ROYSTON GOLF CLUB
O F F I C I A L C O R P O R AT E B R O C H U R E 2022 - 2023
CONTENTS / 3
Straight down the middle... Pooling your skills, performing as a team: that’s how to prosper - in sport, in life. That’s why Pellys Solicitors’ multiskilled team work with you to provide the best legal solutions. Pellys - your first choice legal partner T: 01279 758 080 E: info@pellys.co.uk W: pellys.co.uk Pellys Solicitors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority - SRA number 554552
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Welcome From The President Becoming A Member Membership Experience Women In Golf Six Month Academy Membership Royston Play More Golf Membership Junior Golf The Pro Shop
01273 510 400 www.ludisgroup.co.uk
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Tuition About The Course Visitors Societies Corporate Clients The Clubhouse Functions Open Competitions
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Course Tour Social Membership 130 Years Of History Course Nature How To Find Us Contact Us
Royston Golf Club & Ludis would like to thank all of the businesses that appear in this publication for their support and wish them continued commercial success. The content of this brochure is believed to be correct at the time of printing but we cannot endorse individual statements and readers should not rely solely upon the continued accuracy of any individual claims contained herein without consultation with the service provider. Designed and Printed by Ludis 2022.
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WELCOME FROM THE PRESIDENT / 5
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Royston Golf Club is a historic club with a rich heritage dating back to golf first played on Therfield Heath in 1624. The present 18 hole course is little different from that laid out in 1869, making it the oldest 18 hole golf course in England. The members are very proud of this fact and realise, as current custodians, we have a special environment in which to play, even more so as the chalk downland allows the existence of rare fauna and flora. The Heath is designated a SSSI. Since 1892 we have been a club run by members for members. Any proposed major changes need the members’ agreement before implementation. Our 18 hole course is laid out using the natural terrain of the heath and has a real links feel. Situated above and within walking distance of the busy town of Royston, the views, on a beautiful day, stretch across
three surrounding counties. The underlying chalk with its natural drainage and the local knowledge and expertise gained by our greens staff helps keep Royston in superb condition throughout the year, providing a rewarding and exciting challenge for players of every level. With no need for temporary greens, members and visitors alike can enjoy golf all year round and we enjoy sharing our course with people who may not have experienced it before. After your round of golf please enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, excellent catering and bar menu in the clubhouse where you will be made very welcome by our in-house team.
Our golf professional is on hand to provide you with expert knowledge, advice and recommendations to develop your game. If further information is required please do not hesitate to contact our club secretary on 01763 242696 who will be happy to help. I wish the Club Captain, Lady Captain, Senior Captain and Junior Captain good luck for the coming year. I look forward to working alongside them. Finally, may I take this opportunity to wish all the club teams and members an enjoyable and successful year. David Musgrave — President
BECOMING A MEMBER / 6
The opportunity to play at Royston Golf Club every day enjoying the golf, the views, the nature and meeting new people who share your passion for golf is reason enough to become a member of our club. However: Join Royston Golf Club and you gain access to over 50 courses dotted around the country that can be played for no additional cost. This facility is provided via our membership of the Smart Golfer Network, The 1892 Club and a reciprocal relationship with Bedford Golf Club and Market Harborough Golf Club. In addition Royston Golf Club recognises the demands on time modern living imposes. We have a partnership with PlayMoreGolf which
tailors membership to help those with limited time to engage in golfing activities. Royston is an inclusive club that is dedicated to promote golf. We welcome applications from girls, boys, men and ladies of any standard. There are many other compelling reasons why joining Royston Golf Club represents an excellent lifestyle choice. Our full members are able to benefit from the following: • No joining fee • Online booking system • Seven days unlimited golf, subject to course availability • Reciprocal golf at over 50 venues • Unlimited use of our practice facilities
• Unlimited use of our clubhouse and facilities • Unlimited golf on the 18 hole course • Unlimited golf on our new three hole short course • Play in all competitions • Gain a certified handicap • Discounted bar card • Discounted function hire • Free Wi-Fi • PGA Professional offering expert advice and tuition • Well-stocked professional shop with the latest fashions Why not experience club life for yourself and take advantage of our three month trial membership
As a game that can be played all throughout the year, golf membership offers excellent value for money. It is a pleasurable form of exercise, extremely social and can be as competitive or relaxed as you choose it to be. Here at Royston Golf Club we encourage new members to come and enjoy the ever improving facilities and relish the benefits of a membership.
