Brigitte Lockwood

Review still in my brain.... but watch this space.

A bientot,

Brigitte

Warley Park GC is now under the umbrella of Getgolfing and one can see that money has been invested in returning this course to its former glory. There have been improvements to the Clubhouse and terrace, and to the courses

It is no more a 3 loops of 9, but back to the 18 holes Warley (mainly for members & Societies) and the 9 holes Childerditch is played as an 18 holes, different Tees, for Visitors & Juniors etc. as far I understand.

The conditions of the course was very good considering the hot Summer, some Tee boxes (re-built by previous owners) are suffering but will soon be better thanks to the present Greenkeepers. The practice Putting Green by the 18th Green Warley is suffering a little, but again will recover soon.

So if you have not ventured to Warley GC recently, do pay a visit and see for yourself.

I attended a fantastic day on 30th August, helping with the Junior Pro-Am (ball spotting, Putting & Chipping competitions, Archery) where some 40 Juniors & Pro took part, all free of charge, including golf goodies, Breakfast, BBQ, fantastic prizes. It was refreshing to see youngsters (from 6 years old to teenagers) compete & the Pros giving their time to this lovely game of golf. You are spot on Getgolfing.

THE END.......

So much improvements & changes since Getgolfing took over Arkley GC a few years ago.
I returned to Arkley to play my TSG Matchplay against David W., about equidistance from Turvey and Twickenham/actually Brentwood on the day.

The Clubhouse is unrecognisable, transformation from a sort of a hut to a large extended building housing a light, airy, modern Players lounge, a new meeting room, offices, large bifold doors opening onto a new terrace & outdoor seating, new Ladies changing rooms & toilets, all done with great taste. Getgolfing certainly delivers.

The course was well presented despite the very dry Summer, Greens were fantastic & my Putts were certainly sinking in, recent Putting lessons did help, I want to be known as the next "Cameron Smith" on TSG, with flair, fearless & trust....Ah, ah, ah. I am sure some TSGers are laughing.

The fairways were being watered as we played, the bunkers were well provided with medium sand grade, my 80 yards Sand shot from the 6th or 8th hole (?) is to be remembered, it landed 2 feet from the Pin, I think David was in awe.

I love the 7th Par 3, very pleasing to the eye but my favourite hole has to be the 9th/18th that was described in my previous review of March 2015 as follows:

"The 9th/18th (Walk on Water/Over and Out) Par 3 is quirky, 150 yards +, a blind Tee shot from an elevated tee with an observation tower, to a well guarded green with 5 bunkers, some very large, all on a lower level, normally plays into the breeze, apparently "many a Match is won or lost here"."

Today (13.7.2022) I discovered why the name Walk on Water, as the hole is build over a large water reservoir (Affinity's), a steep hill or numerous steps take you there, a totally different look from the rest of the course as this Par 3 is left unwatered, grass totally burnt by the sun, Tee box suffering a little from the dry weather but being cared for, one thinks you are in a film set in a desert!!!!!!! Love the hole, there are different air vents & numbered posts spaced at the end of the "fairway", before the big drop the the blind Green.
should you get a Hole in One, you wont be able to see it unless you are tall and standing in the Watchtower. Very memorable hole. A large bell needs to be rung once the hole is finished.

Large car park x 2.

Practice facilities, I believe an open air Driving range. Putting Green by the 1st Tee.

Easy access from M25 J23 via pleasant country roads.

This course is a 9 holes been played as an 18 from totally different Tees, some with 100 yards difference !

New signs at the entrance and flowers beds make a very attractive golf club.

A little gem (James Braid design) certainly recommended. I believe David W. will book his next Society game at Arkley, i hope I get an invite!!!

THE END....
(The above are my personal views & recollection of Arkley GC, now known as ARKLEY 9)

I played a friendly game on Wed 13th October 2021 with some Members of Bletchingley GC and I must admit I was disappointed by the state of some of the fairways, lots of mud under foot and on trolley wheels, some of the paths were very rugged, not as I remember the course which I have always liked because of the variety of holes and layout, and the beautiful views of surrounding Surrey.

On a positive, the Driving Range had an upgrade, with a shelter and new Chipping area, a bunker practice.

There is a new "Cabin" with a nice sitting area as one walks to the 1st and 10th Tee, where refreshments/food can be obtained. Covid had some positive on certain golf clubs: a lot more drinking/eating & sitting Al Fresco when space is available. The Membership has also gone up, so has the Green Fee (£45 was quoted for a TSG game a few months ago), well I certainly would not pay the asked rate, maybe £30 at the most. Not sure if there is still a deal Bletchingley/TSG ?

Despite all said above, enjoyed my round, the views etc, the weather was glorious too.

Maybe by next Spring, the fairways will have improved & the Green fees will be more realistic.


The END.......

Cave Hotel & Golf (formerly known as Boughton GC) is a pleasant, well mature parkland course with interesting holes, not flat, quite a few climbs, challenging dog legs and some blinds shots, wayfinding could be improved with better signage as many 1st time players/visitors do go wrong at certain holes, 9th or 11th and some others, There are some very tight holes, rough is thick, good fairways & tee boxes, the Greens were excellent too.

My favourite holes were the Par 3s, always welll designed & perfectly protected, either downhill, sloping or uphill, and the 18th hole, slight dog leg right, it was very interesting as the Green is situated near an area where a Wedding was taking place, God forbids if one overshoots the Green on the right!!!!!!!

Wonderful views of surrounding Kent countryside, a real escape form the hustle & bustle of West London where I live.

Easily accessible via Motorways and a small country lane at the end.

Large Car Park.

Modern Ladies changing rooms, all in the "Cave mode", so is the Clubhouse, which could have been a barn originally. Very friendly reception all around, lovely outdoor terrace with comfortable furniture, lighting & heaters (dont tell Prince Charles or Prince Willians!!!!). The terrace overlooks the 1st Tee, and the 18th Green in the distance.

There is a Par 3 Academy course, which seems very popular at all times.

Practice Chipping/Pitching,Bunkers area on the right of the first Tee, by the Buggy park with a Putting Green too.

Friendly, well stocked Proshop and very efficent & business like Manager who kindly offered me a refund as my sharing partner was unwell to attend. The Manager even came to the golf course with a buggy on our 1st round and asked me to pop in the Proshop the next morning to organise my Credit card refund.


Cave is appropriate name for the darkness darkness theme, with striking coloured lighting in every room, from reception to many lounges and bars, to the well designed saline pool. Luxury but certainly but at a price, the Penthouse Suite prices start at well over £1,000...... Food is superb, prices quite high. The rooms were sheer luxury, with all the gadgets one can imagine. Be careful to use them properly otherwise you might get locked in the shower/bathroom!!!!! (I wont name anyone!). Each room had a balcony with furniture overlooking either of the 2 courses. At night, lots of the trees have wonderful lighting, which is still seen early morning should you venture to the "C" shape saline pool, uusual in shape and concept. Actually a must visit when dark outside. I was the only one there at 6am in the morning and I had a special drink brought to me by the Reception, what a lovely gesture.....

We had a 2 days away golf with Pintetree Golf Society, my favourite TSG Society where our organiser Roger A. managed a very good deal for us all on 23rd/24th October (just before Uk fuel crisis) and also managed to organise a superb weather, How lucky we were. It was so enjoyable that we are most likely to return next year.


Highly recommend as part of a golf break.


I think I have covered most things.

so that THE END....

Played the Lodge Course on 26th of July 2021 with a newly set up & very successful ladies golf group. This was our 1st meet, so we kept it central, it was such a successful day that another get together is on the horizon (Frilford GC, Abingdon, Oxon).

A little far from Twickenham but well worth the trip with an overnight stay nearby is ideal. Dating back to 1935, a 9 holes course soon to become a full 18, then another 9 also becoming 18, so there you have 2 fabulous courses to chose from. The other course is Highgate.

A very large membership with a waiting list and I can see why, everything is there for an enjoyable day of golf, with a beautiful Clubhouse & courtyard, excellent food on offer at reasonable prices, well stocked Proshop with high end of the market clothing, and the most incredible practice facilities: an open air driving range with a small attractive wooden building where balls are dispensed & cleaned. Distance flags, a large bunker practice on one side, then 2, maybe 3, different chipping and pitching areas with bunkers, the greens are like the real thing, all very well laid out & separated by edges, a practice net by the Car park and the cream is the Putting green by the Clubhouse in a circular shape with a stunning flower bed in the middle, Just stunning. Another practice Putting Green by the 1st holes of either courses,

The Lodge course is the shortest of the 2, just under 6500 yrds, mainly heather covered, tree lined fairways with Pines, Silver Birches & other species, it makes a very attractive setting, very beautiful & memorable holes. Lots of variety, some uphills, dog legs, some parts remind me of Links courses as fairways have bouncing platforms & long grasses on their sides, fantastic Greens & great bunkers. A test for all class of golfers.

Hard to pick the most memorable holes but for me, it was:

Hole 12, Par 4, SI2, raised tee surrounded by heathers, looking down to a sloping fairways, left then right and the White Tee is really perched up above Yellow & Red tees, stunning views.

Hole 17th, Par 3, large carry over heather expanse, to an uphill green, plays a lot longer that you think.

I wanted to play the Highgate course (just over 6700 yards) the next day but it was fully occupied by a Seniors golf Tournament, so instead I drove through Birmingham (never again !) & played at Ansty (part of Getgolfing Group), near Coventry, so another review on the way...

Traditional Ladies changing rooms.

Warm welcome in the Clubhouse, light & pleasant, many different lounges on offer and a dining area. The Courtyard/Terrace is well presented with lovely furniture, the good weather made it all the more pleasant for a refreshing drink after one's round or for breakfast etc....

Very large Car Park.

Very highly recommended, popular with Golf Societies, but not cheap.


THE END......

Roehampton golf course is a well mature parkland which started as a 9 holes in 1904 & became a full 18, seven years later. Some tight holes in places. Maintained to extremely high standards from Tees to Greens: impeccably level tee boxes, carpet like fairways, lush but punishing rough, immaculate & fast Greens with huge "skirts" making approach shots a lot easier to manage, whether you chip, pitch or putt, lovely sand in the well placed bunkers. Everything is there to make your game enjoyable & challenging. There are the most beautiful natural looking flowers beds on display, so well placed that one can view them from many different holes, from either the front or back 9. Each hole has its own elegant yardage post with a diagram, ball cleaner & waste bin somewhere nearby.

Just over 6000 yards from the White tees, a course for every level of golfers, a thriving Men & Ladies section and mixed one too.

My favourite is the signature hole 18th, Par 4 (376 yards), dog leg right, uphill to a recently redesigned very challenging tiered Green protected by bunkers on 3 sides, A lovely view of the pleasant terrace from the Garden Room also overlooking some private gardens for the Members to enjoy & relax.

The golf club is part of the Roehampton Club, a private members club set in 100 acres of beautiful parkland adjacent to Richmond Park, where many sports and activities are on offer for all ages, should you have the privilege to join: tennis, paddle tennis, squash, bowls, croquet, swimming pools (indoor/outdoor), playground for little ones, fitness/wellness studios, & more. Lots of different gardens and areas to relax & enjoy with great flowers displays, just beautiful , stylish, very classy. I had the privilege to have a very personal tour by an ex-board Member with whom I played a friendly Match: Roahampton vs Pyrford Lakes on 28.9.2021.

A great discovery, I certainly enjoyed my visit despite loosing our Match but made new friends.

The Proshop is really well stocked, golf & tennis. The course planner is rather expensive (£10) just like Wentworth or Burhill or Foxhills to name a few.

Huge car parks, one specifically for Visitors, with security barriers and guards.

A Piazza for Coffee and other refreshment Al Fresco...

Ladies changing rooms, a delight, I am sure Judy L. would find everything she needs before/after her game.

Lovely bar, lounge upstairs.

High recommended, should you get an invite.

THE END.....

Mapledurham is a beautifully presented course, well maintained from Tee boxes to greens which are excellent, fast & true.
Part of a leisure complex in the north of Reading, Berkshire. Plenty of parking.

Friendly & welcoming reception .

A very large practice Putting Green, exceptional condition, before the 1st Tee.

Very scenic parkland course with the Chiltern Hills in view. We saw majestic kites flying high above .

The course presents many challenges for all level of golfers , with some tight tee shots & approaches, the rough can be lethal & balls easily lost , bunkers are well sanded, fairways well defined.

The course is divided in 2 sections, 9 holes on one side then one crosses a road to play another very scenic 8 holes & back again to the main part of the course to finish the 18th Par 3.

The Clubhouse is modern & welcoming, large & pleasant seating area outside. Good food & great service.

I played on a Bank Holiday with a Golf Society and the Green Fee was only £28, very good value for such a well presented golf course.

If you get a chance to play Mapledurham, I am sure you you enjoy the scenery & the course .

The End....

Ignore all preview reviews/comments on TSG or Golfshake or Trip advisor, etc. This is the latest update on Pyrford GC.

Pyrford was on my list for a very long time, but I never managed to play the course till last Thursday (1.4.2021). Not far from home, easily accessible via M3/M25 or "A"/"B" roads. The course went downhill under Crown Golf, but with the recent new ownership & management (July 2020/Get Golfing) this beautiful Peter Allis/Clive Clark's design course is coming back to its prime, and soon will be another Top course in that leafy part of Surrey. Since the lockdowns, the Membership has double in size, and is still growing !!!!! One can understand why, a huge renovation programme is in place, lots of money being invested: all bunkers are being rebuilt from scratch, some are added, some are removed, rubber crumbs base, drainage, lovely new fluffy white sand, Hooray ! Renovation still in progress, so most bunkers are GUR for the time being.

The fairways have irrigation, Greens are fantastic. A new pond has been created on the 6th Hole, Par 3, instead of the large sand waste area, the new owner must have taken TSG member Michael H.'s comments into account!!!!! The large lake in front of the Clubhouse's terrace is being rebuilt with strong maintaining edges, at the moment it looks like huge Lego bricks all around, there will be stone facia on their front.

Pyrford is a beautiful woodland, famous for all its water surrounding every hole: 23 acres of water, lakes, ponds, streams, ditches. Apparently, every 3 months, divers recover a certain amount of Pro V1, Srixon, Taylor Made etc. Lots of wildlife to be seen, a real immersion in nature. Some holes have the River Wey Canal in the background or alongside There are gentle mounds, a certain links feel in places. Every hole is different, there are definitely no "samey" as someone else did suggest. Not a long course (so you wont see BDC 's presence), but it is all strategy, flair, careful selection of club. Pure enjoyment, so looking forward when all renovation work is completed on the course, around it and inside the Clubhouse too.

There is a Marshall on the 1st Tee, a drinks/refreshments buggy driving round, which you will probably see twice in your 18 holes round. A nice idea, One can do a "Loo" stop back at the Clubhouse between 9th & 10th hole......

A big Car Park, can be quite full due to everyone rushing back to golf, but one is allowed, as far I can see, to park on the green verges/banks....

Warm welcome in the Clubhouse/Proshop/Reception area. Coffee and take away food available. Next week one will be allowed to sit on the terrace overlooking the large lake with views of the 12th & 18th greens. Only the basic necessaries will be available in new Proshop, all the rest will be done on line with a 10% discount for members.

Lots of different membership options, a very good programme of competitions etc. and one certainly caught my interest: "THE RACE TO LE TOUQUET". More about in another review maybe.

Grass practice area, behind the large lake, 2 nets, a Chipping & Putting green too. Not too sure which is the signature hole, several suggestions were made to me: the 6th Par 3, the 9th Par 5 (index 2) or maybe the 18th, Par 5 (index 9). Will confirm that in an update.

Pyrford GC is on the way to a very special course that everyone should play. Make sure you have spare balls though.



Very highly recommended.

THE END.......
(My very own views and reflection of the day)

I played the course a few years ago whilst on holiday in Kent and I thought I had written a review on TSG, but it is nowhere to be found. The photos recently posted on this website prompted me to check. I know it is the most Northern part of Kent and it is very exposed,

So a few years later , it is quite hard to be very specific but it was a great challenge, the coastal weather will affect your game, maybe a links feel, sea views are quite amazing, from every hole. From the 5th hole one can see some ruins of an old fort, don't know much about it. .

Good layout, need a course planner if it is your first visit, I remember wide fairways giving you opportunity to keep the ball in play but bunkers are there to challenge you. The greens were tricky and in very good condition. Well maintained course throughout.

A private road or similar leads you to the Golf Club which is very traditional in looks and atmosphere, founded in 1903, Members car park and Visitors'one. We were made welcome. I would return to play the course again when in that part of Kent.


THE END....
A very short review

I revisited Redbourn GC on Tuesday 7 July 2020 taking advantage of one of its famous Member ‘s invite (just as famous on TSG), Mr Jong B. or John B. if you prefer.

Such a beautiful course that oozes class, perfect condition from Tee boxes, fairways , bunkers and the famous super Greens, excellent signage , varied holes, quite long , lots of dog legs and the longest finishing hole, a Par 5 over 600 yards from White Tees. The 18th Green has an interesting story which I told 8 years ago In my previous review (in 2012) !

Excellent measures in place due to COVID-19, throughout , Proshop, Restrooms, Clubhouse & Terrace .

Thé Proshop has a vast amount of attractive clothing etc.

Driving Range has had a huge investment of cash and it shows . I understand Club’s finance is quite healthy and well managed by the Burhill Group. Lots of irrigation work has taken place, the water has returned in the Par 3s stream hazards, a new bore hole is providing the water when necessary. No temporary Greens nor Tee boxes in Winter.

A super course with a big membership .

If you get the chance to join one of Jong’s game, please do. The Guest rate is a bargain for a top quality course .

Thank you Jong , you were a great host , we all had a great afternoon.

The END.....

Another course I played some 5 years ago (February 2015) and really enjoyed.

