Steve 'The Power' Slater

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Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1
TSG Events Played
676
Courses Played
90
Courses Reviewed
125
Scorecards Entered
639
About me: The epitome of a Social Golfer, always keen to support charitable ventures as well as enjoying golf, disabled war pensioner (modesty forbids advertising heroism).
View My Scorecards >
Age
71 - 80
Gender
Male
Location
Harlow, Essex
Work
Part-time bus driver for special needs passengers
Joined TSG
2008 October
Available To Play
Anytime
Years Played
10
TSG Events Played
Yes
Walk or Cart
Walk Only
Etiquette Important
Yes
Preferred Format
4ball better ball

Whats In My Bag

Driver
Callaway XR
Woods
Callaway Epic 3-wood, RAZR 5-wood
Irons
Tour Edge S-5, Forgan K Series 15, 19, 22, 25, 28
Wedges
alien sand wedge
Putter
Scotty Cameron del mar sonoma
Ball
Callaway Supersoft

Scheduled Games/Events

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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
14 Aug 2026 @ Epping Golf Club 13.7 79 39 114 / 63.8 79
15.1
17.1
18 Jul 2026 @ Abbotts Course (2023) 20.9 90 39 133 / 71.9 90
15.4
17.7
13 Jul 2026 @ Risebridge Golf Centre 17.2 88 38 127 / 69.6 88
16.4
17.8
11 Jul 2026 @ Cheshunt Park Golf Club 21.1 92 36 132 / 70.5 92
18.4
18.3
6 Jul 2026 @ Epping Golf Club 14.7 80 39 114 / 63.8 80
16.1
18.5

My Societies/Groups

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TSG Masters 2015
Warley Park Golf Club
34 Members
Duffy Divot's Golfing Society
Around the M25 - Primarily Canons Brook (Harlow, Essex)
54 Members
TSG Masters 2016
Warley Park Golf Club
41 Members

My Forum Discussions

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Panshanger GC - redevelopment??
81 views, 7 replies
Mardyke Valley GC
570 views, 4 replies
Hole in One
3462 views, 45 replies
THE SOCIAL GOLFER OPEN 2024 - The Winners
1071 views, 6 replies
Watch out for slippery courses
2703 views, 45 replies

My Golfing Friends

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Paul Smith
14.6
Roger Ireland
9.9
Andy (fingers crossed) Flynn
13.4
Chrissy Peacham
21.0
Ron Woodham
27.0
Peter O'Hearn
26.6

My Photos

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Regularly Played Courses

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My Course Reviews

More Course Reviews
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Westgate & Birchington Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Dinky little links course, seaviews and windswept

Easily found off a main road, limited car parking at an adjacent car park. Smallish pro shop. Character built clubhouse. Friendly staff.
Course is shortish, greens quite slick despite looking a bit fluffy. Tricky reading though and made more complex by winds. Course split over residential road with holes 2 onward on the seaward side, exposed to the elements. Fairways just showing a bit of winter/ water wear so ground was claggy and muddy.
No particularly feature holes typical links feel, very few blind holes.
Breakfast was traditional and enjoyable.

Worth a second visit, in the summer, perhaps as part of a coastal Kent trip (probably better to incoporate with a seaside weekend).

Nothing too exacting and a nice stroll not too exhausting.
Date Wednesday, 10, December 2025
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Birchwood Park Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well established parkland

Co located with the sports centre means you should arrive early in order to park. Short walk to the golf centre with a fully stocked pro shop, bar and restuarant with good menu options.

Bit of a stroll to first tee and onto a well maintained course with some interesting holes. Long walk passed the clubhouse between 9 and 10 which could do with a bit more signeage. Typical Kent panorama, and exposed to wind.

All in all, good course to return to, should get easier with course knowledge.

Date Tuesday, 18, November 2025
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Cave Hotel & Golf (Formally Boughton GC)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Mature Parkland, undulations with a view.

Just off the M2 quite a fair distance from Essex. Set in the Kent countryside, surrounded by trees and views. Adequate car parking, it helps if you know where you are going, helpful staff directed me to a recently refurbished bar/restaurant (decor a bit dark). Breakfast included, was well presented and very edible.

First few holes start uphill, each hole presenting a different challenge. Good wide fairways, well maintained greens (a bit wet and spongy on the day but quick enough and fair).

Generally a course in good condition, would be worth playing again if closer.

19th hole had an interesting outside area complete with fire pits and table service from the bar. A nice glass of lager worth trying as well as Guiness.



Date Thursday, 16, October 2025
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Redlibbets Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well established tree lined, undulating course

Unless you know how to find the course you might get a bit lost travelling through Kent county lanes, some single track. A fair amount of diversions had me driving in big circles.

Joined the se swing guys, parking ok, breakfast ok, course condition a bit greener than I was recently used to. Sand in bunkers too. A very blustery day and quite a tricky course. All change since the last occasion I played, the back is now the front and the front is now the back.

Played the same ball all around but didn't score well.

Staff were welcoming and good fun. Kitchen does close early afternoon.

Worth a trip if you can navigate the country lanes.

Date Saturday, 20, September 2025
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Newark Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Established Parkland

Just a stones throw from a46 junction od the A1 easy to find this well established tree-lined parkland course. Adequate parking and clubhouse facilities being redeveloped. Friendly staff made the igolf open qualifying event a pleasureable day. Course suffering through lack of water although well maintained by the robot grass cutters. Neat pro shop whilst not extensive is adequate. Driving range passed on the way in, practice greens behind the clubhouse.
A neat layout with short walks from greens to next tee.
No real elevation changes makes for a nice walk. Greens were tricky but fair and ground was hard so lots of roll (often into trees and fescue rough).
Halfway house most welcoming on a hot day.

The only thing missing was signage to next tees.

This will be worth another visit after a spot of rain.
Date Tuesday, 17, June 2025
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

The Darenth

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Tree-lined parkland in Kent coutryside

A short trip over the Dartford crossing into Kent. Easy to find although parking appesred limited on site ( consequently the narrow lane down from the main road was chocka with parked cars attending a wedding - blocking the way home). Staff friendly and service was good. Pro shop was limited (bring your own drinks).
Ground was a little threadbare and hard pan. Greens needed some attention showing signs of damage. Signage was just about ok although thrre was a lot of walking back and forward. Interesting holes and some undulations make this a 'good' walk.

Food and refreshments were varied and arrived quickly (a little on the expensive side though) .

With a bit more grass in places, some essential work on the greens then course will be vfm.

Watch out for walkers ...
Date Saturday, 10, May 2025
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Batchworth Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

A good walk currently being redeveloped in places.

Parkland course with adequate parking facilities. There is a members social club with limited menu options. On tbis day course was in reasonable condition, lots of roll. Tee boxes well worn and greens reminded me of Camelot (a bit of a lottery) spiked and lacking certainty.

Sun was shining, windy but pleasant day out. Defence and Blue light discounts on request.

Not bad value for money but don't expect top quality. Some undulation changes and a few feature holes. When development is completed it will be worth coming back.

Food in clubhouse a limited menu and probably best to eat at local cafes before/after round.. pace of play a bit slow on a saturday morning.
Date Sunday, 06, April 2025
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Epping Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Correcting the summary

This is not a 9 hole course, it is a full 18 holes, challenging off white tees but a good test off the yellows. Lots of undulations and a good variety of holes. There are some standout holes and it is an opportunity to test golf skills rather than the ability to walk a long way. Playa well in the winter (usually) and nice in the summer. It is WHS registered and ought to be included on the leaderboard accordingly.
Date Sunday, 29, December 2024
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Warley Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Under new management

Since the masters was postponed a fair amount of improvement is noticeable. The course is still full of elevation changes so itvis a hard walk. Lots of tricky holes with plenty of hazards. The 8th has been remodelled, now about 125 yds. If you hit the right spot on the green your ball can roll back towards the water. Greens are hard and fast, approaches also rapid.

Birdies are possible, bogeys quite acceptable. Doubles and triples are not unusual.

Staff are most welcoming, bar food is good and fresh. Beer is nicely chilled. A fair amount of parking.

Bring a camera as there are some splendid views.

Greenkeepers have worked hard, and the promise by management is that they will continue to do so.
Date Tuesday, 23, July 2024
1 out of 1 people thought this review was helpful
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Hanbury Manor Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Championship course,

Easy to find off the A10. Lots of parking space a short walk away from the well appointed pro shop. Friendly reception bucket of practice balls included. A ahort walk to practice facilities. Irons only driving range and a practice green that was reflective of actual course conditions.

Lots of elevation changes and fair amount of walking between green and next tees. Generally in good condition with the exception of bunkers. Feature holes, lots of trees and water.

Post round refreshments were super quality, nachos recommended. Good service and friendly staff.

Tricky course that needs a second visit...
Date Monday, 08, July 2024
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

North Weald Golf Club (closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Course has been closed for years

North weald golf course was sold lock stock and barrel some years ago. Ostensibly for major housing redevelopment, for which planning permission is yet to be submitted ( so nothing on the footprint of the actual golf course). The clubhouse and outbuildings have been redeveloped though.

This is no longer a course that can be played, nature is reclaiming it.
Date Thursday, 04, April 2024
1 out of 1 people thought this review was helpful
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Mill Hill Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well established parkland.

Quirky location, clubhouse left side of A1, first tee on right side of A1. Accessible via underpass and a stroll.
Clubhouse/pro shop most welcoming.
Course in tip top condition, fabulous greens(very tricky though). Some feature holes and all presenting their own challenge. Lots of clever hazards, bunkers were difficult, not a lot of sand and first cut wasn't overly friendly.

A few elevation changes but still not a bad walking course. The halfway house was welcome on quite a sultry day.

All in all a rather splendid adventure, requiring a degree of course management. Easy to lose a few balls here.
Date Tuesday, 19, September 2023
1 out of 1 people thought this review was helpful
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

West Malling Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Tree lined - hurricane course

Bit of a trek but pleasant drive. Easy to find course, well established clubhouse and pro shop pity it was closed after the event. The course was in pretty good condition, greens I thought were a touch wooly. Clever use of topography and a busy road to cross. No really memorable feature holes just a good walking course, with a couple of elevation changes in need of a sherpa. Did a texas scramble in the morning and 18 holes after lunch. A long day and no balls lost.

Breakfast rolls OK, lunch could have had a few more calories and carvery dinner was OK.

Drive back in heavy rain was a bit of a challenge.
Date Wednesday, 23, August 2023
2 out of 2 people thought this review was helpful
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

The Shire London

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Something special, Seve inspired

Unique design, lots of water, extensive parkland and interestingly 6x3,6x4 7x5 all holes unique with some challenging features. Cairns cup fundraiser, greens were slick (amusingly almost unplayable). Course in splendid condition although ground was just a touch hard, pathways a bit rocky so I found it to be a difficult walking course.

Easy to find, adequate car parking and a pleasant reception at the clubhouse. Food was well presented and staff worked hard to service a large contingent.

Definitely an experience to enjoy.
Date Sunday, 30, July 2023
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

The Suffolk Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Complex layout, oceans and rivers (a fair amount of water)

Not exceptionally well signposted from main roads. Shared site with hotel complex currently a construction site. Car parking spaces a premium.

Dinky little pro shop, friendly reception and good bar/cafe facility.
Course layout, complex and not too well signed. At the time of visit tee boxes showing lots of wear. Lots of ditches and water hazards, a fair amount of elevation changes so not an easy walk.
Definate linksy feel to this course. Long hitters, leave the driver in the bag.



Date Monday, 24, July 2023
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Welwyn Garden City Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well presented challenge

Easy to find, somewhat limited parking, a good clubhouse with friendly and responsive staff. Nicely provisioned pro shop. No hard spikes on the patio, which overlooks the 18th.this is an interesting course, making good use of local topography. Be advised that elevation changes here are significant on most holes, so not an easy walking course.
Greens were slick and fair, bunkers sandy, first cut did tend to obscure the errant ball. An established tree lined course, which straddles a country road, so take care when crossing, cars were quick. Fairways were fair although the course could benefit from more signposting (for the casual visitor). A good challenge but a hard walk.
Date Wednesday, 31, May 2023
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Stockwood Park Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well presented municiple

A well presented tree lined parkland course, subtle elevation changes. Course appeared in good nick, despite heavy rainfall a couple of days before. Light drizzle made the course a little less pleasant, bit of a cold wind. However the course belies first impressions and was well signed, a pleasant walk nothing too difficult although you might benefit from a return visit when the sun shines. Hospitality a feature, food did take a bit of time to arrive. Adequate parking, and easy to find. Some good long par 3s and if memory serves each hole was subtly different. Long walk to 18th tee, a strangely configured hole. All in all a course that is a fair challenge.
Date Friday, 11, November 2022
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Colne Valley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Established tree lined parkland.

Just a few miles from the main road, easy enough to find and well signposted. A fair amount of car parking space leading to a rather well established club house (featuring an expansive patio).

Course is well designed to take advantage of topography. Some interesting elevation changes and undulations combine with natural hazards to test all skill levels.

An enjoyable challenge and the course was in good condition, tees, fairways and greens already looking well kept in verdant splendour.

A course worth more visits an enjoyable day out.
Date Tuesday, 23, August 2022
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Notleys Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Atypical parkland course, could be great

Sat nav will get you there, parking on gravel but lots of space. Round the clubhouse to the bar area, friendly staff, helpful and welcoming. Spikes were allowed. Basic cuisine but acceptable.

The course is an undulating tree lined parkland course with water hazards placed to catch the unwary. There are some potential feature holes and the whole course would benefit from attention, greens were fluffy, fairways also in need of a crop and tee boxes were largely overgrown. It is a course that is not an easy walk, and a narrow tunnel under train tracks makes the usual double buggies impossible to use. Par 3s were mostly long, bunkers mostly overgrown.

All in all it was a pleasant day out, with the jubilee fly past visible. With a bit of work and attention this could be a great course.

