but that doesn't mean it should be dismissed totally. The greens, tees, and fairways all looked like they were suffering in this rain-free summer, but they all played okay.

Most of the holes are fairly open with little rough, so play the tricky holes well and you can get a decent score. The tricky holes would probably be the 4th and 10th, if my memory serves me correctly, both of which would be stand out contenders for the nicest holes on the course too.

There isn't a pro shop as such, just a reception area that happens to sell balls, gloves, and tee times. The girl working there was very pleasant and welcoming though.
Date Wednesday, 12, August 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

South Winchester Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Wide fairways

There was a very warm welcome in the pro shop as I signed in for my round. When you're at a golf club for the first time the pro is a big part of the first impression you have of the club, and the guy who booked me in was both cheery and helpful.

As for the course, I couldn't figure out whether it was running through a valley or on the side of a hill. Whichever it might be, there are lots of holes going either up or down hill, although not severely enough to cause issues with walking the course.

Even from the yellows the course is quite long, but with hard fairways it plays a lot shorter. The fairways are all fairly inviting and you will have to be very wide to find any of the long rough. It's a very open course with trees bordering the fairways on only a few holes, so I can imagine that windy days will cause issues here.

The greens were quick and smooth, and just undulating enough to make you think that little bit harder about the line.

There are some really nice looking holes here, and the clubhouse sits overlooking the pond and the 18th green. There's lots to like about South Winchester.
Date Saturday, 08, August 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Hartley Wintney Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Nice course

My initial reaction to having played here is that you need to get your score going early, because the back 9 is where most of the tricky holes are.

There seems to be a good mix of holes here, with a number of short and long par 4's, and holes where you can open your shoulders as well as some where you have to be fairly accurate from the tee. There are a number that are very pleasant on the eye.

This has been a fairly dry summer so the fairways are a little on the burnt side, but the tees and especially the greens were in excellent condition.

The clubhouse is very nice, and they have a spike bar too. You may have to ask about the spike bar though because it seems to be very well hidden. I wouldn't even have known it existed if I hadn't been there with someone who'd been there before.

I paid £25 for the round, which I think was fairly reasonable, although the normal price is a little higher.

The course isn't exactly flat, but it's certainly not undulating enough to cause concern for most reasonably fit golfers.
Date Sunday, 02, August 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Cannock Park Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely little course

This isn't the longest or toughest course that you'll ever play, and my first impressions weren't especially good either. However, once I'd played a few holes I really started to appreciate the course. The first hole runs alongside the car park of the leisure centre that it's associated with, but after that it starts to improve.

There are some lovely views and some pretty holes, my favourite of which was the par 3 7th.

Apart from the 5th at 359 yards, every other hole is 340 yards or less. Added to that you have mostly forgiving fairways, so good players will shot low scores here. I would suggest that this course is best suited to Mid to high handicap players.

The condition of the course was especially good considering they only charge £15.50 for a weekend round, with the greens being very quick and true.

They could do with some better distance markers, with only a red disc from 100 yards in available. There isn't really a clubhouse, with only a few tables and chairs available where you pay your green fee (you could hardly call it a pro shop), and no alcohol. Maybe there's a bar in the leisure centre?

Overall I was really pleased I played here.



Date Sunday, 19, July 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Boysnope Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Wide fairways, good greens

The good things about this course are the greens, which were in excellent condition when I played them. Hitting them and getting the ball to stop was something else, but they ran very true. The tees & very forgiving fairways were likewise in pretty decent condition.

The negatives are the clubhouse is fairly basic, and the range has recently been closed. Also, I don't really remember a lot of stand out holes. None of this should stop you from playing here though, as a round here is really good value for money and the course is still going to test you.
Date Sunday, 19, July 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Newbury & Crookham Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Excellent all round

This is a course that ticks all of the boxes, whether you're looking for smooth running greens, perfect tees, well kept fairways, scenery, and gorgeous looking holes, Newbury & Crookham has it all. The course isn't long, but it isn't easy to score well here, especially if you find yourself in one of the deep bunkers dotted around the course. There are a few narrow fairways, but generally there's a bit of room before you lose your ball in the trees.

There are a number of nice holes here, but I especially liked a lot of the par 3's.

Away from the course, the clubhouse isn't the biggest one you'll ever visit, but the changing rooms and showers are like an Ikea showroom. The pro shop is huge, and the practise areas look very tidy.

This was my first round here, and I am hoping a return visit will be in my very near future.
Date Tuesday, 07, July 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Legacy Golf Club, The

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Excellent course. Loved it.

There are a lot of quality courses in the Vegas area, but not that many that are as good a value course as this one, especially one that is that close to the strip. My round cost me $45 for a 7am tee time in June, although I think that that's a little cheaper than the normal non-resident rate.

From the moment someone comes to pick up your clubs from the car park to the moment you're coming off the 18th, you're going to be enjoying the decision to play here.

The clubhouse is lovely, the course is in great condition, and the practise facilities are all that you need.

Both nines have some lovely holes, but I think the ones on the back nine are the more interesting. The fairways are reasonably wide throughout, but there are lots of deep bunkers next to the greens to keep your game honest.

The course is bordered by housing, which is probably the only downside of playing here, but none of the housing really encroaches.

If you're in Vegas looking for some golf, then you could do way, way worse than play here.

PS Many thanks to locals Peter, Bob, and Ernie for showing me around the course!

Date Friday, 26, June 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Boulder City Municipal Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Worth a drive from Vegas


If you are greeted the way I was by Sheldrick (I think that was his name) in the pro shop, then you'll get a warm welcome to the course.

As for the course itself, the front nine is a little up and down to start with, but the holes get a bit more interesting on the back. The fairways aren't exactly wide, but the rough isn't horrendous if you don't find it. There are enough trees around to make it tricky if you don't keep it straight from the tee, but not enough that you shouldn't find your ball.

I'm wasn't entirely sure what to put down as a rating for this course as it was in very good condition, but doesn't really have too many stand out holes. The clubhouse and practise facilities all seem to be really good too.

Compared to the price of courses in Vegas itself this is a real bargain, although you're looking at a 30 to 40 minute drive to get here from the strip.
Date Friday, 26, June 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Highland Falls Golf Course at Sun City

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous Course with Gorgeous Views

It was suggested by playing partner that if I wanted some good golf in Vegas then I should head off to any of the three Summerlin courses, of which Highland Falls is one. Depending on where you are based on the strip then this course shouldn't be more than 30 minutes away, and based on some of the other prices I've seen this course is one of the cheaper ones (not cheap, just cheaper).

From the moment you get to the pro shop you know that you're onto a winner. It all just looks so nice, from the clubhouse to the practise facilities, and especially the course.

The holes are all pretty much "what you see is what you get", with only the 18th looking like it has a slight dog leg to it. What you get is some gorgeous looking holes, some with mountain views and some with city views. What you don't get is a single bad hole.

Yes, the course runs through housing, but the fairways are fairly generous and none of the housing should be in danger (although I almost gave one home a scare!). The greens, tees, and fairways are also in very good condition

If you are in Vegas, then you could do far worse than play Highland Falls.

Date Tuesday, 23, June 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Las Vegas Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Oldest course in Vegas

If you're looking for cheap golf in Vegas then there aren't a huge number of options. Las Vegas GC is one of those options, and as such I'm told it can get very busy & slow.

It's one of the easier courses you'll play, with very little rough, a few trees, and I think only one lake (in front of the par 3 3rd). There are only a couple of tight drives where the course bordered some adjoining roads.

The greens and tees were much better than the fairways, which were looking very dry.

This won't be the greatest course you'll ever play, but it's okay for the money.

Date Monday, 22, June 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Lake Powell National Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous Course

This was my first taste of golf in Arizona, and if other courses are as good then I want to play them too.

The greens, tees and fairway are as nice as you could hope for, and the views on the back nine across to Glen canyon are wonderful.

The standout hole amongst a number of really good holes is the par 3 15th. The card says 171 yards, but it's a long way down from tee to green so plays a lot shorter than that.

If you're in the area then just do it. You won't be disappointed.
Date Friday, 19, June 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Slinfold Park Golf & Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

A very good experience

As a complete package, Slinfold goes a long way to ticking all of the boxes. The clubhouse and practise facilities are both excellent, and the course certainly doesn't let itself down.

As a first timer there seemed to me to be a lot of doglegs here, especially over the first 5 or 6 holes where there are even a couple of 90 degree corners. The theme continues on a couple of holes on the back 9, and I imagine course knowledge can be very important here.

The fairways are generally pretty fair, although there are a couple where you need to make sure you hit it straight. There are a few hidden bunkers or lakes, but usually you'll be able to see where to hit and where to miss. The greens, tees and fairways were all in very good condition.

What is missing is a pro-shop and bookings have to be made through the reception. That's not a problem though, and the welcome there was every bit as pleasant as any course I've played at.

I didn't really feel like many of the holes had a "wow" factor, but that doesn't mean that this isn't a very pleasant location to play golf, because it is.
Date Sunday, 31, May 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Wildwood Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Tough course for a cold day in March

There are three circuits of 9 holes at Wildwood, and I think you'll have to play well to score low on any one of them. The toughest, in my humble opinion, is the shortest of the three: The Woodland. It almost seems like there's more lakes on this nine than The Lakes nine. Whether there is or isn't, you will have to hit the ball straight.

The Parkland and The Lakes give you a little more room off the tee, but not a huge amount, and they are a little longer too.

The greens looked a little patchy, but I think they'd been treated recently. However, they were very good, quick, and ran true.

The prettiest hole by far is the 5th hole on the Parkland nine, but other than that the holes tend to look a little samey. Not that there aren't some really good holes here, and the course will really test you, but I wouldn't call this course scenic.