Today I had an invite from a well known member of TSG, the « Tech Man, Racing driver & Football Ref » also a Member of South Herts and I understand why, the course is true delight in all aspects .

We played our annual , traditional Matchplay « Rawlinson vs Lockwood », as we missed last year ´s for some reason , 2020 is a Home and an Away Match to make up the lost 2019.

The Course:

Impeccable Tee boxes
Carpet Fairways
Class Top Greens
Real Bunkers with lovely sand, all renovated during the last 5 years at a very large expense.

The course played much longer today because of the wind but that was welcomed as it kept us cool as temperature was in the high 20c.

I played very well despite being quite intimidated by Steve’s huge, powerful long shots but I kept to my game , taking advantage of the 16 (yes 16) shots I was given, it paid dividends for me as I won the Match 2 & 1.
I supposed my early (7.00am) 9 holes round at my local club set up my confidence and I re-quote Harry Vardon “don’t play too much golf, two rounds a day are plenty”.

For the technical stuff, history etc. please refer to my original Review of the course in March 2015.

Visitors fee £60
Guest £30

Thank you Steve R. for a great round, I thoroughly enjoyed the company. I wish you all the luck in your new venture & good day tomorrow at Brands Hatch !


The END ....

Played at Dummer GC today & learnt that the course has been sold to next door Basingstoke GC who has been acquired by a housing developer. The move will happen next April.
There was a mention about the sale of beautiful Basingstoke GC in Michael Hanley’s review in August 2019 !

There are no comparison with the 2 golf courses but it will be very interesting to see how Dummer get transformed to the very high quality & standard of the stunning Basingstoke.

Watch this pace.

THE END.....

Brigitte

A great opportunity to play at very private Members Club "Longboat Key Club", playing the Harbourside course in the Inaugural Tournament for Longboat Key Foundation raising money for a multitude of projects that will enhance the quality of life on Longboat Key for both its residents and its visitors !

The Harbourside course consists of 3 loops of nine (alongside Sarasota Bay & Longboat Key Club's own moorings) respectively named after local birds: Blue Heron, Red Hawk and White Egret. The 3 loops offer their own challenges,the Blue Heron is the signature 9 most affected by the swirling winds which put a premium on your course strategy, the White Egret has the least water but tight fairways, the /red Hawk is more forgiving but water come into play on may holes. The course seems flat but don't be fooled into thinking it is going to be easy, there are many undulations hiding large bunkers, brooks or lakes . NO need to say that everything is in 1st class condition, the fairways superbly cut, rough nicely short, greens impeccable with the most subtle turns where one can easily get caught out but as a Team we surveyed the Greens from every angles. I did managed a few tricky putts for our Pars. There were 2 types of beautiful bunkers: some with very soft sand, in immaculate condition and other type with coarser sand/shells where one does not rake the bunkers who are huge, looking just like a desert with a few local tropical plants in them. The layout is very well indicated, tee boxes absolutely superb with ball washers/towels and bins.

The on course Washrooms/toilets are like a 5 stars hotel facility, one could fit a bath and a shower in these large rooms covered in marble !

The scenery is spectacular with the Marina and it huge yatchs on one side, the tropical vegetations, palm trees, succulents & tropical flower, etc

So here we go about my lucky experience: I saw an ad. in the local paper on the Thursday before the event, made a quick phone call to make sure I got it right, joined on line for $125 (usual Guest rate $189 inc. of buggy).

I took part in the inaugural tournament alongside another 96 golfers all unknown to me, I was paired up with 2 excellent golfers (Andy & Bob from Wisconsin) and another one of my standard, Robert from Canada with whom I shared a posh buggy "EZGO" equipped with GPS (hence no ordinary course planner available), ice box, sand/seed dispenser etc.

We played the White Egret and the Red Hawk loops in a scramble format with a shotgun start. We had 2 Birdies and 16 Pars as a Team but this was not enough to win the great prizes for the 2 top teams: $50 each for the 2nd, and $75 each for 1st team with a Trophy!!!!!!!!

When I arrived, at the Bag drop, my bag was taken to my allocated buggy where my name & my partner's was clearly displayed and numbered according to our starting Tee (6th on the White Egret).

The organisation was faultless from registration to presentation of awards, to free beer or coke (kindly donated by Members) on the course. We had a superb Buffet type food as well in the Club's Ballroom with a fantastic view of the Marina, gorgeous gardens, miscellaneous attractive sun terraces by the entrance. We could buy some "mulligans" to help raised funds.

The Proshop was very well stocked but rather expensive. I was greeted by a charming Pro from Glasgow who emigrated to a rather cold part of the USA, but decided Florida was his scene as it was much warmer and sunny, I dont blame him.

Ladies changing rooms,large entrance, loungee type so very classy, with things I have never seen before: sanitisers for combs/hair brushes, toilet seats liners etc., hairdryers (Judy L. would love these changing rooms), there were little dispensers for nuts and nibbles to take onto the course, water and cups.

A fantastic Chipping area, Putting Green and bunkers with free Callaway premium balls and an unusual roller type ball picker ! I did not see the Driving range but I expect it must be premium too.

The Car Park is huge and well laid out with pal trees and other attractive vegetation.

I have never seen so many buggies in a golf club before: I think it was 145 or so and apparently, sometimes it is not enough. One has to have a buggy for speed of play as a very long walk between tees sometimes.

The weather was jut perfect on the day, very sunny but never too hot due to slight breeze.

Well that is all for now but what a memorable day and I am so happy I had the opportunity to take part in this inauguralTournament at this exclusive Club, looking forward to next year's as I probably be visiting my family again.

If any TSGers are in the beautiful part of Florida at this time (end March) next year, do not hesitate to take part, it will be an experience to remember.

THE END......
(My very personal recollection of a truly fantastic day) and of course
"Vive Le TSG"

Milford GC is a fairly young course (part of Crown Golf group), a few miles from Guildford. It was designed by Peter Alliss and Clive Clark on "Secret Orchards" (whatever they are). There is a sense of openness sending good vibes.

The course is not too long (perfect for me), it is being redesigned at the present time but the length will be the same I believe. The land on which the 3 holes over the road (9th, 10th, 11th) are situated has been sold for housing development. One new hole 5th Par 3 is already in play (it replaces the 17th, same length). The other three are under construction. A £2 course planner will show the old holes and can be used as follows: 5th is 6, 6th is 7, 7th is 8 etc..... if that makes sense, the 17th exists no more and the 18th is actually the 18th... a wonderful hole, over a large expanse of water and uphill, dog legged a bit, that is from the White or Yellow tees, a little easier from the RED as in a different location.

The general view is pleasant, open, varied, dog legs, slight inclines, little mounds here and there, lots of bunkers but funny enough I did not visit any, (well I had my fair share last Friday at Hampton Court Palace, I visited 8 of them and got out very well too, yes it is true).

The fairways were very playable despite some mud sticking to one's golf shoes (all you need is to carry a brush "et voila"...) The greens were quite firm and interesting, I did miss a few putts but sunk some terrific ones with my lovely darling putter.

The are a few holes with great water hazards, lots of wildlife, ducks, geese, swans and many pheasants making themselves heard.

A few holes are bordered by the train line (Waterloo to wherever), one must not play when whilst trains are passing, there is a local rule of 2 penalty points if one does.... so you need to keep your wits about. I believe this is from a safety point of view, it does make sense. How would you like to read the wonderful exciting novel whilst travelling on South West Trains and suddenly get hit by a golf ball?

No sure which is the signature hole, it could be the defunct 17th or the actual 18th

That will do for the golf course for now.

Easy to find with the SAtnav, big car park, Members & Visitors, welcoming and very well stocked Proshop (Ladies & Men), nice changing rooms, very pleasant, airy and light, open plan Clubhouse, friendly staff, nice seating area outside overlooking the Practice Tiered Putting Green and the 1st Tee. The food is reasonably price with the standard Crown Golf menu to chose from or the Specials on the day.

A very nice 4 balls, thanks to the Crown golf "Masters" Peter W., bandit John B. and charming Chris K. returning to TSG after a short absence (may be he was recovering from last year's TSG final Matchplay against Andy A. (Chris: that new Putter is truly great, and by the way and dont forget to use those very "special tees". I think you had your A+ game today, Well done.

Overall a lovely experience thank you all.

Course highly recommended, you will be sure of a warm & friendly welcome.

The above are my personal views and comments.....


THE END....

A well presented course that I particularly like (I did write a review back in December 2015) as it has a Links feel, a friendly Prosop, warm Clubhouse (but Coffee is expensive, get it cheaper in the Proshop though) also it is an easy drive from my home 9M3 J1 to J11) a few roundabouts and here I am. Long descending private drive. Big car park, well layout.

The fairways were firm & green having very well recovered from our wonderful hot Summer but the damned crows have been attacking the grass on/off the fairways to look for leatherjackets... a real pain as it is causing so much damage on every hole , one gets relief anywhere on the course but it is heart breaking for the Greenkeeping staff, the members alike. Killing the crows is not allowed but apparently there are cannons fired ever so often to scare the birds, there are also dead crow hanging from the trees around the course but not sure if that is helping the curse.

I shall mention in passing the East Brighton GC did suffer a similar experience last year but the crows attacked their Greens, it took quite a lot hard work & perseverance to get the greens back to normal but their problem was solved when if played in August. I wonder if it has anything to do with the chalk layer/ground underneath the grass. Someone did write a review in the Summer mentioning that the Greens were awful, but the writer never explained the why 's etc. A shame as it give the wrong impression... Well that is my thinking.

The bunkers were well kept, and greens in excellent condition but quite difficult to get the pace, the read as some of us found out (Michael ....?).

Water comes into play on several holes, there is a challenge on all the 18s and the views are interesting even on a grey Autumn day, funny enough some of the scenery/landscape reminded me of the Golf National but on a smaller scale.

We played with a Member who is also a TSGer, thank you Brian for taking us around, your invaluable knowledge I am sure helped our 2 bandits.... ah ah ah...

The 19th hole was pleasant with a real log fire and very comfortable & posh armchairs which I could have taken home!!!!! Unfortunately the kitchen had closed by the time we finished our round and put our Clubs away. Shame as we could not sample the food.

The Ladies changing have recently been refurbished with no expenses spared, very modern feel and very attractive. there is even a novelty: yes a Sun protection dispenser!!!!! the first I have ever come across, apparently the Men do not have such a luxury........ I have been told as I did not venture in their territory.

That is all I can think about for now, so this is


THE END......

A quick report to say that the course is in superb condition: so green & lush, unbelievable....

The recent rain has done marvels on this course.

The greens were excellent and have totally recovered from the damaged done by the leatherjackets/birds.

Highly recommended.

The greenest condition miles around.

Always a warm welcome & the scenery is quite spectacular.

I just love that course.

THE END ........ of a very short review

This could be a very long review.

Absolutely stunning golf course, from the setting, the Mansion, the course, the scenery, the 3 Lodges etc.... In fact when I arrived there, I met a Member in the Car Park and after talking about Renault Cars (Kadjar vs Capture) I asked him if he played anywhere else, the answer was NO, this course has everything and more.... and I totally agree, I also agree with the comment of the Greens from the previous review, I quote, as ever so funny & true:

" A sense of humour on greens with more undulations than a baby's bottom is a necessary and well placed hazards make it a thinkers course."..... Spot on.

The entrance to the golf is a promise of something grand and it is: a small Lodge on the righthand side and then one sees the course, the wonderful diverse & mature trees, a glimpse of the red brick built Mansion house, the Kitchen garden wall and the visitors car park, a practice putting green, some cottages on the left handside.

It all started as a small hunting lodge back in 1767 when the Rolls family (yes the famous car builders) purchased the property and extended it in several stages to make a grand Mansion house which can counts many important visitors such as King George V/Queen Mary ....

The golf course opened in 1982 in these 600 acres plus of stunning scenery with so many mature and varied trees, the Welsh Black Mountains in the distance, the rolls apply also to the course as it is up and down, an incredible well designed course, that flows and keepS you interested & thINking all the way to the 18th, Par 3, signature hole.

The 4 Par 3s are described as "fantastic" by Greg Norman..... that apply to every hole in fact.

I could describe every hole but I chose 3:

5th, Par 5, downhill, slight dogleg, trees on either side of the fairways and a semi circle of tall pines at the back, a big dip to an elevated very tricky tiered green sloping out towards the well placed bunkers bunkers. I enjoyed this one.

13th, Par 3, with a slight rise to the green sloping to a pond on the right.

17th, very testing Par 5, slightly blind dog leg to the right, slope to a blind sloping green, another gem.

The signature hole the 18th is certainly worth a mention too. Striking finish, a Par 3 over water towards the Mansion house with a large green at the bottom of the Rose Garden (abandoned, needing love & attention, the property is now in the hands of an American firm).

You will encounter streams and lakes, wildlife, tranquility, beauty, your heart, your soul and your mind will be on a high, even without the PIMMS before the 10th hole.

The course is in superb condition throughout despite the very warm weather, tees boxes, fairways, greens are a delight as so well kept and presented.

There are 3 Lodges available to rent as a B&B (breakfast in the Mansion) if you like sleeping & waking up on a stunning Welsh golf course in this magnificent property.

Easy to find, not far from Abergavenny & Monmouth, the Mansion is grand, listed but needs a little attention, it could make a superb golf hotel, I am sure the current new owners have something for the future of this Estate that was the holiday home of the Rolls family, large benefactors to this region of Wales. The original Wall Garden and Rose Garden need total attention, but I am sure that will be done.

I have never seen such an impressive building on a golf course before, that tops Moor Park, Royal Blackheath, Burhill to name a few I have seen...

The Clubhouse & changing rooms are in what was the workshop where the 1st RR was conceived. there area lot of photographs of the cars etc, aeroplanes....
There is a pleasant outside seating area by the Wall Garden with a splendid view of the Mansion of your right. In fact you see the striking red brick building from many holes when playing the course, that makes this place so, so stunning. A paradise for the keen and avid photographer too, in all seaons, as wildlife, fauna is abundant, varied species of trees etc.

This was part of my 2nd game with YONEX LPGH / Alex Nicholson, they certainly know what to pick as best, a last minute invite to fill in a gap. I am so glad I took the opportunity to play the course. There is plenty of accommodation in Abergavenny & around, the locals are friendly, the air is fresh and the scenery spectacular as you drive along the M, A or B roads. I expect the winters can be severe.

Easy access from London via M4.

My recommendation: play it as soon as you can you will want to return & play it again. There are special deals for accommodation & golf, for Societies, for day golf. A warm welcome will await you in the Proshop, in the Mansion and in the Clubhouse.

Absolutely STUNNING.......

Thanks Alex for inviting me & fixing my accommodation.



THE END.....

This was part of a 3 days golf with the Ladies from my Club (Hampton Court Palace), an excellent venue for a few days away with a lovely hotel (although I did not stay there but went on Camping Adventure to a nearby lake: divine peace & relaxation).

Originally a 9 holes golf course known as Chipping Norton GC, it became a proper 18 holes, changed its name when the Hotel was built I think. There are plans to increase the length of the 1st tee and the building of further housing on the site.

There were several changes as to which 9s to play first, but now it is settled and one plays the new 9 first...

A challenging tree lined course with quite a few sloping fairways which surprised the Ladies who normally play on a flat course. There are expanse of water and some streams to make this course very interesting and the beauty of doing 3 days at the same place is to see the scoring gets better every days as one has mastered the holes !!!!!

I personally did not play every holes fully due to an injury but managed to play FROM 100 yards or so, which suited me perfectly and kept me interested and gave me time to take some photos and make my notes.

The fairways were very good, same for tee boxes, the greens excellent and surprised a few of the Hampton members.

Memorable hole:
The 17th, Par 4 uphill: it has 2 hedges to make your tee shot more exiting, it slopes down and up to the well guarded greens.

Good scoring can be had, this was the case on the last day....

Very enjoyable layout, well presented and cared for course, new deep bunkers being created but proper signage to the next tee could be improved as not particularly obvious sometimes. Some blind tee shots and bells are useful as a clear to go warning.

Easy access from London via M40.

The Clubhouse is at at end of the Hotel bit, a large balcony terrace overlookinG the 18th greeN and 1st tee in the distance and also the 1st Tee.

2 large Car ParkS , visitors welcome.

Pleasant and large Ladies changing room with lockers available.

Friendly welcome in a well stock Proshop.

I recommend this venue for a few days away, there are other golf courses nearby and Chipping Norton is a lovely little town, and there is Camping & Fishing nearby, that is if your SatNav takes you there!!! That is another chapter.


THE END......

I attended the Grip Par Open in June 2018 with a few other TSGers at Mytton Fold, Lancs. a very long drive from West London, but worth it for the unforgettable scenery of the Pendle Hills/Ribble Valley.

The design of the course is very up & down, literally, with out of bounds on both sides of some fairways, always having to watch out for "FORE".... a bit of a pain., also having buggies as very hilly, is not my kind of golf courses for enjoyment, I prefer to walk the course even if steep climbs and descents.

The fairways were in excellent condition, but the Tee boxes and greens left to be desired, a shame as an excellent green makes the golf course far more enjoyable and one wants to return.

The water comes into play on quite a few holes, watch out specially so on the uphill or down hill lies when selecting your club.

One memorable hole for me:
The 13th, Par 5, named the Runway (maybe I liked this hole because of my work in the Aviation industry for 20 years!!!!!!):

HOLE is situated at the very top of the course where one gets the most fantastic & memorable views, there is a watch tower to see where the drives will end, fairways sloping to the left all the way to the green with sloping sides too. A hole I played well on the 2nd day if it was not for hitting a buggy in front of me ( should never have been parked there) and my ball went right instead of left as planned....

The weather was fantastic, the Hotel lovely with excellent breakfast, excellet food after the golf.
The company was pleasant.

The Clubhouse is nice and modern with a very pretty courtyard where one can relax after golf.