£50.00 for a fourball...
Date Thursday, 02, June 2022
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Dunton Hills Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Hills by name, hills by nature

Easy to find, adequate parking facilities, limited catering, welcoming staff at this public pay and play. Quite a windswept day making distance control guesswork. Course in good condition, greens a touch variable. Interesting layout which would benefit from prior knowledge, however there wasn't much to tempt me back. Elevation changes made it a tough walk, no real feature holes, but you get what you pay for.
Date Sunday, 17, April 2022
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Blakes Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Links style

Just a short drive down the a414, adequate parking and there is seldom a hold up here. Friendly staff, upstairs to bar and pro shop (it is OK to wear spikes). Range is ok, practice putting green is limited. Lots of bunkers were gur. Course condition overall was pretty good, greens a bit fluffy but quite true (an improvement). There are a few feature holes and plenty of natural hazards.

Course is undulating in places a good walk.

Not a championship standard but good for a millionaire's round (empty course, no hold ups).

There is evidence of work in progress... And improvements have been made...
Date Tuesday, 14, September 2021
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Maylands Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well established, solid test of skills

Easily located just a bit off the m25. Parking spaces seemed a bit limited (ground was a bit rough in the car park area).

Friendly Staff and locals.

Food was prompt and I enjoyed a light breakfast.

The course is a mature parkland, variety of holes is interesting.

A bit of a zig-zag navigating the course, well signed and a nice walking course.

A good mix of hazards is challenging.

Herds of deer occupy the course so take care (especially where you put your feet).

Worth a subsequent visit especially with negotiable discounts (blue light and ex-forces).

Date Saturday, 14, August 2021
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Mill Green Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Variety and challenge

Now playing off what was once the 10th, across the access road to a mature parkland, each hole with something to challenge. The other 9 are set in a relatively immature parkland. Both loops full of hazards, lots of well place water, a good walking course but be aware of elevation changes. Despite the ongoing maintenance a good test. Bunkers were gur at this time. Greens slick and true, approaches hard and fast. Not at all crowded.

Well established clubhouse, with welcoming staff, lots of parking available.

The practice green was a true reflection of greens on course.

Value for money, definitely.
Date Wednesday, 02, June 2021
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Stevenage Golf and Conference Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Cleverly laid out course, lots of hazards

A well established parkland with mature trees water hazards and clever layout. Lots of elevation changes although still not a bad walking course. A fair amount of feature holes.

Parking adequate for a busy venue. Rather a lot of buggies on the course so it did appear slow. Not a lot of signage, but hole layouts were useful for first timer.

Food and drink was friendly table service. Catering was excellent.

Some nice outdoor seating made good use of sunshine.
Date Saturday, 29, May 2021
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Blakes Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

tired and in need of attention

Still a good layout but even after two days of heavy rain it was still dry and dusty. Played in reasonable weather, tee boxes not good, greens still bare in places, more investment required . not the best experience and no surprise that the course is usually empty. I may not return this year...
Date Saturday, 15, August 2020
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

The Heron Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

under new management

Obvious signs of new investment around clubhouse. Courses heron/hawk remain pretty much as before. Lots of shiny new buggies and powered trolleys. New staff were friendly enough. 30.00 for a midweek round BUT still honouring emergency/defence discounts (if you ask). Pro shop was pretty much empty.



Date Wednesday, 05, August 2020
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Blakes Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

inland links style, devoid of trees.

Easy to find, simple to book, sensible reception and pleasant staff. Adequate parking (some very nice cars). A lot has been written about Blake's, however it wasn't in ba condition, greens could benefit from more than a teaspoon of water in places. I do like the layout, some interesting holes and it is a test of golf skills. It looks like a few new trees have been started, so with a spot of watering and in about 10 years they might play a part. Bunkers, were GUR on this day... Greens played straight enough but so slick.

Cheap as chips and a good walk... Not pristine but no complaints.. Nice in the sunshine, but open to the wind.

Might just go back again.

Date Monday, 18, May 2020
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Rivenhall Oaks Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

short 9 hole loop for practice

Played this some time ago, pleasant little area, reasonable practice facilities, including putting green. Friendly people reasonable food, parking OK. Great for quick round...
Date Sunday, 29, March 2020
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

The Heron Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

A different loop...

Arrived to discover that the usual Heron loop was being rested (following a fair amount if rain) we were allowed to play the hawk/vixen combination.

To be fair, the loops we played were also more than a little soggy, tee boxes in the main were a bit of a mess BUT it was good fun if not hard work. Reception by staff was exceptional. Not many players in front so the Pace of play was good and we were blessed with some pleasant weather.

Greens played well, obviously no roll at all, so sweeping the ball off the turf was key to clean hitting.

The vixen loop proved to be more straightforward and less used.

Have to admit a preference for the heron/hawk combination.

Still a good day out and reasonably priced... Discount for ex-forces and emergency services.
Date Monday, 16, December 2019
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Trevose Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

championship course

Played in a bit of a gale, made this a typical linksy experience. Plenty of options around this golf complex.

Friendly staff and locals, most welcoming.

Feature holes aplenty, a real test of thinking skills as much as golfing skills.

I would enjoy returning at every opportunity. A bit of a trek unless you are already in the duchy...

Date Saturday, 10, August 2019
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Little Hay Golf Complex

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Established parkland Pay and Play

Easy enough to find but bit of a trek for me across country. Ongoing roadworks make the access and egress potentially time consuming (it took 20 minutes to get 1 mile to a main road).

Friendly enough clubhouse staff. Reasonably priced for golf and food. Curious use of topography would benefit from a return trip. Greens wet but slick, fairways in good condition, tee boxes a bit tatty. Some interesting holes but nothing truly memorable. All Par 3s are long. A fair amount of elevation changes so a good stiff walk. Take the time to enjoy the views at the high points of the course.

Car parking adequate, clubhouse to first tee is a short walk. Buggies are available (limited supply though).

An enjoyable round of golf, seemed never to be rushed and finished in under 4 hours.

If this is local to you - and you haven't ever taken the opportunity to try it.. it's recommended and a fair test of golfing skills. Thinking man's course.
Date Wednesday, 07, August 2019
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Bletchingley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

memorable as ever

Still undulating and it is a stiff walk. Played in favourable conditions the course was in generally good to excellent condition. Evidence of work going on. Greens pretty much perfect, hole 5 green was partially under repair but still playable with some clever local rules. Probably OK for the tsg open though. Lots of elevation changes, great views of the surrounding world..

Parking spaces at a premium on busy days so early arrival is recommended.

Tsg special rates so good value for money...

Staff very accommodating and friendly... Bacon sandwiches recommended, stockbroker prices though...

Exposed to the wind in places... But can't complain about that..

Par 3 17 hole was a tricky hole with narrow gap between trees, the tree on the right has been rather well pruned... So it ought to be less difficult, but now the waiting water is visible...

Date Sunday, 16, June 2019
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Chingford Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

established parkland course

Although the course suffered from a lot if recent rain, the general condition of this course was OK, just a fair amount of muddy bits. An interesting layout, elevation changes, hazards and dog walkers abound. There are some feature holes here, greens are slick and tricky and in the wind this course is a challenge. There is a members clubhouse, we have been invited from time to time but our usual meeting place is the old cafe, adjacent to adequate parking. T'is OK to set up gear and golf shoes are acceptable in the cafe. Food is good, service with a smile although not inexpensive.

Dog walkers and strollers make a welcoming distraction from time to time and locals are generally friendly enough, some even help to locate errant balls...

In short, deals can be had here, all you have to do is ask.

This is a place to see more than once...
Date Wednesday, 13, March 2019
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Ilford Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Quirky course, established parkland

Well disguised amidst the residential area, Ilford is a course worth finding. There have been some changes made, primarily reorganising the existing holes - changing the sequence for no apparent reason, however the changes do not detract from what is a pleasant course (in the dry season). There is limited scope for parking - so plan to arrive early to get a space near the crossovere bridge (yes you still have to cross over the North Circular road to get to the first tee. Course is well kept, generally, but work continues. I quite enjoyed the new layout, it seemed to make some sense and the day was good enough. Locals are welcoming, however the clubhouse wasn't open early on a saturday morning (so plan breakfast before arriving).

Practice green is a fair reflection of actual greens, and there are a few places where greens and tees are close - so caution is recommended from time to time.

Weekend prices seemed to have been increased from the previous regime - so it is less value for money than before - but just about the going rate for the weekend.

Post round bar and cafe facilities were good, friendly and helpful staff.. in a well appointed bar area.

All in all, a good day out but be prepared for increase in price and late opening of care/bar facilities. Pro shop is small but has enough to keep your attention (not a lot for the Ladies though).

Date Sunday, 16, September 2018
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

The Grove

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

experience not to be missed.

Located a short hop from the m25 this is a well-established venue for more than just golf.exclusivity is the keyword and it is an experience not to be missed. lots of casual parking, you can drive up to pro shop area and enjoy having clubs managed by attendants, or choose to do it yourself. all staff were more than friendly, and most welcoming.. I have dined hete before and know the quality of food is good. Halfway house and delivery to course were options for snacks and such like. Soft spikes ok all around the area... the course is well thought out, quite a fair amount of walking green to tee, designed primarily with buggies in mind well signed and beautifully maintained. A few feature holes and an impressive vista. Lots of freebies and inclusive bacon rolls were welcomed at half way.

Deals may be negotiated...but expect to pay the going rate for drinks and snacks..

Played early morning but it was warming up and quite a tiring walk later in the round...
Date Saturday, 07, July 2018
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Foxhills Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

well established , mature parkland..

well maintained, lots of feature holes, nothing easy and greens just a bit slick. follow sat nav as road signs might beca distraction. abundant parking and an expansive site, hotel, spa, and golf.

marshalls/starter in attendance and a very pleasant half way house.

this was a complimentary round so obviously value for money.. unless you are local this us a bit of a drag around the m25 so give yourself plenty of time to get thete. once there you will enjoy the experience and challenge of the bernard hunt course...

never had the time to experience the cuisine options but it looked ok from the passing glance.

worth a return trip of course...
Date Friday, 29, June 2018
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Basildon Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Good challenge

This is a well thought out combination, mature woodland and links style golf course. Most holes offer uniqueness, good challenges for all levels. Lots of undulations and you'll be lucky to play your next shot off a level lie. Elevation changes feature a lotand it makes you think about club selection. Well positioned tee shots are key for most holes. At the time of visit the course was in good condition, greens were true enough, not too slow.

Adequate parking, and friendly staff made this a pleasant trip. Well signposted from main roads this is easy to locate. Just a couple of miles from the A127.

Date Monday, 04, June 2018
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Farleigh Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Scenic and challenging

farleigh is atypical hillside mounted course, surrounded by trees although exposed to the breeze, which the locaks tell me is regular if not constant. nice views and clever use of topography. there are some feature holes here but by far and away the slickest quickest and fairest i have played. breaks and borrows need careful attention... best advice is to chip in wherever possible...

lots of elevation changes and walking could be a bit of a struggle although it doesnt seem over long blue and yellow loops can be tiring.

there are some clever hazards, including water which i managed to avoid, and ditches which i found a couple of times...

best feature is that there are few hidden holes and signage is adequate.

my satnav took me down lots of country lanes, plenty of horses to watch out for.

an impressive long drive up to the clubhouse gives a preview of a well manicured course, fairways are perfect, semi rough light and whispy...

super practice putting green, almost the same as on course, nice chipping green, good driving range.

open plan clubhouse, very friendly staff and locals... catering is good, service with a smile...

it is a course tucked away, and windy... even after a brief downpour, greens and fairways were still hard... bunkers had enough sand... i cannot comment about the rough though.. for obvious reasons...

The layout and general feel does remind me of the first 9 at shendish manor, and a loop at laingdon hills.
Date Thursday, 20, July 2017
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

The Hertsmere Golf Club (was Radlett & Elstree GC)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Tree-lined parkland course

Entrance sneaks up on you as you approach. Plenty of parking available adjacent to a modenistic club house facility. Great practice facilities. Staff welcoming and friendly, no spikes in the bar though.

First tee within easy walking distance of clubhouse. Best to meet and greet then go and get clubs and shoess (in my opinion).

Course in good condition, good use of topography there are some ups and dowwns (some a bit extreme). A number of good holes (quite a lot of up and down tree-lined avenues though). This is a course that does need a re-visit, as a few holes do benefit from knowledge of how best to play them. Too easy to pick the wring club here and there. There are some good tight dogleg holes and a straing drive off the tee would be beneficiail...

Not overly long, greens were undulating and it did take a while to get to grips with speeds...

A course well worth a second trip... it is possible to score well here... with the benefit of hindsight.
Date Friday, 30, June 2017
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Whitewebbs Park Golf Course (Closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Tree lined parkland, with nice hazards

Not excessively long this is one of those course where there are a fair few switchbacks and crossovers.But all in all, good value for money (for seniors if you ask). Not a difficult place to find but you might drive past. Speaking with the on site pro there may be a return to the snack bar in the courtyard - otherwise breakfast and stuff is in the adjacent restuarant facility. Course was in reasonable condition, and once the fog had been burnt away the sun made this a pleasant day out. fairways and semi rough were a bit unkemot in places but you can't expect everythin (some problems spotting ball). The approach road has a few bumps and potholes in need of repaur but parking is adequate and locals are friendly. Was stuck behing slow moving 4-ball otherwise this could have been a 3 hour round.

Greens were fair enough, a bit slickk and quite hard. Clever use of natural hazards (ditces, water and suchlike) required attention most of the time... no two holes ever quite the same, but then again no real feature holes.

Some undulations might have made the walk a little difficult for some, but buggies were available. Nice practice green, OK practice area.
Date Saturday, 08, April 2017
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

West Essex Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

West Essex a course of two characters

Easy enought o locate this West Essex golf course, semi rural, which has been designed almost in two halvers, the first 9 full of undulations, clever holes, good layout and challenging (tight and tricky - favouring a conservative approach). The second 9 is more open, less undulating (until the 18th( favouring the bigger hitters...

Clubhouse facilities are excellent, breakfast was included and well worth waiting for. Service with a smile before and after golf. Note this facility has no spike bar so proper shoes please. Adequate parking at this easy to accesa course,

Fairways - although a few seasonal leafage abounded) were playable and not at all soggy, I didn't lose sight of a ball m bunkers were strategically placed to catch the unwary - although sand was a but heavy they were playable. Greens had been well kept, perhaps a little too fluffy BUT they play fairly at reasonable pace and it was possible to hold approach shots on most greens.