New member, Bill Landels wrote to the management:
Additional membership categories include the following:
‘I moved to Royston from Scotland a year ago, only knowing one person and wondering if I could find a new golf club with which I could feel really comfortable. After looking around the area, I found the best was on my doorstep...Royston G C. Not only a unique, historic and challenging course but as importantly such a welcoming Club for all ages. The Seniors Section is the most well run, friendly and fun group I have ever enjoyed , guaranteeing a game whenever you want. Fantastic value for money’.
• • • • • • •
New! Six Month Academy Membership Family Membership Junior Membership: Under 18’s PlayMoreGolf Membership Services Membership County Membership Under 30 Membership
The current annual fees and details about all membership categories can be viewed on our website at www.roystongolfclub.co.uk. For more information on joining Royston Golf Club call 01763 242696.
MEMBERSHIP EXPERIENCE / 8 Ladies The ladies’ section at Royston Golf Club is known for being friendly and welcoming. We have a range of playing abilities and we cater for all standards of golfers.
Members at Royston Golf Club enjoy a full programme of golf throughout the year. Fixtures against local clubs are long established events and many friends have been made along the way. Competitions within the club are all well supported, whether medal, stableford or a major event. The healthy competitive side of the club does not detract from the social scene with competitions arranged for friends and family. Social golf highlights include the annual family foursomes, mixed fourball and the Hare and Tortoise that is a competition over six holes for golfers with a non-golfing partner.
There is always something to suit your age, golfing desire and handicap. At Royston Golf Club you will certainly not be short of playing opportunities. Gentlemen The men’s section at Royston Golf Club is one of the friendliest around, and many members have a keen interest in competitive golf. Competitions are regularly organised. The Saturday stableford ‘swindle’ is very popular as is the Sunday morning competition, which can be a medal round, individual stableford, or team event. However, the most competitive matches take place in the
Hertfordshire Golf Union Scratch League in which the team have seen great success in recent years. With over 50 players regularly competing, there is a lively but friendly atmosphere in the cluhouse afterwards. If you enjoy aprèsgolf, there will always be a place for you at the bar. Although being competitive is fun, social golf without the pressures of competition and maintaining a handicap is not forgotten. We strike a balance and organise regular social and mixed golf where the chance to grow friendships is always on the cards.
We have a busy calendar with regular club competitions, ‘roll up’ days, friendly matches with other clubs in the region and also enter the inter club county competitions (reaching the finals of both the Grace Norman and Jean Wilkinson competitions at the end of 2019, and winning the Grace Norman in 2021), all providing opportunities to mix socially with other ladies. Whether you wish to play competitively or more socially, there are opportunities to do so within our ladies section. We play seven days a week, our main competitions being held on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Two of our recent initiatives are regular group coaching sessions with Luke, which are proving very popular and lots of fun, and a regular roll up for beginners wishing to improve further by playing a few holes with more experienced ladies. As well as having fun on the course we enjoy having a chat over a drink or coffee after the game. Come and give us a try - we can assure you of a warm welcome.
Royston Golf Club have achieved the Women in Golf Charter Accreditation for our commitment to inclusive golf. We are actively supporting a more inclusive culture by developing women’s involvement in every aspect of the sport, by purposely creating an environment that values everyone. We hope to make golf welcoming and inspiring to more women and girls. Juniors FREE JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP FOR UNDER 11s IN REGULAR COACHING. Please speak to a member of staff for more details. We want to see as many young people taking up the game of golf as possible. We go into local schools to provide taster days, PE lessons and after school clubs to ensure everyone has the opportunity to give golf a try. The junior organiser arranges competition opportunities within Royston Golf Club and against other clubs, particularly during the school holiday period. Please see page 15 (Junior Golf) for more information on coaching and playing opportunities. Our golf professional and all of our members who assist with junior coaching or transport to and from matches are DBS checked. They also keep up to date with the necessary safeguarding to ensure a fun and safe environment for all.