The clubhouse had great views of the course and the food was good.
Date Thursday, 19, March 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

The Hertfordshire Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Not the best day to judge the course

There appears to be two distinct section to The Hertfordshire. Holes 1 to 11 are open parkland and generally the fairways are pretty forgiving. From the 12th onwards the trees start to encroach and the greens start to get a little (or a lot) trickier to hit. The best looking holes on the course are to be found through this latter stretch, with some lovely looking par 3's over water.

For whatever reason, the day I played here the yellow tees had all been moved up to the red and even the blue tees, so I certainly didn't see the course at it's toughest. The greens had also been sanded and spiked, although that didn't stop them from being very quick.

The tees and fairways were in decent condition given the time of year, and I imagine that in the summer months they, along with the greens, will all be very good.

Overall the course itself is nice enough, but I would only likely want to play it again if it were far closer to where I live.

As for the rest of the complex, the clubhouse is set within an 18th century mansion, and very pleasant inside it is too. There's also a large covered driving range.

Date Monday, 09, March 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Surrey National Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

No easy pars

It's hard to find fault with Surrey National. The clubhouse, practise facilities and the course are everything you'd look for in a top quality golf course.

Despite heavy overnight rain, the course was still very playable, even if it was wet underfoot in places. However, the course plays tough on dry days, so when the ground's soggy it plays all that and more of its 6333 yard length from the yellows.

Not that the length of the course is its only defence, as the course is played through a valley and none of the holes seem to play flat. Add in lots of annoyingly placed bunkers and some tricky greens, and you have a course that will really test you.

Hole to watch out for? The par 5 5th has a hidden lake that stretches out in front of the green.

This isn't an easy walking course, with a few climbs up to tees and fairways. It is worth the effort though.

I'd also like to say a thank you for the warm welcome to both the pro in the shop, and the girl behind the bar.
Date Tuesday, 24, February 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Caversham Heath Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Very decent course

I had only ever played here during the summer before, and on both occasions I had been impressed with the course and especially the greens.

I wasn't sure what to expect after overnight February rain, but I found a course that handles wet weather better than a lot of other local courses.

The course isn't short, it's 6600 yards from the yellows, but as most of the holes have fairways which are very forgiving, this at least allows you to open your shoulders and have a good crack at them.

The tees and fairways were in really good condition, and while the greens were in decent nick for the amount of rain we've had recently, they were a little on the bobbly side. They were still better than a number of other courses I've played on at this time of year though.

My favourite hole is the 18th, a longish par 4 which is played uphill and back to the clubhouse, and is very pleasing to the eye. Just play it better than I did!

The clubhouse itself lives up to the high standards of the course, and is the perfect place to grab a drink after your round.
Date Saturday, 21, February 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Isle of Purbeck Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous course

We'd heard lots of good things about Isle of Purbeck GC before we got here, and sometimes that can mean the course struggles to live up to it's lofty expectations. That wasn't the case with Isle of Purbeck.

There are so many great looking holes on this course, and the one shame about our round here was the fact that 17 of the 18 holes played were on temporary greens. It just means that we're now arranging for a return trip in a couple of months time, and we're talking about a course that is a 2 hour drive away.

The 5th hole is especially pretty. Just looking at it purely as a golf hole, you play to a partially hidden fairway, followed by an approach that narrows the closer you get to the green. Add in the views down to the water, with Bournemouth and Poole Harbour in the distance, and you have one spectacular hole.

The best views may well be from the clubhouse though, which is also as pleasant a 19th hole that you could wish to finish off a round of golf.

The one downside would be having to pay £25 for a course that had 17 temporary greens, but while I still think that that's too expensive, we were glad we went through with the round.

Would I recommend Isle of Purbeck? Most definitely.
Date Friday, 23, January 2015
Nev Smith
23.2

Stoneybrook West Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fun Course

This is a fun course with lots going for it. There's a friendly welcome in the pro shop, and the clubhouse looks really nice (from what I saw of it).

Generally the fairways are welcoming, with most of the trouble to be found up near the green, but there are one or two holes where you need to think about club selection from the tee.

The greens were fairly quick and looked good, and a lot of them were very undulating.

Another plus is that it's not that far from Disney, but it certainly doesn't charge the prices that the other courses do in that area. Well worth the visit.
Date Friday, 21, November 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Champions Gate Golf Resort

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Good course

There are two courses at Champions Gate, the International, and the (or so I'm told) easier National. I played the National.

The first hole is pretty uninspiring, but it certainly isn't an easy par. After that it improves a little. Generally the fairways are wide and inviting, while the greens are very well protected by bunkers. The most memorable hole is the par 3 15th, where the green is hidden behind bushes from the tee to the green, and all you can see is the top of the flag.

The trick hole is the 17th, where three out of four of us played to the wrong green!

The course had recently had a lot of work done on, so I maybe didn't see it at its best. Would I play there again? Yes. Maybe I wouldn't rush back though.

Date Monday, 17, November 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Links of Spruce Creek, The

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Worth a view

A big plus here is that generally the course doesn't play through houses, although there are a few where they can be seen.

The conditions of the greens, fairways, and tees were all in decent condition. The fairways are usually fairly generous, and there are only a few holes where water is really in play. I've only played here once, but it seemed like the front 9 played tougher than the back.

I'd have no worries about recommending this course.
Date Thursday, 13, November 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Eagle Ridge Golf Club at Spruce Creek

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

What's not to love?

There are lots of positives about Eagle Ridge. There are 4 sets of nine holes, and while I only played two of them, my playing partners assured me that the other 18 holes were as good or better.

The course plays through houses, which is probably the only downside of the experience, but the condition of the greens, fairways, and tees are all in fabulous condition. The fairways on the Heritage and Memorial nines are both generous, but with raised greens to make sure you don't get it too easy.

The clubhouse is huge and the practise facilities excellent, and I'd have no worries about coming back to play here again.
Date Wednesday, 12, November 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Kent & Surrey Golf Club (closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Oh...

The first impressions of the club aren't great as you drive into the car park, and getting onto the first green there is little to change your opinion. I don't know what's gone wrong with them, but I don't ever remember playing on greens this bad before.

To their credit, the club acknowledges that they aren't great, and there's a sign on one of the boards saying that they are being worked on. That said, there is no mention of the tees, and some of those were in need of a lot of repair work too. Oh, and the bunkers were far from outstanding.

As for the course, there are some very nice looking holes, with the 14th & 15th holes springing to mind. I found a few of the holes on the front nine a bit bland though.

There are some tough, tough holes at Kent and Surrey, so a good score will need to be worked for.

Would I come back? It's an hour's drive for me, so I think it unlikely I will.
Date Saturday, 04, October 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Westerham Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous course

When you play at Westerham you'll want to bring your A game, simply because anything less and it wouldn't be in keeping with the standard of course you're about to play.

There is one other reason for bringing your A game though, and that's because if you don't then the course will kick your butt. Water, tree lined fairways and tiered greens ensure that you will need to play well to get a good score.

Whether you play well or not, you can't help but be impressed with the quality and variety of holes, along with some gorgeous views.

It's not just the course that this club has to offer. There are excellent practise facilities to warm up on before your round, and for after there's a superb clubhouse overlooking the 9th and 18th holes.

This won't be the cheapest round you'll ever have, but it will be one of the better clubs you'll ever play.
Date Sunday, 21, September 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Reigate Hill Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

There are lots of good things about Reigate Hill. The clubhouse is very pleasant, the course enjoyable with a number of really good holes, and the greens, fairways and tees are all in a great condition. The one downside is probably the noise from the M25, which runs along one side of the course.

The fairways are generally fairly open, but finding some of them might prove tricky with big slopes on a few. It might just be me having a bad day, but reading some of the slopes on the greens may prove difficult too.

Well worth playing.
Date Saturday, 13, September 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Galashiels Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely views

I'm always amazed playing at golf clubs where it's all shut up and you have to pay in an honesty box. That's what I faced when I showed up at Galashiels GC late this afternoon.

This is a 9 hole course with separate tees on a number of the tees. For those with health issues, that means you have to climb up to the 1st/10th green on two occasions, which I imagine might cause a few issues for some players.

I'm not a big fan of holes where you aren't quite sure where you're supposed to be aiming, so not a big fan of the 2nd & 3rd. After that though there are some wonderful holes with excellent views of the town & surrounding hills.

The tees weren't in great condition, but the fairways and tees were pretty decent.

It cost me £10 for 18 holes on a tee time site, and at these sort of prices I'm amazed there weren't more people on the course, but I pretty much had the course to myself. Certainly a bargain.
Date Monday, 01, September 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

The Shire London

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Definitely worth a visit

Water comes into play a lot on this course, and it starts early with a par 3 first that is surrounded by the stuff, and finishes with an uphill par 4 that seems to be more pond than green.

This isn't a course that will roll over and let you tickle its tummy. With lots of deep bunkers, lots of water, and tricky greens, you will have to earn pretty much everything you get. However, with 4 sets of tees you can choose the tee that suits your game, and the fairways aren't especially tight.

My favourite hole? Probably the short par 3 7th. Obviously it's over water.

I hope to go back and play it again, but not with the game I took with me today.
Date Monday, 11, August 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Little Hay Golf Complex

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

First impressions can be deceiving

After the first couple of holes you could perhaps be forgiven for thinking that you're not going to enjoy Little Hay. You've played your first two holes around the driving range, and the fairways have a fair few yellow range balls on them. However, it does get better, and you will enjoy a lot of what the course has to offer.

The downhill par 3 fourth is very scenic, but as you make your way down to the green, be aware that there is a stiff climb back up the hill to the 5th. Apart from those two holes the course is generally easy walking, although far from flat.

The fairways are pretty wide, and the course is probably best suited for mid to high handicap players, but with 4 sets of tees it can suit most everyone. The greens were good, and if I lived nearer than I do then I'd certainly go back for another go.



Date Monday, 11, August 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Sutton Green Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Really nice course

I've played here 3 or 4 times now over the years, and each time I do I end up asking myself why I haven't played here more often. It's always been in good condition, and the holes are really nicely laid out.