This course is worth a visit, probably will provide better and more panoramic views in Spring/Summer/Autumn, lthough not too many notable holes the overall experience is that it is well worth the trip. Good practice facilities and pleasant locals.
Date Monday, 12, December 2016
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Loughton Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Mature parkland, extreme elevation changes

Loughton Golf course is easily located and makes good use of topography. Adequate parking facilities leading to a spike bar and a Trip Advisor acclaimed Asian/fusion restuarant (albeit limited number of tables). The course is a 9-hole loop ups and downs are quite extreme so it isn't an easy walk - even though it is quite short.

There are a some challenging holes and it is a course that best suits the thinker... When played (November 2016) there appeared to be plans to alter the layout with work to be scheduled). The course hadn't been very well maintained, greens practically unplayable, autumn leaves were considerable. Sighting a ball was difficult under leaves - so best to keep in play. Not a lot of distance markers and the 'next tee' signs could have been confusing. The guy managing was pleasant and affable and I had the course to myself (so no one to blame for slow play). All in all it filled an hour and a half and despite heavy rainfall the previous day//night the course remained dry enouhg to walk around without getting too wet.

Be advised though that the route from car par to spike bar and 1st Hole goes across some old decking - which I found to be slippery and in need of caution.

All in all though a pleasant bit of exercise and it isn;t too challenging to play - it might make a good trainer course for those just starting but it is just challenging enough to catch out the unwary.
Date Thursday, 10, November 2016
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Reigate Hill Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Challenging Parkland

Easily accessible from the M25, this is a maturing parkland course, well-desiged to fit the local topography (i.e. it is more than a bit hilly - with elevation changes that exercise legs and lungs).

Greens were moderately fast, genuinely tricky - some hidden borrows on most - so it all depends where the flags are on the day.

Some repair work is ongoing although not a lot of GUR came into play. Fairways - nicely cut and lots of roll. Semi rough just enough to obscure a ball and of course trees abound.

Critique - bunkers were sand-sparse, and there was one temporary tee (almost impossible to take a tee, so it was a good balancing act to place ball, on tee and swing before it fell off...)

On the plus side - interesting holes (mostly different and feature rich). Hazards cleverly-placed around greens so best to go with someone who knows the course to ensure the best approach to the flag.

Clubhouse hospitality - warm and engaging... food remains good quality, Pro shop is adequately well-stocked.

Be advised that the approach road from main road to club house does cut through the course, up hill, down dale, and there are few passing places on the single track road.. watch out for golfers left and right as indicated by signs.

On course signage is clear enough so you won't get lost here.

All in all - value for money and well worth the return trip...
Date Saturday, 23, July 2016
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Lullingstone Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Parkland - Good condition and interesting layout

Situated at the end of a twisty, narrow track (with passing points) take care getting to this course. Once arrived you will find adequate car parking. There is a spike bar - so it is OK to change in the car park and bring your stuff down to the neatly appointed clubhouse.

Staff welcoming and food was good, well prepared and served nicely.

This is a well maintained parkland - with what seems like vast open spaces and like some other Kent-courses, lots of side hill elevations. Whilst there aren't too many noteworthy holes the bonus here is that there are few if any 'blind holes' what you see is what you get - and the scenery is quite pretty too, not many trees around and a lot of the holes leave you exposed to the wind... Greens were well kept but a bit bobbly...

Not too difficult to walk this course - although it might be nicer without wind/rain.
Date Sunday, 29, November 2015
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Great Hadham Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Parkland with a Linksy Feel

Out in the wilds of hertfordshire, watch out for the country lanes. Shared site with spa facility this golf course is undulating with some strolls between green to tee, lots of elevation changes so it is a difficult walk. All staff were most welcoming, locals also friendly enough. layout benefits from previous knowledge although it is well signed. Bunkers looked like they should all be GUR, semi rough is punative so stay on the fairways... Greens were OK with just enough hold to make it interesting. On course mashalls helpful and chatty. A few notaeworthy holes an the odd blind hole.

There looks to be a fair amount of work still left to do but the whole experience was worthwhile...

Avoid spikes in the 'clubhouse' practice green had been chemically treated so take care to wash hands...

Date Wednesday, 21, October 2015
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Nazeing Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Course Under Repair - Give it some time

A lot has happened since the last TSG foray on this interesting course. Suffice to say that the people tasked with restoring the course to playable condition have liquidated and the care and maintenance is now back with the leaseholders. We booked online to take advantage of twighlight rates - the web site could have advised that the condition of the course wasn't perfect and that work was scheduled but not yet carried out. Pro-shop was Ok however the card machine wasn't working on the day we picked... which meant a trip to a nearby cashpoint.. The clue on arrival was the practice putting green - lumpy and bumpy and obviously worse for wear.

Those that remember Nazeing in the wet wouldn't have recognised much of this course... all dry. here's the downside though, greens I would regard as pretty much unplayable - although I did start to make some lucky putts on the back nine. Majority of bunkers appeared GUR (those that weren't were inconsistent - too much or no sand). Fairways in need of cutting and 'rough' needed tending.

To be fair discussions with greenkeepers revealed the scope of problems and Sunday was the first day that they could actually get out and cut the new grass on many of the greens. It looked like the previous maintainers had allowed things to slip (a lot) and the course is in need of general TLC (even down to replacing signs and markers).

On the plus side - there looks to be commitment from the leaseholders to put things right and the promise was there. It would be nice for the web site to be 'adjusted accordingly' to identify the relative condition of the course and perhaps take into account the amount charged for twilight green fees.

This is an interesting - not too challenging course layout, with opportunity to do OK once the maintenance has had time to make an impact. Until otherwise notified I wouldn't recommend this as a course for golf purists, let's hope that remedial action is timely enough to ensure a rapid return to playability.

Course is easily found, with adequate parking space and driving range facilities. Clubhouse is fine, we didn't eat there this time.

Locals were reasonably friendly if a little slow in getting around (perhaps due to the condition of greens and fairways - and tee boxes which are still as bad as ever).

Give it time and it could be back to a good condition... but lots of work needs to be done...
Date Wednesday, 24, June 2015
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Bush Hill Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

mature parkland - urban gem

This is an interesting and challenging course, with some notable/feature holes - with a nice mix of trees, water and distance. A clever design makes best use of the geography, with reasonable fairways (not to punative semi-rough) and greens that needed 'snake charmers' undulating and a difficult read.

Easy to reach following sat nav, to find a nice surprise amongst the urban sprawl. Parking seemed a little tight and tight deadlines meant I didn't have time to sample food and clubhouse hospitality. However pro shop staff were pleasant and welcoming and they managed to let us go earlier than the tee time...

Quirky, and a fair amount of driveable 'blind holes' which would benefit from a repeat visit... once you know where to go I suspect this course becomes more benign.

So saying - well worth a return trip and value for money...

Date Thursday, 11, June 2015
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Addington Palace Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Not to be confused with others in the area...

The Addington Palace is a well established and mature parkland golf course. Clever use hasbeen made of the geography here and tight holes with uneven lies are the order of the day. It would be unusual to be hitting 2nd and 3rd shots from a level lie. Some magnificent elevation changes make this course a difficult walking course. Shame then that the club imposed a three-ball maximum on visitors. Locals were a bit 'protective' and whilst the overall welcome was friendly I got the impression that non-members were merely tolerated...

This is a course that need two or three visits (or local knowledge) before you can get to grips with it.

Most holes were interesting, lots of variety. Course was well maintained and in general good order... Wildlife abounds (foxes, deer, amongst the usual mix...)

Food was good, service with a smile. Car parking adequate although you need to watch out for the signs off the main road. The treat is the practice putting green in the converted stableyard...

This is not a level course... but nonetheless a good test of skills and course management.
Date Friday, 29, May 2015
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Batchwood Hall Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Cleverly laid out - Tree-lined Parkland

Easily found on the outskirts of St. Albans, Parking myay be restricted on more popular days. A stroll to the Golf Club and reception, so advice is to take your bags and shoes when you leave your car. limited catering available (so if you want breakfast it is best to make alternative arrangements).

The course itself is an interesting layout - clevely intersprered with established trees on subtle elevation changes. Greens were in need of some attention, but once corrected they will prove challenging - lots of undulations on most greens).

A good walking course - and not very busy for a weekend. Staff were welcoming and good fun, locals were friendly as well.

Worth another visit - perhaps later in the season - especially if the grass is cut and the greens are treated.

Date Wednesday, 15, April 2015
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Arkley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Quirky - but well worth the visit

Here's an interesting course - ostensibly a 9 hole course with double tees to make in into an 18 hole extravaganza. At the time of playing - there was evidence of ongoing repair work which encroached on just a couple of the holes. Funnily enough this type of layout works well to maximise the use of some limited terrain. This worked well for a Monday - when there weren't many others around... BUT I could see it becoming a bit of a problem if the course was full with people vying for the same holes from their respective different tees.

Still, this is a course where spotting your ball was less of a problem than many other courses, and there are some feature holes.. Greens were well kept and whilst the ground was soggy and boggy - (and it rained during the latter part of the round).. this was a course where good scores are possible.

Recommendations are to steer clear of the bunkers.

OK - getting there is straightforward, signs are clear but watch out for the semi-hidden entrance.. car parking isn't excessive but just enough. Not a lot of catering available on the Monday played, and that seems to be a trend in the area.

Staff - the few that were around were most welcoming and did what they could to make it good.

It would be nice to play this again, although not in the rain and after the course has had time to dry out, with the renovations works complete.

Good mature parkland - very reasonable rates and methinks scope for more deals to be had.

I enjoyed the course - and had a reasonable round..
Date Thursday, 26, February 2015
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Verulam Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Pleasant Surpise, the Home of the Ryder Cup - in downtown St. Albans

Easy to find (although not very well signposted, this is one of those remarkable surprises - from the midst of an industrial/residential area this is a pretty unassuming entrance to a good challenging course.

Thre's not a lot of hardstanding for visitor parking and you need to acquire the entry code from the pro shop before you can get into the clubhouse. Not a bad idea though as it means every casual visitor is 'booked in'. Clubhouse hospitality - warm as expected, and I have to agree that the Bacon baguettes are good... The amusing thing is that the waiter advises - in a mock falsetto tone - that the ketchup is just over there - to the left of the Ryder Cup... NOTE.. No catering or bar services are currently available on Mondays.

To the course though.. good practice areas and a practice putting green that was a true reflection of on-course condition (fast and a bit snakey).

layout is 'interesting' crossing a minor road on more than one occasion... but it it a nice looking course, well kept fairways, excellent (challenging) greens and nothing to dramatic by way of rough. Some well established trees made this a pleasant walk (no trolleys on the day we played) There are some 'blind holes' where local knowledge is a good thing - definately an advantage to play with a local.. Sineage was pretty much OK and it was difficult to get lost.

There are some feature holes on this course - most unusually the 17th where you can get to play over the road..it might be wise to check Golf care insurance - the passing vehicles are a little off-putting, but take one extra club and give it a hit.. the sloping green may bring it back to the hole..

The 18th plays very long - into the wind and it's a par 5 where 4 good shots might leave you short of the putting surface...

Bunkers, well kept and easy to escape.. some water around but not enough to distract..

This is a course worth coming back to in the summer months.. when a little more roll might make it a bit easier... This is one of those courses that rewards conservative - middle of the fairway play.. with opportunities for long-hitters to give it a go on some holes.

Altogether a very good course, and deals are there to be made.

Date Thursday, 26, February 2015
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Royal Blackheath Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Parkland - Work in Progress

Another one of London's gems - hidden away but easily accessible. A private members club with all of those good traditions accumulated over the years.

Obvious signs of course redevelopment - didn't detract from a pleasant experience. It is worth playing with a member as some of the targets are not that obvious but our guide was very good and we didn't aim for the wrong flags.

Some good elevation changes - and the blustery wind - made club selection paramount and playing a more conservative game to keep away from trouble did pay dividends.

Considering the amount of rainfall, Royal Blackheath appeared to be fairly dry and well kept. There's a nice differentiation between fairways and rough and greens (although members did mention that they thought them soft) were true enough and without to many snakes.

Clubhouse hospitality is to be enjoyed (although midweek on the day we played the kitchen wasn't open prior to tee-off).

Locals were an amiable bunch and there was a relaxed atmosphere all over.

Building works detracted from a panoramic vista but pleasant enough for a parkland course in the middle of town.

It would be nice to come back once the site works have been progressed. I might even find the ball lost somewhere in the back 9.
Date Saturday, 27, December 2014
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Brentwood Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

orth coming back again

We took a chance and played midweek in late December. On arrival we were advised that the course was 'very wet' although trolleys were OK to use. Armed with the knowledge that it would be a boggy day we had the course to ourselves by and large. It is more and more obvious that investments are going to reap dividends come the spring/summer of 2015. Loads of new equipment on show, lots of activity around the course (tarmac new pathways was ongoing and will be superb). As expected there were some temporary tees, but greens (once we got there) were playable and got quicker as the sun and wind dried the course.

Zero roll on most fairways and a lot of plugged balls didn't detract from a good day out.It was a chance to get out and hit a ball or two... As ever the late winter sunshine made ball-finding interesting and club selection (for distance control) quite tricky.

Amusing to see a big old crow playing with an orange ball, picking it up flying for a while then dropping it to begin again. Ask Brigitte what happened when her 'Yellow' ball came to rest almost at the same place as the crow's orange ball. Hilarious to see the crow - sizing up both balls and then preferring to steal Brigitte's yellow ball, leaving an old Orange Dunlop as a replacement. fair exchange is no robbery.. Obviously yellow is a brighter and more alluring colour.

Clubhouse hospitality was as good as ever and having the opportunity to eat from a simple varied selection was a good idea. Food was good... service was fast enough. take care when approaching the semi-hidden entrance and enjoy the country lanes.
Date Friday, 19, December 2014
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Brentwood Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Dichotomy, course changes make this different, some commercial faux pas

General condition of the course is much improved since a previous visit, There have been some tree-pruning activities which have altered the feel of a couple of holes. Nice to see that despite a lot of rainfall the course had drained well and was very playable.

Have to say that a society being kept waiting for 30 minutes with an empty first tee was a little unusual.. and smacks of poor management.