Seniors The seniors are a thriving part of Royston Golf Club, meeting every week for either fun competitions or competitive golf. The seniors’ golfing calendar is filled with regular matches, where the chance to socialise and catch up with old friends is as eagerly anticipated as the opportunity to play golf itself. The weekly roll-ups are normally held on Wednesday’s plus there is an active Friday league. The Senior Open held in August remains a highlight of the seniors’ year. The club’s senior section is truly one of the strongest in the area, and this is celebrated at the annual prize-giving event in October. Throughout the year there are plenty of other opportunities to get involved with social events if attending the annual prize giving eludes you.
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Through the Women in Golf Charter, we are actively supporting a more inclusive culture by developing women’s involvement in every aspect of the sport; purposely creating an environment that values everyone.
Royston Golf Club Academy One of the Women in Golf Commitments was to create an Academy to encourage Women and Girls to experience golf with the view to joining the Club.
We hope to make golf welcoming and inspiring to more women and girls through our Commitments, which can be seen on the RGC Website in the Women in Golf Charter.
This idea spread further through our Professional to incorporate an Academy for the whole Club for anyone, who wanted to perhaps return to golf or start from scratch, both men and women.
The members help support both the Professional in his group lessons and the new Academy players on both the par 3 and main golf course.
SIX MONTH ACADEMY MEMBERSHIP / 12
Introducing our Academy Membership, ideal for beginners as well as a refresher for those returning to the game after a long break. This is an instructional based membership designed to give you the knowledge and skills so that you feel comfortable playing on the golf course.
The Academy Membership Includes: • Five individual lessons + 90 minute on course lesson worth £160.00 • Discounted group sessions • Unlimited use of all practice and clubhouse facilities including: Three hole short course, practice range, putting green, nets and snooker table • Can play on the course from the academy tees at restricted times with any member with an official handicap. Will be allowed out on the course on your own once signed off by the Professional. • Option to borrow clubs & good value sets available to purchase from the pro shop
• In addition, you will be supported by a buddy system; we will encourage you and build your confidence on and off the course • Social Membership worth £55.00 • Discounted bar card • Reduced buggy hire • Free bag tag, club diary, wifi and corporate brochure If you have any questions or would like to join our academy membership, please call 01763 242696 or email lukebaileygolf@gmail.com.
ROYSTON PLAY MORE GOLF MEMBERSHIP / 13
For the golfer with limited time! • No joining fee • Social membership worth £55.00 • Discounted bar card • Use PMG points to sign in up to three guests at members sign in rates • Unlimited use of all club house facilities and practice facilities including snooker room, practice nets and practice range • Reduced function room hire • Unlimited use of the 3 Hole Course • Gain a handicap within three rounds • Reduced buggy hire • Free bag tag, club diary, wifi and corporate brochure
In addition a Royston PMG member will be able to enter all competitions and medal competitions including charity and mixed competitions run by the club with the exception of Mens and Ladies Honours Boards Competitions. Also, at the discretion of the Captain, Royston PMG members will be eligible to play in internal club matches and external friendly matches.
The current annual fees and details about all membership categories can be viewed on our website at www.roystongolfclub.co.uk. For more information on joining Royston Golf Club call 01763 242696. Or send an enquiry to office@roystongolfclub.co.uk
JUNIOR GOLF / 15
We recognise that juniors are the future of our club and therefore the importance of building a vibrant and enthusiastic junior section. This is why we ensure we provide regular coaching and competition opportunities in a welcoming, encouraging, fun and safe environment. Coaching Here at Royston Golf Club we have a structured pathway for juniors, from a complete novice golfer all the way into a full junior member. Our group coaching programme is delivered in five week blocks, covering a wide variety of skills and games to support improvement in all areas of golf.
Our teaching also includes discipline, honesty, team work and perseverance which are all important life skills beyond the golf course. Junior golfers do not need to be a member of the club to take part in our coaching program and no equipment or experience is necessary. Holiday Camps During the school holidays daily classes are available, which include two main skills through game based learning. This is followed by an on course coaching experience to finish the day.
Golf Sixes Royston take part in this fun, friendly team league against local golf clubs. Golf Sixes league means quicker six-hole matches in a ‘Texas Scramble’ format – a great way of building confidence among new players. Junior Open Our Junior Open is run by the British Junior Golf Tour, please follow their website to keep up to date with dates and times for Royston and additional open events. For more information please visit our website or email lukebaileygolf@gmail.com.
THE PRO SHOP / 16
Located on site at Royston Golf Club, our professional Luke Bailey holds in stock high quality products for male and female golfers, with the latest in golf equipment, designer clothing and golfing accessories.