Friendly welcome in the Proshop which is at the back of the hotel with different routes for access if you are walking or driving a car or a buggy. A pleasant garden with chairs/tables by the 1st Tee/Proshop.

2 car parks: one for the hotel and a very large one for the golf at the back.

Would I return? probably not as far too far to drive & the course, although memorable, is not my kind of course for personal enjoyment.

Please do not let my personal views deter you for paying a visit to Mytton Hall GC as you will get a warm welcome & the hotel is very conmfortable.

THE END......

Actually, one more thing: I discovered something I have never seen on a golf course before: there were little green recyclable plastic Tee pegs which are used to secure the divots down stopping the birds from disturbing those replaced divots. Brilliant idea.

My recent Review is in the TSG January 2018 Newsletter, the Special Ryder Edition.

Please read it.



Brigitte

I discovered Bramley as part of a Winter Club competition played in a Matchplay form. A lovely course a few miles from Guildford. It starts slightly on the flat side but one soon realised that one needs a good pair of legs to do 18th holes. Very stunning views, a great challenge too on a well maintained course. The greens were very, very undulating and in superb condition. The fairways were superb too. Nicely laid out paths to next holes. One can feel that this is a private members course.I enjoyed every hole of my discovery but I did not produce a winning score......

Water comes into play on a few holes, is very manageable even for a short hitter like me. Of course it is better if you know the course, I made a few misjudgements not having a course planner available. My opponent was helpful but obvioulsly being a left hander I don't always see the course as everybody else....strange thing but true., so I prefer to make my own decisions.

Has someone ever talk about a toilet in their review? Well, I did notice the most advanced, state of the art, Unisex ECO Loo offering a normal sit down toilet and a "pissoir". It is all very clean and Eco friendly, all natural material used, built out of wood, in the woods, a short walk from the 8th or 9th hole if I remember correctly.

I cannot remember much more about the course itself, but we had a warm welcome in the Proshop, with great fashionable stock but no Course planner. The Ladies changing room was pleasant and well furnished, the Clubhouse very inviting with a huge Car Park at the back. Actually I had breakfast cooked for me in the VW Camper Van of my golfing friend from Hampton Court Palace. I provided the coffee...


That is all, a short review for a change.


THE END....

Brigitte

"What is there not to like about Puttenham GC" as would write the illustrious TSG reviewer Nev Smith.

It has beauty, charm, tradition, challenges: every hole will "tickle" your grey matter.

The course is well established parkland, dates back from 1894, a few miles South of Guildford, Surrey, in the picturesque foothills of the Hogs Back. The famous Pilgrims Way passes through parts of the golf courses, I saw a huge numbers of walkers as we were about to tee off from the 1st. Puttenham GC is adjacent to Greyfriars Vineyards which the SATNAV may guide you through if you decide to take the scenic, single track lane to the golf club (which I did). One may find a few golf balls OR a 4x4 along the way...... Better stick to the main A31 road.

The fairways are tight, the greens well designed with nearly invisible undulations, some tiers as well. The bunkers well placed for strategic play, well furnished with lovely sand too. Everything from tees to greens was in A1 condition.

I saw the all the holes with their individuality, found them all very attractive with a "wow" factor. The official signature hole is apparently the 1st, a short uphill Par 4 which used to have a big oak tree, 60 to 130 yards in front of you up the hill, this tree has recently been cut down but a smaller one has been planted instead, well the Oak tree is the emblem of Puttenham GC.

I personally would give the 12th a signature as well: elevated tee by a pond, left/right sloping fairway which may assist you if you get your course management skills that are required for this not too long course. Apparently Springtime, you will have the delight of rhododendrons all around this hole.

There are some beautiful walks through wooded areas to reach the next tees. I must mention the half way hut situated after 9th (the 14th backs the hut), literally in the woods, a real haven of peace, with lots of birds coming to feed, the hut is like a shack but well equipped and very clean, with wonderful toilets too. Well worth stopping.

I visited Puttenham as part of a Ladies Pearsons Competition where one goes out in pair for a Matchplay. My opponent was the most charming host, a good golfer too, she is my now on my friends list although she won our Match.

We had a very warm reception, and a lovely collation after the Match.

The Proshop was friendly and well stocked. Ladies changing room well equipped and had been modernised.

Clubhouse, well apportioned, with different areas that could be partioned off, a big fireplace with sofas, lots of natural light providing a very pleasant experience. On one side one can see the excellent practice facilities, on the other the 18th green in the distance.

Big car park, one for Members and one for visitors.

A course I want to play again and again, I do recommend a visit, although not a long course, Puttenham has everything to make a good day golf out as Visitors can be sure to receive a warm welcome.


THE END..... of my very own views.

Having heard the ups & downs of Hartswood GC, having wanted to play this course for many years, I was pleasantly surprised to find a little gem of a course away from the hustle & bustle of Brentwood town centre. It is situated on the King George’s playing fields (with football, rugby pitches, Pitch & Putt, large playground, skate board run, Bowling Green, Sensory garden, summer children paddling pools, a very popular Park Cafe, Toilets & a large Car Park with overflow overflow).

The course is in 2 parts: holes 3 to 11 are across a busy B road, a long walk through beautiful & private ancient woodlands which I believe may have been part of the Thorndon Hall Estate at one time. Thorndon Hall is now a private Golf Club with private luxury apartments which can be seen from holes 3 & 4. This side of the course is a lot drier underfoot and easier to play.

Royal Hartswood is Council owned/run, it celebrated its 50th anniversary the summer just gone, a new team of Greenkeepers was introduced 3 years ago & one can only compliment on all the hard work put to restore this course to its former glory. The pond has been cleared, the paths defined, new diagrams by each tee box (although the design is “back to front”), it looks neat & professional, good signage to next tee etc. Ball washers, a water fountain at the 7th.

The fairways were in good condition, expect a little wetness underfoot as we are in Essex.... Rough quite thick, hard to find the ball, if found difficult to get a good shot unless you are Seve or Phil.... The 2nd part of the course is a lot drier, more pleasant to play. Greens were a little slow, the bunkers will be dealt with in the Spring now, so I have been told. But none of the above spoiled the challenge as the course is very attractive, lovely holes surrounded by tall, ancient, attractive & varied species of trees, a certain willow tree comes into play on hole 3 & 11, defining the shape of the holes & posing questions how to play the dog legs (6 of them), whether to lay up or not on the long Par 4s as the approach can be tight.

Wildlife present too, we saw a real heron by the pond at the 10th hole. There are new ditches, well designed, to help irrigation & making the approach of certain holes more challenging, the 8th comes to mind.

The course is not long, there is only one Par 5 from the Yellows, some long Par 4s, 6 nicely shaped dog-legs, beautiful Par 3s, short to medium in length with great bunkers guarding. We are in Essex, so expect a little wetness underfoot. We played Sunday 15th Oct 2017. So I assume the very best time to appreciate the course will be late Spring, Summer & early Autumn.

We had a very pleasant 4 balls, with our very own Mr TSG giving helpful information on how the holes should be best approached whether you are a 27 or 16 handicapper. Very useful on a 1st visit.

Some memorable holes:

5th - A short Par 3 with a beautiful backdrop, bunkers for protection.
6th - The only Par 5 from the Yellows, a very nice, slight dog-leg hole.
8th - Par 4, very pretty dog-leg left.
14th - A long Par 4, truly attractive, well designed, a little wet in the middle going downhill.

The Welcome in the Pro shop was insignificant.... Just paid the Greenfee, no friendly chit-chat to a new Visitor. Maybe they did not want to talk about Brexit to a French Lady golfer. The shop has lots of stock, rather untidy but did not have time to look around. I believe it is run independently from the Council and do online business.

There is a Starter hut where one has to show your Green fee ticket.

There is a Clubhouse for the Club Members, apparently, Visitors are welcome but I believe most of the casual players go to the popular, busy & friendly “Cafe in the Park”, open early till late, a nice seating area outside. Prices are very reasonable.

If you played this course in the past, I recommend you pay another visit and see the improvements that has been made.

The Greenfee for a Sunday late morning was from £22 to £15 (age dependent...).

THE END .....

Of my personal recollection of my 1st visit to "Royal Hartswood"

Alboran was the best course we played out of 4 in the Almeria region.

Used to be a private affair but it is now run (very recently) by the Council and believe or not, they are doing a great job. The condition of the course was excellent and the greens were the best, although recently treated. The scenery is spectacular from every hole, lots of trees, olive/palms etc some holes have a "desert feel", reminded me of the one and only Desert Springs which is only one hour away (played it last year an2 years ago, I loved it..). A few carries over depression, quite arid vegetation. Some water comes into play, each hole is very attractive. There were quite a few slopes. The last hole is very spectacular,, long, up and down, with a lovely approach to a raised green.

The fairways were nicely cut, fairly wide, the rough manageable, so were the sand bunkers. Our Team of 3 Ladies had the pleasure to play with a native Spaniard from Madrid, holidaying in the region, his name was Paco, a charming elderly gentleman enjoying his retirement after a colourful working life with Unicef or Unesco, cannot remember (probably too much Pink gin the previous night). Pac only had 5 or 6 clubs in his carry bag, but he surely could hit the ball once he had settled with our international trio (French, Polish, English). Must admit he spoke fluent French as most Spaniards do.

The Clubhouse is tiny, with minimum necessities. There is a drinks dispenser for water, coffee, beer and sweet bars.

A proper Bar is being built, so at the moment, get your beer for 1 Euro from the dispenser, sit on the grass area under the palm trees, chairs are available and that is your 19th hole, enjoy the serenity & beauty around you.

I must admit I would love to return to this course when next in Almeria.

THE END....

Playa Serena was a total contract to La Envia GC which we played yesterday. The terrain was flat and easy walking. Lots of water holes to manage making it interesting to plan your route. Again, fairways and rough had very lush grass that could have done with a cut. The greens were not at their best but playable.

The Proshop was very smart with lots of chic clothing, gadgets etc.
Ladies changing rooms very posh too.

The charm about playing this course was the scenery, the Sierra Nevada chain in the background and the little bar/cafe at the start of the round where one can stop at half way too and at the end of the round. Food, coffee and alcoholic drinks available much cheaper than at the adjacent & posh hotel, tapas were delicious too.

Quite a lively day with lots of golfers enjoying the course, mainly Scandinavian or British, one can always tell the the ways golfers are dressed !!!!!!!

One can clearly see how the mountains have been cut through to build huge holiday complex and roads, it does look very attractive with all the palm and olive trees. There was lots of wildlife: crested woodpeckers, jays etc. and of course ducks/geese due to the numerous lakes.

This was the 2nd round of our golf package which we chose but in retrospect probably not the best time of the year due to the condition of the greens.

the town nearby seems quite lively and there is a lovely marina, a pleasant place for a holiday.

THE END...

A family owned, well presented short golf course where precision with all kind of shots is needed, in an area of outstanding natural beauty in the Rednor valley and Chiltern Hills, this is where the artist kind of golfers wish they had their brushes & easel...... The golf architect is the famous John Jacobs.

Well managed by a friendly and approachable French Director of golf (or Managing Director as the Business card says). The welcome was warm and course planner was "on the house", nice gesture from a fellow compatriot. Thank you Eric.

Situated in Buckinghamshire, a pleasant drive from West London and easily found via M4, M40 and a great number of roundabouts through pretty villages/small towns in Bucks. The entrance is welcoming with lovely flower displays, a well organised car park, modern Clubhouse, large terrace, appealing Ladies changing rooms, small Proshop with all the essentials, coffee machine dispensing an excellent ground coffee for £1.50. Members seem happy, the Ladies section has about 100 members+.

The course presents itself with very contrasting 9s, the 1st nine is very slopping on most holes, some blind shots, gorgeous Par 3s. The greens were slow but beautifully contoured,some tiered. Well kept fairways, sometimes wide enough to manage those long shots, tee boxes, ball cleaners rough very thick & quite wet today. Good signage to next Tee. The scenery is very spectacular with the Autumn colours really showing their attire, the red kites can be seen on every holes, nature will certainly fill you with a perfect sense of calm and tranquility, a good escape from the busy & noisy London suburbs. The 2nd nine is a lot flatter apart from the last 2 holes.. Water comes into play of 4 holes.

My favourite hole is the 7th, index 1 & 2 respectively, most likely the signature hole (I forgot to ask Eric, there were so many other things to chat about....):
A shortish Par 4, technical hole with a wonderful approach to a green protected by sleeper wall at the front and at the back, so slightly sunk in from th front and raised from the back , if that makes sense... A huge cabbage field in the background, and when one starts to approach the Green, one might mistaken the cabbage field for the Green.... A slight dog leg , sloping left, sort of a deep and then a rise to the sunken green protected by the sleeper wall mentioned previously.

A little gem of a course, where Members of Windlesham can play for free du to reciprocal arrangements. This is where I got the invite from Fiesal B. (thank you ) and as a Guest the fee was extremely reasonable at £23 for a Sunday lunchtime.

Friendly bar staff and pleasant Clubhouse with a very modern & light feel.

I personally recommend a visit to this course , I would love to return in the Spring or Summer when the greens will be faster. Visitors are made very welcome. I shall contemplate to post a game myself at some point.

THE END.......

Brigitte

What a pleasure to return to Burnham Beeches, a course I love and played 5 years ago.. We got an invite form current Member Keith P. who was the perfect host to us 3 TSG Ladies. The course is still as challenging as it was, even more so today with the wind and constant drizzle during the last 9 holes, but somehow Mrs TSG managed her best game this season.....

A new green is being created,so 3 holes have been interchanged for the duration of this creation (next Spring will see th new green in use, I believe)), temporary cards are being issued to reflect the holes number & their respective length. A very colourful flower bed acts as a hazard to the temporary 9th, short Par 3.

For the technical minded, and the ones who have played the course before:

Present 6th hole was the 7th
Present 7th hole was the 8th
Present 8th hole was the 9th
Present 9th hole is a temporary Par 3 with the most colourful & huge flowerbed acting as a "water hazard" (so same rules apply).

The yardage is still 5700+ yards from Red and 6200+ from Yellow.

The welcome in the Pro was warm & friendly, nice Ladies clothings and lots of equipment and Men's clothing too with accessories.

The traditional Clubhouse has had a total revamp, modern & stylish & very comfortable, lovely minted colours. The Ladies changing room has a fantastic revamp too.

The Half way hut has a very good coffee from a dispenser for £1.20 , water on tap available for a refill, and soft drinks & sweeties dispenser.
Very posh toilets at the back with the most modern hand dryer "a la Dyson" air blade type .

To cap it all, a lovely golfing day on a beautiful course and a great deal @ £30 Guest rate on a Sunday morning tee time. Thank you Keith for inviting us' Anna & Noirin for this enjoyable &memorable game, well Keith is over the moon as he won his Mixed Matchplay with I...... Noirin got 2 fantastic chipping putts along the way but got stuck in the most intimidatin bunker on the 10th.......

We shall return in the Autumn to admire the varied species of trees and their changing colours.

THE END....

Will write review shortly

Watch this space.....

I had the great pleasure to be invited by Michael H. to his home Club. A traditional golf club, where golf etiquette is important and tradition very alive. An enjoyable experience from the moment we arrived and departed, without forgetting a long visit to the well furnished Proshop (part the Royal Mid Surrey, Wyke/green's Nigel Pagett's shops... Expensive & quality brand. Very friendly Pro who let me look through all the big cardboard boxes full of clothing ready for the next day'sale for the Captain's charity day......

We were greeted by Michael and offered coffee before setting off to the 1st tee which is great looking hole with a raised tee box and slightly sloping fairway. It was useful to have our local guide as the layout is not always as straight forward as one thinks and there was no course guide available as the holes have been redesigned over the last 2 or 3 years (tons of earth have been brought in), but it was worth the wait. (I believe that some previous reviews did not account for the re-modelling of the course with the ongoing work that was impeded by the wet weather, so may be those players should return to appreciate what has been achieved!!!!). It does create a a bit of an inland links type course.

The tee boxes, fairways, bunkers were in superb condition, the greens were truly magnificent and so so so fast, lots of "Oh No" on my part as I miss quite a few putts BUT did manage quite a few 1 putt which evened out my score at the end. The 1st cut is well defined, the rough is tall and practically unplayable, but favours a lot of wildlife. The course although tight in places feel quite open, wide with lots of different trees around. Cherry Lodge used to be a farm and started as a golf course nearly 50 years ago (1969 ???). One can see a few fields from certain holes.

My favourite holes were the 8th, shortish Par 3, sloping left to a pond guarding the fast green with a severe rough on the right, one has a chance to pop into the Clubhouse to use the facilities before carrying on to the 9th... The other favourite is the 18th, lovely finishing hole, short Par 4 , sloping to the right, water on the left guarding the green. This hole plays longer than one thinks.

An excellent variety of holes, quite a long walk but we were unhurried and we all enjoyed our experience, on & off the course.

We had a friendly drink/ chat afterwards with some food. I recommend the Club Burger, it was delicious.. I think Colin C. enjoyed the chips so did Micheal, Sean O'R. seemed to enjoyed his Club sandwich too.

Thank Michael for giving us the chance to try your home course, one can see that you truly love Cherry Lodge GC and I understand why.

A very active membership, with lots of differents comps., home & away.

Big Car Park, traditional clubhouse & club., good Ladies changing room.
A gated entry/exit makes it very select, no "riffraff" here, only white socks and tailored shorts......

Cherry Lodge have reciprocal arrangements with quite a few other clubs, one of them is Wyke Green, 4 miles from my home and is very similar type of club ambiance and quality of course.

If you get a chance to play Cherry Lodge, do take it and see for yourself the challenges that the course offers & appreciate the new design, but make sure your putter is hot....otherwise it will be a lot of "Oh No".

THE END........

The course is at its best, the staff is friendly and welcoming , the food is excellent .

It is such a shame that it closing at the end of October for a new development with its private golf course. It will be then a totally private affair, maybe some Visitors fee in the region of £200 , no one really knows . The locals are devastated to loose such a gem of a course.