By the time we had finished the kitchens had closed so no chance to enjoy the fine selection of food and cakes.

The onsite Pro was friendly enough but had failed to spot the opportunity to let at least 3 four balls off whilst waiting for 'members' who were quite slow to tee off at 'our' booked time.

Only a spot of light rain for a couple of holes - this was a nice day for golf - I'm not sure that cutting back the trees on one of the Par 3's is an improvement but cleaning out the ponds certainly makes a difference...

Car parking is still a bit restricted with heavy loads of loose gravel - and the entrance is still a bit of a surprise..

Nice layout, good course shame about clubhouse kitchen being closed early with lots of people still on the course there is a missed opportunity..





Date Thursday, 30, October 2014
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Wiltshire Golf Club (The)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Hotel, Spa and Golf Course

This was a repeat venue for one of my society challenge competitions, the golf being just a part of the entertainment.

Simple enough to find adequate parking facilities, small pro shop but hotel facilities for catering were A+.

Practice facilities are away some distance from the first tee... practice Greens however are on the way from Hotel to First Tee...

When last played this course was showing signs of being in need of attention, but the overall layout was superb, with some potential 'feature holes' - I can't recall a non-interesting hole. Nice mix of hazards, lots of water in play, definitely a challenge.

Make a weekend of it and stay at the Hotel, with a very nice spa and pool area - some good views of surrounds - if the sun shines it will be a lovely day, when it rains and the wind blows - it can be 'hard work'.

As a group we always received a typical 'West Country Welcome'... At the time of last visit I believe the place was probably 'up for sale' I don't know if it ever changed hands (Eddie Shah was the previous reported owner - if memory serves).

Good course - a bit tired in places - some nice undulations, so a buggy would be a good idea. I found it a hard walk - but well worth it.

Deals to be had here - all you have to do is ask...

This would be a good competition venue, or as mentioned a good weekend away venue.

Too many 'good holes' for me to mention them all, but if you're playing matchplay and need to win on the last hole... beware a long and difficult Par 5 with a well protected green just waiting to catch the unwary (although my four-ball group all managed to Par this hole)... for the record my team had won 2 and 1 by the time we got to the 18th - as I managed to fluke a birdie on the 17th... a difficult long second shot to an elevated and near island green (landed and stopped 3 feet from the pin...)
Date Sunday, 24, August 2014
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Muswell Hill Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well hidden - worth looking for

Even better than I can recall - course was in superb condition (a few too many blind spots though - long hitters take care). Splendid greens amongst the best I have ever played.

Arrived in time for a weekday morning tee time, no restaurant facility was availabel however if you look you can find a local parade of shops and it is possible to find a bacon sandwich at least, or Veg option if that is your disposition.

Downside was the plethoria of bitingg midges, quite an uncomfortable day... Pro shop prices have to be seen to be believed, so buy your supplies elsewhere.

I can imagine getting here on a busy traffic day could take a while, but cousre isn't far from the North Circular in a quiet part of suburbia..nothing by way of distraction.

In short - well appointed course, lots of clever variations, some interesting hazard placements.



Date Thursday, 14, August 2014
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Old Fold Manor Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Unexpectedly a Treasure well hidden..

Mature parkland (with a linksy feel in places) fairways are fine - first cut of rough was punative (so best to keep on the fairways). A good mix of interesting holes with some very challenging greens (true enough but so very tricky).

Not a lot of parking spaces, and this is a well disguised golf club, so rely on your Sat Nav - I must have missed all of the signposts. Pro shop is friendly enough and the locals are welcoming. Club house is soft spikes.

This is a nice walking course - not too many elevation changes and just a good challenge for all levels of player.

I played with a low handicapper (7) who had par'd around the previous day, but was soon down to my level. Be advised there are a number of cleverly placed obstacles.

The locals fret about their 18th (last sghot across water) but fo those who have played Staplford Abbots/Priors or royal Epping... this 18th is a doddle (with a very wriggly green though.

Visitor green fees at £30.00 for Saturday afternoon... there are deals to be had here.
Date Friday, 27, June 2014
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Warley Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Inland parkland - Interesting Challenge!!

Warley Park is not too far from main roads and towns, but seems not to be affected by noise. This was an opportunity to visit the course (following some layout changes) in advance of the TSG Masters 2014.

Country road access - watch out for blind corners and Bentleys that don't quite fit into passing places(ask me sometime).

car park is pretty much laid to gravel, for visitors, members have a macadam area closer to the tidy clubhouse. Staff were very welcoming and food was good.

Played the two loops scheduled for the TSG Masters (commencing on what will be the 10th) in light drizzle (cleared up by 3rd hole.

Well laid out course with good fairways - it had rained the night before as well but the whole place was pretty much drained. Well tended rough and semi rough (the type that swallows up an errant ball) so keep on the fairways.

I'mm not overly fond of blind holes and excessive doglegs but this course had something of interest on just about every hole. Once you arrive at the greens expect a tricky time... my suggestion would be to chip in on every hole. Greens were a bit bobbly but still fast, too easy to go yards past the hole... Holes seemed to be cut in the most tricky places on all of the greens.

The Childerditch (across the road) has a lot of elevation changes so be advised it can be a bit of a trek, a different challenge to the other loops. Nice use of available water and some incredibly tricky holes - with a premium on getting a good drive away.

There was a lot of run on fairways and greens, adjust club selection accordingly and I didn't see any approach shot actually stop...

Good course and a return visit is highly recommended...

Perhaps we can challenge their seniors team...

Locals were friendly enough and we weren't ever pushed - midweek bargains to be had - just for the asking...

Great value for money... Good course to play...

Forgot to mention, Bunkers were beautifully filled with just the right amount of sand, even wet it was a delight to play out of... Hope they are as good when dry... (yes I found a few bunkers as my Sand Nav was working well)
Date Friday, 02, May 2014
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Brentwood Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

New Look at Brentwood - Under new maangement

As the Phoenix rises from the ashes, Brentwood Golf Course is rising from the old Weald park/South Weald instances. New owners have already made substantial improvements, some pretty basic ones which I believe make this a more playable course (no less challenging though). There is evidence of ongoing improvements, Tee Boxes, fairways and semi rough are all excellent... The next stage in development will included greens and bunkers and I was advised that this would be in place by June 2014...

We paid £10.00 for a mid week round and this represented good value for money, even if the greens were a bit mossy and bunkers were GUR. This is a cleverly laid out course with a good variety of challenges for all levels.

The new managers/owners are from a golfing background so there is more focus on getting this course back into good shape...

New clubhouse where staff were more than welcoming, good selection of food available (try the cheesecake and strawberry tarts). Clubhouse was OK with spikes Pro shop guys were forthcoming and open to offers. Expect summer weekdays to remain at 'Guest' levels approx £15.00 for weekday and £20.00 for weekends. This would still be value for money and when greens and bunkers have bedded in - this will be a good place to visit.

Club entrance from the road is easily missed - so take care when near...car park is a bit rough in places - but it looks like that will also be on the list of improvements to be made.

For the record, this is a pretty-looking course, with mature trees and some subtle undulations - water in play on a number of holes and too easy to lose the odd ball or two..

I think that given a fair amount of support this course will be one of the most interesting in Essex, once all the improvements have been given time to settle in...

It is good to see that the new management have recognised the real potential for this course... Hopefully their substantial investments will be acknowledged and supported as time goes by.

Well worth a visit from time to time to see how it is coming along.

Date Monday, 21, April 2014
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Cranham Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short and well maintained

Cranham is a short hop from the M25 J29, it is a guarded pay and play course, no walkers, caddies, no exceptions. Adequate parking spaces and the small but functional 'clubhouse' (allows spikes) is clean and welcoming. Staff were welcoming and seemed pleased to see us. This pay and play course was popular (I watched as the groups in front of us were well-marshalled and 'encouraged' onto the course. Although busy, this wasn't a particularly slow round although navigation green to next tee was interesting and there were a couple of occasions when the right direction wasn't quite clear. Still local knowledge would help.

Course looked to be well maintained and was in general good nick, the wind did blow a fair amount and the lack of mature trees reminded me just how open it was.

Definately a chance to practice golf skills without being worn out with long and difficult walking. Reasonably flat, very open, good use of the topography,

On the downside - no formal practice facilities (no practice green - so it took a few holes to get the pace of greens). Limited catering facilities (choose to eat at The Puddleduck Fisheries Cafe on the way).

In Summary, good for a quick round, to practice skills, an easy walk (not to many elevation changes) with a few feature holes (the last 5 holes are reasonably interesting). No real mature trees but do watch out for cleverly played water hazards. A good course to play well at if the wind isn't blowing.


NOTE: Play off the white tees for a better challenge (if you are allowed).

Date Sunday, 16, March 2014
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Cheshunt Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Playing well

Just a brief note for this council run course, we have used this venue as an Epping Bandits goto course usually at short notice and the quality of course has been improving over time. Be aware though that in a drive to cut down in inappropriate dress, the tee-off marshall is being stricter than in the past, so jeans/t-shirts are out (good thing too) but cargo/combat style trousers and shorts are also now excluded - Now we all have to at least 'dress the part' and this is a good course with a nice selection of challenging holes and an opportunity to score well from time to time...

A great walking course and clubhouse also prohibits the wearing of golf shoes in the bar - no bad thing...

Date Friday, 04, October 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Risebridge Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Recently improved, still the same character though

Under new management by the looks of it, and consequently the clubhouse has benefitted from a facelift and a refurb. There are some other tweaks and changes around the course but nothing that detracts from the challenge.

This is still a good course to play, even after a days worth of torrential downpour - the investment in drainage seems to have worked well... On the day there was a drizzle, but course remained very playable throughout. Greens rolled true and not a lot of surface water got in the way..

OK Bunkers were a bit water affected and not at all fluffy... Good mix of holes, rather a lot of par 5s for this pay and play course.

Car parking on a full day would be an issue, but when it is lightly loaded this is a good test of golf and a course that rewards straight hitters without penalising the odd errant shot too much.

Clubhouse is small and ideally placed, food is reasonable selection, and staff and locals are welcoming. Buggies are available (always worth negotiating a price though as deals are there to be made.

Not much by way of scenic views - but it is a nice walking course, some cleverly designed feature holes and a nice mix. Par3s are challenging... good scores can be had...

Date Sunday, 15, September 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Pinner Hill Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Good challenge - some unusual features

This is a well established mature parkland course set in rolling hills and there are panoramic views from lots of vantage points.

I found it a tricky place to locate as Sat Nav went awry a couple of times, but the residential areas (some quite palatial) were quiet and typically suburban.

Greens were incredibly interesting to read, probably benefit from a return visit at some stage.

Late arrival didn't allow me the luxury of spending too much time in the clubhouse (elegant and period) but from what I saw the staff were welcoming. Neat little pro shop adjacent to the 'slightly complicated' parking arrangements was very pleasant.

First (and 10th) were long downhills, and whilst there were no typically nasty holes, each subsequent hole presented a challenge.

Not overly fond of blind par 3's though so 17th doesn't work for me (downhill - you can see the flag in reverse though an elevated mirror).

Critique is that the practice range is just downhill from the 18th Tee boxes and a wayward shot from a lesson flew inches over the red tees (just as a certain party was lined up to play a shot). Could have been dangerous, and there was a teaching pro supervising.
Still it is a nice day out - elevation changes (not too difficult to navigate when walking) made it interesting.

Fast greens lots of fairway run...

Date Wednesday, 14, August 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Pedham Place Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Rolling Landscape, Inland Links

easy to find - so very close to the Motorway. car parking is adequate and just a short stroll gets you into a nice reception area, with a lovely outside seating area. You can bring your bags and soft spikes are OK. Toilets were not signposted but were upstairs.

Practice facilities here are excellent, good driving range with lots of incidental targets, practice greens actually played like those on the course.

The course itself is well presented, some wide expanses of fairways, bordered by punative rough. rather a lot of dog legs and blind holes for my particular liking but this course would benefit from a subsequent visit (once you know where to hit the ball I would assume it gets a little more fun.

Good challenges and although some of the holes were.. 'a bit samey' there was enough diversity to keep the interest. Not a lot of water hazards (but then again there were other hazards to trap the unwary) a course for conservative play and certainly a good thinking course.

After round food was varied and OK, locals were pleasant enough, although I found the reception to be less than welcoming (hey it was a hot day and she might have been a bit stressed).

Take the time to look around, there are some good hilltop views here, but be advised that there are some dramatic elevation changes, pathways are hard and it isn't an easy walking course. There aren't many trees for shade so answer your calls of nature before commencing ...

Worth a repeat visit - pick the day wisely though as I can see this being a slow round if the course is full (lots of time spent looking for errant balls).

There's a Par 3 here as well although we never saw much of that.
Date Sunday, 07, July 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

The Hertfordshire Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Undulating Parkland - Punitive Rough

Set in the wild of Hertfordshire, the old Manor house is a n impressive venue for this social and sporting centre. Tennis courts and pool/gymnasium make this a popular venue for more than just the golfing community. Consequently car-parking can be a little confused.

Pro shop is well appointed in the Manor House, and friendly. All of the locals are welcoming and it is a nice area to visit (adjacent to the Paradise Wildlife Park).

Course itself is well laid out - but crosses the main road a couple of times and caution is advised. There are some fabulous views to be enjoyed and enough hazards, be they sand, water or long grass to keep your attention focussed.

Most holes are tree-lined and some are quite tight, but sensible play will reap its own reward. The last 4 holes have you flirting with the lake and the Geese who 'own the approaches'. Lots of wildlife to avoid, plenty of spring chicks to distract you.

All in all though this is a good challenge for high and low handicappers alike... but you would need to be pretty straight to keep out of trouble.

I didn't have time to stop and enjoy the cuisine but from memory it was always good.
Date Wednesday, 05, June 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Redbourn Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Welcome return to Redbourn

Previous visits to Redbourn have had mixed reviews, and for a while there was no water in the hazards (which actually took something away from the course). However I am delighted to report that the water is back and now those hazards come into play - which returns this course into the 'Must Play' bracket.