Play well here and I imagine that there are good scores to be had, but there is plenty of water, rough and sand to punish the bad shots too.

From the 1st to the 19th, Sutton Green is a totally pleasurable experience.
Date Tuesday, 05, August 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Coulsdon Manor Hotel & Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Nice parkland course

Coulsdon Court is a nice enough parkland course, but I played here after a long spell of summer sunshine and maybe I didn't see the course at its best. A 5 hour round probably didn't help create a positive opinion either.

You start off with 6 or 7 holes which are pretty much up and down. There is then a spell of nicer looking holes, before you return to finish off on 4 or 5 more up and down holes again.

The fairways are generally fairly wide throughout, especially on the 'up and down' holes, and I'd imagine the course would be very suitable for mid to high handicappers. The greens I found to be okay, but nothing spectacular.
Date Sunday, 27, July 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Effingham Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

Paying a lot more for my round than I usually would, £30 for a twilight time, I had high hopes for Effingham. Perhaps because of that added expectation, Effingham didn't quite hit the mark for me.

That's not to say that this isn't a lovely course, because it really is. The are some very pretty looking holes, especially on the back 9, and the views towards London are exceptional.

The fairways are generally pretty wide, which is good because when you leave the fairway there's some pretty mean rough. The greens were very smooth and ran fairly well, although as a group we felt that the speeds between greens were fairly inconsistent. Again, maybe that's us being a little picky given the cost.

Would I go back? I probably would, although I am certain there are better courses for the money.
Date Tuesday, 22, July 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

West Surrey Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Stunning location, stunning course

From the moment you step onto the 1st tee you just know you're playing somewhere special. By the time you walk off the 18th you'll be looking to come back to play it all over again. In between you'll play some gorgeous looking holes, most of which have fairly generous fairways, deep bunkers, and wonderful greens.

Favourite holes? I can think of 3 or 4 that could be, the downhill par 5 6th, the tricky par 4 17th, or another downhill par 5 at the 18th. I think I need to go back to make sure though.
Date Tuesday, 15, July 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Chipstead Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Great views

When you drive through the gates you get an idea of what's to come, as you very quickly cross three fairways in quick succession. My initial impression was one of a lot of holes in too small an area, and that impression didn't really leave as we made our way round. In fact, it wasn't until we got to the 17th that you actually felt like there was a hole that had room to breath.

Not that there aren't any good holes here, because there are, and some gorgeous views too. However, you do feel like there are a number of tees, greens and fairways that are a little too close to each other.

There were also a couple of tees where the club really do need to provide better signs. We had to ask in order to find the 2nd tee, and we almost missed out the 5th hole altogether.

Quirky comes in the shape of the 4th hole, which slopes so much from left to right that it's almost impossible to hit the fairway.

There are some steep climbs up from the 6th & 17th, while the rest of the course is hardly flat, so not the easiest of walking.

The clubhouse was very welcoming, with a very pleasant area outside to enjoy a drink after the round.


Date Sunday, 13, July 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Basingstoke Golf Club (Formerly Dummer GC)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Excellent condition.

I've played here a handful of times, but this is probably the best I've seen the course. The greens, tees, and especially the fairways, were just in exceptional condition. The fairways were like carpets, and as good as any I've ever seen.

The course itself is a mainly a mix of longer and shorter par 4's (there aren't many medium length par 4's), three par 3's, and a single par 5. From the yellows anyway.

Keep it on the fairways and you'll set yourself up for a decent round, but the rough is quite penal if you find it (like I did). The fairways are generally fairly wide though. I can imagine that in the winter the course will play far easier, as the course is fairly open and the rough is a big part of its defences.

The clubhouse and facilities are pretty classy too, so I can't imagine anyone not enjoying their round here.
Date Tuesday, 01, July 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Clandon Regis Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

Hard to fault anything about Clandon Regis. The clubhouse, course, and practise facilities are all really excellent.

The fairways aren't the widest I've seen, but they generally aren't very narrow either. However, stray into the rough and it will be a tough ask finding the ball, as the grass is knee deep in summer. I found this out to my cost today!

The greens were all excellent, although very tough to stop the ball on. As for the holes, there's a lot of variety with dog legs, straight holes, water, and even hedges (as the 2nd) blocking your way to a good score.

I'm definitely looking for a return trip here.

Date Wednesday, 25, June 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Kaya Eagles Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

I played here twice on a trip to Belek, Turkey, and on each round they had closed one half of the course for maintenance. Not really what I was hoping for.

The two nines are fairly different, with the front 9 being far more tree lined, while the back is a bit more open. There's water on both nines.

I am not sure I really saw the course at its best, but it was still in pretty good condition. The biggest disappointment were the bunkers, which were filled with stones and didn't really have great quality sand in. Or at least the bunkers I went in anyway.

The clubhouse and facilities are both superb, and the welcome was cheerful enough.
Date Sunday, 22, June 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Antalya GOlf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Your new favourite course!

If you ever feel like you don't want to play golf anymore, then come to Antalya Golf Club and play The Pasha. Okay, so you'll have to come to Turkey to play it, but is that really so bad?

The greens, tees, and fairways are all a delight to play on, and there are some gorgeous holes to be played before you find yourself in the comfort of the stunning clubhouse.

The prettiest holes all have water involved, and on all of them it is up to you how much of the water you want to take on.

The course really is one that is fair to all levels of golfers. Lower handicap players may find it too easy, but I can't believe that they wouldn't still enjoy the round.
Date Wednesday, 18, June 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Hever Castle Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous course

It's hard not to love this course, although if you're looking for a good score then at 6500 yards from the yellows you maybe need to play elsewhere.

The front 9 is fairly generous with the fairways, but on the back 9 it tightens up and adds 200 yards. The 12th is a lovely looking par 4, but with a lake, trees, and a stream running in front of the green, there's lots of potential to ruin your round.

The par 5 17th has to be conquered if you want to get a good score here. At 600+ yards, and with a narrow landing area from the tee, it is far from easy.

The first three par 3's are all really pretty looking holes, and add in the scenery, clubhouse, and practise facilities, you should really enjoy the experience. Just don't expect a low score.
Date Tuesday, 10, June 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Abridge Golf & Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Just awesome

I was told that the fairways here were good. They weren't just good, they were probably the best fairways I've ever been on. Well, when I found the fairways anyway... The tees and greens were likewise in excellent condition.

The terrain is generally very undulating, and I'm not sure that there are many holes which you'd describe as flat. The fairways are generally fairly generous, but there are a few which tighten up a little. I don't remember a lot of holes where you could see the flag from the tee, so be prepared for a fair number of doglegs.

What you won't get are any bad holes. I'm pretty safe in saying that you will enjoy playing here, from the warm welcome you receive in the pro shop, to the final putt at the 18th, this is just an awesome place to play golf.
Date Tuesday, 03, June 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Redbourn Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Really enjoyable course

Having never played it, I had read some reviews and was hoping to find a decent course. It was all that and more.

The course was in really good condition, whether you are on the tees, fairways, or greens. The rough is very rough, but generally the fairways and first cut are very generous, so it takes a very wayward drive to find a huge amount of trouble.

The course is just nicely laid out, with some lovely looking holes to be played. There are five par 4's over 400 yards, plus a par 5 that's over 600 yards, so not easy.

The clubhouse is lovely, there are ample practise facilities, and I can't think of anything that I felt was even slightly disappointing. I really enjoyed my round here, and look forward to a return trip hopefully in the near future!
Date Saturday, 24, May 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Huntswood Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Good value golf

Not a long course at 5200 yds from the yellows, but it is enjoyable. The front 9 seemed a little tight, with a few holes running up and down next to each other, but it picks up on the back 9 where there are some very good looking holes. The 11th, 17th and 18th are the highlights, and it's a nice way to finish a round.

As for the condition, the greens were really good, while there were few complaints about the tees and fairways.
Date Thursday, 22, May 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Wentworth Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

It's Wentworth. Do I really need to say anymore?

I played the East Course on a beautiful day in May, a week before the PGA stars are due to light up the West Course.

As a first time visitor you wonder if the place can match the hype. It does. From the moment you enter the grounds and head towards the clubhouse, you just know.

Just assume that the greens, tees and fairways are all in awesome condition. They are. As for the holes, there's lots of variety. Some longer, some shorter, and I would say that they are mostely all suitable for players of any handicap.

All you need is excellent company to join you here, and in Anna (thank you, thank you, thank you!), Brigitte, and Ian F, I did.

Wentworth? You know you want to!
Date Saturday, 17, May 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Drift Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely condition

I'll start with the positives, and there are lots which spring to mind. The fairways, tees, and greens were in great condition, and a real pleasure to play on. The clubhouse is all you can ask for, and there's a real nice driving range to warm up on. No matter where you on the course, there are no outside influences like nearby houses or noise from local roads. In fact, everywhere is peace and tranquillity. It almost seems like the perfect golf course.

The downside, and my playing partners and I all agreed on this, is that the holes are all a bit samey. Pretty much all of the fairways are tree lined, and while they maybe aren't narrow, they are certainly closer to narrow than they are generous. If you do find the trees though, mostly you won't have to look too hard to find your ball.

The back 9 is probably a little bit nicer than the front, but we came away thinking that few holes stuck in the memory.

Would I recommend The Drift to others? I'm certain I would. Like I said earlier, find the fairways and greens and you'll be playing on quality turf, and none of the holes are bad. Would I rush back to play it again? I tend to prefer courses that allow for a bit of leniency from the tee, and there are other courses which spring to mind with a wider variety of holes, so maybe I wouldn't exactly rush back.
Date Wednesday, 14, May 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Thames Ditton & Esher Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Warm welcome

If my experience today is anything to go by then you're in for a very warm welcome, where the guy in the pro shop couldn't do enough to make us feel at home here.

Thames Ditton & Esher is an 9 hole course with two sets of tees, although playing there today there were a few holes where there wasn't a lot of difference between them.