If you get the chance to play @ Gatton Manor before October , please do it. Excellent value for money and a course that will tease you and please you.

THE END.....

It is 5 years since I last played this public course and I was not disappointed by the quality of this course, excellent fairways & superb greens, fast & furious as I like them.

I had the luxury of a French "Caddie" today (my sister's friend) who has not been on a golf course since she was 9 years old !!!! But what fun we had.

I don't think my scorecard is accurate as the Tees seem to have change place & measurements (will change the details accordingly).

I recommend this public course as its varied challenges are suitable for all kind of golfers, quite a few brooks, ponds & interesting dog legs, lots of bright local vegetation & plenty of wildlife, from ospreys to aigrettes & alligators (but did not see any today ), racoons & turtles who bite apparently. I think I rather deal with a turtle than a "gator", I am becoming a local now.

Excellent value for money if you book on line, telephone bookings will be matched by the friendly Proshop. Extremely good reception where one feels a truly valued customer. Staff seem genuinely happy, well it is Florida and the Tourists season.


Excellent choice of fashionable & technical Ladies golf clothings, no need to say that my credit card was very useful.

A great Floridian winter golf with 27•C with a slight breeze to keep us comfortable.

Hope to play again before I return to Twickenham but will probably choose a different colour tee.

I enjoyed wearing summer golf clothing today as 2 weeks ago when I played at Silvermere (Cobham, Surrey), I was dressed in winter clothes.... just hope when I get back to Uk, Spring will be there


THE END

THE END....

I finally managed to add this course to my list of played courses at one of Mark C.'s well organised golf day, the value for money was excellent, with a great attendance too, including a famous actor... Lots of prizes to be won and good food too.

The course is about 25 years old , very picturesque & mature, the trees are all very varied. Lovely views of nearby town and countryside. Many holes have blind spots so better to play with someone with the "local knowledge".

Some very tough dog legs , quite long Par 3s & 4s. The back 9 IS far more difficult to negotiate due to the presence of water. A course planner was available but not up to date to show the new 14th (Par 5) re-designed. A very tough hole when playing for the 1st time so is the 17h (Par 4 for the Ladies) and nearly 400 yards !!!!!!

Some elevated Tees giving you lovely views of the course & surroundings. Quite well sign posted & good condition but I can imagine that heavy rain would make the course a lot tougher as the drainage needs improving. Water damage can be seen in a few places.
One Red Tee box was very bare of grass, very muddy.
The greens were good but again some signs of sponginess... But very good overall & the Topography makes the holes very interesting, nothing too flat.

The is a 9 hole course and also a shorter 9 for practice. A chip & putt area, driving range a a further practice green by the 1st tee.

Bunkers were fine, only visited 2, may be a little water in the bunker at the 14th... and I am pretty sure that if you are unlucky to land you ball there, there is a penalty if you decide to take a drop .... Worth checking the Rules, and good to know for the future !!!!

Favourite holes are the 12th, the tough 17th and the 18th a truly lovely finishing hole with a green sloping sharply to a water hazard, so quite tricky with the approaching shot, but a Birdie can be had if the tee shot lands on the right gradient on the sloping fairway....

Fairly big Pro shop and friendly reception.
Clubhouse is very busy too as the food is good & wholesome at very reasonable price. 2 large seating areas outside, one is covered I believe and nicely decorated with plants and a pond with a little bridge. Big reception room upstairs.

Changing rooms have been updated and are of a very modern and clean appearance.

Large Car Park.

I would love to return to play this course but would probably prefer a Summer or Spring time as we finished quite late with the dinner & presentation, it was very dark finding my way home but Noel L was my guide... till I turn left and took a different route home.

Thank you Mark for an enjoyable golf day, with such good value and tasty food from full English breakfast to the 3 course meal & coffee & the lovely prizes.

If you can attend one of Mark's day, please do it, you will enjoy it. There were lots of Taxi drivers.....(I wonder why ?????) and quite a few TSG attending too.


This is my version of the day and sadly



THE END........

I have wanted to play this course for some time as I always heard excellent reports, last Summer when visiting the Costa Brava with Mr L. we never managed to play as busy with other visits etc., so last week on my sudden & last minute visit to this beautiful part of Northern Spain, I made sure I got to play, but my God what a disappointment.....the fairways were in a bad state, the greens absolutely awful (and I am not talking about hollow tining, sanding etc...) it looked like they were diseased, some dry patches. The Tee boxes were fine, so were the numerous, deep sand bunkers. Such a shame as the pine trees lining the fairways are absolutely impressive and that is on all of the 18th holes. A stunning looking course.

What I learned is that it used to be a private members club, but now opens to the Public and the conditions are not what it used to be.
It is not worth the 60+ Euros....

There were some very attractive Par 3, always nicely guarded, more attractive from the Yellow tees as raised, so I made sure I played from the Yellow to get that little more excitement from the Tee shot.

There is water on a few holes and a nice Par 3 over a large pond or lake.... very tough but beautiful hole.

There are a lot of French people using the course, as it is par of the Golfy chain, also Belge, Dutch and maybe Swedish & Swiss, English, so a very international bunch on the course.

The Clubhouse is very traditional, offering lots of homely, smart seating areas, and known for excellent lunches, that one can take on the terrace overlooking the 8th hole (not the 9th as said in a previous review....). Nice hardwood furniture with striking red cushions. The bar staff is very friendly, speaks English and French, prepares succulent sandwiches, pour a generous Gin or Vodka, only stops when one says stops, as is customary in Spain.... Prices are not exhorbitent like the green fees.

The Proshop is full of beautiful and classy golfing clothes for Men & Ladies. Very attractive changing rooms.

We met the Director of Golf as my friend was thinking of swapping her Golf Club but that wont be the case due to the state of the course, she will rightly stay put at absolutely gorgeous, attractive Gold d'Aro/Mas Nou, whose review is coming up shortly, wait for it, it wont be short that for sure......

A disappointing visit as I was so looking forward to play this course. Emporda or Golf d'Aro/Mas Nou are a thousand times better and well worth the Green fees, so don't waste your money of PALS unless the course conditions change.

The weather was beautiful, warm and sunny but we did have a little shower at the 16th......


THE END........

Although the Golf Club dates back 1887, the present course is fairly new, having moved from Ascot Heath in the middle of the Racecourse to its present location, Ascot Farm, in 2005 on the edge of the Windsor forest, once a medieval deer park. That will do for the history but there is a lot more to be written.

A challenging, pretty parkland with interesting & varied holes well protected by some 54 bunkers in total, but saying that there is one Par 3 of 186 yards @ the 13th hole, with no bunkers at all, a large dip/ dead ground before the green will make up the challenge.

Very mature for a new course, lots of wildlife (I have never seen or heard so many pheasants), lots of environmentally protected areas, I suppose it saves times in looking for or retrieving a ball!!).

Water & "wet areas" come into play on quite a few holes and the 18th has a lovely water fountain as a feature in a middle of a small pond (or lake).

The fairways were excellent, so were the Tee boxes, the numerous bunkers had quite a few stones and could have done with more sand but this is a minor criticism for this superb layout in an attractive location. The 1st cut i very thick and the rough very rough but why go in there in the first place?
The greens were excellent and very testing....

All the par 3s are fairly long apart from one. Nice dog legs that will tempt the better golfers, but the trees are big and full of leaves....Some fairly straightforward holes but the bunkers are very well placed for decision time.

The 1st nine will take you back to the Clubhouse, always useful for a quick stop.

My 2 favourites:

13th Par 3, mentioned above.

18th, Par 5, a lovely finishing hole, very challenging dog leg with a ditch, 4 bunkers guarding the greens and a large pond on the other side.

Very friendly place and a warm reception in Proshop and Clubhouse, a friendly hello from the Members too, large car parks.

A fairly mixed bunch of players from Seniors to Juniors, etc. There seems to be lots of competitions going on. Visitors genuinely welcome.

Modern changing rooms for the Ladies.

In short, a lovely golf course that will challenge all. I would love to return sooner than later and I highly recommend to play Royal Ascot if you get the chance, you will enjoy the royal surroundings, keep out of the rough & protected areas and you will have a great game , a great score. Enjoy every putt on these lovely greens.

I must thank Dermot H. for putting the game up and giving us a chance to discover Royal Ascot.

By the way the postal code for GPS may take you to one of the entrances to the Racecourse. Keep your eyes open.

I could write a lot more but I thought I keep it sweet & short.



THE END......

Clandon which I discovered a few years was a great course which unfortunately went downhill a bit if you read some previous reviews.

I wanted to find out for myself the condition in 2016 and I must say I was nicely surprised by the quality of the fairways and the greens were very decent. One or two has a little moss, the downside was that pitch marks were not repaired. What sort of golfer would do that? Shame on you, if you play golf you should know to respect such beautiful places.

The bunkers were excellent due to their specific construction, I only visited one.

A pleasant round in a 4 balls despite a little rain on 8th/9th hole, a lot of ferocious wind. The 13th, 14th, 15th are the most challenging and enjoyable.

The welcome is warm even if in a portacabin. Hot food & beverage available and extremely reasonable, and one can have the after golf drink in a delightful local pub, The Onslow Arms in West Clandon with a 20% discount.

The car park can be a little tricky to find and mud can play havoc when you drive in or get out, some of us had a very unfortunate experience but a happy ending...... Won't mention names.

A great day, in a lovely environment and very pleasant company. By the way, we "the girls" won our Matchplay against "the boys" by a vast margin..... Golf lessons must be playing off...

Will return sooner than later as I believe the site is on the list for future development.

PLEASE NOTE THAT IF YOU PLAY @ CLADON GC, follow directions for Merrow Park & Ride. The golf club parking is just behind the Park & Ride, tricky to find if you don't know...


The End......

Finding a great winter course that is playable & enjoyable was not easy this week. So many chalk based courses were closed... Today, after much deliberations, our choice was EPSOM.....and what a great choice for a Winter course. NO temporary greens, NO temporary tees, just very few Yellows T off a small matt, fairways superb. Some had runs and greens were nearly (well not quite) as fast the Summer time.

So this is "Numero 1 " as a winter course in Surrey.

The Pro could not have been more helpful too, as one of our party lost their mobile phone, Adam or Stuart drove the buggy back to the last 3 holes, but unfortunately in vain. Where is that damn phone ? We assume a walker by picked it up, maybe the phone will be returned tomorrow.

The food in the traditional & elegant Clubhouse was extremely good, so was the coffee.

Best days to play are Wednesdays and Thursdays, when Tees available as early as 7.30 even for Visitors, on Tuesdays Ladies day after 12.00pm.

A really nice course, an extremely friendly and welcoming Club, and a big thank you to Adam.

As I write this review, I have received news that the mobile has been found!!!!!!!!! So happy for my friend David S.


The END............

Purley Downs is high on my list of courses to play again & again, and very suitable for winter play as chalk based. The Yellow tees are forward from the normal position so the SSS should be adjusted !!!!!!!! The Red ones are in their usual position.......

The welcome is warm, the members friendly, the course extremely well kept, the views exquisite & the company was lovely.

A great deal was struck by the "TSG Master deal Champion", ie David s.. Thanks for that and guiding me through the tricky & heavy traffic through Croydon, back to my beloved M25...,,,,

Will return in the near future without hesitation & I highly recommend this course.


THE END of a very short review......

A course I played several times this year but for some reasons I never wrote a review . So here we go:
A Crown Golf, Members Club, very open and undulated with lovely views of the pleasant surrounding countryside. Although quite a long course, it suits my game as the wide fairways give plenty of run to a well placed ball, with many downhill and side lies. Very good condition throughout, greens excellent, good quality sand in the numerous and very large well placed bunkers. Playable in the Winter, although today, we gave up after 9 holes due to the strong wind and the rain setting in.

The 6th, 9th, 15th & 18th are very memorable holes due to the water coming into play and making this course interesting with a varied challenge.

A pleasant and well stocked Proshop with good quality clothing (Men/Ladies), same high quality for the varied golf gadgets, a very good place for Christmas shopping if your loved ones or friends are of the golfing kind.

Warm welcome in Proshop, Clubhouse, the Golf manager is sometimes seen behind the Bar (I suppose "multi-tasking"). A pleasant seating area for the Summer, overlooking a pond/lake with a fountain and the 18th green in view, a lovely little wooden bridge taking you back to the card park. Today there was a glowing real fire inside the Clubhouse making it an appealing place to sit and enjoy the after golf drinks and chit-chat...... Lots of catching up when you have not seen your friends for a while.

Ladies changing are going to be refurbished. Apparently the Men's have just been redone and it's good so Brian H. (TSG + Club member) told me.

Large car park with an overflow area.

Covered driving range, nets, chipping area and putting green. A good set up.

There's are some holiday lodges in the complex, but they well hidden. I assume a nice place to stay as a lot to do in the Southampton area, whether you are a golfer or not.

A course I would return any time with pleasure and if you are in the area, give a try and see for yourself if you like it.

South Winchester GC being of the Crown golf group will give you Guest rate when you play, thanks to the new deal negotiated by TSG H.Q. this December. Thank you for that.

Easy to find, J11 M3 etc...



The End......
(Only 10 more reviews to do catch up with......)

My hat off to the owners of Cottesmore, the Rogerson family, for the way they reconfigured this already beautiful course, since they re-took control (Summer 2013) of the running of Cottesmore Golf & Country Club after a spell in the hands of Crown Golf.

"THE GRIFFIN" has become a longer, proper Championship course, taking 3 holes from the other course (THE PHOENIX) and thus releasing 3 holes to the actual new 9 hole course. It may seems a little complicated when you dont know the original layout but make perfect sense when you play. I have updated the scorecards accordingly with new yardage and SSS. The PROSHOP sells a new course planner covering both courses for £5 only.
The GPS devices will need to be updated otherwise one wont be able to get accurate layout.

The new "PHOENIX" is the best designed 9 hole I have ever played where the most attractive & challenging holes have been kept, the walk is well sign posted and very pleasurable, take time to admire this very picturesque part of Sussex.

So to recap, a sort of a swap of 3 holes between the 2 courses, not sure what is happening to the land left over the the shorter course. A winning combination of 18 and 9 holes totally geared to the wishes of many 21st century golfers, in fact perfect for lots of members, seniors/juniors, visitors etc...It takes less than 80 minutes to play the PHOENIX, absolutely perfect for the modern day, time precious life we lead.

The natural landscape is as beautiful as ever and I cannot wait to return and play in the Springtime when all the rhododendrons are in bloom. I personally believe the course is more suited to summer and spring play due to the amount of streams, ponds & lakes, some paths can be a little muddy. some fairways as well. There was a temporary green on the 10th GRIFFIN course.

The tee boxes, fairways and greens were in good condition, some bunkers had standing water. The whole set up is showing sign of TLC.

The Hotel rooms and the swimming pool have been totally refurbished to excellent standard.

The Hotel reception is warm, you are always made welcome.

The Proshop is well stocked, equipment and clothing, I was given very favourable rates for the TSGers who joined me either on Sunday or Monday, a very good turn out.

The Bar/Restaurant very pleasant with reasonable prices for food or drinks.

A winning combination for this set up and looking forward to returning.


THE END......
by Q.O.C.R. (my new title Queen of Course Review)

A beautiful parkland course, very mature, some 80+ years old, started as a 9 holes, then became 18, but during WW2, only 14 holes were available for play, the rest was used as farmland. There an unusual local rule on tied scores: 1st five and last 4 holes are used...

Well laid out, very well maintained from Tee boxes to greens, fairways excellent too and rough very playable. Some bunkers had standing water after one of the downpour. The walk is easy and fluid, well sign posted, with path leading you to your next Tee. Loads of different trees starting to show their Autumn coat.

Every hole is pleasing to the eye, & will interest all levels of golfers, the Par 3 are always tricky & very attractive. some fairly long Par 4s or 5s, some had quite deep undulations/ridges across the fairways, maybe they were the holes that were ploughed during the war...... A few hole have slight slopes too. A little bit of water come into play too

My favourite has to be the 5th hole, a long Par 5, with a watch tower for the Tee shot as it slopes down to a water filled ditch and then rises up to the green with 2 large protective bunkers. For some reasons, none of our party scored on this hole...... I want to play it again, will go back sometimes even if it is a 2.5 hours drive from Twickenham. But a good idea to stop overnight in a nearby hotel as I did.

There is a halfway hut, named "The Festival House", but it is not opened every day. Toilets are available there too.

Today was a free round thanks to Greg B. who kindly shared the Voucher he won in a putting competition earlier this year at a Charity Match c@ Rivenhall GC (Paul H.'s home club).

Glen Gorse is South of Leicester, a private Members Club with great facilities for practice, good parking, a pleasant Clubhouse, nice food at very reasonable prices, great coffee from a machine, friendly members and a charming Pro. (Richard), offering a wide range of golf equipment & clothing & accessories. On the day we played, he went off to Harrogate Golf Show to buy new equipment to set up his Winter teaching studio. Wishing you very good luck with your new project.

To sum up, a course that one will enjoy, from the time you arrive, play the course, sample the food and the drinks & meet the Members etc...

So if you are in or around Leicester, put Glen Gorse as a must play course and I am sure you will have a great experience.

A big thank you to Greg B. for this discovery & free round.

Will post some photos soon.

THE END..........

A private road that can be easily missed if you follow your GPS advice, but as you turn into the private drive you are going to find a superb golf course. A lovely appearance, a well laid out car park with shade as well, a good looking Clubhouse, the feeling is of a happy place where the members make you feel welcome.

The course is only 21 years old (Dame Laura Davies was a co-designer), but very mature with oak, pine & other trees in an attractive & peaceful part of Surrey between Woking and Guildford.