Overall condition was superb (we visited the day before the captain's Play Off so the course had been well presented). The sun came out and it was the first pleasant spring day of the year. fairways nicely cut, greens a bit spongy but straight enough. Semi-rough just enough to encourage you to stay away. mature parkland, fabulous views and friendly natives. Bunkers had proper sand in them - which to some getting used to...

Parking close to the clubhouse is always a bonus as this is a popular spot for non-golfers. The usual friendly reception at clubhouse and pro-shop and locals. 50% reduction on rates here as TSG special offer and it is well worth the visit.

Not sure if the bar is a spike bar I will have to ask next time..

There are some feature holes here and some that challenge the best, shots over water are fun... but not too difficult for most. Play within your capabilities and enjoy the scenery.

Food is good, service with a smile, well worth a day out.

The drive up to the clubhouse is a bit fiddly - so caution recommended, getting out onto the main road could take a while as that road is busy with fast-moving traffic.

This is a recommended course - for a number of reasons... watch out for pace of play it might be a bit more leisurely than you are used to though...





Date Sunday, 02, June 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Benton Hall Golf & Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Thinking Person's Course

Maturing parkland, set in the wilds of Essex, this was a long awaited return to Benton Hall (a place where I walked into the glass door, broke my nose and had concussion before playing the course 5 years or so ago). Easy to locate, adequate parking facilities and a welcoming clubhouse add to the experience.

Some good elevations and definitely a course requiring thought, and care - stay straight and you might be OK, Par 4's quite samey - distance wise and sufficient hazards to catch out the unwary. Great views of the countryside, fair amount of wildlife and this is a pretty course. Fairways and Greens especially well kept, semi-rough tended to hide the odd ball here and there.

Par 3's are medium to long and bunkers are cleverly placed but sandy enough - escapes not too difficult.

I had no recollection of the course and will need to return when schedule permits as I would expect to do better next time.

Good course though, and something for everyone.
Date Wednesday, 22, May 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Gosfield Lake Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Open parkland, water hazards abound

Nice trip out into the Essex Countryside, the Golf Course is down at the end of a bumpy old track, quite a ways. Adequate car parking, please don't change your shoes in the car park. Nicely appointed club house, neat little-pro shop. Friendly welcome from all. Noticeably a lot of juniors enjoying training sessions on the comprehensive practice areas.

Course was in good condition- considering the recent weather, but investment needed for some of the bobbly greens, a nice change to have wide open and not too much by way of elevation changes. You could be mistaken for expecting high scores as a general rule here, but there are some rather interesting holes (a fair amount of switch-backs) and it would benefit from a repeat visit.

Lots of hazards in interesting places, which can be avoided, a good course if you want to hit it long (and straight) and also a good short game work-out as well.

Wide open - great views for miles of the Essex hinterland, not much by way of distraction (wildlife or passers-by) but adjacent to the Lake - watch the water-skier - the boat was a bit noisy...

I could see this being a bit of a hazard when filled to capacity, next tees sometimes switched back from the preceding greens...

Most interesting holes seemed to be water-infested, and I recall just one short par 4 where it was bounded left and right and a bit tight.

All in all though an enjoyable day out... signposting could be a little more obvious for those near-sighted amongst us...

I didn't see a drink/chocolate machine in the Pro shop - so you might be advised to bring your own preferred snacks.

Bottom-line... a course in good condition (considering the recent weather), nice to walk and clever layouts make the best of available space. You ought to expect to do well here but on a first visit it was more about exploration. I would expect regulars to do well here.

Date Tuesday, 23, April 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Ilford Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Interesting and worth playing

Course was re-modelled after M11 went close so there are some tees close to greens and it pays the keep an eye on your surroundings. Keep on the straight and narrow and you can avoid some hazards. Tree-lined and quite a lot of blind holes make this a good test of golf skills.

Food and welcome at the clubhouse is splendid once you have found your way into the club parking is a bit spread out and could be limited on a busy day.

Date Wednesday, 17, April 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Belhus Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Open Parkland, tree-lined and tucked away nicely between M25 and A13

This is a public pay and play course - nonetheless in reasonable condition despite all the inclement weather we had endured in the area.

It is open parkland and a fair amount of holes were tree-lined up and down with adjacent fairways (OK another route to your chosen green). The general condition of fairways and greens were OK, some boggy bits which needed a bit of careful navigation but all in all a reasonable test of golf skills. Personally I found much of it needing a fair amount of repetition from the tees and unlike some other short courses I didn't exercise all of the clubs in my bag (so this course would be super for 5-club challenges). Greens were a bit on the wooly side (a bit slow and could be better in the summertime). If you could avoid the standing water fairways did allow a bit of roll and some measure of control for those of us who don't hit too long.

I thought a conservative approach (not too agressive) was a good tactic on this day and I did get the chance to chip close from the front of a number of greens. Putting needed some faith, hitting the ball a little harder than usual and it just about got to the hole a few times...

Good pro-shop - nice range of quality offers on display and food before the round was served with a smile and we were made to feel welcome.

Another nice little course - good for honing those straight shots - but watch out for a ditch that seems to get in the way on quite a few holes (seems just about within my range).

This course isn't signposted from the main road and you could easily miss the turn off. Shared car parking with a leisure centre, adequate spaces available).

We chose to wear golf shoes in the 'clubhouse' before the round and it wasn't prohibited.

Not much by way of panoramic vistas here, not a great deal of wildlife on show, surrounded on all sides by public access/motorways/roads...

Note: Many of the trees were deciduous and no leaves yet, so not much cover for those 'calls of nature'...
Date Sunday, 10, March 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Shendish Manor Hotel & Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short and Sweet?

An addition to a conference hotel, some pleasing views and a course that seems split between 1-6 open parkland (largely featureless field) and some mature tree-lined holes. The general condition though wasn't bad, greens were tricky to read and needed care but they were in better than fair condition and pretty much consistent.

Fairways and light rough looked to be in reasonable condition as well and there were some interesting holes -with a few trees somehow getting in my way. So not a long course, not too hilly and a pleasant stroll.

Location is OK and uphill driveway will lead to a very pleasing manor house (worthwhile taking a look inside) a reasonable Hotel (I have stayed there before).

The Golf reception is not quite as opulent, merely practical. Tea an Coffee on arrival - light bites before commencing were OK. Post round food was also good although the kitchen was busy with two societies in on the day, service was nice and welcoming.

Car parking adequate and plentiful (even though there was at least 1 wedding on the day).

Sadly the practice facilities were limited, an astro-turf practice putting green - and 1*net... not a lot... Funnily enough the actual greens played quite similarly to the plastic practice greens.

In the pro shop (limited stock) there was a bargain bucket of old clubs at 2.50 per club, proceeds to charity, so if you have some old clubs that need disposing of ... bring them along... more venues could do something similar...

Nice touch - the welcoming audience on the 18th green, politely applauding all shots, local kids deserving the odd ball or two...

Bottom line - If staying at the hotel I would bring my clubs and play again, I may not make a detour to play here again if I was just looking for Golf... there are better places to see... Some of the back nine is adjacent to the Main-line train route and a main road (not sure which one) so if you are easily distracted you may be disturbed mid shot, these train drivers have no concept of golfing etiquette...
Date Sunday, 03, March 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Panshanger Golf Complex

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Matured Parkland - cut into Hertfordshire Countryside

This was a return visit to a course I hadn't particularly enjoyed the first couple of times (no obvious reasons, perhaps a preponderence of hidden flags and hazards that just seemed to be strategically placed for me. Since the last visit it looks like the course has changed management and I have to admit the ground conditions were excellent - especially in light of the inclement weather we had recently endured. Light snow flurries did persist for 6 holes, and the greens were pretty much iced over for that time. Putting was as a result quite difficult.

On this visit I had time to appreciate the layout and hole configurations, and there are some clever holes - needing good course management - this is a thinking persons course and long sometimes isn't the answer.

Staff were welcoming and pleasant enough, car parking is more than adequate and it is easily located but small signposted off the B1001 road.

The bar and restuarant - post round is well appointed (food is limited menus but of good quality).

A cold day (bitter in the wind) but the sun did show a face - it wasn't unpleasant) and a challenge for all levels.

The scorecard to use is the one tagged 2011... Tricky Par 3's, some variety in Par 4's and nice Par 5's make this a place to visit (ideally when the weather is kind).


Date Saturday, 23, February 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Bletchingley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Try this for a winter venue

Enough has already been written about this TSG recommended course. I didn't know what to expect 17 Feb 2013 after what seems to have been a very very wet winter so far. having been used to near-marsh conditions in some locales - this was a complete surprise! Not only were the views and facilities as spectacular as ever BUT a Sunday round with no-one holding us up and nobody pressing from behind...

The first time this year I have played on dry (yes Dry) fairways and greens (semi rough was probably dry as well - but I chose not to venture there).

It makes a nice change to play where the ball will bounce and roll and it took a little while to get used to it again. Perfect conditions made this a special day out and the staff should be congratulated for the state of the course...

So if you want to play - where mud is a rarity - do consider Bletchingley... BUT be aware that these greens are currently a bit on the tricky side (understatement of course) and clever pin positions do add to the degree of difficulty...

Well worth a trip - just to remind yourselves that we do have dry places in the UK.

Date Sunday, 17, February 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Bentley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Interesting - Challenging and quite hazardous

Nicely appointed out in the Essex Countryside. Clever use of natural hazards.

The entrance isn't well signposted heading toward Brentwood from Ongar, car parking is a bit tight. There was a practice area, but much was under water.

Follow your nose the the clubhouse, friendly and welcoming , good food.

Pro-shop is through the gap and turn right, took a while to find, small but friendly enough.

I found this a challenge, a fair few hidden pins (never my favourite) and it was cold on the day.

Worth a second trip though...

Date Wednesday, 30, January 2013
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Epping Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short and sweet

Epping Golf club is not a long course, off the Yellow tees, it is a good challenge of golf skills and I get to use just about every club n the bag at one point or another. Even after 2 days of torrential rain and during a drizzle (degenerating to rain) the course was still playable, if not soggy in more than a few places. Greens were damp and soggy but playable (if you could avoid some patches of standing water). Most of the course the fairways were OK, but zero roll and the odd ball plugged (good job it was winter rules).

More a test of golf skills than the ability to walk distances, course is undulating, with interesting panorama, good views of some bits of Essex. This is a great starting course for those new to Golf and those low handicappers looking to practise skills.

A whole different challenge from the white tees.

Clubhouse was friendly as ever and there's a lovely wood burner in the corner, which makes it just so inviting. Jim is always helpful and the catering is served with a smile.

Car park is a little resticted so on a busy day there may be good reason to arrive ahead of schedule...

Date Sunday, 25, November 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Theydon Bois Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Nice little surprise - Mature Parkland

On a day suited to Golf (i.e. no wind or rain or other inclement weather) this was a good day out. It was easy to drive past the club down the country lanes (more of which later). Not overly long but a test of golfing skill and the ability to think your way around a course. Longer hitters would probably not make much use of a driver, but this course sets up well for average hitter of around 200 yards, and if you can keep it on the fairway much of the trouble is avoided. Tree-lined and well establised some elevation changes make club selection interesting.

Loved the views and it is a pretty little course, although surrounded by roads and connurbations.
Caution there is a need to cross a busy country road at least twice during your round... take care...

Car parking - safe enough, keylock entry into clubhouse, small Pro shop had enough to stimulate a little interest.

Staff were welcoming and helpful, locals were friendly enough as well.

Course was soggy in places, greens were by and large fair (but tricky if you were on the wrong level). Some tee boxes showed signs of wear but were generally OK, we played off 1 temp tee and 1 temp green (it had rained recently in the area). Looked as though pitch and divot marks had been addressed by the time I arrived at each green. Sand in the bunkers was coarse but yet playable so no scares there.

After round cuisine was ad hoc, a la carte and of good quality with friendly service.

It would be nice to come back and play again in the summer, but I suspect that it would present a different challenge..

Date Monday, 19, November 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Hoebridge Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Municipality at it Best?

This is a pretty looking course, great views and whilst there were some difficulties sighting the ball in the low winter sunshine this is a course worth a visit BUT...

Ground as soft, so no run on anything, greens were pitted and bobbly, really quite lumpy - so a different putting technique is required (hit and hope more than stroke). Autumn leaves encroached and made locating errant balls quite a task. Good challenging holes - some wide fairways, some unexpected approaches (especially around the corners). There are some holes of note here, and a chance to score well enough on a good day.

Lots of early morning traffic may make the trip here longer than you would think... sharp left after the 20mph corner is worth watching out for as well. Car park is fine and looks secure enough. The clubhouse is well appointed and cuisine is 'special' ask for the 'golfer's breakfast' for a snack that is anything but light. Well cooked and well presented the food is good.

Staff were helpful and local players were friendly enough. Played as part of a society day, and boy was it a slow round, which meant that the last few holes were played in the gloom and near dark...(that's my excuse)...

Will plan a return trip in the summer months as it is well worth a look, there are some sharp inclines uphill especially brutal so not an easy course to complete on foot.

Easy to lose balls here though - so bring enough although you could find more than you lose...

A number of holes played back into the low winter sun so quite difficult to get a line, teamwork required to spot balls here.

There was evidence of unrepaired divot and pitch marks which was a bit disappointing as I was at the back of my society and we would expect to repair most as we went along... obviously some people failed to repair visible pitch marks , and there were some large divots which could have been easily replaced... So spent a fair amount of my waiting time - doing some gardening.

Overall a good course, nice views, good food and welcoming staff made the day OK.
Date Thursday, 15, November 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Channels Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

A welcome return

Beautifully laid out to make best use of the copious number of water hazards. Nicely undulating, a stiff test of ability - both golf and walking, on the day played, ball spotting was difficult if the ball was off the fairway. Wind and chill conspired to make this very challenging. Care required on most holes, but do take the time to enjoy the panorama.

Sat Nav send me down a long country path, good parking and a nice stroll through the bar/restuarant area.

Staff more than welcoming, cuisine (before and after golf) was of commendable quality.

This would be a favourite club if it were closer to me, But well worth the trip, and though the course is not excessively long - it is long enough to challenge.

A good course to think your way around, not easy by any means (lots of tee shots over water).