You can also order products online using foremostgolf.com click & collect service. Your order will be ready to collect from the pro shop within 2-3 days.
Our professional staff are on hand to offer impartial advice in all aspects of golf and retail, including tuition, custom fitting, regripping and repairs.
Foremost’s approved suppliers include:
Can’t see the product you’re after in stock? No problem, Royston Golf Club are members of Foremost which enables us to supply our members and customers with any product from Foremost’s approved suppliers.
• • • • •
Titleist • Footjoy • Taylormade Callaway • Ping • Cobra Under Armour • Masters Golf Motocaddy • Glenmuir Sunderland • Puma • Proquip
...plus many more.
TUITION / 17
The professional shop is also the place to hire ride on buggies, push trolleys, electric trolleys and hire clubs for men, women and juniors, although booking in advance is recommended. Combined with our competitive pricing, vast range of different products and brands readily available, whatever your budget we will pride ourselves on making sure the shoppers’ requirements are met. To contact Luke with your requirements and queries, pop into the professional shop or call 01763 242696.
Why Golf Lessons? If you’re a regular golfer or just starting to play, lessons are a great way to progress and get even more enjoyment out of the game.
Our PGA Professional Luke Bailey will be delighted to help assist golfers in acheiving their ambitions and goals in golf, whatever they may be.
Here are a few other reasons… • Health • Social • Make new friends • Great for networking • You don’t need any experience to give it a try • More quality time with family • Learn new skills
Luke has experience coaching golfers of all ages and abilities, individually and in varying group sizes. Luke delivers professional advice on all aspects of the game on and off the course, which helps build the complete learning package.
...Your reason may be different, so why not contact our PGA Professional and try it for yourself?
There are many different styles that can hit a good golf shot which is why every lesson is tailored specifically to the individual.
Lessons include the use of video analysis and a launch monitor so you’ll even be able to see your carry distances, swing speed, spin rate and more. With the aid of such technology and expert knowledge, no matter what your ability, you’ll be able to make improvements you didn’t think were possible. Luke’s aim is to make it as simple as possible for you to improve your game, lower your scores and make golf more enjoyable. To book a lesson contact Luke on 01763 242696 or email lukebaileygolf@gmail.com. For more information and prices please visit our website. @lukebaileygolf
ABOUT THE COURSE / 19
INSURANCE ON YOUR DOORSTEP Personal – friendly local service located just outside Buntingford No charges – we don’t charge admin fees or for payments made by Direct Debit Reward – we reward our loyal customers through a Mutual Bonus which provides a saving on the renewal premium of your General Insurance policy © John McDowall Photography
To discuss in more detail, call your local NFU Mutual Hertford & North Herts agency on 01920 469173 or search NFU Mutual Hertford & North Herts
Situated high on fast-draining chalk-based heathland, Royston’s course features firm, fast fairways and is playable all year round thanks to the exceptionally good drainage. With the varying wind conditions and greens that present a small target in the breeze, your experience will be different every time you step on the course. Due to its elevated position, your round will be enhanced by the spectacular views overlooking Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire with Bedfordshire in the distance.
L J King, K J Mitchell & R A David is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982).
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Don’t be deterred by the view from the road; there are only two significant but short uphill slopes. The round begins with a gentle climb up the first and second holes. Holes three
to nine are on relatively flat terrain before the 11th hole drops down to the farthest part of the course. The 13th hole is uphill but navigated in two stages, taking time for the second shot made difficult by the slope. After playing the 14th hole, with its right to left sloping fairway, it is across the road to the 15th hole which drops down towards the Baldock Road. The climb from the 15th green to the 16th tee is short and after playing the 17th, the 18th hole drops back down to a green adjacent to the 1st tee. Don’t be deceived by the length of the course that measures 5,976 yards. Royston’s course plays differently on almost every occasion
thanks to the terrain and prevailing wind and includes two par threes that are over 220 yards; a 440 yard par four (stroke index 1) that is slightly uphill and usually plays into the prevailing wind; and a 533 yard dogleg par five. The course has no two holes alike thanks to the natural contours of the Therfield Heath and it will never cease to delight the enthusiastic golfer. We think you’ll agree with us that this has to be one of the best-kept secrets in East Anglia, and one thing is for sure - you will not find a fairer test of your golfing skills than our 18-hole, Par 70 heathland course. We know you will be back.