A great variety of holes offering challenges for all levels of golfing abilities, water comes into play on 9 or more holes, some of the carries are quite long. The fairways are excellent, so are the greens (none of them are flat, some steep tiers and refined undulations). A real pleasure to putt. Fairways and greenside bunkers are numerous, some were a little compacted for my liking but manageable. A very flowing walk between the holes, even if sometimes long, well sign posted, excellent tee boxes, well presented with the ball washers, towels, broken tees collectors etc...

2 favourite holes:

The 9th, Par 4 (I think it is the signature hole), slight dog leg right with a big & a small lake on the righthand side, a fairly large and raised green sloping to the left. Just at the back of the green is the newly erected half way hut, inaugurated by the 2015 Lady Captain, Pam Mace, with whom I played today, a bubbly & excellent golfer who had many Pars today......We were a great team.

The 16th, Par 3, a very attractive & technical hole, although not long, the right club & shape must be used as water lurks on the lefthand side & the back.

Today, 30th June 2015 was very sunny, every hole was absolutely stunning: blue skies, dark green trees, fairways still of a vivid colour & the Greens in excellent conditions as there was a Competition the preceeding weekend.

Today was a special treat for me as it was a last minute & free invite to a Lady Friends /Guest Day by an ex Silvermere Lady golfer & friend (Dorte G.), now a very happy member at Sutton Green which has a limited number of Members thus assuring all the best facilities and conditions for them. I believe Sutton Green has reciprocical arrangements with several other clubs.

The Ladies changing room facility was excellent too, with easy access from 2 sides.

The ProShop if well stocked and the Pro admirable in giving directions over the phone when one cannot find the concealed entrance to the golf club.

The Clubhouse is large, airy & sunny overlooking the finishing 18th hole, staff is welcoming. Large terraces outside too.

A very nice practice green, some nets and chipping area are present too.

We finished our Ladies Day with a light & pleasant lunch served with wine. Awaiting to see the official photos taken on the day.

A great day on a great course, I only wish it was on my doorstep.


THE END.......

We all heard how this lovely Essex course went into decline, but now I can confirm that the re-birth has truly happened.

The money, effort, time, etc. is paying off and will reward any visitors, members with a warm welcome, a beautiful course in truly superb condition. Improvements are still carrying on I believe.

The fairways were nearly immaculate, the bunkers (I visited many) had a good thickness of lovely white fluffy sand, the rough nicely cut, the greens seemed to be well looked after, maybe needed a cut, but it was Bank holiday (3.5.15). The views from every hole were resplendiscent, the Spring freshness made every corner attractive. As said before every hole is different with its own challenge.

Nearly every tee has a good quality winter tee in place, normally placed between Yellows & Reds...... A smart sign & map at every hole, direction to next tee, 150 markers on Par 4 & 5, the paths have been relaid with clear signs for buggy users, irrigation has been incorporated, new holes dug for water escape, next Winter will tell whether it is working or not on the Essex clay soil.

Unfortunately, our 1st 9 was extremely slow due to 2 Societies in front of us. But the last 9 was fine and very easy enjoyable. The Organiser, Peter M. got us a very good deal on line @ £13, that was fantastic, thank you.

The Ladies changing room is totally refurbished, very sleek and chic, smart basins, taps and the latest Dyson, V shape hand drier.... elegant tiles on the wall, and attractive floor covering in contrasting colour.

The Clubhouse is welcoming and the service with a smile , the Pro was very attentive too.

Will return soon, but probably during the week to avoid being stuck behind Societies. I believe there is a special day/offer/pricefor people of a certain age.

Go and visit and play and enjoy the resurrection of this Essex course. Well done to the new owner/Management.

The above is my personal opinion & as my eyes see it.




THE END............

A lovely golf course with the most wonderful views from wherever you look. The 1st impression is of a very private, exclusive Members club, but Visitors are welcome. Today (Wed 18 Feb 2015) Steve R. got us an excellent deal. Thank you Steve.

South Herts (Vardon Course) is a beautiful, matured, undulating parkland course (not many even lies), extremely well maintained & cared for. The employment of a Course Manager who is also one of the few Master Greenkeepers is a real asset. His work covers many improvements, to name a few: laser levelling of tee boxes, improved draining in bunkers, woodland management, a new short game area etc. etc.

The course opened in 1900, designed originally by Willie Park Jnr but now in his 4th layout with the help of Harry Vardon, James Braid (bunkering) & Ken Moody. Many well known golf personalities have swung their clubs at South Herts :James Braid, Abe Mitchell, Walter Hagen, Arnold Palmer, Tony Jacklin, Bernard Gallagher, Peter Alliss, Ross Fisher to name a few and today it was us 4 TSGers. Harry Vardon, who gave his name to the famous grip, was a Pro at South Herts for 35 years, hence his sculpture at the 1st tee.

Every hole has it own technical challenge, some with lateral ditches, some water (the Dollis Brook) and of course the mature trees & the newly planted ones. The fairways are fairly wide but tee shots needs to be well positioned for your approach to narrow greens always well guarded. The scenery is absolutely magnificient, specially so on a warm winter day, even if windy. A tough/technical course, a real pleasure to play for any level even if the scores achieved are not to your normal handicap standard. Yellow SSS is 70 and the Red SSS is 74.... making it a much tougher course for Lady players. I expect the Ladies members must be excellent at those sloping lies and fast greens.

The 1st hole is a downhill short Par 4 reachable in one by the strong hitter, but strategically guarded on all cardinal points with beautiful sanded bunkers. The green is very tricky too as it slopes back to front.

The 18th is a fantastic downhill, slightly dog legged finishing hole which I messed nearly completely if it was not for my last putt "truly fantastic", one to be noted in the little black book.

There is a water fountain at the 10th (?), a wooden Ladies room somewhere half way through the course.

The Clubhouse is fairly traditional, with Spike bar & other bar, with gorgeous views on the course. Sitting on the terrace on a warm day/evening must be delightful.

Ladies changing room are very "posh" with all the luxury goodies for one's after golf.

The practice facilities are of an excellent standard: 2 putting greens, a superb chipping/pitching/bunkers area.

A large Proshop with lots of equipment and a friendly welcome.

The drive to the Club is through a private road, leading to 2 big car parks: members & visitors.

There is also a 9 holes course, the Dai Rees, with a separate membership. A short but challenging test with great bunkers, numerous trees a a super, very testing finishing hole.

If you get the chance to play this course at a discounted rate, do take the opportunity. The normal Visitor's rate is £50 for this truly wonderful course.

I would love to return, but I sahll avoid travelling through North London and instead use the M25 (South Mimms) from Twickenham. Much easier route.


Must finish this review with a quote from the great man himself, Harry Vardon (Mr Golf or The Icon of Golf):
"Dont play too much golf, two rounds a day are plenty"






THE END......

A Pay & Play course appertaining to the Glendale group, but was part of the vast Tilgate Estate in the High Weald of Sussex. Very picturesque & surrounded by Tilgate country park & conservation area. You will see lots of fitness fanatics on a weekend & walkers with dogs or without.

Very tight tree lined course indeed, 15 dog legs, left/right , well guarded greens, the shaded ones still had partial frost.

Today Sat 24 Jan 2015, the course was empty and we realised why: a little wet in places. The first 9 fairways were fine, draining well, but as you play the last 9 you encounter water. The Tee boxes were quite muddy too, so were the paths to the next hole but @ £16 for a round on a sunny winter day, a lovely 3-balls, we were not complaining. I must thanks Brian H. for helping me with my new super GPS which works in yards & METRES too!!!!!!!

There is lateral water on some holes, some ditches across others, and 1 pond at the final hole, but nothing too daunting.

Tilgate Forest reminds me of a little bit of Gatton Manor, Foxhills, Pine Ridge & Camberley Heath.

The 16th & 17th holes are the jewels of this course as follows:

16th, short Par 4, sharp dog leg right, blind tee shot, sloping fairway uphill, large bunker at the turn & others very strategically placed, a raised tiered green protected on the left.

The 17th, long Par 5, is one of the few straight holes on the course apart from the 4 Par 3s. It is long, down & up, a large ditch across that needs to come into the equation as to laying up or not, some trees protruding onto the fairway & only 2 bunkers in appropriate places.

The Clubhouse is very new, modern, light and airy. Frienddy staff all around. It was extremely busy in the Café as all the runner/walkers had come in for a bite/drink.

Pro shop adequately furnished & gave a nice welcome.

The Car park is fairly large. The access to Tilgate Forest GC is through a housing estate, the lane/road is more or less single, with passing places and very busy as it leads to the Country Park as well.

A lovely course, challenging layout but not one for winter play. Cannot wait to return in the Spring or Summer. Thank you to our "Naked Golfer" Steve for posting this bargain.




THE END.......

Quite tucked away from the M3, satnav tends to take you along the very small country lanes, so be aware. We are on the border of Surrey/Hampshire in King Alfred's territory.

Original course was 9 holes, extended across the road to a further 18, giving golfers a choice. A winning formula I think for the time conscious, but would be nice to do 27 holes in the Spring or Summer, with a leisurely lunch & drink in the Clubhouse.

Built on chalk & clay, drains quite well, only 2 temp greens today. The normal greens are well looked after, have great shapes & ondulations & tiers. Excellent for time of year.

A mature parkland with plenty of trees, fairly large fairways but can be tight in places, some dog legs & blind shots, a reminder of Foxhill, Old Thorns and a little bit of Wentworth...... The scenery, the views even on a grey winter day is awesome, cannot wait to return in the spring/summer time to play again. The Par 3s are truly very testing, even today when shorter due a temp green on the 8th...

The course gets more interesting as you progress to the 2nd half of the Woodland 18 holes course and one starts to climb/ascend a little, nothing too strenuous, a nice mix of holes.

My favourites are 10th, 11th, 12th and of course the 13th which I birdied with a superb chipping putt, uphill over a large sand bunker. Wonderful feeling...

Hole 10, Par 5, 500 yards, raised tee, dog leg right, sloping fairways left, lots of trees on the right, downhill, little slope before the green, and of course 2 well placed bunkers. The views are superb.

Hole 11, Short Par 4, another raised tee giving wonderful views of the countryside, slight dog leg right, sloping fairways downhill.

Hole 12, another short Par 4, dog leg right, with the most amazing green that we could not play today as it had a temp., it is raised & tiered and has 2 huge bunkers on the left, and is encircled by tall trees.

The course is well laid out, with gravel path and clear signs to next tees.

Portaloo by the 9th/10th holes as we are a long way from the Clubhouse.

Frienldy enough Proshop, but they wanted to charge us the normal rate and not the guest rate, but it got sorted out very quickly by our Crown member Peter W. Good selection of clothing & golf equipment.

Ladies changing rooms are really nice and well equipped, with lockers for visitors etc.

Large clubhouse with 2 or 3 seating/dining areas, friendly service and good selection of food.

Very good practice facilities but did not use them. The practice putting green if by the entrance and looked superb.

Large car park too.

In short, a pleasant & varied course suitable for all levels of golfers.

I shall certainly return, but probably in the Spring/Summertime to see the course with a different light/weather and will take some pictures. The course will play very different as I can imagine the ball running/bouncing quickly down the sloping fairways etc.... Some of the short Par 4s will be easily accessible.



THE END....

Part of the Golfy chain, so quality/class/enjoyment are part of the parcel. 2 golf courses to choose from: Le Breuil (the longest & most challenging/technical) and Le Montaplan slightly easier. The complex houses a hotel & restaurant in the ancient Chateau, situated some 40km from Lyon (3rd largest French city where I studied for 9 years). This is marshland region, water hazards are present throughout, yes it is "lake land", flat and easy to walk with many ancient trees to avoid along the way of this testing course.

Today,Tuesday 25th Nov. 2015, I had a complimentary round as a guest of my twin cousin & his friends, we played LE BREUIL. It was a typical Autumn misty/foggy day adding mystery, intrigue & surprise to the golf game. It certainly is an ideal landscape too for artists/painters/photographers with lots of wildlife around. The course is well maintained, well presented, nice defined paths to next tee box, each tee has its own diagram, washer/towel. All very posh.

The starter point is a computerised screen showing your Tee time and your names. All the latest technology applied here.

As said earlier, a very technical course, suits the thinker & long hitter as a lot of long carry & narrow approaches. When one looks at the course planner all you see is vast expanse of blue and its accompanying white areas of sand, the fairways and the trees keeping it together. I could describe every hole, but 4 will do. Here we go:

9th, Par 4, dog leg to the left contouring a large lake, an astronomical bunker by the lake, left of the green. This particular bunker could accommodate 3 or 4 families for a picnic if it was not on the golf course.
There are 2 other bunkers very strategically placed for your approach.

14th, Par 4, WOW what a challenge....: very narrow teeing section between 2 lakes, dog leg right with water all the way to the narrow green sloping to the right too. The left hand side of the fairway is full of mature trees with some down slopes. Very tight approach. A regular & accurate player may get a Par, but no guarantee as the wind can creates havoc too.

15th, Par 5: another dog leg to the right, but not so narrow approach, but lakes on either side, mid approach to the raised green, water present at the back too.

16th,a dinky little Par 3 but nightmare for a lot of players, teeing on a narrow strip between 2 lakes, a carry over another huge lake to a sloping green with not a lot of fringe. Another beauty.

A very pleasant place for golf, with a large car park, warm reception in a well presented Proshop, the usual smart clothing that one finds in France, a huge building houses the members' trolleys/golf clubs/shoes etc. and the buggies and most likely machinery at the back. The tall/ancient trees hide the building.

The old Chateau houses the Clubhouse/restaurant, hotel.
Friendly, welcoming staff, excellent coffee served with a delicate macaroon. Nice seating areas with old fashioned leather chairs. Terrace for the warm days too with nice vegetation on display. Non golfers can enjoy the fine local food on offer. Very friendly & professional staff.

There seem to be groups of students around, learning/observing/studying the natural flora/vegetation/wildlife etc. in this 575 acres of outstanding natural beauty.

Must mention the floating driving range, with distance flags/markers etc. Sort of thing I have seen previously in France @ the nearby Golf du Clou which I played last week, also at Nampont-St-Martin in Northern France. A great idea a an easy way to collect the practice balls with retractable net etc.....

I can only recommend this GOLFY golf course, you will enjoy the beauty & the challenge when in this part of France.



THE END......

I played this course many times whilst on holiday in this part of France, it is always a pleasure to return: I enjoy the challenge, the beauty, the friendly French welcome, the food on offer in the very popular Clubhouse 's restaurant. Even if not a golfer, well worth visiting and sampling the food, even more pleasurable in the Summer when dining on the large sunny terrace overlooking the 1st & last tees.

I managed to get away from my housesitting job including the 5 horses/2 dogs/2 cats for a lovely day on the course (21.11.2014). The weather was superb, sunny & warm, well just a glorious Autumn day.

I was on my own but soon paired up with 3 members as the course was pretty busy on the day due to morning's competitions. We managed to finish just before darkness but we skipped the 18th, short Par 3 over water, as we could not see the flight of the ball, anyway I had lost enough balls in the previous water hazards encountered on nearly every hole. This part of France is well known for its marshes. Irrigation was originally done the some Monks who used to live in the area centuries ago. There are relics of drains/canals/different levels of terrain etc. also a stone sculpture of a monk. Adjacent to the golf course there is a huge wildlife/bird sanctuary visited by many, a very pleasant place for a picnic.

In France, Men start either from Yellow or White Tees depending on their current handicaps, Ladies from Red or Blue and the Professionals from another colour.

Back to golf course: a pleasant parkland/marshland, the Autumn colours were at their best (will post some photos). The 1st hole is probably the only one without water hazards but large sand bunkers make up for it. Then there is water on every hole with some very tight approach to the greens, between tall trees and water. Very interesting, not excessively long, sometimes the layout is questionable but pleasant just the same with right mix of Pars & dog legs.

The fairways, greens, the bunkers were in very good condition. The rough a decent length where one could still recover from a stray shot.

The Proshop is friendly, has a very smart stock of clothing (Ladies/Gents), golf equipment and sundries.

Some very good deals to be had with Lunch included (a must as the food is excellent).

Good practice facilities set in the course itself. Starter hut & 1/2 way hut too.

Parking areas either inside the golf club or on the small "B" road leading to the Club.

This is not "Wolf Creek" but well worth a visit and I shall certainly return when in the area either housesitting or just holidaying as the welcome is always warm and you are always guaranteed a game even on competition day....



THE END........

"Fred" picked me up as arranged & took me to the friendliest golf club I have ever been to, only 15 minutes drive from my home.

Elegant, classy (with the modern notes), good looking (picturesque), witty (challenging), friendly & pleasing, all the traits I enjoy in a place and admire in a person !!!! so that is why I fell in love with Foxhills.

Where do I start ? There is so much to tell. Foxhill is a Country Club that has a lot to offer: golf, tennis, pools, spa, restaurants, hotel in a 19th century Manor House, looks very enticing (look at the website) in a very picturesque Surrey parkland amongst Scot pine, beech, silver birch trees, some heathers & ferns.

I shall give my attention to the golf side as that was the reason of my visit today. There are 2 x 18 holes courses, The Longcross & The Bernard Hunt + a 9 holes Par 3, The Manor. A very appropriate logo, a tall fox dressed up in very smart golf clothes adorns literature, flags, ball markers, some clothing etc...

Today, we played The Longcross, a challenging 18 holes, very beautiful where-ever you look & I must say it gets more & more interesting as you go along, the last 9s are truly superb with more elevations. It is hard to pick my favourite holes but will try to limit my choice to 3, well maybe....

8th, Par 4, a sharp dog left left, with sloping fairways left too, 3 strategic bunkers (1 fairway, 2 green) and a tall Scot pine on the approach to the green, immaculate fairway lined all the way by beautiful trees.

11th, Par 3, elevated tee, 1 ditch some 70 yards from the very wide green guarded by 2 large bunkers on either side.

16th, another Par 3, this is actually my host (charming TSGer Feisal B.)'s favourite: raised tee, running ditch on the right hand side, a large pond full of reeds before the green & 3 strategically placed bunkers, a Birdie or a Par can easily be made, well maybe the 2nd time around....