Date Monday, 05, November 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

The Heron Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Mature and rolling parkland, improvements continue

Society Day (Cyder Cup) visited South Essex, and although there were more than just us, the clubhouse managed to service our needs more than adequately. Included in the day was breakfast - golf and lunch...

Clubhouse staff were welcoming, serviee was with a smile.

On a day perfect for golf, bright (light breezes) this course showed signs of TLC (since a previous visit), fairways just about perfect, approaches to greens good, greens were in good nick (although a touch bobbly in places) and some long putts went in...

Off the fairway the rough could be punishing and bunkers were in the condition to be expected after a couple of days heavy rain, so saying the course was overall in great condition, staying in the fairway was recommended (and I had my 'sand nav' working well so managed to enjoy the bunkers more than usual).

This was a return visit (after a lapse of a couple of years) and the course Heron/Hawk combination was better than I remembered, some feature holes - and some new features - steady play brings its own reward.

Something here for everyone, this 18th is always a good challenge, very easy to get lost in the deep rough or bushes that skirt the long fairway, and watch out for the ditch...

After round lunch was much appreciated and once again same level of service in the clubhouse.

Good day for golf and some good golf was played...

Easy access from the M25 - adequate parking facilities.

This is an experience worth repeating - and as far as value for money goes, just about unbeatable.





Date Saturday, 13, October 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Bentley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Mature Parkland, with more than a hint of a links feel

This is a mature parkland course, set in the undulating area of Essex (so not exacltly mountainous), the course is an interesting layout, with more than a fair share of hazards. Most holes are festooned with either dicthes, bunkers or water (or combinations of them all). Trees encroach fairways, and are in play a lot (so a premium for straight hitters).

Take the time to enjoy the panoramic views as you meander through this very nicely appointed course.

I can't recall a single hole that didn't require some thinking about, all were challenging in their own ways. Bunlers were in the condition we come to expect at this time of year, not a lot of light fluffy sand, so best to av oid them. Fairways were nicely presented and the greens are good... enough slopes and lumps to challenge even the best of putters... Not slow hese greens were true enough, the course held up well after a few days of heavy rain and seemed to drain well... ponds and ditches always playing a part and every hazard seemed to be within range...

You would do well to get around here without losing at least 1 ball...

The clubhouse staff were friendly and welcoming, food was good and there was a nice cup of tea... the clubhouse and associated buildings are not imposing and the layout would take a bit of getting used to, adequate car parking spaces (although I did miss the entrace first time around, nicely situated in the Essex counrtyside).

We chose a Friday - concessions midweek were on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so we didn't receive a discount and the price was a little more than I would have expected to pay for what was in reality a twilight round mid-week.

Bottom line - good challenge and I would go back, just to see if I could do better... ideally will look to take advantage of concessionary green fees. Fees paid for Friday were £28.50 per person (no concessions)

Good course to play though, not an easy walking course (and I didn't see sign of buggies). Golf shoes/trainers were not allowed in the clubhouse.

Pro shop was small and well appointed, most amenable, members were welcoming enough although we didn't see too much of them.
Date Saturday, 13, October 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Langdon Hills Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Great Choices - and ongoing 'improvements'

Have played this course on a ragular basis as part of the Comedians Golfing Society annual fixture lists. Great venue for charity days (onsite Hotel complex) great clubhouse and catering is splendid. There are always deals the be done here so don't be afraid to ask. Staff are friendly and welcoming, regulars are also welcoming. Now to the interesting bits... Langdon/Hornden (if memory serves) is the regular combination. There have been some ongoing 'improvements' new tree plantings and old hedge removals, some big trees have been taken out of play.
All in all this is now an easier course to play when the weather conditions allow. Great views of estuary and surrounding countryside but can be open to the elements (rain, wind, sleet, snow, fog, and sunshine all on the same hole one year).

Good challenges though, fairways well kept, semi rough is or can be a bit punishing (so stay on the fairways). There are plenty of hazards to avoid, water and diches abound, The bit I like most is that the greens are beautifully manicured - and it is possible to do very well when putting. Not to say that anything is easy but the undulations on the greens are less extreme than on the practice greens.

Good scores are possible - most oles are interesting and there's 1 par 3 that looks innocuous, but when the wiond blows it can be the longest 160 yards in the world, and so easy to float over the trees and be lost for ever... hmmm In fact all of the Par 3s are a challenge in their own way.

Be bold keep straight(ish) and you could come back with a good score... be too bold and you can lose a lot of balls (easily).

A course for the thinkers, be aware that there are some hills and it is a good walk... just remembering that from hole 10 to 14 there is water in play - great sequence...

Good course for long hitters though, as long as second shots are good, pitching and chipping is good and putting is above average you'll have a good day out...

Lots of car parking, but it is quite a stroll to the clubhouse and first tees, and golf shoes aren't allowed inside the clubhouse...

Pick a good weather day for your visit, otherwise you might be blown away...
Date Thursday, 11, October 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Redbourn Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Return to the scene

On a day when it rained - until we got to the first tee - this was a good day out. Fairways were a delight to walk upon (light rough was enough to keep you away). Greens were well kept (by and large) looked challenging, sometimes straight, sometimes undulating and all with unexpected snakes...

My first memory of this course included the difficultiies and fun to be had where water filled ditches and little ponds encroached - alas (or hurrah) the ditches are as dry as the empty ponds...

Good wide inviting fairways, interesting par 3s, well matured trees tended to get in the way. There appeared to be a fair amount of bunkers just perfectly positioned for me... I found a lot, escaped most (no light whispy sand here though).

Take the time to enjoy the scenery, especially as Autumn brings the variation in colours, good layout I think it makes best use of the space.


Take care when driving there, the turn off is easily missed and the approach road is twisty country track.

Staff were charming, food was excellently prepared and delivered... Car parking, get there early to be closer to the First Tee otherwise it's a short walk.

Course is not flat, buggies are available. We received a good TSG rate for midweek.

Good day had by all...
Date Friday, 05, October 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

North Weald Golf Club (closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Course is in the process of development

Picked another perfect day for golf, as usual friendly welcome at this course under development. Lots of work is ongoing (swapping some of those old fairway bunkers for alternative hazards is a good move).

Anyway - there had been some complaints regarding the condition of this course recently, BUT I am delighted to advise that the rough is hewn back, fairways are close mown, greens are still as friendly as ever. Although development work is noticeable - it can be avoided by the thoughtful golfer.

Whilst not being on the face of it 'too difficult' the inclusion of some tight 'out of bounds' markers (where I least expected them) actually worked to improve the overall experience.

OK so some bunkers were devoid of sand, but the course is improved since the last visit. There are some feature holes here... and it remains a good challenge for both High and Low handicappers...

Views are pleasant, trees are maturing/matured... water hazards are always close by...

Adjacent to my usual Driving range and putting area practice facilities are good... and it is pleasant sitting on the upstairs balcony, basking in the afternoon sunshine, overlooking the 18th green.

Catering is good and service is always with a smile.
Date Sunday, 16, September 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Leatherhead Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Mature Parkland - Good Challenge

As part of a Society day (Comedians Golfing Society) this was a bit slow, but the time was well spent enjoying the experience of a good challenging course, great for the thinkers. Well defined and clever layout this was worth the effort to get there for an early start. Perfect weather helped, not too warm, light breeze.

Anyway - long par 3s an interesting challenge (especially the 18th where I thought I could clear the fairway bunker - alas not).

Course was tree-lined and included the odd mature trees right in my shot path on a few holes, making me think.

Found a fair number of bunkers, perhaps the best sand I have seen for a while, most were well filled and presented few issues for escapes and sandy saves.

Fairways were well kept, rough not to punishing and locating balls was not too much of a problem here.

Greens were fair and subtle... ask me sometime about missing an eagle put (20 yards) then the resultant Birdie putt (2 yards)... lots of legitimate birdie chances today (emphasis on the word chances).

Clubhouse was friendly, small but helpful Pro-shop, good practice facilities and a practice putting area that was remarakbly similar to on-course conditions.

We dined as a group and the food was interesting, edible and not too fussy. Staff made us welcome and it would be a course I would go back to - wanting to play it in less than 5 hours, when next in the area.

Note of caution: For drivers, the gates tend to jump out at you from the main road, I nearly missed them - not paying attention to the Sat Nav. Good that there were no following vehicles.

All in all though a good course to challenge most levels, Top score for the day was 38 pts... (not me) and the majority struggled to score more than 30pts.

Great views, a nice walk, lots of unusual and unique hazards, I managed to take the driver for most holes, and didn't go too far wrong... restate par 3s are long... there are some shorter par 4's with legit birdie opportunities. Par 5's are excellent.

Good course, shows signs that it is being maintained... I would go back...
Date Saturday, 15, September 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Reigate Hill Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Mature Parkland, hillside course.

Easy to get to from J8 of the M25, this course is set on a series of hillsides and not much flat land is in evidence here. Take note this is a difficult walking course, up and down hills on most holes. Well designed and maintained, fairways were good and bouncy, greens were full of features (undulations abound) and the light rough conspired to hide the ball... a fair amount of hazards on this course mean that you do have to think your way around. Would benefit from knowing it better before expecting too much. Tricky in places - less tricky in others, some cleverly placed bunkers designed to trap the unwary.

Played in the heat so this was not an easy day out... I would guess that good scores are possible (the more you know it).

Clubhouse and staff were welcoming and service was with a smile...

There were a couple of holes where the next tee was not obvious so it could be possible to go a bit wrong, but all in all a good challenge, some good views for those that enjoy rolling hills, but it is adjacent to the M25 and though the view isn't spoiled there is a bit of noise in some parts of the course.

Good if you are local, or passing by... and well worth the visit. Seems to be a trend with course in Surrey/Sussex, undulations, hills and bunkers aplenty.



Date Tuesday, 21, August 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Stock Brook Manor Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Good experience - will plan to return another day, when the greens are greener!

Altogether a pleasant experience, these guys are genuinely pleased to see you and bend over backwards to make the day special.

Clubhouse is imposing, and food + service is sublime.
There's even a spa available should you feel the need for massage.

This is a maturing parkland course, with subtle water hazards to catch you out when you least expect it (and some large expanses of water).

Good use of available geography, makes for an interesting walk, and there's a good view from most positions on the course. Out in the countryside there's a fine array of wildlife for those who are distracted from the golf. Plus side - fairways were long running, primary cut of rough was enough to hide the ball from all but close up view, so keep an eye on the flight and path of your errant shots. Water (lakes, brooks, ponds and ditches' cleverly incorporated into a rather nicely laid out course.

Some 'feature holes' would test all levels... on the less than positive side, the greens had mainly been treated with some combination of compound that made them less that free running or true... so not too many long/mid range putts made. Greens were undulating and some near-impossible long putt chances were presented...

There are some gentle hills, so the odd gradient is there to confuse and confound - buggies are available if required...

Locals were friendly here, the venue is special, must return when the greens are greener...

Rather splendid practice facilities, good chipping and pitching provision, driving range and undulating practice putting green, rather slicker than out on the course - it has to be said.




Date Monday, 13, August 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Canons Brook Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Horses for Courses

Situated in the midst of the new town development, there may be a trade off between panoramic views and the challenge of getting around in the least number of strokes. This coure represents a fair test for all levels of competence, and whilst there is some evidence of urban sprawl, including the proximity of the Stansted Express, nearby football stadium, greyhound racing track, industrialisation, this course makes the best use of sports covenented real estate.

'Some interesting holes' in fact most holes have features that can provide good memories or continuing nightmares...

So if you want birdsong, to be surrouned by nature, with panoramic views of rolling hills and or seascapes (with greens and fairways of dubious quality) then Harlow may not be your first choice.. BUT if you want to be challenged, on a championship-grade course then this may be a place to come back to.

If you didn't enjoy it the first time, it's harder the second time...

But always a fair challenge... and the last 4 closing holes will test even the best...

I've yet to master the 14th as well... come to think of it there's a number of holes I haven't ever mastered...

Treat it as a whole experience, easy parking, good clubhouse facilities, good onsite pro shop, practice facilities are just across the brook, good condition, slick greens, mature trees, lots of hazards, friendly locals and generally a good reception... at a reasonable price £...

Overall I can live without the panoramic views of rolling hills (this is west essex it's a bit flat) or the seascape once in a while... in return for being made welcome...

Date Monday, 13, August 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Hartswood Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Short but requires some careful thought

On a bright sunny day with a swirling breeze, this is a well appointed 'short course' the major observation was that greens were slow and bobbly (not running at all true). Other than that though this is a good test of ability. Mature parkland, pleasant walk, good views in an old Royal Park. The observant will be able to recognise the multitude of flora and fauna, and some well established Japanese Knotweed.

A course for careful thought - favours the skillful player (low handicappers especially) or the lucky...

Although no notable holes there are some interesting challenges and some peculiarly placed trees which have sprouted up over the years to obscure views of wide sweeping fairways...

Part of a leisure centre which seemed well attended - catering was adequate Ice Cream was expensive but a treat. Car parking might be a problem in the popular months as space seems restricted without obvious overflow facilites. Locals were friendly and a nice day out.

Be aware though that you do have to cross a busy road twice during the course of the round, and the view of the 'fast-moving' vehicles is obscured by trees and bends... take care and move quickly...

Nice selection of stuff in the pro shop...

Altogether a surprisingly good test of skill and ability (I lost two balls on separate holes to the same Willow Tree)...

No Par 5's from the yellow tees, but there are a couple of loooonnngg par 4s. Par 3s are a good challenge as well... lots of trees obscuring views a good challenge of decision-making... worth a second trip...
Date Sunday, 12, August 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Brentwood Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Soggy when wet...

This was a second trip to Weald Park, and if my recollections are right it was soggy and boggy then as well. Looks to be a clay base, hence slippery when wet.

The basic components seem to be there, tricky course layout, difficult holes, lots of mature trees, uphills, valleys and lakes and ditches.

Just a shame that the course does not drain at all... it isn't that often you have to take relief from standing water on the tee... but it was here. Rather a large number of greens weer water affected, with deep standing water making major incursions into the putting surface.


To their defence that has been a lot of water in the area recently... but other local courses have dried better. My abiding memory of this course will be soggy and boggy and not worth the money...