VISITORS / 21
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Visitors are always welcome at Royston golf Club: whether casual green fee payers; members’ guests; smart golfer or 1892 club players; or societies. Our enthusiastic and dedicated staff are on hand to provide a warm welcome and give every assistance to make your visit memorable. The golf club have six electric golf buggies available for hire, electric trollies and push trollies too. If you are visiting for the first time we would recommend hiring a buggy in order to relax and make the most of your first experience on the Heathland that Royston has to offer.
Booking in advance is usually essential to avoid disappointment on the day. Tee times can be booked through our website via the BRS online booking system. All visitors will benefit from a visit to the professional shop for tips about the course, history and of course to stock up on consumables for the round ahead. Whilst there, take the opportunity to browse the extensive range of golfing equipment and clothing available for both men and women. In addition, take the time to improve your technique with a lesson from our trained PGA Professional.
After the round, head to the club house for a well-earned drink, snack or meal in the comfort of our lounge or patio from where you can look out over the heath and watch as players negotiate the 18th hole. Alternatively, our 19th spike bar, steeped in history, will make a great setting where the tall stories of the round may be aired in a more relaxed atmosphere. Details of our visitor green fee rates can be found on our website.
SOCIETIES/ 23
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Royston Golf Club is a popular venue for societies, many of whom have become regular visitors and regarded as friends who return year after year. Our society packages offer real value for money. Unusually for a members’ club, Royston Golf Club accepts societies seven days a week, with restrictions on Saturday and Sunday subject to course availability. Packages can be tailored to the society requirement to satisfy most demands.
Royston offers 18, 28 or 36 hole packages with or without catering. Mix and match at a price that is right for you and your society. The Club now has a fleet of 6 electric buggies for hire for those who need them. Prior booking is essential to ensure availability. For that special occasion, why not book an individual or group lesson with our professional prior to playing for that extra edge out on the course.
Visit, you will not be disappointed. For information on booking, please contact the office on 01763 242696.
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CORPORATE CLIENTS / 25
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Royston Golf Club is the perfect location for corporate golf days, for entertaining clients, meetings, seminars and retirement parties. Our function rooms offer versatile accommodation away from the hustle and bustle of local hotels and hostelries. Our dining room is suitable for up to 40 guests whilst the lounge can accommodate 60. The doors between the dining room and lounge are demountable so that 90 guests can be accommodated in comfort. For that private confidential meeting or social event our 19th bar offers a selfcontained area with bar where exclusive use for 30 guests can be provided.
We are happy to tailor packages to individual company requirements. If catering is required, our chef will liaise with you. The menu is equally versatile, so you can start the day with breakfast or begin later in the day and enjoy a buffet lunch or a more substantial three-course meal. Any special requests can usually be met. After your meeting, why not play a few holes to unwind. You will find us a welcoming and willing host for corporate golf days, and we can supply everything you need to make your day a success.
For more information or if you would like to discuss your requirements, please call 01763 242696.
THE CLUBHOUSE / 27
Personal care and attention 24 hours a day by local, qualified staff Serving all faiths ~ repatriations Horse-drawn and green funerals
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£150 off pre-paid funeral plans for Royston Golf Club members (24 hrs) email: enquiries@newlingsofroyston.co.uk
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Our bar is well stocked with a selection of beers, lagers, wines, spirits, local real ales and an extensive choice of non-alcoholic alternatives all sold at competitive prices.
Our chef provides his catering service for members and guests seven days a week, offering a wide selection of bar snacks and delicious specials every day.
If you have a special request or have any dietary requirements please contact our chef who will do his utmost to accommodate you. Call 01763 242696, Option 3.
FUNCTIONS / 29
Making the last tribute a beautiful one Natalie has 20 years of experience in the industry Creating beautiful bespoke, traditional and remembrance arrangements. Donation personally made to your loved ones chosen charity. “I just wanted to say a huge thank you, words can’t express how the flowers made us feel ” -
A private home salon located in Hertfordshire. A beautician & makeup artist offering a variety of beauty treatments such as: gel nails & extensions, manicures & pedicures, various treatments within lashes & brows including brow lamination, tinting & waxing, facials, event makeup, bridal makeup & 1-1 non accredited lessons. Only 6 minutes drive from Royston high street with free parking available on site. First time bookings for Club Members Receive 20% off your booking
If you are looking to organise a function or special event in Hertfordshire, then look no further. Royston Golf Club could be just what you are looking for. Set just outside the bustling town and with ample car parking space our two main function rooms look out over the heath and the golf course. The views of the local countryside are stunning.