I must mention the 14th Par 5... described as "the greatest hole ever played" by BBC Radio 5 Listeners & I give it my concensus.

Just one more: the splendid 18th Par 5, a long double leg left, raised tee, over a ditch, lots of bunkers in most golfers reach, uphill fairway till the turn, then come the very tall lonely Scot pine in the fairway some 118 yards from the large shared green with the Bernard Hunt 18th...

Every hole is lined with numerous trees very neatly pruned & spaced where errand shots are not too severely punished and the spacing give a view of the adjacent fairways.

There are some water hazards, little ponds & a few ditches to negotiate.

The fairways are lush green carpets, very well cared for, hardly any noticeable divots !

The greens are immaculate, such a pleasure to sink those putts. The subtle undulations will truly test your putting skills, the edge surrounding each hole is perfectly flat, a delight, so no 3 putts today, just lots of 1 putt and some 2s, golf is so enjoyable when conditions are like that. The greens seem to play long and plenty of space at the back of the flags

Bunkers: not a great number of them, but always in a very strategic position, a little damp but very manageable.

There is a half way hut serving 1st class coffee, with seating area by the 10th tee, where one can admire the heathers & decorative bushes making it a very attractive place for a pause and admire the picturesque surrounds.

The Pro shop: class/quality clothing, lots of women's clothes on display, accessories, equipment etc... Only the best makes I know. Very friendly Pros that give you all the attention that makes a golf day very memorable.

Ladies changing room/facilities, the 1st part is very modern, the 2nd part is well equipped, large with plenty of seating area, mirrors, lockers, etc. but a little older in style & appearance.

A very large Car Park, well designed to accommodate all the Members of this charming Country Club, The golf members I met are very approachable, seem happy & relaxed.

Modern covered driving range, 3 putting greens, a chipping/bunker practice area.

The Clubhouse or XIX, only 7 or 8 years old, exceptionally well designed, light, spacious with modern colours & furniture, very swish fireplace, very attractive seating arrangements, real orchids on every table. A large covered veranda (with retractable glass covers) overlooking the shared (or double) 18th green of The Longcross or Bernard Hunt's course. A terrace at the front of the XIX, very popular in warm sunny days.

The staff is extremely courteous, smiling & attentive, they seem happy & relaxed just like the Members.

The food is 1s class and the prices reasonable, coffee is to die for (had 3 cups today, so cannot sleep yet, that is probably why I am writing my review and posting photos at 1.30am....). I recommend the "Foxhill Burger", with all the trimmings, we even had a beautiful candle lit providing a subtle warming atmosphere from the blue glass holder.

Without the TSG (The Social Golfer) this wonderful experience/day would have never happened. Well it is "my joining date's anniversary" today, yes I joined on 11.11.2011... when a famous Mr John A. go me to sign in at the London Golf Show, Earls Court.

So a big thank you to Feisal B. for letting me share this experience, got me thinking about membership again.... Foxhill offers a variety of membership options, so studying the literature.


I had wanted to play golf at Foxhills for a long time but did not know what to expect, but I can assure you this is truly the friendliest golf club I have ever been to.

No doubt, I shall return soon, very soon.......and if you get a chance to play at Foxhills, grab it quick.



Yes....THE END......
(Not sure how many will have read this review till the end). A bit more to add:

Fairleigh GC (formerly know as Farleigh Court GC) is now owned by Foxhills so expect some excellent standards, will try and report soon.

Today 11.11 @ 11am @ Foxhills a horn was sounded and everyone present paid their 2 minutes respect to all those who gave their lives for a better world.

Two very different courses, both well maintained, now owned by PING in peaceful Lincolnshire, a little perched on the hills of Gainsborough, once the Capital of England & Denmark in 1013. The air is fresh & clean, the night sky dark with millions of stars at their shiniest.

1. THONOCK PARK, the oldest, some 120 years of age, so a well established parkland in this fairly rural northern county of England. Thonock Park is the more gentle of the 2, water comes into play on 5 holes only, the natural slopes & humps provide the challenge. The greens were excellent.

We played in the windiest conditions ever (21.10.2014), with 80mph gusts of wind, we must be mad !!!! but players were allowed on the course. Nature was taking control of the game, the sun was shining making the course very attractive but a pain to see the ball flight, so there were a few lost balls & a few curses, but apart from that very peaceful all around.

Favourites holes:
14th, short Par 3 over a large lake, a huge bunker on the left of a large tiered green that was sloping down toward the water.
18th, Par 5, was very interesting too: tee shot over a ditch with a very tight opening to a long & wide fairway, bunker in the driving distance, then comes a large & wide hollow before another bit of fairway before the green finishing by the Clubhouse. Both the 9th & 18th greens are in full view from the upstairs bar and the "Café 19" downstairs.

There is a halfway hut in the middle of the 2 courses's layout and when shut, a phone can be used to order refreshment & pick up at the Clubhouse.

Fairways ins excellent condition, bunkers a little compacted.

2. KARSTEN LAKES: the newest of the 2 courses, 20 years old & designed by Karsten Solheim, a descendant of the PING family. A jewel of a course where water comes into play on 15 holes, I think. Very cleverly designed with huge bunkers, 62 bunkers in all, twice the amount of Thonock Park, not very deep bunkers but of an XXXXL or super king size. The funny thing I did not visit any but had to test one or two to report. Sand was wet despite the heavy winds of yesterday, but playable with some flair & magic. Mr L. did find few and was quite vocal about it.....

The greens were a real treat, very subtle ondulations, curves & tiers but "true" & in excellent condition.

Although flattish, there are slopes and small hills with interesting contours around the lakes, ponds & rivers (or streams) that meander through the course, protrude a little here & there but not always obvious when you play the course for the 1st time.

Favourites on Karsten Lakes:

The 9th, a Par 4/5, named "Double Trouble", lake all along the left side of this double legged hole. a ditch all along the right side, a huge bunker on the side of the tiered green naturally sloping towards the water & one more bunker at the back.

The 16th, again a Par 4/5, "Roy's Creek", tee shot over the river that meanders in and out the length of the hole on the right hand side and of course more trouble on the left with 2 equally huge bunkers by the approach of the green that has a very lovely undulation. A real gem.



Both courses fairly easy to walk, even if distances between holes are far apart sometimes. The only negative comment is the lack of signage to the next tee boxes, it needs to be improved as visitors can easily go to the wrong Tee. Head Pro has been advised....

Just a few more lines about Gainsborough GC, PING fitting centre etc...

Spent 2 days, played the 2 courses, stayed locally in a super B & B (12 Morton Terrace for reference) which was recommended by PING.

PING fitting centre is situated by the modern flood lit driving range. It has all the latest equipment to measure, test, etc... all the newest models with any combination possible of heads, shafts, grips and uses proper golf balls, ie Srixon AD333 (with a PING logo of course).

The fitting centre is very modern in appearance, lots of natural light created by the glass construction and the large opening onto the driving range with the distance coloured flags. Steve Harrison (ex Pro), Product Specialist made me feel at ease with all equipment I tried. He was not trying to sell anything, just sorting out the best clubs for my bag with all the right increments.. The fitting came to a very happy conclusion for me with the help of Mike Lea, PING European Manager who gave me a 100 per cent service after my less than fruitful experience from a PING Demo day from a certain Surrey golf club at the beginning of the year. So a very happy outcome, well worth the long drive.

I enjoyed the 2 golf courses, the Clubhouse, the food & drinks from either the bar upstairs or the Café 19 downstairs both with wonderful views of the golf courses. Friendly staff and good prices.

Member were friendly too, had time to stop and speak to us visitors, telling some of the very interesting history of Gainsborough, worth mentioning Marshall Ironworks, Rose Packaging Machinery (where Cadbury sweet takes its name from and of course the Vikings !!!!!, the river Trent and lots more).

Proshop is large & full of PING items + some other makes. Friendly staff. Head Pro Stephen Cooper was friendly and very approachable.

Ladies changing room is well equipped with plenty of room, lockers, seating area but could do with some more modern furniture & sanitary ware.

There is a well designed covered area between the Proshop and Café 19, where one can keep golf bag & trolley whilst having refreshments. The golf shoes cleaner air hose is there too.

Large Car Park, nicely laid out with a big "overspill" for visitors. A special parking bay for people coming for a fitting.

Large & sleek practice green on the way to the driving range/fitting centre accessible via steps but golf trolleys can go on a ramp.

The PING European factory is a few minutes down the road, but I di not have time to visit. There is on site accommodation (apartments I think) for visitors coming from long distance mainly Germany, France, Scandinavian countries etc.

A very nice set up and 2 lovely courses, a fair distance from Twickenham but well worth it.

I am very grateful to Mike Lea, mentioned above for all the help/advice provided.




THE END........

Review coming up.......

This was a very special day at Reigate Hill, an invite from a Member, our very own TSGer Virginija Z. to the Ladies day (7th August 2014). All done in grand style on a great but tough course, a little spoilt at times by the closeness of the M25, some holes are parallel to this notorious motorway, so can be rather noisy. Apart from that the views of the surroundings countryside are superb. Quite a hilly course where a good pair of legs and lungs are an asset indeed.

It all started with the usual registration, coffee/bacon roll, sale of raffle ticket for the Captain's Charity etc.

Then off we went to play this lovely course that is really interesting as so much variety, lots of sloping lies, raised tee to lovely downhill fairways and excellent greens. Some ditches come into play on several holes and there is a lake that has to be negotiated on 2 holes. Lots of bunkers with nice soft sand. A well maintained members course.

As is customary with a Lady's golf day, we had Pimms & nibbles at half way and a delicious lunch served at the end of the pleasant round on a rather hot summer's day. Then followed the prizes presentation.

I enjoyed the course and will return as I was given a voucher (valid till 30.6.2015) for a complimentary round with 3 guest @ special rates, so watch the games page as will post a game when my busy life permits.

There was a favourite hole, I think it was a Par 3 downhill from a raised Tee, probably the 13th hole, a large ditch crossing the fairway and 4 bunkers surrounding the green sloping back.

Lovely, large and airy clubhouse with a terrace overlooking the course. Friendly staff.

Nice welcome on the Proshop, well appointed.

Ladies changing rooms with all the goodies one needs.

Big Car park and the driving range is away from the Clubhouse, in fact as you drive in it is on the right, and members have free range balls... A large putting green in front of the terrace.

That is all I can remember as it was nearly 8 weeks ago...


THE END.........

A beautiful Georgian Manor house situated on a very private estate, full of history too. Only 2 miles from the sea, drainage (creation of a canal and a harbour) in the early 19th century made it possible to create this golf course on the Ham Manor estate in 1936. It was the home of the Gratwicke family well known in the horseracing world, near the 18th green is a headstone marking the final rest place of "Frederick", the owner's favourite horse.

Large separate Proshop, well stocked, lots of Ladies clothing for a change. a friendly reception too.

The Clubhouse is spectacular, very grand, I even strolled up the large staircase to admire the architecture. There are cards room, 3 large snooker tables, a table tennis room and also and indoor bowls.

Now to the golf course: it is surrounded by beautiful, large houses, some with thatched roofs, some with follies with lead roofs, very peaceful and private all around with security barriers to get in get out.

Holes seem very open even with the surrounding trees lining the fairways, sometimes sloping, some blind holes too, 4 or 5 ditches comes into play .

The 10th is a favourite: a fairly short Par 4, raised tee over a ditch with a pond on the left and a second ditch before the raised green. Good strategy is need here. There is charming 1/2 way hut there too, worth stopping, loo stop too.

Must mention the 3rd, again a short Par 4, downhill with a ditch before negotiating the slightly raised green. A beautiful large bell needs to be struck when hole has been played, as blind shot from the Tee.

I played there with Roger A.'s Pine Tree Society in April of this year and it is a truly wonderful place to play golf, a great course,a great clubhouse, all impeccably maintained from Tee boxes to fairways, to greens, to paths etc.... Well worth the green fee.

Will return next year with the Society as this course is one of Top 10 we want to play again. Great choice.


THE END.....

It looks very grand as you drive to the golf club, part of the Crown golf chain, but a Members Club. There are leisure facilities there as well.

I played there back in April 2014 and will be very brief as I did not make many notes.

A course designed by Jack Nicklaus in the grounds of a 17th century manor house with several lakes and lots of ancient trees, lovely Hertfordshire countryside.

The first 9 are more open but have ditches to take into account, the lakes make the last 9 even more challenging. Really lovely natural setting but very tough, specially so on a 1st visit.

2 favourite holes;

The 15th, a scenic short Par 3 over a lake, the green being encircled by water on 3 sides.

The 17th, a long Par 5, downhill with a lake before reaching the green which is raised guarded by bunkers either side.

The fairways were well maintained, so were the greens and the bunkers had decent sand.

It was a pleasant day, sunny and warm.

The bar and outside seating area were pleasant, the food & drinks reasonably priced.

Large car parks, good practice area.

Friendly pro shop .

Planning to return in a not too distant future.



THE END.....

The new layout has reduced the course by some 400 yards +, which is a shame but on the bright side one can get 18 holes in just 3 hours.....

Lots of new holes, some pinched from the original Duke' s course, from original driving range, some ver short Par 3s and 4s...... My 2 favourite holes have disappeared: a long Par 3 which used to play to different flags/greens depending of the time in the day and the long Par 5 downhill (now a short Par 4 and a Par 3....

The 18th is a totally new short Par 4, look straight and easy but danger awaits: a stream/ditch some 60 yards from the green, 3 or 4 bunkers carefully guarding the green and the large new lake at the back of the green......very interesting.

The new greens are good but not as firm as the originals which have always been excellent by their conditions, contours & ondulations but still a pleasure to putt and 1st class for local Pay & Play courses.

The numerous geese sometimes leave "messages" on the greens, a bit of a nuisance though......

The layout is fluid, well sign posted, fairways could be better, the 1st cut could be shorter, the rough is tough, always take provisional off the tee if you are not a straight hitter as no guarantee you will find your ball. Old tee boxes could do with TLC.

Due to the disappearance of the old members of staff, one does not feel yet the warm atmosphere that used to be @ Richmond Park but I am sure that in a few months time, things will get better.

The outside terrace overlooking the new lake is a real pleasure on a sunny day like today .

Still a very popular venue, there could have been more thoughts put into new layout, placement of the two 18th greens, ie. nearer the terrace so one can watch the final putts whilst enjoying a drink. The air blower/shoe cleaner is in the wrong place, at the start of the 2 courses, so when you finish your round you are 100 metres away from it......no way to leave your golf bag in view when enjoying the 19th hole, so one must return to the Car park for safety.

By the way, always "shout fore" when errand shots, one of our team (Paul S.) nearly lost his nose or his teeth, if it was not for the shout!!!! The ball flew past him and landed on the white tee box behind him.....

All is well, that ends well.


THE END......

Silvermere was my Golf Club for many years. Quite tough for "starter high handicapper", so when I join the TSG family, I give up my Membership.

It is a course I like very much for many reasons despite some very long Par 5s, and the 2 punishing/rewarding final water holes (17th/18th).

Some improvements were being made when I left. The new Greenkeeper and his Team have been very active and the course is now at its BEST ever.

I played there last week (31.7.2014) and I thoroughly enjoyed what I saw and noticed:

- Every Tee box has a smart wooden sign, with yardage, layout etc., ball cleaner and when necessary some new steps to the Tees.

- New Tee box at the Par 3, 9th hole making it a superb Par 3.

- New Ladies Tee box at the exquisite 17th, Par 3 over the water. Our new tee box is on the water.

- Improved signage, specially so tothe 7th hole + others, over the road.

- Good clearing of woods/bushes, so on the tight holes, it is easier to look for errant balls.

- Fairways in excellent condition, and cut grass is picked up.

- Some bunkers have been re-designed, re-positioned for the better.

- Stroke indexes have consequently changed and the new Course Planner is not yet available.

- 1/2 way hut (by the 8th) opens every day, except Mondays & Tuesdays.

- Food & drinks very pricey but the outside terrace is the place to savour the 19th hole in full view of the large lake and 17th & 18th Greens.

- The new 2 tiers driving range is superb, spacious and certainly makes Silvermere even more attractive to golfers.

- The short game practice area has also been re-designed for the better.

- The practice putting green by the Starter Hut/1st tee is in great condition. The artificial chipping area takes some getting used to...

- The large Proshop has been re-fitted and it feels more spacious too, with a dedicated golf shoes shop.

- Worth mentioning: The Left Handed Golf shop has now its base at Silvermere and it is a paradise for us "lefties".....Good deal to be had, also a free 30/40 assessment of your golf swing or a fee paying one with all the modern technology. Your choice.

- Club repair shop offering all the services: new grip, shaft, etc. etc..

Staff very friendly & helpful.

So very well done to whoever got all the improvements into place, and of course the new Greenkeeper and its Team: it is making a real difference to one's golf experience at Silvermere. How can one not love this course ?

I may consider re-joining when my Membership at The Short Game Academy/Hapmton expires as I need a CONGU handicap to open the doors to the competitions I want to take part in and also get my Surrey County Card which the TSG does not offer yet.

The above are my very personal view, do join any games posted at Silvermere and see for yourself.


THE END..........

A very pretty setting with views of the North Downs,but what a disappointment with the whole layout: criss-cross fairways, actual roads being part of the course on 3 holes. A real shame as one gets confused, it stops the flow of the game, one can easily miss a hole (as the group in front did), signage is not visible or existent. As 1st time visitors, our 4 balls was unanimous in thinking Chipstead wont be "on our return list" . Even the succinct course planner is not very useful as to directions.

An well established course dating back 1906, fairly short in length (just over 5000 yards from the yellow), but none the less challenging with very tight & sloping fairways, blind holes and lots of trees. The 4th (Hillside), Par 5 (500+ yards from yellows) is sloping right all the way to the green, very difficult to plot one's way, should be interesting to see how the Members play this hole !!!!