Bunkers had obviously been neglected over time, in fact I can't remember a single bunker without weeds, grass or other vegetation (taken for granted that they were full of water) and precious little by way of sand...

'Fairways' were not exactly closely cut and the clover beds were waiting to obscure a slightly errant ball.

If the course dries out and substantial investment is made into the upkeep anc maintenance of this course, it has the potential to be OK.

Clubhouse - a pleasant enough experience in the spike bar (the signs in the car parks are misleading as regards footwear), short menu and rapid service was enjoyed.

Pro shop was limited, I think the staff were used to complaints and there was a stock response. There wasn't a suggestion of offering vouchers for return visits on a dryer day - a version of Hobson's Choice...and in honesty I would probably choose not to return here...

I hear they offer a £10.00 Thursday green fee, which is probably a fair amount for this experience...

Short of saying that it is dangerous, be aware that the ground is clay-based and can be very slippery, easy to slip into ditches and be up to your knees in 'water'...

If you pay a visit - take spare socks at least...

Oh.. by the way the Gentleman's Changing Room was more than a bit smelly (yes even before I got there) and somewhat grubby...

The Course manager was on site - and seemed pleasant enough BUT probably has no concept of the term 'Customer Satisfaction' (in my opinion.

Suffice to say - I wouldn't go back if the green fee was £Zero as there are better experience3s to be enjoyed elsewhere.

Date Saturday, 21, July 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Hainault Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Upper Course - Challenging on so many levels

A return visit still confirms the Upper course as a real challenge - a mature parkland, cleverly established in some undulating hills. Clarity of thought may get you around, but on a day where the ground was still boggy in places (we do need the rain apparently) this was a tough day to work out. Greens were fluffy, soft in paces and really quite slow uphill. Tricky to read quite difficult to avoid the odd 3-putt. Bunkers still water impacted so playing out was hard... Course Management at a premium to navigate some twisty, sloping, and inconsistent roll...

A critique was that tee times were a bit close, and lots of people on the course could have made it a slow round... as it happened not too much of a delay... never a fan of overindulgence in blind holes - there are a lot...

Visit the Caddy Shack pre-round, tea and sandwiches various, served with humour... Do sample the lunch menu (Chinese influence and good quality)...Nice people very attentive...

Lots of unrepaired pitch marks evident today, rememeber to make 1 and fix 2....

Whilst this course isn't ever going to be my favourite, it is value for money and never uninteresting...

Latest update, return to the upper course, on a day when the rain stopped just before play began, we had a late tee time, course played OK but of course the recent rains had left it soggy in places, with a selection of temporary tees. Observation was that the yellow tee boxes were showing signs of wear and were a bit soft. Playing conservatively may be the best way around this course. Forgot to mention adequate car parking and going though the building to get to the first tees.

Lunch was again rather splendid, we alw2ays get a good welcome here.



Date Saturday, 05, May 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Abbotsley Hotel, Golf and Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

This course suits my eye

Beautifully laid out in some rather scenic countryside, mature parkland, with something of a links feel to it in places. Course is interspersed with water (lakes and ditches) which can cleverly be avoided. Course manage your way to a reasonable score on a course that favours straight hitters over distance, Neat and challenging for the most part, venture off your fairway at your own peril. After a number of days heavy rainfall it was only to be expected that there would be some standing water (and the ground was a bit soggy in places). Gently undulating, a nice walk and a chance to exercise most of the clubs in your bag, Development work was ongoing (signs of good work in progress) and the locals were welcoming.

I'd recommend this as a place to stay to enjoy a weekend away... Hotel complex on site, and good deals to be had.

I enjoyed this day, as the sun was shining and it was great to be out and about. Looks like the pro shop is well appointed and really quite amenable to deals...

Would I come back, yep.. without a second thought... a most enjoyable day...
Date Monday, 30, April 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Bletchingley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Return to confirm first thoughts

OK - a bit of a rush to avoid the worst of the weather,and played on a grey day after a couple of days hard rain, little sunshine to speak of and it got a bit cold towards the end of the round. Even so, with trees in bloom and grass lokking greener, this is still a place well worth the visit. Had a chat with the new caterers, they seem nice, and touched base with the onsite pro, who iquite likes the TSG, still 2 for 1 (flexible interpretation was applied as we were an odd number).

Altogether a welcoming experience - again - with the locals being quite friendly and engaging as well. The course looks a picture, greens have benefitted from recent rain (could barely find any residue of the sand), Lots of feature holes, very easy on the eye par-3s - although a fair bit of up and down it was a good walk.

Good challenge for all levels, greens require close attention, to easy to 3-putt and more... Bunkers had suffred through the excessive rainfall, but were playable in places - I seemed to have a sand magnet on this trip, but negotiated my way out reasonably well... Watch out for a complex 6,7,8,9 sequence all to easy to play 9 instead of 6... (oops) so we played a bit out of sequence but managed to get around them all.

Even in the gloom there are some great views... still worth the visit, I think it would be sensible to come back again, before the TSG Annual Competition this year...
Date Sunday, 29, April 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Trent Park Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well presented - Public Course, scenic parkland

Easy enough to find, this is a mature parkland course - showing sings of care and attention and ongoing maintenance. Some tee boxes under repair did not detract from a good experience. Well laid out - this is a course well worth the visit. Interesting holes (with some surprises for the unwary - watch out for hidden ditches).

Undulating fairways - well manicured and nice approaches to the greens (some protected by bunkers with a nice layer of sand). Uphill and downhill making use of the countryside, with good views from most aspects.

Trees are well positioned - designed to catch the errant drive - encouraging straight hitting... big hitters can easily get away from fairways, so recovery shots come into play, especially when ditches are in play.

All in all a good course, good exercise up and down the hills (but not too taxing) we played on what seemed to be a popular day, consequently this was a slow round... I can imagine it being an even better experience without the 'hold ups'. Good catering facilities, and nice half way house...

Staff were more than pleasant and most helpful, with a good pro-shop on site and high quality practice facilities.

A public course that compares well with some member's clubs... and nice to see that pitchmarks on some very interesting greens, were repaired rather than left...



Date Saturday, 31, March 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Bletchingley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Spectacular - on so many levels

Tucked away in the Surrey Countryside, a short hop from the M25 this is one course not to miss. Spectacular views from all perspectives, trees in blossom and a chance to enjoy nature. Just about ideal weather contributed to a good day out. The course was well-presented and looked to be in good order (recently sanded greens were a bit of an enigma at times).

There are quite a few blind holes (often downhills) so you would benefit from a course guide (not currently in print) or the next best thing someone in the group who has played there before. Chillingly good par 3s await the unwary, and a pleasure to play... even if (like me) you don't actually score that well..

Par 5s offer birdie and better opportunities and you don't need to be a long hitter to get close to many of the par 4s. Undulating is an understatement - uphills follow downhills and vice versa so it is not a stroll in the park... but straight hitting and good course management will get you round in good order...

Greens are intruiging... pin placement is always going to make this course more or less difficult...

Well signed and laid out to maximise the available space. Take the time to look around at each chance you get and see for yourself...

Staff were welcoming and members were also nice to us tourists...

Suffice to say this is one course I will play again at the drop of a hat... A fine choice for this years Annual Tournament, cannot comment on changing room facilities (didn't have occasion to make use of them) the clubhouse is what I would expect in a small village, parking looks OK, but it is a narrow road down to the front gate.

I will be back, mainly because there are a couple of par 3s that I need to master... I like this course... if only it were closer... Nearby Godstone has a nice village pond and some very pleasant public houses...

Date Thursday, 29, March 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Gatton Manor Golf, Hotel & Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Set well in the countryside

This is a mature parkland course, with a hint of a links feel about some of the holes. No two holes were the same, each new tee presented its own unique challenge. Fairways were in reasonable condition, somewhat undulating, often with unseen hazards (a course guide is recommended). Greens are particularly challenging, slick and fast with some extreme borrows, easy to put yourself off the green... no guarrantee of being down in regulation here... (greens were multi-faceted, slick to very fast, some borrows were obvious some were not apparent until too late (so a fair chance of 3-putting). Clever layout, with nice use of water hazards to distract the unwary... bunkers were a little sand-light but not too difficult to negotiate...

Being hyper-critical, still a fair amount of leaves and leaf mulch just off the fairways, enough to hide a ball with ease... Yardage markers probably need some reonciliation as they were at variance with GPS devices on a number of holes. Practice greens do not reflect the real greens... But all in all a good challenge and a chance to exercise short game skills as well as driver accuracy...

Bar and Pro staff were welcoming, and food was good.

The course is hidden away down single-track lanes so take care when arriving and departing...
Date Saturday, 24, March 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Richmond Park Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Sun shines on Richmond Park

Well kept secret in Richmond Park, a comprehensive golfing facility (OK from temporary accommodation) where on site staff are welcoming and friendly. New clubhouse plans are on display in the Cafe... it will be a nicer place to visit when completed. There's a couple of parkland courses to choose from (Princes Course is recommended). Although off temporary tees (which had seen better days) there was evidence of ongoing maintenance and greenkeeper activity was obvious. The course was otherwise well presented, mature trees adorned most holes, water was around but never c ame into play today, bunkers could have done with a little more sand. Greens were good, and the approaches were interesting, a good run out for a short game practice. Interesting Par 3s, a good challenge to club selection and shot vision... Not a long course but you will know that you have walked it, undulating would be over-simplification. Wide enough fairways to give most a good second/approach shot.

On course catering was available and is recommended. Post round cafe should not be missed, for a variety of reasons.

The course is set in a corner of the parkland and fabulous views are all around, surprisingly not too much by way of airplane noise, considering the location.

Well laid out courses, continually being improved, with new facilities promised in the near future, a good step out for all levels as everyone will get something from a visit.


Date Wednesday, 21, March 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Hurtmore Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Pretty Little Course

Hurtmore, is a revelation, short; yes, challenging; yes. It does help to have local knowledge as I can imagine it wouldn't be too difficult to lose your way around. Clever use of available space, undulating parkland, not too many mature trees. Actually the course was in fine condition, made more pleasant by the spring sunshine. Greens were fair enough, although would have benefitted from pitch-mark repairs (remember to make one and fix two). Some clever borrows required full attention for best results. Amenities are good here, just off the A3, easy to find, good parking, friendly pro shop and good bacon sandwiches (also good looking lunch menu).

VFM; yes... worth playing again to hone up short game, not too much of a walk, so benefits the skilful, high handicappers can do well here. Watch out for water on the 18th (I forgot and ended up wet).

Well worth a second trip - next time I am in the area.
Date Monday, 19, March 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Top Meadow Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Top Meadow sparkles in the sunshine

Well presented, this is a well worth the visit, whilst there were a number of temp tees it did not detract from the playability. Sunshine and light breezes combined to make this a good day out, once the fog had lifted, the panoramic views were revealed. Pretty course - trees in blossom - nice mix of challenges and something for every level.

Good scores are possible, but take care as the course can bite back. Well kept fairways, and greens were slick and fair enough. A nice walking course, well worth a second visit, and clubhouse facilities are well regarded...
Date Friday, 16, March 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Enfield Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Cleverly sited in an urban sprawl, worth a look

Parkland, with some tight fairways, although some had wide open spaces, cut by a recurring brook/ditch that made the walk interesting. It is up and down but not too taxing, a few 'blind holes' that benefit from local knowledge.

There are some interesting challenges, but not what you would consider to be 'feature' holes. At the time of the visit tee boxes were showing signs of wear, ground was soft and greens were less than even (consequently difficult putting). All in all though a fair day out, nice weather helps, some good views once you get to the top of the hills, established trees seemed to get in the way a bit, and bunkers were a little light of sand... so keep out of the bunkers, avoid the ditch, mind the trees and be aware of the gradients when approaching greens... some green/tees were close so potential for wayward shots to be a bit of a nuisance, but take care and it should be a good day out.

Club house facilities are fine, cuisine is good and service is with a smile...

Date Monday, 12, March 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Bushey Hall Golf Club (closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Would benefit from local knowledge

Nicely appointed and well presented, this is an undulating course, a fair number of slopes make for an interesting challenge.

Course has a few interchanges so watch out for tee shots from other holes, quite a tight and twisty course with a fair % of wide open fairways. Most of the par 3s offer a challenge subtley different, and there are some good feature holes (Hole 9 for example). Hole 5 is one to master, decision-making here is paramount...

As part of a fair sized TSG group we were held up at times by a members matchplay compeition, perhaps something to be avoided for any subsequent visit(s).

I'd like to see this course again in full bloom I can imagine it would be a picture. Tricky if you attack it but play conservatively and you may just have a good game...
Date Saturday, 03, March 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Royal Epping Forest Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Worth the trip

A nicely worked out course, interspersed with 'public right of way' not overly long but tight and twisty, a good challenge for mid/low handicappers, each green seemed to react differently, some soggy some dry and watch out for hole number 3, that green is hilarious... could be a score wrecker (aim short and to put uphill, be firm or expect it to come back to you).A nice finishing set of holes. Sunshine definately makes the venue a place to enjoy.

My group observed that the distance markers didn't seem to be too accurate as my satnav confirmed (and yes I gave out information as required). Be nice to the pro shop guys and you may just receive preferential treatment, the cafe is the place to meet and good food is available...

Good course - nice interesting holes and well worth a visit, but remember your outer gear (jacket/top or trousers/skirt) should be red (post box red is good)... There is a historical reference to why but it has been lost in the annals of history (ask me for the real answer)...
Date Sunday, 26, February 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Toot Hill Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Blowing a bugle for a very attractive course

Found just about every hole to be attractive and interesting, course was in good condition, once thawed the greens played well, quite splendid array of green configurations. A fair spattering of water and other hazards kept the attention focussed, All of the par 3s are a challange.. playing longer than their stated yardage... but well appointed.

This course needs a revisit - when the trees are in leaf, great views from most of the course, great use of the countryside. Looks to be well-maintained and supervised. Officials and staff all friendly and helpful, well worth a second visit.
Date Monday, 20, February 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Stock Brook Manor Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Best Value on the day

Course is a nice mix of open fairways and tight holes... you;d be surprised at which ones catch you out. It looks that the yardages are underestimated with a large number of uphill greens, despite the rainfall that previous night the course presented itself well, was well marshalled and well signposted...