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The Dining Room is the perfect size for small parties of up to 40 whilst the lounge can accommodate 100. For larger events, the dining room and lounge can be made into one. From the lounge, sliding doors open out onto an extensive patio where our caterer
is happy to serve barbequed food or on a balmy summers’ day revelers can spill out into the sunshine with their drinks. For small private parties, the 19th bar can be booked. This bar benefits by being self contained. Our catering team has created delicious menus from finger buffets to fourcourse banquets, and the chef can work with you to create a bespoke menu for your occasion. Whatever your event, special ideas or aspirations, our staff will work closely with you to make sure everything is in place for a great day.
We are delighted to have been the chosen venue for a variety of different events over recent years. From: Christenings to wakes; formal dinners to buffets; birthdays to anniversaries; dances to discos – we have done them all. For more information on functions at Royston Golf Club or to view our superb facilities, please call us on 01763 242696.
OPEN COMPETITIONS / 31
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Open competitions provide visitors with the perfect way of enjoying Royston’s golf course. These ‘value for money’ events are staged throughout the year and combine competition with hospitality. Our aim is to involve golfers of all playing abilities and from all walks of life who simply enjoy playing, enjoy competition and enjoy being in like-minded company.
Choose from: Ladies Easter AM/AM – Over the past two years this event has show huge growth as the day is full of fun. As the name suggest the event has an Easter theme and is played in teams of three. Senior Men’s Open – This event is a three person team Stableford competition and almost always supports over 80 golfers for golf and a meal. The seniors see regular visitors to this event from all the surrounding clubs and it is always played in the social spirit of golf.
Junior Open – Sponsored by British Junior Golf Tour, this event offers golf to all junior age groups by the way of shorter measured holes for the younger players to a full length championship course for the experienced junior. If you can get a space in the event you will have a chance at holding aloft the same trophy as Sir Nick Faldo in 1975. For additional details on all of our events please visit our website.
COURSE TOUR / 32
Make the most of your trip to Royston Golf Club by learning about some of the pitfalls that lie in wait and how to avoid them as you follow our hole-by-hole tour.
the green short and you will find yourself in the bottom of the valley. From the first green you enjoy one of the finest views that the county’s golf courses have to offer.
Hole 1 (Dunedin) 478 yards - Par 5 A fine par five with a fairway sloping right-to-left. An interesting first hole that incorporates some of the features that makes Royston Golf Course such a delight to play. This is an uphill stroll with a shallow valley on the approach to the green. Miss
Hole 2 (The Mounds) 321 yards - Par 4 A hole that is slightly uphill with a fairway that doglegs right. Cross-bunkers will catch all but the longest hitters cutting the corner. Find the fairway and your approach will not be a long one. Get your approach to the top level, as this will leave a nearly flat putt to the hole.
Hole 3 (Astill’s Drive) 364 yards - Par 4 There is a gentle slope down to a plateau green, guarded from the front by a ring of classic pothole bunkers. Catch a glimpse of Cambridge in the distance, and on the flying days you’ll see vintage aircraft along the valley at Duxford. Hole 4 (Long Barrow) 440 yards - Par 4 A majestic, sweeping fairway takes a gentle curve towards the fourth green. Slightly uphill and into wind, the green in two is a challenge.
Beware of the cross bunker and the deep pot bunker right of the green. Here you will probably catch your first glimpse of skylarks, and in summer the clover is alive with butterflies any nature-loving golfer will relish. Hole 5 (Shepherd’s Rest) 179 yards - Par 3 The fifth tee is approached via a short path that runs between the woods and a small copse. This par three is one of Royston Golf Club’s signature holes with a broad valley in front of a beautiful green. A truly inspiring par three.