Speaking of tees, they really weren't that great. There were one or two fairways that were also in need of some TLC, although the greens were generally in pretty good condition.

The course itself isn't that long, but you do have to hit it straight or you'll find your score mounting quickly.

There are a number of holes where fairways get shared or holes cross, add to that the members of the public walking across the course, and I imagine at busy times there can be lengthy waits for landing areas to be clear.

Overall this is a decent test of your game that won't cost a fortune to play. Worth giving it a go if you're in the area.
Date Friday, 09, May 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Windlesham Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous course, but not for rookies

I'd played Windlesham once before, quite a few years ago, and the change in that time is incredible. Back then I decided it wasn't a course in great condition, but today I was very impressed with pretty much everything it had to offer.

The tees and fairways were in fabulous condition, and the greens were up with the best I've played on. There are some lovely looking holes here. Add in the clubhouse and practice facilities and you can see that little has been spared on making this club everything it can be.

The fairways are generally pretty fair, but with a number of super tough par 4's this certainly isn't an easy round. I think this is a course better suited to lower handicap players. It's also not a cheap round, but you can see where the money's gone.
Date Sunday, 06, April 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

West Middlesex Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Nice course

With the recent winter rains and the freshly dressed greens, I'm pretty sure that I didn't see the course at its best. That said, the course was well worth playing.

There are a few tee shots where you could do with a hole guide, just to give you an idea of where to play it, but that's a small criticism. There are a number of really good looking holes, and with one or two exceptions it's reasonably generous from the tees.
Date Monday, 31, March 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Gloucester Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course, great views, warm welcome.

We were made to feel very welcome in the pro shop, which is always a great way to start a round on a new course. The clubhouse is warm and friendly, with great views of the course and the hills.

As for the course itself, it's hard to fault. The tees, greens and fairways were in great condition for March, and there are some lovely looking holes here.

The front 9 is okay, but it's on the back 9 where the best holes are. You will have a bit of a climb up to the 12th green first, but once up there you'll get some wonderful views and some great holes. The standout is probably the par 4 18th, which drops 400 feet from tee to green, but both par 5's on the back deserve a mention too.

Give Gloucester a go. I'm pretty sure you'll enjoy it.
Date Thursday, 20, March 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Painswick Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Quirky, but well worth playing here.

Arriving at Painswick before the pro shop was open, we were warmly greeted by members who helped get us pointed in the right direction.

Painswick isn't a long course, and it doesn't have any bunkers, but it has lots of craters and hollows, small greens, a couple of short blind par 3's, and is a lot of fun.

It's also on a hill and is very scenic. The downside is that for some it won't be an easy walk, and on windy days (or very windy days, like my round today) it is very exposed.

What didn't I like? The 17th is played across a crossroads, and the potential to either a) have your shot bouncing down the road, or b) hitting a car which suddenly appears half way through your back swing, is a possibility. There are also a couple of shared fairways which I imagine can get busy, and that's without the walkers out with their dogs.

Overall though I really enjoyed playing here, and look forward to giving it another go soon.
Date Thursday, 20, March 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Crane Valley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Nice course!

There's a lot to like about Crane Valley, especially if you like the fairways to be more on the generous side. Not that this is an easy 18, with a few of the greens protected by streams. The pick of the holes is probably the par 5 17th, with narrowing landing areas, and OB tight left as you approach the green. The short par 3 6th, with a stream running to the front and left, should also get a mention though.

The greens and fairways were in good condition, especially the greens, although the wet winter has left most bunkers pretty bare of sand. I heard that those were due to be repaired very soon though.

The clubhouse sits at the top of the hill looking down onto the course, and on a warm sunny day, as on the day I played here, it's a perfect place to relax after your round.

Well worth a visit.
Date Sunday, 16, March 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Brent Valley Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Up & down

I'm sure I didn't see this course at its Sunday best, as the winter rains of 2014 meant very damp fairways and eight temporary greens. That was a bone of contention within our group, as having rung up a day earlier to find out if trollies were allowed, they failed to mention that nearly half the greens were out of action.

The view from the first tee will give you an idea of what to expect, with 5 holes lined up next to each other. That layout is repeated on other areas of the course too.

This isn't a long course, and thetre aren't any par 5's, but there are 5 or 6 tricky holes. The 14th is very much protected by a lake and a big tree, and is probably the most picturesque hole on the course.

My lasting impression of the course is one with too many holes that just run up and down, and one probably suited to mid to higher handicap players.

Date Sunday, 23, February 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

The Oxfordshire Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Awesome course

Excellent holes, water, and windy weather. All three are likely to be encountered during a round here, with the exposed nature of the course meaning that still days are probably in the minority.

Water comes into play on a number of holes, with two pars 3's over water, the 11th having water all down the right hand side, and the 8th and 17th both having their fairways running alongside lakes. The 17th throws in an interesting challenge for longer hitters, with a shorter route to the green for those willing to go over the water to a fairway on the other side.

I played here during one of the wettest winters ever, but even though it was a little wet underfoot in places, the tees and greens were in excellent condition.

Downsides? I thought the hotel and bars were a little sterile, but that's probably me being picky.

There was a good welcome in the pro shop, and it was just the start of a really enjoyable round. I recommend you come here and experience The Oxfordshire for yourself.
Date Saturday, 15, February 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Hersham Village Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Good value course

Very warm welcome in the pro shop. However, with the abundance of rain around the country over the past month or so, it's fair to say that I probably didn't see the course at its best.

With only one par 5, the course isn't long, but it is pretty tight, especially through the front 9, so don't come here expecting an easy round.

I hope to go back in the summer and see how it plays with dry fairways.
Date Sunday, 12, January 2014
Nev Smith
23.2

Maylands Golf & Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Enjoyable course.

There was both good and bad about playing my first ever round at Maylands in December. The downsides appears to be how wet the course can be, and the noise from the M25 that follows you through your round. That said, I found that I tuned out the noise fairly quickly.

The greens were slower than a lot of courses I've played recently, although they looked very good and the ball ran very true. The fairways are fair and generally wide, with only one or two that could be described as tight. The 7th in particular is especially narrow if you have a driver in your hand.

I wouldn't describe the course as hilly, but it is very undulating.

Overall I enjoyed playing Maryland's (despite my score here). The course is very pleasant and there are some nice holes, and I wouldn't hesitate in going back for a return round.

Date Sunday, 01, December 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

West Orange Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well worth playing.

This is a really lovely place to play golf. Compared to some courses, there isn't a huge amount of water. What it does have is generally fairly narrow fairways, some more penal than others. The whole course is kept in very good condition, and the greens especially were very well kept. West Orange was a pleasure to play.
Date Wednesday, 13, November 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Kissimmee Bay Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Decent course, iffy greens...

Having previously played Kissimmee Bay's twin course, Remington, earlier in the week, I wasn't expecting a great course, but I was pleasantly surprised. In contrast to Remington, the tees and fairways were in good condition. Sadly though, the greens were not that special and they looked and played very poorly. There are some nice holes here though and the course is very fair. Worth a trip!

My overall rating of "very good" is based on the cheap price I paid for the round.
Date Friday, 08, November 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Remington Golf & Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Okay course

There was a warm welcome at the pro shop, which is a nice way to start your round. The course itself is through housing, and when there isn't housing bordering the fairway, there's frequently lots of water. The tees and fairways weren't the best that I've encountered, but the greens were pretty good. None of the holes jumped out as particularly memorable.

If you're in the neighbourhood and you can get a deal then give it a go, but I wouldn't travel too far to play here.
Date Tuesday, 05, November 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Peebles Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Excellent setting!

This is one of my favourite courses ever. I've only played it 4 times over the past ten years, but every time it has been a pleasurable experience. The scenery is as good as it gets, and the course is always in great condition.

The fairways are pretty forgiving, but stray and the rough can be fierce, whilst the greens were smooth and true.

The course is on a hill, and both nines involve climbing up to the top of the course before returning to the clubhouse. The views though are well worth the effort.

The only thing I'd like to change about the course is to make it a little cheaper to visiting golfers, but other than that I heartily recommend you try this course out.
Date Friday, 13, September 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Biggar Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short and scenic

I had a bad feeling about this course as I drove into the car park, but it turned out to be a far more pleasant experience than I expected.

This isn't a long course and anyone with a low handicap is likely to shoot the lights out here, but it has a lot going for it. The greens were pretty decent, and the fairways were as lush as any I've played on recently. It's also not that expensive, so it's pretty good value for money.

The bunkers weren't great though, and had I not been following the group in front I may never have worked out where the 16th green was. And this was after I'd already played my tee shot! The men's 18th tee is pretty well hidden too.

Overall, I think that this would be a good place to learn the game in scenic surroundings, or for getting some golf in after work, but there are better courses in the area.
Date Tuesday, 10, September 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

McDonald Cardrona Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Loved it!!

This is a lovely course in gorgeous surroundings. The greens were smooth and quick, and the fairways are wide, which is good because the course is long: 6555 yards from the yellows.

The only slight downer is the number of stones in the bunker, but I guess the way to avoid them is to avoid the bunkers. Also, a few people mentioned the length of walk between some of the greens and tees. According to my GPS it was a 6.5 mile walk round the course, but I say who cares when you have scenery like this.

Loved this course!!!
Date Monday, 09, September 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Hampton Court Palace Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Not at its best

Thanks to the recent sunny weather the course was exceptionally dry, with very little sign of the colour green across the course. I'm guessing I didn't see it at its best. That said, a lot of other courses have handled the weather for better than this one.

I was told by my playing partners that Hampton Court Palace looks a far better course during normal British weather, but I found it very flat and featureless. On a lot of the holes the fairways just seem to be made up by cutting a route through a mass of long grass.

The greens certainly weren't the best I've played on this year, and the bunkers had barely any sand in them.