Greens are worth the money alone, nicely receptive, subtle and not so subtle contours... chances for long putts and enough of a challenge to keep your interest.

Post-round hsopitality was par excellence...
Date Thursday, 26, January 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Chigwell Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Interesting and Challenging

This was a good day weatherwise, the course appeared well maintained if a little squishy and soft in places (after a day's rain) so not a great deal of run on the fairways. Rough cut fairly and some interesting holes, tree-lined but deceptively open (most holes).

It would be good to come back in the summer and see if I could remember how to play the holes... quite a lot of undulations and often needs an extra club to get to the target...

Nice to walk this course some spectacular country houses on view around the course boundary.

Worth the trip andwould recommend - although it may not suit everybody..

Date Tuesday, 24, January 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Essendon Country Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Mid week special

Having seen the Old Course on a previous occasion, this day was a chance to see the New Course. I liked the New Course, on balance, more than the Old Course, with many feature holes that just were nice to my eyes... steady old game got me round in a reasonable shape. The ground was a bit marly.. (clay-based mud) that was a bit sticky, so very little run on the ground at all...

Perfect day, and a good challenge. Clubhouse hospitality was excellent and I understand that the place is under new management... it'll be worthwhile keeping an eye open for special offers...

All in all a good day out - one to be recommended... whichever course you get to play...
Date Friday, 13, January 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Woolston Manor Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Challenge or what?

There are so many 'features' on this course that you have to go and see for yourself. Lots of bunkers, so you will get the chance to practice... greens run true enough and the fairways are better than fair... last played in a howling gale, so conservative was the game for that day. Clubhouse staff were welcoming and provided group tea/coffee with just a little bit of persuasion... Altogether a good trip and well worth the visit...

Date Wednesday, 04, January 2012
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

North Weald Golf Club (closed)

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well kept and a good challenge

Lots of tricky holes, clever use of bunkers (although a little lacking in sand) made this parkland course a good challenge. Very interesting greens, requiring lots of concentration and many traps for the umwary...however a good day ourt on a well kept and well presented course. Good fairways (if you were lucky enough to hit them, conservative play reaps its own rewards).

Club facilities are under development, parking was a nit tight so arrive early. Allied to good driving range and putting green for pre-round warm up...

Good value for money and on a good day it is money well spent...
Date Tuesday, 25, October 2011
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Cheshunt Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Bright day in October

Almost perfect playing conditions, course was well presented, greens seemed true enough, and a nice roll on all the fairways made for a good day out.

Not too busy so an unhurried round of golf was possible. Still a good challenge and keeping on the fairways as a good strategy, careful reading of the greens gave opportunities to single putt (even from distance). A good course, well worth the visit and no doubt we will be back...
Date Saturday, 15, October 2011
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Cheshunt Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Saturday - Social

This is a course that requires thinking around... always something to capture your attention, watch out for the crows as they have been trained to open zippers and steal stuff from Golf Bags. It seems that all the hazards are perfectly placed to be in play for most golfers, so take care on all shots...

Some tricky par 3s - nice use of ditches/sand to make life interesting. Course was in OK nick, still wet from the previous day's deluge and the grass cuttings were still evident...

Got around in good time - despite it being a public course at the weekend (we followed a society...)

Also take time to enjoy the views...

Good course I have been back since...
Date Monday, 12, September 2011
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Risebridge Golf Centre

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Always good to come back again

Played this course the day after torrential downpour in Essex. However the course presented itself nicely and the only minor critique was the greens playing slow, they looked a bit fluffy and took a while to get the feel for.

I have to admit I played fairways and greens on this day and avoided much of the semi-rough and other hazards. I had wanted to play this course again after my first visit was a soggy one. This occasion allowed me to enjoy good conditions (sun shining and a but humid) and a relaxed and controlled round.

Hospitality was as ever - good and welcoming, good course etiquette was enjoyed and returned, some challenging holes and a requirement for sensible play...

All in all a good use of reclaimed land, seems to drain away well, and an ejoyable time was had by most...
Date Sunday, 07, August 2011
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Canons Brook Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Recent updates are now complete...

We've been back a few times and the 10th (which was a temporary green) is transformed into a swan of a hole. Now it is 60 yards shorter and reachable in 2 (a good challenge) for even us higher handicappers. Nice new green is slick and 'undulating' by design... it will only get better...

The rest of the course is well maintained, greens slick and fair... and like others have commented - stray from the fairway at your peril, lots of scope for lost balls.

Possible the best closing 3 hole combination I have seen, notable feature holes that stick in the memory long after the round is over. Now that we have had a little local rain the course will be just about perfect, nice cut to the ground, adequate roll and superb greens.

Breakfast of course would be available by pe-arrangment for small groups of 12 or more (or we can tag onto the back of another society when the chef will have already arrived).

Limited practice facilities at the moment - but there are plans to develop... it doesn't detract from the experience.

Good scores are possible, locals tell me that greens should not over-borrow... I guess they mean I should aim more at the holes rather than allowing extravagent borrows...

Well worth a revisit... is playing superbly at the moment and will be good well into December... Definately green and pleasant...

Come and see for yourself...



Date Saturday, 16, July 2011
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Dunton Hills Golf Course

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Dunton Hills - June 2011

Dunton Hills, a public pay and play course, just roll up and go is the ethos. Good practice facilities and good welcoming clubhouse/cafe. Cold drinks machine were a bit lucozade or leave it... (not too good for the diabetics amongst us).

Parkland course, with a links feel, not many mature trees (but you can still hit the odd one) and although there weren't any 'feature holes' the course is tight and challenging. Greens were soft and fluffy and slower than others at this time of year (but reasonably fair).

A nice walking course, good views and open to wind.

I'm told it is much improved - and it was a good day out, steady scoring was the key for me.

Date Friday, 15, July 2011
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

The Gog Magog Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Proper course and challenging

This was an interesting challenge, some spectacular views (many tees on top of hills... some very pretty holes and the first actual dry course I have seen this year.

Lot of strolling from green to next tee and plenty of effort between shots (up and down hills) I found a lot of bunkers this day and they were all nicely kept (which meant I escaped reasonably easily).

Once you get to grips with the course it seems to get easier, so back nine was litted with pars and birdie opportunities...

Clubhouse is ideally situation to watch the Old course 18th , we played the other course this day... well worth the trip...
Date Friday, 18, March 2011
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Chesfield Downs Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Defeated by weather... but still managed to get around

This year the society arrived to discover waterlogged front 9 - so no buggies - and twice round the back 9.

Fog (100yard limit) for the first 5 holes which prevented scenic views. Still managed a reasonable score around the course.

So not seen in its best light again (last year it was icebound)still we look forward to the next Winter Cup... not sure that we ought to return here in December/January - even though the claim is for it to be playable all year round.


Date Friday, 28, January 2011
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Epping Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

New Year's Day venture..

Light drizzle was evident through much of the day but event that did not detract from the experience. Course looked good and despite playing from the white tees (just a fair bit longer in places) it was an enjoyable return. Suffice to say that my memory of some holes was did not help as everything appeared new(ish). Greens were damp and sponge-like but played straight enough and fairways were well kept and eminently playable. The light rough was light and fluffy so no reasons for not scoring well... except it was the first round this year. Much better scores than the first time I played here (as a novice a couple of years ago) and depsite the hills it was not too exhausting - good clubhouse facilities made it a pleasant trip all round.
Date Monday, 03, January 2011
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Epping Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

One of my first ever full rounds of golf...

As a couple of novices we were welcomed onto the course and knowing no better we took it for what it was. Some hills (understatement) and tricky in lots of places. It was an interesting round and we found our way around with relatively little drama. I think I lost 1 ball overall and that wasn't too bad for a rank novice.

Some challenging holes - and some interesting names... managed to par more than one hole as well. In all it was in good condition and a pleasant half day out. Don't let the yardage fool you, this is like walking a full 7000yd course.

Loved the short par 3 - downhill with a small green and lots of run offs... true test of nerve methinks...

I'll be revisiting soon, now I have a little more experience, let's see how we go from there.
Date Friday, 24, December 2010
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Mardyke Valley Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Well worth the visit

Played the first 7 holes in a dense fog, so didn't get to see too much of the pretty parkland. However I can imagine that on a good day this course would be a challenge. Greens were good enough (ice on the ball was a bit of a problem and confident strokes were required to get close).

New to the course we negotiated OK, played some good shots and loved the 17th hole, despite blocking myself out, hitting trees and losing a ball in the water (only just) I thoroughly enjoyed the day out, couldn't stay to sample the cuisine but staff were friendly and helpful on arrival.

Good condition for the time of year, nicely appointed course and worth a second visit when the sun is shining.
Date Tuesday, 14, December 2010
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Canons Brook Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Fair Challenge now that the nights draw in

Currently playing off temp tees - not distracting from the excellent condition of the course (even after a couple of days worth of heavy rain). Temporary green at the 10th allows a good look at the newly-laid 10th scheduled to be in play in the Spring. Good challenge for all, sensible play rewarded accordingly but scope for glory-shots on occasion.

Well worth another trip out...
Date Monday, 15, November 2010
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Selsdon Park Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Overall Good - hard work for walkers though

CGS vs WEDGES we played the 2009 Ryderless Cup challenge match, over two days last year. Course was well maintained, challenging and interesting from 1st tol ast - I can't recall a hole without a feature, I found lots of traps and trees and water on day 1 but improved a lot on day 2 (probably a result of taking a buggy).

Hotel accommodation was excellent, food was OK, we had to negotiate to keep the bars open but it was a good overall impression.
Date Thursday, 28, October 2010
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Whitehill Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Good challenge - with oportunity to do well

Whitehill Golf Club is an interesting parkland course, challenges at most holes and opportunities to hit some high numbers. There are some hills (hence the name) so if you think you need a buggy then you probably will. Clubhouse is friendly and well equipped, car parking is adequate and it's quite local to me.. well worth the trip I'll be back there next week.
Date Friday, 17, September 2010
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Redbourn Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Good Day at Redbourn

Light breezes and pleasant sunshine were welcoming. In all the fairways were well kept - signs to next tees could have had a slightly bigger arrow, but that would be just nit-picking. Good course, with interesting challenges up to the greens (dog-legs at just the right distance to tease). Never cam close to losing a ball.

Greens were fair (and fast) and a reasonable score was possible. Would be good to return another day... as it looked to be well-maintained and a fair challenge for all handicaps.

Date Monday, 07, June 2010
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Nazeing Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Friendly visit during February

Night light breezes and fresh if not cold day at Nazeing. This course is pleased to acceot 2 for 1 vouchers (from Golf Monthly magazine) which made the cost of play £11.00 per person. Good value on any course. No temporary Tees and No Temporary greens at this course.

There are few obvious horrors here, some holes with wide open fairways and if played sensibly will result in reasonable rounds. There is always the temptation to try too much and lose the odd ball into water, trees or rough. There are some feature holes, we all liked the challenge of the first hole (a lake carelessly left 190 yards away from the tee desgned to tempt a long hit 240 to carry) but on a cold day best to lay up or play to the right. Water features quite a lot on this course, but can be avoided.

All of the greens were hard (in direct comparison to the rest of the course which was a little boggy in places)... greens played faster than expected and some were tricky reads (attention required here).

Once the course dries out it will only get faster, better and truer... well worth a return trip later in the year. Not too difficult to walk - although not flat by any means, this is a well worth the visit.

There are a few challenging holes, but when played sensibly (i.e. within your own limits) good scores could be a distinct possibilty... AS a High Handicapper I never felt overwhelmed here, there was always something I could do to rescue the odd errant shot.



Date Monday, 15, February 2010
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Canons Brook Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Unbiased opinion - course played February 8th.

Event though the course was more than a little damp - the greens played true and the course was in OK condition (well looked after over the Christmas period when it laid under a blanket of snow for quite a while).

At the time of play temporary tees were in play (and these were mats which could take a tee without needing to drill the hole first) but there was no adverse effect.

Only 2 temporary green in play - somethign to do with planning permissions - whicc meant that one hole payed 60 yards shorter (temporary green must gave been OK as I managed to Par).

Major reconstruction of the 14th hole, now includig a brand new lake and extensive OOB down the right, when complete this will be another feature hole at this course.

Now that the large Oak tree has been removed from the First hole, it should be a lot lot easier but still manages to catch the unwary....

Good challenge - even in a minor blizzard - for all handicaps... Club house was a we,come sight and lucnh was good.

The only thing missing is a driving range... but then again just get out and play...

Date Saturday, 13, February 2010
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Stapleford Abbotts Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

A good day out at the Priors

OK here's the summary, good value for money, course was in good condition, sunshine was evident. This was a good shortish course, nonetheless challenging - but with plenty of opportunities to achieve good scores on just about all holes... Luckily I was hosted by some regulars - otherwise I might have gotten a little bit lost... Greens were good, fairways were fine... even the semi-rough was helpful... Nice parkland course, loads of trees and a swirling wind to make one think...

I enjoyed the round... 18th is a tight green across the water... I guess you could have nightmares about it, but just have a go and see where you end up...

Clubhouse facilities were limited but functional, on the day parking was a bit tight, so car share is recommended...

Good course, something for everyone, I will go again...

Date Saturday, 24, October 2009
Steve 'The Power' Slater
17.1

Canons Brook Golf Club

Clubhouse/Hospitality
Quality of Course
Practice Facilities
Value for Money

Sometimes I am allowed here

I have to make best use of this course, my good lady wife works in the office and ocasionally I was allowed out on the course (never gratis though).

I've bought the Commedians Golfing Society here a couple of times and although the improvements at 14 are still ongoing - the removal of the big big Oak from the 1st gives a slightly less daunting start to a challenging round - on one of the best courses the CGS has ever played. Good scores are possible, every hole has its own challenge... I would suggest that each round would be different... and it's clear to see why members - who have left - always come back and rejoin.

Clubhouse facilities are of good quality, lots of onsite parking, but as ever I wouldn't recommend leaving anything of value in your car... as the car park is open on all sides and is not possible to police.

Great course, with onsite marshals to guide and help... this would be a great day out for society or main event.

I'd always go back - if I am allowed...
Date Sunday, 11, October 2009

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