Some very pretty holes with colourful names:

- Sheer Drop, 5th, Par 3, lovely downhill, over rough.

- Hell, 7th, Par 4/5 , Stroke index 1.

- Damnation, 8th Par 4.

- View, 16th, Par 4: the most scenic hole: as a background 2 villages on either side a wheat field (photo posted in my album). Also the most inconvenient as Tee boxes is over the 8th green!!!!

- Careful, 2nd, Par 4 has a guiding post, but the line could also be The Shard, as visible on a clear day like today (13.7.2014).

The course is in good condition & well looked after, the greens interesting enough and well kept. The bunkers had different types of sand.

Pleasant Ladies changing rooms.

Friendly, well equipped Proshop, selling trial clubs in very good condition for £10.....

Spacious bar on he 1st floor, good service/prices, a lovely outside balcony overlooking the crossing & sloping fairways of the 1st and the 18th !!!!!

Practice facilities: good, some nets and an open range by the large car park, plus chipping/sand practice by the 9th/10th hole.

The Starter Hut doubles up as half way hut too, a very good idea.

A busy place on a Sunday afternoon with Members playing competitions, so there is an attraction if one can bear the layout.....(did not find out who the architect was).




THE END.....

That is all I probably want to remember about Seaford Head from my 1st visit.

I did not enjoy the upheaval due the to present construction of a new Clubhouse everything is squeezed, squashed and one can feel the pressure on the staff who seem to have a forced smile but were polite. All the facilities are cramped in Portacabins. the outside seating area is in the Car Park !!!!! mind you it was a nice and sunny spot for after round drinks & presentation.

Proshop: limited stock & no course planner.

Parking very congested and on road leading to golf course.

Due to the construction work, one has to starts at the 5th, which is a very nice downhill, over bushes , slight dog leg Par 5, with a flat green and a few bunkers.

There are no course diagrams by Tee boxes, so not having a course planner, it is a bit of guess work as to where hazards are, etc.

I cannot remember many directional arrows to next Tee either.

Bunkers: the worst I have ever encountered, why called them "sand bunkers" when there only 1 mm of sand on a compacted surface ? I wonder if they come under the "Trade description Act" and has anyone ever challenged a golf club.....

Fairways seem a little neglected.

Greens: rather flat and uninteresting apart from 1 or 2, but cannot remember which ones.

1st cut: quite thick and the rough is as intended and hides many golf balls, most likely to be unplayable. Always take provisional, should your Tee shot have the slightest deviation from the fairways of first cut, will save a lot of time.

Some crissed cross holes, so that will add time to your round, for safety reasons.

Walkers have some rights of way. Quite a few people taking their dog out too. Fresh sea air is very energising.

Seaford Head is a links type, set in a beautiful part of the South coast, with wonderful of the sea, South Downs, Seven Sisters. It has all the right, natural elements, the ups and downs of the land, the vegetation etc. but clearly the course shows signs of neglect. There are challenges and some very interesting holes, specially so the ones where you climb up quite steeply, and the final descent on the 18th, Par 5, but you will find far better local courses to enjoy a round of golf. I was made aware of the disruption but did not expect such upheaval.

Despite all my less that complimentary review, I want to return and play the course when the new Clubhouse is up and running. It should offer wonderful facilities and a stunning view of the coastline, the beach and Seaford Head town.

My highlight was meeting the Lady Captain who gave me a few tips for the day, we were too late for the Pimms (it was Captain's Day), but the tent was still there.

Today (Sat 28 June 2014), it was an SES/Essex Bandits competition with a big turn out. The shiny "little" trophy went to David Holmes who came in with a magnificent Stableford score of 40 points (apparently his golf lessons are paying off...). So, the Trophy remains South side of the River. The weather was excellent, some wind as expected on a links course but the sun was at its warmest and most pleasant when we were relaxing at the 19th hole.

The above are my very own, personal views of my 1st experience at Seaford Head & account of the day. But don't be put off, try for yourself.




THE END........

The golf course is situated on the large estate of historic Hever Castle, Kent. Very impressive setting be it the grounds, the clubhouse and the design of the course which is just over 20 years old.

We played the Championship course comprising the Kings & Queens, two very different halves but equally challenging, may be more so the 2nd half which comprises a very long Par 5, 618 yards from the yellows ! On this very peaceful environment you will enjoy all that golf has to offer: lovely scenery, warm welcome, delightful Clubhouse and a well presented & maintained course with a strong challenge. Some dog legs , a few blind holes if I recall but the sleek & beautiful contoured greens are to be remembered. The bunkers are not many but very well designed for that strong challenge that the Championship course offers.

The practice facilities are 1st class too: the large putting area which makes a focus point from the terrace, the open & covered driving range, a large chipping and sand bunker a little further away down a well laid out path.

You will encounter a variety on each hole: some with very wide fairways impeccably cut, some narrower, large bunkers, and the natural water hazards, bridges, ponds, streams, ditches, etc. present on numerous holes. The trees are very mature, the ponds & streams are a haven for wildlife. The 2nd nine seems a little "wilder" in appearance, so probably more beautiful to my own eyes.

Today (Tuesday 30 April 2014) was a gorgeous sunny day on an empty course, a very pleasant mixed 4 balls taking advantage of a special £80 voucher kindly offered by our coolest, friendliest & most handsome TSG Ian F. Thank you from the 4 of us.

My favourite hole is the 12th, a Par 3, not that long, very beautiful, a large pond in front of the green, 2 huge bunkers, 1 on the left side and 1 at the back, the green is encircled by trees, also present on the right hand side. I think the tees were slightly raised.

Another hole worth mentioning is the 13th, a tough "cookie" which can upset your scorecard, the shot from the yellow is one of the most awkward as it facing sideways towards the narrow fairway bordered by a pond nearly as long as the hole on the left, mature trees on the right. The green slopes towards a stream waiting to catch the rolling ball and a large bunker on its left.

The Clubhouse is very attractive with a feature on its roof: different coloured tiles spells the name HEVER. A huge paved terrace with classy metal furniture & sunshades, lots of flowers arrangements, to the side of the terrace is a water feature: a pond, an old bridge, a weeping willow, looks very romantic. a lovely & scented rose path leading to the Ladies changing rooms which are well equipped. The lounge is spacious with lots of natural light,, nice furniture providing a pleasant seating arrangement.

Food is excellent: club burger with blue cheese and side salad + chips is recommended. Reasonable price for drinks too. Smiling & happy to serve Bar staff.

The Pro shop is well stocked and you get a nice welcome.

Large car park. The course is situated quite far away from all the main roads and if George (my GPS) does not behave, it will take you down single track lanes which I hate !!!!

A lovely experience on a very beautiful course but would not like to play on a wet and windy day.

There are special offers throughout the year.

By the way, I never saw or had a glimpse of the castle, so may be I shall return.




THE END.....

(My very own personal views usual).

North Downs is over 100 years old, not overly long, with interesting sloping fairways & cleverly designed dog legs. One needs to be fairly fit or a buggy will help as there are lots of climbs and descents.

An excellent challenge for all levels where finding the fairways will be rewarding, so the driver might not be the best club for the long hitter.

Greens were super fast, lovely contours, quite hard, difficult to read, bunkers as usual all very magnetic, some very deep, but with soft sand.

Lovely scenery (North Downs) either side of the "B" road as the course has 2 parts equally challenging.

Well kept fairways and first cut pretty good but then go a little further and you are in trouble.

Water on one hole only, a small pond on a Par 4, the 14th.

Today (16.6.2014) was a Charity Golf Day in support of a Sussex local charity "Respite", and a large amount of money was raised. It was very well organised, lots of lovely prizes for the golf and for the raffle. The best Carvery ever, be it the main meal or the wide selection of deserts: well presented and cooked, all very tasty and very welcome after a hard day on the course, a cold summer's day !

The day was well supported by Roger A.'s Pine Tree Society/ friendly TSGers from Essex, Kent, Surrey, Middlesex & Sussex of course.

We had an unusual shot gun start: "an explosion" designed and magnificiently handled by Dr John W., not sure if the poor little squirrels and birds appreciated the huge "bang".

Large Car Park.
Friendly Clubhouse, quite traditional.
Large & pleasant Ladies changing rooms.
Pro shop was being refurbished, repainted but offered all the basics, and a very simplified course planner for £2.

Must mention the practice putting green situated directly behind the 18th green, very unusual set up as one has to stop practicing when players approach their final hole. There is an outside seating area by the putting area and it does not feel safe, I rather watch the action from the Clubhouse, but there are big warning notices of the danger!!!!!!! But it does look attractive with all the roses and shrubs and flowers around.

Unfortunately I wont be posting any photos as I did not have my camera. So maybe will return one day, as I like the course whick I played well on the holes that mattered for our Team, we won the 1st prize overall (thanks to Captain Paul T, his friend Shaun, Kevin G and I) Must have been my lucky day as I also won the 1st prize in the raffle..... So lots of goodies to take home.



THE END.......

Well, if you have not played Austin Lodge golf course, you certainly want to put this course on your list "to play". Superb from Tees to Greens and that for 18 holes of golf.

A true gem, set in valleys with chalky soil giving excellent drainage all year, with quality fairway grass , clean 1st cut, superb greens, responsive, fast and true, truly the best after Desert Springs (Spain) & Epson Downs, Surrey. The bunkers a little deep at time but with soft sand.

The views are exquisite, some very steep Par 3s, but overall the walk is not as hard as some people think and can easily be done, it will reward you with very toned legs, good for your golf balance. Buggies make it easier to go and look for the ball when in the rough that is quite deadly.

Every hole offers its challenges with the slightly slopping but wide fairways and flattish most of the times, water comes into play on a few occasions only and I think the finishing hole is a real beauty, Par 4, 350 yds from Yellow, perched tee with a blind shot on sloping fairway. OOB on the left, the green being guarding by 2 lateral ponds, a bunker on its left and one at the back. Everyone from he Clubhouse & terrace can admire your approach & final putt. A lovely setting.

Because of the nature of the valleys, one will need stamina, good selection of clubs, good pairs of legs or a buggy for an enjoyable round of a course for all levels of golfer.

A warm reception in a small Proshop, Clubhouse is large, very pleasant seating arrangement, full of natural light with a modern fireplace as a focal point too. Friendly staff, reasonable prices for drinks/food.
A terrace overlooking the attractive 18th green.

Ladies changing rooms, very adequate with an unusual "metal hand" as door handle, apparently the Mens room has "buckets" according to DJ.... not sure what he means, but did not investigate.

Very friendly atmosphere, excellent deals for Societies, today's deal was exceptional with Bacon Rols/Coffee, 18 holes and a superb Chicken/bacon/cheese with delicious chips and side salad , DJ included prize funds money and it costs a mere £30. Thank you for organising this venue which is now on my list of "replay" anytime.

Excellent practice facilities. Putting green is true reflection of the greens on the course. One can chip as well.

There is no Professional at this club.

The only drawback for me is the little narrow lane leading to the Golf course, my GPS sending me a long way round when I could have stayed on the A20 for most of my journey.... The turning by Eynsford station can easily be missed as there is a dead end sign with no indication that Autstin LOdge is at the end of that very lane... So be aware if you venture to Austin Lodge Golf Course for the 1st time.

By the way, the official time it should take to do this round is 4 hours 19 minutes as per the scorecard.



THE END....... (photos will be posted that is if I don't loose them)

The Danish owners have a real gem in their hands, the natural surrounding landscape and clever Hawtree design make a superb course comprising of 3 loops. This is also a golf resort with hotel and luxury log cabins, perfect for a few days away.

The Satnav will take you through pretty but narrow lanes of the Dorset countryside, I just prayed I would not find a tractor along the way. Luckily I didn't, only the postman and his van who was helpful in guiding me to the last mile as there were no signs. I should have followed the main road and ignored the GPS.

A very warm welcome in the ProShop by Gerart, more likely of Danish origin if going by the bright blue eyes/ blond hair/fair complexion and his excellent command of the English language. The shop was a delight as full of Ladies clothing & smart accessories, left hand Ladies clubs too..... I did a little shopping. There was the usual Mens gear, but smart & fashionable makes. An excellent choice of golf bags, shoes and clubs.

A very special price of £35 inclusive of bacon roll + coffee was negotiated by Brian H., who was going to be my playing partner for a mixed competition that was cancelled, but as the course looked so attractive, we decided to still play the course. We had a beautiful weather too.

The course: there are 3 loops of 9 which is always attractive proposition: the Lakeland, the Parkland and the Woodland. We played the first 2, water was certainly present on every hole, lots of ditches (some being hidden from the Tee), ponds or lakes, and huge/ numerous bunkers in the multi leaf clover shapes with nice soft sand, probably from the Dorset coast.

The fairways were in very good condition and wide enough, the rough was certainly hiding the ball and difficult to play.

The greens, has been scarified, a few weeks ago and I personally could not putt today (6.5.2014), the shapes were interesting, with ondulations and tiers.

The beauty of this course is that one does not hear cars, does not see houses, just nature all round, reminiscent of the New Forest not that far away from this golf resort. Lots of wildlife & natural habitat. A pleasant walk with well defined paths to the next Tee.

Practice facilities, all present but did not use them.

Ladies Changing room: very large and very well appointed, lots of light and all the goodies one needs after a round. Plenty of lockers etc.

The Clubhouse is large and light too, with lovely terrace in the setting sun, by the 18th/9th hole and the practice putting green. Friendly staff and good food too at very reasonable prices.

Quite a long drive for a days golf, but one could stay at the Golf Hotel or in Poole which is not very far away.

I am glad I made the journey and played the course, I shall return but will probably plan a few days golf and try the luxurious log cabins, lots of special offers and as proved by Brian H. the Dorset GC is prepared to negotiate.

If you get a chance to travel to Dorset, do try the course, a very pleasant experience and surrounds await.



THE END...... ( Will post a few photos)

Birld Hill GC is a public course, just over 30 years old, fairly flat & open parkland in a vast expanse of rural Bekshire which used to be a racecourse back in 1881 !!!!!

The 1st nine holes are fairly flat but made interesting by various water hazards, ditches that run across the fairways, and also deep, high lipped bunkers.

The 2nd nine are prettier, more challenging & a little hilly. Water & ditches come into play on a few holes as well.

The fairways were dry which is always nice(probably due to the wind as very open parkland, pretty in the Spring with all the blossoms) well maintained & cut, so was the 1st border.

Greens fairly fast& in good condition, 2 lovely tiered greens @ 11th & 16th.

Bunkers were numerous & deep as said earlier (some being re-built), sand a little compact but manageable, if you know how !...

My favourite was: 9th Par 3, (175/130 yards) short but always testing as a large pond across and slightly around the green and a bunker in wait. Very pretty with weeping willow & spring flowering blossoms on the side of it, near the clubhouse.

Birds Hill suggests there are birds aroud, I did see a see hawks or kites, heard the pheasants, Paul S. said he saw an Eagle (or had an Eagle, not sure).

Large Car Park, well laid out.

An American Golf Shop on the complex.

Practice facilities: putting green & a very large driving range, with mirrors & lighting for night practice. No sure about chipping/sand practice area.

Pleasant & homely Clubhouse with sunny outside seating area. Good food selection @ very reasonable prices. Friendly & welcoming staff all around.

Quite a busy course on a Saturday but did not spoil our round as the groups were moving nicely in front of you, etc.

A pleasant 4 balls comprising of David H. and I against Lee B and Paul T. Very close match, we had nerves of steel, I was given a few shots and I had a "lucky dime" given to me (by the opponent) on the 1st Tee !!!!!

The price of £25 for a Saturday morning is reasonable.

Thank you Paul S. for organising this pleasant Berkshire venue.

Must mention the awful return car journey, stuck on the M4, an Aston Martin bumping my bumper, it took me 2 hours to get home (normally a 30 minutes journey). But it was sunny and warm.





THE END........

A lovely feel as you drive to the large Car Park, you see the big modern , stylish Clubhouse with a huge terrace & the putting/chipping green.

Friendly reception in the Proshop which stocks all you need for your golf.

Bar is pleasant, lots of seating areas, a Spike Bar, plenty of natural light with big windows overlooking the terrace. Excellent choice of food, with "daily specials", good value for money, smiling & attentive staff. The price of the coffee/tea wont break the bank.

We had a light & tasty lunch before our game & some time to explore the practice area by the 1st tee, offering choice of 2 nets and a cover area to practice shots up to 150 yards with marker posts, a sand bunker practice too.

The course is a private Members Clubs (visitors welcome), parkland/woodlands with water (either ponds/lakes or ditches) on 12 holes, designed by Peter Alliss and Clive Clarke, so one can be sure of a great challenge for all level of golfers. Sand bunkers are numerous too and well shaped & placed, a little compacted on some holes. This is a course that I believe would be very wet in the winter due to the surrounding water. It is a peaceful setting, looks quite rural, one can see or hear ducks, geese, pheasants, cockerels etc. A few very attractive properties can be seen from the golf course.

Well laid out paths to next Tee with small signs on the ground, neat and tidy Tee boxes. Water fountains & ball washers, and sand boxes (the 14th was captured on I-phone by David W.)

Well kept fairways and stunning Greens, so firm and fast that it was easy to 3 putts !!!!!

A few blind holes uphill with guiding posts , some very interesting par 3s. Large amounts of ancient & huge trees. I like the design of this course and the easy walk. Worth mentioning the 1st hole, with a big mirror in the oak tree, one needs to look up to see if the fairway is clear of golfers who should ring a bell once they have passed the ditch before the green.

My favourites:

6th, Par 5 (480/435 yards, SI 6 : a dog leg to the right with water/sand on the right too, more bunkers on the left of the fairway, mature trees on either side, plus a series of bunkers (5),some very large (typical of Peter Alliss's) , mounting guard to the approach to the Green.