This isn't a course I will be rushing back to, and I certainly don't think anyone paying full price for their green fee would be getting value for money.
Date Wednesday, 21, August 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Sherfield Oaks Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

I hadn't played at Sherfield Oaks for 6 years, but I really enjoyed returning here. There are two courses and this review is based on the shorter Waterloo course.

While the course is only around 5600 yards from the yellows, it's not entirely defenceless. The course tightens up on the back 9 so you need to be hitting it well from the tee. The 10th is an especially tricky fairway to hit. That said, the course is very fair.

The greens were all in really good condition and a pleasure to putt on. Despite the recent dry summer, the fairways and tees were all holding up really well too.
Date Friday, 16, August 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Southampton Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Hard to fault

Okay, so it might just be because of my best round of the year that I'm saying this, but I don't think so. Just turning up you can tell this is a lovely course, and after you've got a couple of holes under your belt your opinion won't have changed.

This isn't an easy course, the tree lined fairways see to that, but it's not mean and scary either. There are some lovely holes here, with a good mix of short and long par 4's. The par 3's are all a visual delight, and the one par 5 is a good birdie opportunity.

The course is very undulating, so perhaps not the easiest of walking courses, but it's not really what you'd call a slog.

The staff in the pro shop were incredibly welcoming, and the lunch I had was excellent.

Seriously, after one round I'm now a big fan of this course, and I hope to be playing here again soon.
Date Thursday, 08, August 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Rickmansworth Public Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fun times!

When you stand at the first tee you're given a glimpse of what's facing you in your round to come: A tricky uphiller where all you can see is the top of the flag and a couple of bunkers. There are eight par 3"s and only one par 5, but don't turn up expecting the course to roll over for you. There are hanging lies and unfavourable bounces ahead, along with a few climbs too, but this a very fair course that seems to be popular with all who play here.
Date Sunday, 28, July 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Royal Ascot Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Decent course

We were made to feel very welcome in the pro shop when we went to check in, something that a lot of other courses could learn from.

The course seemed very fair, although it does start to narrow a little towards the end of the round. Unusually, there are 6 par 3's, but I don't see that as a negative.

We played here after a long sunny period so the fairways were hard and starting to turn brown, and finding them with your tee shot didn't necessarily mean getting a great lie. The greens were okay, but at the moment they're nothing really special. They were smooth running, but pretty slow.

Avoid the rough. You'll be lucky to even find your feet if you go into it, so finding your ball is a nightmare.

We played here on a midweek £20 deal, which is probably about the right price. I think the normal price is nearer £40 midweek, and had I played there for that price then I think I'd have felt a little cheated. Once the course matures it may well merit that though.

The clubhouse is very nice.
Date Thursday, 11, July 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Rolling Green Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Good value

Not the most testing of courses, so probably suited to mid to high handicap players. The fairways are pretty generous, the greens were in decent shape (if a bit slow), and the only let down were some of the tees which were a little patchy.

Overall, there aren't a lot frills, but it's a good value course where you'll get a friendly welcome in the clubhouse.
Date Thursday, 20, June 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Bent Tree Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Enjoyable course

This isn't the hardest course you'll ever play, but from the very pleasant clubhouse to the well kept greens it's all a fairly enjoyable experience.

The fairways are reasonably generous to hit from the tee, and generally your ball shouldn't be too hard to find when it does go awry. The greens weren't especially quick but they were all true and in good condition. Water only comes into play on a few holes.
Date Tuesday, 18, June 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Selsdon Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course, awful parking.

Selsden Park is a lovely place to play golf, with a good mix of holes to keep you entertained. If you're wayward then the course will punish you with long grass in the rough, but generally the fairways will provide you with a reasonably accommodating target.

The greens were in excellent condition, and I got caught out by a few that went the opposite way that I was expecting.

It's certainly not a flat course, but there are some lovely views from a number of the holes which kinda makes up for it.

My only issues with Selsdon Park are a) it's hard to spot the 150yd markers (yellow disc in middle of fairway), and b) finding a space to park your car. There is a sign to the golf parking, but that was a little misleading and I ended up driving out the other side.
Date Monday, 27, May 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Minchinhampton Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course, but a bit pricey.

I played the two new courses, but there is a third (the Old Course) which is apparently a few miles away.

These two newer courses are both really lovely, neither of which is especially easy from the white tees. I preferred the Avening course simply for the nicer views, but there's not a lot of difference between the two courses. The Avening has more of a parkland feel to it.

Despite the horrible winter thus far, the greens on The Cherington were very good. I imagine that given some decent weather that they would be quite exceptional. The Avening greens weren't quite as good, but to be fair they had recently been worked on.
Date Tuesday, 09, April 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Bird Hills Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Nice enough

This is a course that has improved a lot since it first opened as Hawthorne Hill. Back then it was pretty much a field, but lots of trees have been planted since then.

The fairways are fairly generous so it's a course that's okay for all handicaps. There are a few nicely shaped holes, but overall this is just an "okay" course.
Date Sunday, 07, April 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Broke Hill Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course, grumpy welcome

First the good. The greens were really nice for the time of year, given the winter we've just had (and still seem to be having). The course itself is pleasant enough for the front nine, and then adds a bit more interest on the back. I'd say it's a fair test for most handicaps, not too tough, but with enough hazards to punish the wayward. As others have mentioned, the front is pretty flat, while the back isn't really too strenuous.

The bad was the welcome in the pro shop. I'm not sure if he was having a bad day, but as a first point of contact I've had plenty better. This was a shame as the clubhouse is really lovely and the staff there were really pleasant.

The bunkers weren't the best. Too many footprints and sand obtained from a builders yard. I guess the best thing to do is to stay out of them!

It's borderline whether it's a little pricey (green fee and food), but get a good deal and I think you'll enjoy your round here.
Date Monday, 01, April 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

West Malling Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Could be better

I played both course, the Spitfire and Hurricane, but I'm not sure I saw either course at its best.

The Hurricane is the shorter of the two courses, and tee shots are mainly positional rather than just hammering it as far as you can. You cross the road from holes 8 to 13, and here it's a little more open. There are some nice holes, but it's not a course I'd rush back to.

The Spitfire is the better of the two courses. It's a fair bit longer and there are some tough par 4's here, but they're a lot more interesting too. The par 4 14th (I think) requires a decent tee shot, and then is all uphill to a hidden green.

Both courses seem to be struggling to cope with the never ending winter though, and the greens are probably the worst ones I've played this year by far. Sanded and hollow tined, and a turf that frequently moved under your feet as you walked, it was almost impossible to guess which way the ball was going to hop after you'd putted it.

I imagine that in drier weather this is a decent day's golf though. The clubhouse is really nice and there are some great views to be had. With greens as iffy as the ones I've just played, I'm not sure I got full value for my day ticket.
Date Thursday, 28, March 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Pyecombe Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course, great views

Pyecombe is a course just north of Brighton, and it's one that's well worth taking a trip to. The course is certainly hilly in places, but make the effort and the views of the holes and the surrounding hills will make it worth your while. You'll also get to see Jack and Jill close up, two windmills along the South Downs Way.

My favourite looking holes are probably the 3rd or the 9th, but there's lots to like about the others too.

The fairways are pretty wide and inviting, but you'll seldom be granted an even lie off the fairways. The greens will, I'm sure, but far better than they were today, but this is not the time of year to be judging them.

The clubhouse was very cozy, and everyone there seemed pleasant enough. Pyecombe gets a big thumbs up from me, and I'm looking to back again soon.
Date Monday, 18, March 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Goring & Streatley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course, gorgeous views

I've only played here a couple of times, but I'm not sure I know why I haven't made the effort to play here more often.

The fairways are generally fairly accommodating, and the holes are a good mixture of tougher and easier holes. It's certainly not an easy walk, but once you've made the climb to the 5th tee most of the hard walking is behind you. The views as you make your way back to the clubhouse make the climb well worth the effort.

Goring and Streatley is just an excellent place for a round of golf.

Date Wednesday, 06, March 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Clandon Golf

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Hmmm...

It's only the second time I've played here, but since my first visit the general condition has gone downhill. The course itself is fairly open, although there are some interesting holes from 13 to 15.

When I played it in the summer a couple of years ago I thought the greens and fairways were in decent condition. However, playing it today both were in a very sorry state. The greens especially looked in a bad way with lots of moss.

There's only a portacabin to welcome you, so you'll need to find somewhere else to get a drink after your round.

Last time I enjoyed playing here, this time I didn't, so I'm hoping that it will improve with the weather.
Date Friday, 01, March 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Forest Lake Golf Club of Ocoee

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Excellent course!

This is my second time at Forest Lake, and I remember now why after my first round here I told myself I should come back.

There are no houses, excellent greens, and a course that generally won't punish you too severely if you stray from the fairways. It isn't an easy course, but you don't come off feeling like it was a slog.

This is a great place to play golf for all levels of golfer, and at prices that won't have your bank manager flinching.
Date Thursday, 21, February 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Baytree National Golf Links

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course.

There's lots to like about this course, and it's popularity is highlighted by the number of players who are there playing it. Sadly this frequently will mean a long round, and mine today took over 4 and a half hours to complete.

Depending on the tees you choose, this can be a very testing round, with an especially tricky closing hole: A dogleg left to a semi-island green.

The greens looked a little skanky, but they rolled pretty true.

Worth making the effort to play here.
Date Tuesday, 19, February 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Habitat at Valkaria, The

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Nice enough if you're in the area

The good things about the course is there is no housing, and few of the fairways run alongside each other. The bad thing is that after a while the holes all started to look pretty much the same, although maybe this changes once you've played the course a few times. While the course isn't exactly narrow, any stray shots will disappear into the bushes, never to be seen again.

It's a nice enough course and in decent condition. It's just not one I'll likely rush back to.
Date Monday, 18, February 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Walden Lake Golf & Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Could be way better

There are two courses here and I played on The Hills course. The good thing about the course is that there are a lot of really nice holes, but the shame is it's totally lacking in TLC. The greens have weeds growing on them (although they putted quite well), there are no rakes in the bunkers, and the fairways and tee boxes are in desperate need of attention.

I didn't hate playing here, I just think it could be a lot better.
Date Friday, 15, February 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Black Bear Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

one excellent course

I'd heard good things about this course, and it didn't let me down in the slightest.

The course is very undulating and finding fairways is something you're going to want to do, because the greens are pretty much all raised and protected by mean, mean bunkers. Not that the greens are that friendly either, with lots of slopes making two putts just that little bit harder.

This is a course that's well worth making the trip for.
Date Wednesday, 13, February 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Palisades Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Tough course, tougher greens!

About 45 mins up from Disney is Palisades CC, and if you're looking for good golf in the Orlando area at a fraction of the Disney prices then you could do worse than play here.

The front 9 is longer, but the fairways are wider. The back 9 isn't really tight, but there is a whole lot more water to focus the mind.

And then there are the greens. I'm not sure there's a flat area of green on the course, and anyone who doesn't put a 3 putt on his card has played exceptionally well.

The clubhouse overlooks Lake Mineola and has quite the view. Like I said earlier, you could do far worse than play here.
Date Tuesday, 12, February 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Ventura Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

short course, but tricky greens

Not a long course, and maybe not exactly a hidden gem, but it did have its moments. There are a few tricky holes, such as the 13th where you have to decide just how much of the water you want to go over from the tee. The safer you go, the longer the 2nd becomes.

The biggest defence the course has is probably the greens, most of which have a decent amount of slope on, and when I played the course today they were like lightning. There's lots of water here too.

Lots of housing around, most of which is fairly safe from errant golf balls. But not all...
Date Monday, 11, February 2013
Nev Smith
23.2

Nizels Golf & Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Very scenic

We ended up rushing to play here when snow stopped play at Dale Hill a few miles down the road, so didn't know a lot about the course when we turned up. We do now though, and we liked pretty much all we saw of it. This is a scenic course with a great mix of interesting holes, and you'll be expected to use pretty much all of your clubs as you make your way round. This is probably suited to mid to low handicappers generally, but if you don't mind losing a few balls (I lost four!!) then there's lots here to enjoy. I'm hoping to go back again, but next time when the weather's a bit kinder.
Date Wednesday, 05, December 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Lewes Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous views

The climb up the single lane road to Lewes GC is one that's well worth taking, because at the top is a golf course with some of the best views in the country. In my humble opinion anyway. The course itself is worth playing on its own merits however, although be prepared for a fair amount of climbing uphill. The fairways are generally fairly generous, but when the wind blows I imagine that you will be grateful for that. The clubhouse was very warm and welcoming, and we were especially thankful for the woman behind the bar who made us sandwiches, even though food wouldn't normally be served at the time we arrived back. Highly recommended!
Date Friday, 09, November 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Sunbury Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Not especially exciting

This is probably a course that suits higher H/C players as it's one that doesn't usually punish wayward drives, and with only a few exceptions the holes are reachable in regulation by pretty much everyone.

The greens are usually in good condition, although when I played it today the fairways were suffering with all of the rain we've had this year. This course is certainly not alone in that regard though.

The trickiest hole is the 6th, with water all up the RH side and OB on the left.
Date Thursday, 08, November 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Donnington Valley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

You have to play Donnington Valley!

Today was the 2nd time I've been here this year, and on both occasions I've been very impressed. Despite the recent wet and miserable weather, the fairways and greens were in excellent condition. The only downer were the bunkers which were like muddy fields in places, but I guess that's my own fault for going in them.

I would suggest that this is a course for mid to lower handicappers, with a number of long par 4's, and trees restricting the width of the fairways on a lot of the holes, but there's no reason why higher handicappers won't enjoy playing here too.

My favourite hole is probably the par 3 16th, which is played uphill over a pond to a green that has the woods as a backdrop. There are a number of other lovely holes here though.

Special mention goes to the guy working behind the bar, who couldn't do enough for us, and the excellent (and cheap!) food on offer.
Date Thursday, 25, October 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Hoebridge Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Always in good condition

There's lots to be impressed about Hoebridge. They have a good clubhouse, well stocked shop, driving range, and the course seems to always be in really good condition. Oh, and along with the 18 hole main course, there's a 9 hole course and an 18 hole par 3 course too.

The fairways are generally wide, but there are quite a few testing holes in there too and a lot of pars have to be earned. The greens especially are amongst some of the best in the area.
Date Wednesday, 29, August 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Epsom Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Roller Coaster Greens

This isn't the longest course that you'll ever play, but it's not one to give up a good score easily. There are a number of tight holes where there's a good chance of a lost ball, especially the 8th and 16th, and you really don't want to get on the wrong side of the hole on the greens.

The 16th is all downhill but Victoria Beckham skinny. Fortunately it is a lot prettier though.

There are a number of holes that cross over each other, and a minor irritant is the number of people walking their dogs on the public footpaths, but there are some wonderful views over London to be had, and some really pretty holes to be played.
Date Sunday, 26, August 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Pyrford Lakes Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Overpriced

Great welcome at the pro shop, so certainly no complaints there.

There are some nice holes, but there are a large number that just look a bit "samey". Too many of the fairways are bordered by mounds with long grass, although on the back nine a lot of the mounds get replaced by lots of water.

While the fairways aren't generous on the front, they appear to tighten up on the back. A lot of the holes are short enough to take a long iron off the tee though.

The greens were probably the slowest I've played all summer, and not exactly in great condition.

This is a decent enough course, but if you're paying full price then I can imagine that you'll feel that you haven't had value for money by the time you finish your round.
Date Thursday, 23, August 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Woldingham Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely location

The course is in a glorious location running along the Hallilo Valley, and I'm sure you can't help but enjoy your round here.

The fairways are generally nice and wide, although if you stray into the light rough there's a good chance that you'll struggle to find your ball. This was the only down side for me, as apart from being frustrating it leads to very slow rounds.

There are lots of nice holes to play, but right-handers need to be prepared to have lots of shots below their feet, especially on the front 9.

It's a lovely clubhouse, and with decent practise facilities it all adds up to a wonderful experience.
Date Sunday, 19, August 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Stockley Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Where are the Pines?

First, I'm not sure why they changed the name to Stockley Pines, as there are precious few pines in the course that I could see. There are lots of trees bordering the fairways though, so lots of opportunities for reloads (I can vouch for that!). The only hole I remember that stood out was one that stood out for all the wrong reasons. The 10th was just horrible, like they'd forgotten to put enough holes on the course and quickly had to add one at short notice. Overall the course seems a little scruffy, and the bunkers seem to be full of kitty litter instead of sand.
Date Sunday, 19, August 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Test Valley Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Excellent value, good course

Test Valley's a great course with a decent variety of holes. There are a few tight fairways to be hit, and a few where you can open your shoulders. It was in great condition too, with smooth greens and decent fairways. Played it for only £12.50 from a tee time site, and for that money it's certainly worth the trip.

The clubhouse is very pleasant, the staff in the pro shop are very friendly, and with the practice facilities it's great place to go to.
Date Friday, 10, August 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Airlinks Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

It's an okay course

This won't be your greatest test of golf ever, but for a cheap 18 holes then it serves a purpose. I would suggest that this course is a bigger test for mid to higher handicap players than lower, but for most people this will be one the easier places to play.

It's generally fairly open, but the back 9 is a little tighter than the front. There are some long par 3's to keep you on your toes, but there are a number of shorter par 4's to make up for it. The greens were in very good condition, although the rest of the course had a slightly scruffy appearance to it.
Date Sunday, 05, August 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Cottesmore Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Played the Griffin course

This is a very wooded course with some tightish fairways, especially on the front 9, so most definately not a course where the driver comes out at every tee.

This is a very pleasant place to play with some very nice holes, although maybe if you hit it long and wayward you will find yourself reloading on numerous occasions.

The greens and fairways were in good condition so no complaints there, although we did find ourselves trying to figure out where next tee would be on a few occasions.

Overall this was a very enjoyable place to play.

I only played the Griffin course, so I can't vouch for the Phoenix through this report.
Date Sunday, 29, July 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Harleyford Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

A touch of class!

The moment the barriers go up to let you onto the estate, you know that you could be in on something special. By the time you come out you're certain of it.

This is one wonderful place to play golf. There's a warm welcome in the pro shop, there are gorgeous holes, a fabulous clubhouse, some excellent practise facilities, and a changing room that's a big step up on a lot of courses.

Favourite holes (forgetting the scores I put down on my card!) were the downhill 7th and the scenic par 3 12th, but really, there are no real letdowns here.

The fairways are generally wide, but the greens will make sure that you have to work to get good scores.

My suggestion is go and play Harleyford, you won't be disappointed.
Date Thursday, 26, July 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Ogbourne Downs Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Wonderful Course, excellent views

First the good: This is one excellent golf course with some stunning views. The par 5 14th especially is a hole that you should savour. There's a driving range, putting green, and a wonderful clubhouse. Friendly and informative welcome in the pro shop.

Good or bad, depending on your viewpoint: Be prepared for a few climbs, the rough is tough, and I imagine that when the wind blows you could be looking at some very difficult holes.

The bad: The attitude of one club member on the course who managed to sour the Ogbourne Downs experience for at least 6 people. Fortunately I don't believe him to be representative of the rest of the membership.

Overall impression: I love this course, even though I have played it badly on both occasions.
Date Wednesday, 25, July 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

The Hampshire Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Could be better

The good: Excellent scenery, with an especially gorgeous stretch from 13 to 15.

The bad: The greens were very iffy and as slow as any I've been on this summer. Not sure what was in the bunkers, but I know it wasn't sand. No map on the card to let you know where the next tee was, and not enough signs on the course either.

And depending on your viewpoint: The fairways were generally huge, so you could let rip from the tee. The greens were tough to stop the ball on.