15th, Par 3 (194/160 yards) SI 3 : 2 large ponds in front of the Tee boxes, mounds on the right hand side, notlto forget the large bunkers around the green. This hole is the one you ca see from the practice putting green and the terrace.

Then one crosses the the B road for last 3 holes.

18th, Par 3 (212/173 yards) SI 9, could be the signature hole, not sure. A lovely & tricky Par 3,very tight between the pond and the ditch unless you can carry a long way. Thick mature trees on the right and large bunkers awaiting by the Green.

It was a lovely warm Spring day, the morning fog having cleared by mid morning. We had s special deal arranged by David H. for £20 which is excellent value for a course of this class & quality.

Ladies cloackroom is very "posh" with gold plated taps!!! !!!! The changing room is big and nicely laid out with lockers available and all that is necessary to freshen up after a 4 hour round. There seem to be a very strong Ladies Memberhsip with lots of games/functions organised.

I would like to return to this course for a more decent score and get to know the course better.

Well worth a visit for a pleasant golf challenge. Do try to play this course, if you get a chance.



THE END........

Purley Downs is a well established private members club, full of tradition & history but well tuned with the 21st century.

The natural landscape where sheep used to graze over 100 years ago, provide a perfect setting for a challenging game where no 2 holes are the same. The chalky grounds of the North downs permits all year round play, this is certainly a course to put on your list of "winter month play".

In 1894, a nine hole golf course by J H Taylor made use of the contours to provide an enjoyable golf game with spectacular views on every hole. 10 years later it become a full 18 holes. Very few changes since then: few bunkers were added and 2 new tee boxes were constructed to meet the modern day challenges. Bylaws restrict the membership to 300 full playing members, so the course is rarely crowded.

The fairways are excellent, hardly any divots, I saw some greenkeepers raking twigs off the fairways, it was immaculate indeed. The greens were superb, true, fast and sometimes intimidating.Bunkers were well designed and placed, Very few have standing water. Lovely soft sand.The paths to the next tee boxes are well defined. Ball washers/towels at every tee. There are some fairways that crosses so takes extra care when playing certain holes, there are signs to indicate the crossings.

The 1st hole, Par 3, Yellow 160 yards, (signature hole), raised Tee, downhill to a securely guarded green encircled by tall trees, truly awesome. It sets the scene for the rest of the other 17 holes. They will give you surprises, wonderful view over London landmarks (St Pauls, BT Tower, Battersea Power station, Shard etc),views of local Croydon and even Windsor Castle on a bright sunny day like today (7.2.2014). Nothing is flat, so be prepared for a good workout, ball below feet, uphill/downhill lies. You will be puffing and looking forward to that pint/or coffee at the 19th hole !

There is a half way hut but it was not opened today.

There is a lovely feel about Purley Downs: a warm welcome in the Proshop that is well equipped. Our 3 balls met the Head Pro/Club Manager (Scot Graham) on the course and later in the Clubhouse where we had a pleasant chat.The Clubhouse is large, has several rooms, full of natural light and offers wonderful views over the 1st Tee, 9th & 18th greens, so does the very pleasant veranda with classy garden furniture. Bar staff are friendly. Everyone seems happy. The drinks/food are very reasonable indeed. I can recommend the "Home Made Burger" with all the trimmings.

Members are friendly too. I had the privilege to meet one, Mr Ronald M., who gave up his game of snooker (yes there are 2 full size snooker tables on the 1st floor, for members'use)and took me round the whole of the Clubhouse to show me the Memorabilia, explains some of the history etc. the links with the famous Royal Blackheath GC (no mention of Judy L. though !!!), French golf course near Paris etc.. the trophies won... and of course the names of Vardon, Braid, Henry Cotton, Alf Padgahm, Harry Weetman, Tony Jacklin were mentioned and their photos/pictures on the wall. Must mention a truly admirable tapestry that celebrates the Centenary of the Club: it is the Women Section, every playing member is represented and has its name signed in embroidery. Very impressive indeed & artistic.

Ladies changing room is in the Main building, large, pleasant, well equipped. Men changing room is in the same building as the Proshop by the Big Car Park. Practice facilities: green by the clubhouse and 1st tee. Driving range. chipping behind the Proshop on the right handside of the 1st green. It was a lovely discovery, with 2 new, friendly TSG members and they too liked the course and cannot wait to return.

I must thank a certain Mr John A. who kindly enquired for me (back in October 2013) as to favourable rates for TSG members when I first discovered Purley Downs whilst driving to another golf course nearby. Today, I did negotiate a very good rate too. County cards are accepted and I believe there are some deals to be had if you book on line and pay in advance, but I personally prefer to book on the phone and pay on the day. Not sure what else I could write, so I better stop.

PS: I did post some photos on my Album.

THE END.......

One of the "must play" (30.11.2013, temperature in the 30 Degrees C +).

To play this course, one needs the agility of a mountain goat, the golfing skills and imagination of Seve and of large oxygen bottle....

This is certainly the most testing 9 holes I have ever played, I have never seen such steep inclines and blind holes, but what a challenge. The scenery is breathtaking too and the added thrill of a storm lurking made it an unforgettable experience plus the warm welcome from the Proshop and the Members with whom I played.

Le Golf Club du Colorado was very accommodating as I was 1 hour late for my round (dont ever rely on non-golfing family members to give you a lift !!!) Although, La Reunion is part of France, the attitude on this island is very laid back. I was slotted in with 3 charming local Members. Being part of The Social Golfer.com I am quite at ease playing with total strangers. We started as a 4 balls but soon decided to split up as the course was very busy and nature decided it was time to show how quickly the weather can change in this tropical part of the world.

A set of brand new Left Hand Ladies golf clubs was waiting for me with a new bag and new trolley, what a treat, normally when I hire clubs abroad, I have to make do with Mens clubs and old ones with steel shafts...

The only flat lie on this course on on the Tee boxes. The fairways are well maintained despite the slopes and inclines, natural contours utilised to their best to make the 9 holes a very challenging course. For a 1st timers, better to be playing with a Member who can give you some tips as to where the ball will react and as to where to aim as not always obvious with the blind shots.

The greens were superb, fast, even the Members well having difficulty in reading the lines.

Bunkers were plentiful and filled in with dark, blackish sand from the volcanic rocks so present everywhere in La Reunion island which still has a live Volcano (the most monitored one in the world!!!).

There are wonderful views of the Indian Ocean, the volcanic Mountains.

Wind and clouds suddenly appeared but not serouis enough for us to abandon golf, and run back with the oxygen bottle to the Clubhouse! A beautiful rainbow showed up at the end of the round and the sun shone again.

An enjoyable course discovery & experience, a warm welcome in the Proshop (even if you are late), a friendly Bar/Restaurant with a terrace overlooking the finishing hole guarded by large bunkers and several stray dogs, a particular trait in La Reunion. All these dogs are friendly and just looking for affection/love/food. If you took one home, you know it will never leave you.

I was given some golf magazines by the Proshop as they could see I had a special interest in their course, set up. activities etc. I read all about their members taking part in various competitions on the island and further afield, like Mauritius or Madagascar...

A new, larger and more modern Clubhouse is being built for everyone to enjoy. There is a strong, active & mixed membership taking part in numerous tournaments etc.

Very reasonable prices in Euros for the round, equipment hire and the Bar.

There are 2 car parks, one for the Golf and Tennis members and one for the Visitors (probably an overflow).


Excellent practice facility in the open, replicating the actual contours of the course.



THE END......

Christmas Eve round, well attended but a little daring considering there had been so much rain the prevous days/week.

The course was playable, I enjoyed the layout, the variety, the blind tee shots with guiding post & the challenge of the numerous water features and certainly more than usual on the day!!!!!! Some ravines had been created. There were ditches across fairways too, so if you know the course it will helps you game.

The Fairways were good for a rainy December 2013.Greens varied in condition & wetness, but be warned, they are fast, super fast in the dry weather (DJ's comments, always a very reliable source as DJ plays so many courses in Essex and organises games too, so he knows his stuff).Bunkers: some had standing water but all strategically positioned.

Warley is a 3 x 9 holes loops where you get to play various combinations as decided by the Proshop. This will soon change as the plan is to offer an 18 holes main course and a 9 holes too. I am sure this will work well. The surrounding Essex countryside is very beautiful and in Spring and Summer it must be even more attractive, more enjoyable to play.

Some places were a little slippery, will mention the 17th Par 3, Red Tee box where I took a giant slide in the mud, I think Damien B. and Andy C. from the group behind us may have witness the event but none of my 4 balls noticed anything, I had no offer of gallant rescue, not even Mr L's who was present today..... I shall not forgive him, well I did as he put all my muddy clothes in the washing machine when we returned to Twickenham.

Not sure why there is a cannon at the finishing hole, may be it is to announce the winning team. Does anyone know?Proshop: friendly reception and a good stock.Ladies Changing Room: very modern & attractive.Bar/Restaurant: nicely laid out with a drink/eat area and a relaxing seating area with leather comfortable leather seats. Terrace outside, not far from the cannon. Large Car Park with a long drive, as we left the Christmas lights were shining all the way to the main road. Very pretty. Nice venue for Society golf days, good deals to be had.

I cannot wait to return to this course as it has captured my heart: the layout, the Essex scenery and the warm welcome from the staff & members alike. The deal was good even if not what we expected, but it was Christmas Eve and the kitchen closed early but not a real problem as everyone understands that Father Xmas is only around once a year!!!

Thank you Mr Ian M for organising a game at this lovely venue.Will be back sooner than later.

THE END.......

Where do I start? There is so much to say on my recollection of this enjoyable sunny Autumn day @ the foothill of Richmond Park.

Everytime I did the perimeter walk of Richmond Park, I went past The Richmond Club I used to peep through the fence to look at this lovely golf course & thought it would be nice to play at this private members club.... well today (4.11.13) the opportunity arose when my very 1st "golf buddy", now a member @ this club invited me as a guest. A far cry from where we met as beginner golfers on the driving range at the other end of Richmond Park where Glendale run 2 public courses, the Dukes & Princes with their brand new state of the art clubhouse as indicated in one of my previous reviews.

As you drive through this leafy, wealthy part of Surrey, you go through an arched gatehouse following a road that crosses some fairways, so beware of golf balls & golfers !!!! The Clubhouse is impressive, a listed Georgian building (home of the late Duke of Argyll), the car park is well laid out, good signage to the driving range, chipping area & the 2 putting greens, the Pro shop, 1st etc....

The course itself is a parkland with various kind of mature trees displaying their splendid autumn colours under a warm sun and clear blue sky as we had today. The walk is pleasant, the only time you may get out of breath is climbing the stairs to the Clubhouse.....

The course is not overly long (just over 6000 yards) but the Par 3s are, varying from 209 to 165 yards. There are some crisscross holes, one has to ring a warning bell, one Tee box is very near a green (9th/10th), 2 holes go over the private entry road. Apart from that the layout is pleasant with lovely well-defined path bordered by old telegraph poles and covered with dark bark.

Tee boxes are in tip-top condition, with ball/club washers, towels provided by Porsche, securely padlocked to the ball washers.

Fairways are superb too, well cut, seem to drain very well too, some sand seem incorporated in the grass etc... but I did notice some divots not being replaced....

Now as to the Greens and their fringes, they were an absolute delight, a true pleasure to play your short game, so well cut I sometimes did not know if I was on the green or the fringe, lovely shapes with undulations, running true & fast (I like this tech. bit of information). One did not need any "gimmies", the putts were just sinking in (NO 3 putts today). I did notice a few pitch marks though...

The bunkers were all wonderfully shaped, a lot of them, always built on mounds,, filled with very nice medium coarse sand which makes the bunkers playable even when wet from the day/night before.. I did find the sand on a few occasion but easily managed my shots "a la Phil Nickelson"..... I think my short game is improving since I joined "a local Short Game Academy" when I could not ventured on an 18 holes course due to a recent back injury now under control.

There is not a lot of water coming into play, only a small pond by the 8th Par 3, and a small stream (Sudbrook) that crosses 2 holes, the 17th and 13th I think. Sudbrook stream is from the water from the hills of Richmond Park and runs down to the Thames, near Ham or Petersham I believe....

This is a course that suits my game, as I am not a long hitter and I believe if I were a member of this Club, my handicap would go down quite a few strokes !!!!! There are a few doglegs not overly complicated, each hole has its character and dangers, one can see some truly wonderful & expensive properties bordering the course, some lovely views of the hills of Richmond Park, Pembroke House can be seen too.

My favourite hole was the 17th, probably the signature hole, a medium Par 5, dogleg right, with some bumps, a ditch and an slightly raised green with stunning backdrop of various trees and also views of the royal park.

There is a very pretty half way hut (rightly placed by the 9th and 18th greens) where one can get free "Squash", beer or more alcoholic beverage would be nice too, but not available. Small seating area with hardwood furniture.

Proshop is nicely stocked, I got a very warm welcome by Elliott who awarded me a Par on the 8th (Par 3) as is was out of play due to reconstruction. I played quite well today and I am sure I would have Pared this hole as it is one of the shorter Par 3., anyway I needed a number for my TSG scorecard and this is "Social Golf", but I had no gimmies on my putts.

The Clubhouse is a beautiful building, inside out, several bars, card room, library, the famous "Cube Room"
(yes build like a cub, totally square), I had a peep through the door, they were re-decoration going on, it was full of natural light and very attractive indeed. Nice food was served by friendly & pleasant staff, did not pay for my drinks so I do not know the prices.

Must mention that Ladies golfers have only recently been allowed to join as members in their own rights (in the last 5 years), that probably explain why the Ladies changing rooms are very new, very modern with the best quality sanitary furniture, chic, sleek & stylish. Lots of natural light & downlighters. Could have spent hours in the large walking shower!!!! Separate keypad for the lockers where members can leave their golf equipment.

A very nice experience at The Richmond Club but not in my price range as a regular place to play. The Members Guest green fee is £35.00 which is worth it for the quality of the course and the nice surrounds and the history.

Forgot to mention the course was built by Tom Dunn in 1892/1896. Before acquiring the lease of Sudbrook Lodge or Mansion as their Clubhouse, the members used to meet at the nearby Pub "Fox & Duck" on the Petersham road.


THE END... I suppose it was worth waiting for, but not sure how many TSGers actually read my reviews. I did post some photos too!

This was our 2nd golfing day (3.9.2013) & we were on our way to Willingdon, but a glimpse of several little green oasis with yellow & red flags called for a stop and investigation, it was time for breakfast too.

The entrance to the "perched on the hill" Clubhouse is very attractive with lots of scented lavender attracting numerous species of bees & butterflies. The views over Eastbourne, its harbour and the Sussex Downs National Park are magnificient, the golf course looked so inviting too, a vast expanse of rolling hills, some lunar scenery, some huge fields, I felt in my element.

The wellcome was more that friendly. The Clubhouse was filled with bright light as the weather was sunny & bright and that created a happy feel about the place. Whilst eating our full, tasty & perfectly cooked English breakfast, we studied the course planner & unanimously decided to play the Eastbourne Downs course, hence cancelling Willingdon (very beautiful course too) as I had already sampled its challenges.

As we were getting our golf gear ready, a sudden mist appeared over Eastbourne Town & Harbour, so then came the question: are we going to be able to enjoy our golf should the mist move up the hill? We were reassured by the friendly members that it was an absolutely perfect day for golf and that the mist would stay down. It proved correct, we had a superb blue sky and warm day with very little breeze, hence the good scores, but play this course in the blustery wind/ rain would be a different thing unless you are a regular player.

So now to the golf course itself: well over 100 years old, a JH Taylor design with some alterations when the Clubhouse was moved from "down" to the "top" of the hill, a downland course that plays like a links, it is vast, every hole has its cachet, its challenges and I am sure that regular players must acquire all the skills needed to return a good score as they get plenty of practice under the harsh natural elements. The landscape reminds me a little of East Brighton, Lewis & Willingdon put together, well I suppose they are all near or by the sea. One hole (the 10th) reminds of the ice age as there is a "dew pond", I wonder what it was millions of years ago.....

The walk is up and down but not too strenuous, signage is good but one needs to be aware of 1 or 2 holes where one can easily go the wrong way. One can see walkers enjoying the Sussex Downs National Park, some paths crossing the course.

The condition of the course was excellent all the way through, the greens very interesting, fast & true, so a real pleasure to spank the little white ball in the hole.

2 favourite holes:

7th, Par 5 (557 yards/yellow.): a real MONSTER, OOB on the right with a stone wall that protrudes, lots of trees & undergrowth on the left, sloping fairway left to right, a road (with a hollow on its right)to cross before the approach shot to a very attractive raised green chisled into a slope, looks like a square bowl. A real "wow hole" that surely ruins many cards, specially so in adverse weather conditions....

12th, Par 3 (174 yards/yellow), a downhill par 3 where wind direction will dictate the use of either a Driver (yes a Driver, even for long hitter) or a Wedge..... Your choice, golf is such fun. Three huge & deep greenside bunkers keeping guard. The green has a slope at the back.

The finishing hole offers great views over Eastbourne, the South Downs Way runs alongside its fairways, it has some depressions in the middle of the fairway, looks a bit like bomb holes, the last green is a little treacherous with 2 bunkers of either side...

Eastbourne was a great & unexpected discovery, so glad we stopped and enjoyed a glorious sunny golfing day with good scores (always pleasing).

Large car park, sharp turn either up or down the hill, on a busy A road, depending which direction you are driving from.

Friendly Proshop, well stocked, some Ladies items as well.

Pleasant changing rooms.

Good practice facilities with an open sloping driving range see-able from the 9th and 18th holes.

This course is on my list of "must play again", but will we have as perfect conditions as today ?

So why not try the course, am sure you will enjoy the challenge and the walk. The Green Fee was very acceptable. Food & drinks very reasonably priced too.




THE END.......(how sad, I could write some more!!!!!!! I did post some photos on my album earlier on).