Favourite hole: You just have to enjoy hitting a good tee shot from the 15th.

If you get a good price then this is a great place to play. I think that with some TLC then it could be a lot better though.
Date Sunday, 22, July 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Chobham Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

A wonderful place to play!

As you drive into the car park you can pretty much see straight away that you're at a very nice club, and the golf course itself only enhances that viewpoint. Walking the holes you get the feeling that this is how golf is supposed to be, and I know the round finished way too early for me.

It isn't long, but it isn't without it's defences if you start to stray too far from the fairways and greens. It was in good conditon, although the bunkers were suffering a little from all the horrendous rain we've had recently.

I am not sure I would want to pay the full price to play here, but if you can get a deal then it's an excellent place to play. I know I hope to get back there soon.
Date Monday, 09, July 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Oxford Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fantastic course

First off I should say that Southfield GC is now Oxford GC, and despite the fact that you're almost in the centre of Oxford, it certainly doesn't feel like it.

You get to the first tee, look at what's ahead of you, and think it could be a good course. It's not, it's way better than that.

Favourite holes? The 3rd, 11th, 12th, and 13th could all stake a claim to that, but really you should just go there and enjoy all 18.

It's not an easy course, but it's generally playable. Maybe the par 3 12th is one to be feared though.

Downsides? The light rough was a little mean, but maybe that was due to the club championship being played the day I played there.

Quick tip, there's a small bush to the right (usually) of the fairways which marks 150yds to the centre of the green.
Date Sunday, 08, July 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Mannings Heath Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Kingfisher Course

I played on the Kingfisher course after a LOT of rain had fallen recently, but generally the course had held up pretty well. There were a few greens with puddles on, likewise a number of bunkers, but given the amount of rain recently I could understand why there was surface water. The fairways were soft, but along with the greens they were in very good condition.

The fairways were fairly inviting, and there weren't many holes where you couldn't get away with a slight mishit. It's certainly not an "up & down" course and there are a number of good holes. It's not spectacular, but it makes for an enjoyable 18 holes.

I think it was the 17th green which appears to have a 3 bladed windmill propeller buried under it. You'll understand me when you see it!

The clubhouse it pretty gorgeous, and there are ample practise facilities there. Add in the views of the surrounding countryside and the feeling of being "away from the madding crowd", and you have a decent course to while away a few hours.
Date Saturday, 07, July 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Wokefield Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

Wokefield Park is a fairly long parkland course, but the fairways are wide enough to allow you to have a go from the tee. There are some nice holes and you don't get the feeling of going "up and down", and certainly on a warm summer's night it's a great place to play.

On the downside, I have had some long rounds here though, and to get the most out of the course you need to look for some online deals.

The facilities here are also pretty good, but bar prices seem to be aimed at the business/expense rate and so aren't cheap.

Overall though this is a great course and one worth playing.
Date Thursday, 05, July 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Gatton Manor Golf, Hotel & Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Tough course, but a good one to play well

Maybe it's a result of all of the rain we've had this year, but the fairways were a joy to play off of today. And if you want to score well at Gatton Manor you will have to find a lot of fairways, because it's tough enough without playing your second from behind a tree or two.

The greens too were in very good condition, and with the slopes in some of the greens you'll do exceptionally well to get round without a 3 putt or two on your card. The practise green certainly doesn't prepare you for what you're going to get on the course.

The downsides to playing here? Numerous multi-coloured discs in the fairways, for which there was no key to on the card. I am guessing that there are disc markers at 125 & 175 yards, as well as the 100, 150, and 200, but I hit at least one shot well short because I had completely the wrong club in my hand. This was thanks to a confusion over how far back I was.

That said, this is an excellent place to enjoy your golf, and there are quite a few interesting holes to be overcome. The 6th is the signature hole, with a smallish green and a stream surrounding it, and you'll certainly enjoy coming off there with a par. Or so I'd guess!

The 11th will tease you into going for the green from the tee, but it gets awful tight the closer you get to the hole there.

The feeling you get from playing here is that you're playing an up-market golf club, so I suggest you just get along there and enjoy it.
Date Sunday, 01, July 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

The South Buckinghamshire Golf club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

This is a really nice council course that has always been in great condition whenever I've played it. The front 9 is probably better than the back, where there are 2 or 3 holes where you feel like you're just going "up and down", but that's a small criticism for an otherwise excellent track.
Date Wednesday, 20, June 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Weybrook Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Nice course

This is a nice open course that has some very interesting holes on. When I played it it was on the day of the club championship, so the greens were lightning fast. With the contoured greens it meant that there were few easy putts.

Not a short course, it is made (slightly) easier by firm fairways that I imagine are made possible by free draining soil. It's a course that is going to test you, and it's worth giving it a go if you're in the area.
Date Sunday, 17, June 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Hazlemere Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Loved, loved, loved Hazlemere

There are a few decent climbs to be had as you go round, but the views are pretty spectacular and there some gorgeous holes to be played. Oh, and the greens were like lightning.

You'll have to get used to sloping fairways too, starting off with the 1st which has a huge drop from the tee. Make the most of it, because you'll be climbing back up the other way soon enough!

Great course, great clubhouse, friendly welcome. What more could you ask for?
Date Tuesday, 12, June 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Drayton Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course in fantastic condition.

If I have any minus points about this course, then they are trivial by comparison to the plus points. I played it for the first time today and was very impressed with it.

There are some very nice holes here, and as for the condition, the fairways were really good, and I am not sure I have played on better greens anywhere this year.

The only issues I had were the 9th hole, where it appears you have to play across someone's back garden from the tee, and the signpost to the 13th, which had two signs pointing 180 degrees in different directions. As mentioned earlier though, these are just me nit-picking.

The clubhouse looks really nice (it was shut when I finished my round), there's a huge covered driving range, and a really nice practise green, so it's not just the course that excels.

This is a great course which I am very happy to recommend.
Date Sunday, 10, June 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Wexham Park Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Very pleasant course.

I played the Blue, which is 18 holes, but there are two other 9 hole courses (the red and green).

The Blue course is only around 5200 yards, and I would suggest that lower handicap players will generally have it for breakfast, but for middle to higher HC players the holes are frequently interesting enough to keep their attention. Despite the horrendous weather we've had recently, the course was in a very decent condition, with the greens running very true.

In its favour the club has a driving range and some practise greens, but the clubhouse has a "motorway cafe" feel about it, and the food seems a little expensive for what it is.
Date Friday, 08, June 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Alton Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Very pretty golf course

This is a gorgeous course with some wonderful views. It's only 9 holes, but even though there are 18 tees it really only changes 2 or 3 of the holes. You have to make the most of the 1st, because after that there aren't really too many easy holes, and on the back 9 the 1st changes from an easy par 4 to a wicked par 3.

The signature hole is probably the 3rd/12th across a valley, which is a pretty par 3 that has a few teeth to bare. I got bitten twice!

It's also not a course that's easy walking, where only the last three holes of each 9 can be considered as "flat".

At £15 for 18 holes on a bank holiday Monday, this is a total bargain of a golf course, and one I hope to return to soon.
Date Monday, 04, June 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Bletchingley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Gorgeous course with awesome views

This is a gorgeous course with some awesome views. Played it at the end of a week of unbroken sunshine and the fairways were running, so I imagine it would be more of a test when the fairways were a little softer. Not that it isn't a test in dry weather, because there are some good holes here. There are also some very tricky greens too, it really tests you from tee to green.

It's not the easiest of walking courses, with a few climbs as you make your way around. It is worth the effort though.

The 18th is uphill with a pond to the right of the green, which I imagine collects a few balls over the course of the day. The day I played it, it collected two golf trolleys, complete with bags/clubs!

All in all, this is a very pleasant place to play golf.
Date Sunday, 27, May 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Southwood Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Not amongst my favourites

Not really one of my favourite courses, although it is usually in decent nick once you get to the warmer months. I generally think it's a little too tight for me in places, such as at the 5th or 13th, and the 17th is pretty much written off during the winter to be replaced by a par 3.

Also, once you do find the rough the long grass can make finding your ball a nightmare. Get a few groups with similar issues and you can be looking at a fairly lengthy round, such as the round I played this evening.

There are some nice holes here though and you can get a decent deal for your green fee.
Date Wednesday, 23, May 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Hadden Hill Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Worth a visit if you're in the area.

This is a decent enough golf course which maybe plays a little shorter than the length suggests. Or it did when I played it earlier today anyway, when a well struck shot seemed to keep on going. You will need the firm fairways too, as there are a fair number of longish par 4's, and on the back 9 the fairways get a little bit tighter than they generally are on the front.

There aren't too many memorable holes here, although the par 3 9th is a good way to finish your front 9. The greens and fairways were pleasant enough, and the clubhouse looks really good (I didn't stop to check it out though.

Worth a visit if you're in the area.
Date Sunday, 20, May 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Hurtmore Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

short, open course

Fairly open course that would probably appeal to higher handicappers. I've hit the ball all over the place from the tees on some days, but still managed to go low through chipping and putting well. Most of the holes are fairly short with one or two exceptions, the main exception being the 3rd which is a monster long par 4.

Good greens, very reasonable green fees and a decent clubhouse.
Date Sunday, 20, May 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Hinksey Heights Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Lovely course

Lovely course with great views of Oxford, and on the day I played, great views of the thunderclouds coming my way! The fairways are generally fairly open, although the greens are frequently tricky. There are a few climbs up to the top of the course, so perhaps not for everyone, and it can be a little exposed if it gets windy.

The memorable hole is the 3rd, which is a long downhill par 4 with ponds and sloping lies awaiting your tee shot. Very pretty hole. Very mean too!
Date Sunday, 20, May 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Blue Mountain Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

No mountain in sight, but still a good place to play

This is pretty decent place to play golf. There are only a couple of par 5's on the course, but there are some longer par 3 & 4's to make sure that you have to work for a score.

The course is usually in pretty good condition, with what seems like some of the biggest greens you'll find anywhere.

A very enjoyable 18 holer.
Date Sunday, 20, May 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Hennerton Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short course, but worth a visit

This certainly isn't the longest course you'll ever get to play, but don't expect to walk away with a low score as there are some tricky holes here. What you will definately get is an eclectic mix of holes, some of which are played to a backdrop of the nicest scenery in the area.

The course has a few climbs that need to be taken through your round, but the effort is worth it.
Date Sunday, 20, May 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Richmond Park Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Okay if you're in the area

I played the Princes course, which is the shorter of the two courses available to play here. In my opinion it is probably the nicer one of the two, but I have only played each course once. It takes you up to the higher part of the course and gives you excellent views of the park. It is also not as "up & down" as I seem to remember the Dukes course being.

I have to say that it was in very good condition, with very lush fairways and smooth greens.

The clubhouse does let it down a lot, there isn't much other than a small pro shop and a snack bar, but there are plans to build a new clubhouse at the other end of the park, so that should help the overall feel good factor.

One thing which is pretty annoying is that they will only accept one credit/debit card per group.
Date Sunday, 20, May 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Wycombe Heights Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Love Wycombe Heights

There's lots to love about this course. The views, the excellent greens, a number of very pretty and different holes, a decent clubhouse, and good practise options.

The back 9 especially has a lot to offer, with the pretty but tricky 12th, the short but tight 15th, the drop to the par 3 16th, and the even steeper drop at the finishing hole. This is certainly one of my favourite courses in the area.
Date Saturday, 19, May 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Bushey Hall Golf Club (closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Great course

Anyone playing Bushey Hall is in for a treat. Lots of pretty holes, and all of them in wonderful condition.

It's not the longest course in the world, but it makes you work for your pars. From the 441 yard par 4 1st, you soon learn that you're not going to get many flat fairway lies. You do get very playable greens though.

Memorable holes? The par 5 5th, where drivers are usually kept in the bag, and two pretty par 3's at 9 and 10.
Date Saturday, 12, May 2012
Nev Smith
23.2

Badlands Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Excellent course, but not easy

Badlands is a 27 hole facility, of which I played two 9's (Diablo & Outlaw). The Diablo 9 is certainly tough with narrow fairways and some distance too, and I had far more success on the slightly more forgiving Outlaw 9.

The course was in excellent condition though, with the greens and fairways being a joy to play from (when I found them!).
Date Wednesday, 22, June 2011
Nev Smith
23.2

WildHorse Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Okay golf course

Interesting enough course to play, but wasn't in that great a condition when I played. I would go back again though.
Date Wednesday, 22, June 2011
Nev Smith
23.2

Fox Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Worth a visit

The Fox is a fairly forgiving course from the tee with wide fairways. Don't go in the rough though because it is seriously tough. The greens are lightning quick too, so don't think that the job is over once you get to the green.

The one hole I hated was the 15th, which is a 90 degree dogleg down two very narrow corridors of trees. Just the thought of playing this hole would probably make me think twice about playing The Fox again, which is a shame as the rest of the course is really nice.
Date Thursday, 09, June 2011
Nev Smith
23.2

Stratford Municipal Golf Crse

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Not too difficult

This is 9 hole golf course, with two sets of tees for playing 18. The fairways are pretty wide so it's a good place for mid to high handicappers. The only protection the course has is the length of some of the par 4's, and a lake in front of 5th (14th) green. However, the course was in decent condition and the lady in the shop was very friendly.
Date Friday, 22, April 2011
Nev Smith
23.2

Ironwood Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Decent course

Friendly welcome. Not the longest of courses but there are some nice holes, especially on the back 9. The only thing lacking was an absence of rakes next to any of the bunkers.
Date Monday, 18, April 2011
Nev Smith
23.2

Exeter Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fun 9 holer

Not the hardest golf course in the world, with only the 7th having anything like a tight tee shot, but the course was in good condition and the staff were very friendly and welcoming.
Date Wednesday, 13, April 2011
Nev Smith
23.2

Thames Valley Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Really good muni course

Played this course on its first day open after the winter break, and I was amazed to see how good the greens were.

The course is quite scenic as you play along the banks of the Thames River. Not the longest of courses, but there are still a few tricky holes out of the 18.

Well worth the visit.
Date Monday, 11, April 2011
Nev Smith
23.2

Rocky Point Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Nice course

Municipal course that was in good condition. The fairways are fairly forgiving until you get to the last couple of holes, and then they get scary tight. Very enjoyable course.
Date Monday, 24, January 2011
Nev Smith
23.2

Surrey Downs Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Worth a visit

I played Surrey Downs towards the end of autumn and really enjoyed my trip there. From the yellows the course isn't as tricky as I thought it might have been, certainly not as tricky as the course website suggests, although I imagine that with the longer rough it would be a tougher prospect. Fortunately, when I played there it looked like the rough had recently been cut back for the winter.

I enjoyed the par 5 5th hole, which was very scenic with the autumn foliage from the trees along the left hand side of the fairway. That said, there are a number of wonderful viewpoints from various holes on the course. It does get very exposed on windy days though.

Where the course let itself down was the condition of the greens, which had recently been spiked, and the bunkers which seemed to have builders sand in them.

The clubhouse was very welcoming, and the bar had a decent selection of food to choose from.

I wouldn't have wanted to pay full price for playing here, but the deal we got made it a bargain.
Date Tuesday, 26, October 2010
Nev Smith
23.2

Woodlands Golf & Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fun golf

Really enjoyed playing two rounds here, one on each of the two courses. The Masters is the longer course, but the Signature is probably the better of the two. Just.

My favourite hole on the Masters was the 12th, a short but pretty par 5.

Water comes into play on the latter holes of the Signature, with a very tricky par 4 14th. It's only 260 yards from the yellows, but there's no bale out area for your approach. It's green or nothing!

The last two par 3's, the 15th and 17th (especially), will also have you thinking about the water.

The clubhouse was okay, and the guy in the pro shop was very friendly.

The course was in really good condition, although I would have liked to have seen some 150 yard marker posts instead of having to search for the discs in the middle of the fairways.

For £14 a round (£25 for 36 holes) you can't go wrong.
Date Tuesday, 19, October 2010
Nev Smith
23.2

Woodlands Links Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Excellent golf course

I had the good fortune to play this course a couple of times in the summer, and was very happy to do so. The course was in excellent condition throughout, and is a decent test of golf for most handicaps.

The only hole I didn't really get along with was (I think) the par 4 5th, which has very little in the way of a landing area from the daily tees. I hate to think what it's like from the competition tees.

The rest of the holes are scenic and interesting though.

The clubhouse was okay and the staff there very friendly, although I can't really say that i used the range. I think that there is one there though.

The cost was $40CAD for 18 holes and buggy hire.
Date Monday, 18, October 2010
Nev Smith
23.2

Horton Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Okay-ish

After the first three holes the course improved significantly, although generally there were few holes that really stood.

There is work being done on the course and so maybe holes 1 to 3 will improve over time, so one can only hope. Maybe this was the reason I was able to get a tee time for £10?

The stand out hole is the 10th, a par 3 with an island green, but there aren't that many other holes that I really remember.

The bar is certainly pleasant enough and people seemed friendly and welcoming.
Date Tuesday, 12, October 2010
Nev Smith
23.2

Merrist Wood Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Worth a visit

I found the course to be in great condition. The fairways didn't seem to have the issues that other reviewers have mentioned, and the greens especially were looking good. The one area I did think the course let itself down on was in the bunkers, where the sand was very compact just under the surface and maybe needed a good raking.

The fairways are generally wide, there is lots of water and bunkers around, and the course is quite long for the shorter hitters.

I prefered the holes on the back 9, especially the short par 4 12th with the lake in front of the green, the par 3 16th, and the 17th which has a lot of water in front of the tee. If you don't hit it long then there is a baleout area to the right, and it doesn't really cost you much if you choose to aim that way.

The clubhouse was very plush, and they have excellent practise facilities.

We got a really good deal to play, and I would have no hesitation in going back again.
Date Tuesday, 12, October 2010
Nev Smith
23.2

Cherry Lodge Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Cherry Lodge

A good course with a number of interesting holes, and when I played it today the fairways and greens were in a really playable condition. This was despite the rain for about half of the round!

It's main defence is the length of the holes, as the course is just under 6400 from the yellows. There are really only about 5 or 6 holes that are the sorts of length that you'd expect to par. Fortunately, to give you a chance on the longer holes there are a number of them where you can 'open your shoulders' without risking the loss of your ball.

I wasn't too sure about the quality of the sand in the two bunkers I went into, but they are hazards so I suppose it's only fair they were like that.

While I wasn't able to stop for a drink, the clubhouse looks really cozy and welcoming inside.

I certainly wouldn't object to playing here again.
Date Sunday, 11, October 2009
Nev Smith
23.2

Routenburn Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Routenburn GC

I'm not going to review the clubhouse as I didn't use it. I didn't use the practise green either because if you hadn't seen the little flags then you might not have guessed that that's what it was!

That was one of only two low points of the course though. The second was that there's a walk of about 150 yards along the road between the 3rd and 4th tees (and likewise on the return between 15th and 16th), and I didn't see a sign there warning you of this.

The big plaus at Routenburn is that it occupies a stunning location over the Firth of Clyde with gorgeous views over to Bute and Arran. If your round heads south then you can always take in the scenary! It also means that when it gets windy then you'll get to notice it.

The course itself isn't the longest, but that doesn't make the holes easy. It's an "out and back" course and the trouble is almost always on the right, so slicers could have a long round.

It's not an easy start either, with the 1st being a 184y par 3 up the hill, and the OB clinging to the RH side. Get used to the climb btw, because there's a little bit more climbing to do before you're finished for the round.

Despite the amount of rain around on the day that I played, the greens were pretty decent, the course was enjoyable, and I'd totally recommend a round here to anyone.
Date Saturday, 10, October 2009

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