Hole 6 (Windhover) 147 yards - Par 3 From the raised tee cut into the hillside the tee shot is straight along the short but steepsided valley to an oval green. Do not be fooled into thinking this is an easy hole. The slopes and borrows on the green are deceptive. Hole 7 (Beverley’s Height) 301 yards - Par 4 Across the Therfield Road this is a real delight of a par four that turns abruptly right. Position from the tee is everything. The second shot is played along the hilltop with woodlands to the
left. Don’t be distracted by the birds of prey that live in this woodland and can be seen regularly soaring above the course in search of dinner. Hole 8 (Rand’s Folly) 365 yards - Par 4 This par four stretches along an undulating fairway with a slight right-to-left slope from a tee set in the shade of woodland. A long drive on the left of the fairway sets up the shot into the green. Beware playing table tennis across the green. Better to be short leaving a long putt for your par.
COURSE TOUR / 34
Hole 9 (Round the Corner) 505 yards - Par 5 A majestic hole that encapsulates the true character of Royston Golf Course. A drive over the brow of the hill sets up the second shot across a broad valley. The fairway then doglegs left and an undulating approach to the green make this a fascinating hole. Usually played into the prevailing wind, getting over the valley in two shots is demanding. A par five that can tell stories, especially on a windy day.
Hole 10 (Church Hill) 220 yards - Par 3 One of Royston Golf Course’s hidden gems. This valley hole has a raised tee and a gentle slope down to a green flanked by wonderful farmland to the rear. At the right time of the year this is where you will most likely get your first glimpse of the rare pulsatillas, as well as a host of other wild flowers that thrive in these downland conditions.
Hole 11 (King’s Ride) 346 yards - Par 4 A magnificent high-tee position with views beyond the beautifully bunkered 11th green to an area where Royston’s race horses can often be seen exercising. Watch out for the out of bounds on the left and the ‘cats paw’ on the right.
Hole 13 (The Colonel) 346 yards - Par 4 A long, broad fairway leads up the slope to a raised green. The drive should be kept left as any shot to the right risks being swept in to the Colonel’s bunker. Sheep that graze once each year to the right of the fairway are trained to ignore golfers.
Hole 12 (Eastward Ho) 236 yards - Par 3 This is the beginning of the homeward stretch. A neat long par three with a gently sloping fairway and a gradual run on to a circular green.
Hole 14 (High Point) 352 yards - Par 4 A glorious, undulating fairway, with a slight right-to-left slope, plus heathland to the left and views across the golf course to the
right. Keep right to avoid your shot running into the left hand rough. The green boasts a variety of levels and severe borrows. Hole 15 (The Island) 372 yards - Par 4 Back across the Therfield Road, this brilliant high tee position creates an opportunity for impressive drives onto the fairway at the bottom of the slope. Five bunkers closely guard the green and its changing levels add to the delight of this hole.
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Hole 16 (Wee Knock) 131 yards - Par 3 This is a par three that has spoilt many a medal card. Select your club with care on the tee as anything short or left will be thrown off the raised green and its banking. Beware the grassed over bunker right of the green, which is no pushover to exit and leave your ball near the hole.
Hole 17 (Five Hills) 533 yards - Par 5 Royston Golf Club’s longest hole, this par five runs along the plateau with inspiring views across Royston and beyond. Cambridge can be easily spotted and Ely cathedral can sometimes be seen in the far distance. On a clear summer evening, golfers walk towards the rising moon as they play this hole, a stunning and memorable sight.
Hole 18 (Rutlands) 340 yards - Par 4 This is an extraordinary final hole with a very high raised tee and a lovely descending walk down to the circular 18th green. Wind behind: See if you can hit the green. A terrific par four. Enjoy the views across the recreational area of the heath and watch Royston’s thriving sports clubs in action. Archery, rugby, tennis, football, cross country running, parkfit and occasionally hockey are all there.
SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP / 39
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Do you prefer a relaxed and subdued atmosphere in which to enjoy a drink or a meal? Then Social Membership of Royston Golf Club is for you. Share the social experience and benefits of the golf club environment with full access to the clubhouse and its facilities. Join for just £55.00 and enjoy all of the following benefits: • • • •
Discounted bar card Function Room Hire Discount Free Wi-Fi Free access card and club diary
• Unlimited Snooker room access • Unlimited use of our practice green and academy course Although golf on our 18 hole course is not included with this category, social members are welcome to use our short game facilities free of charge, the putting green and three hole academy course. From the clubhouse window your shots can be observed and applauded by your companions. Enjoy your refreshments on the patio for a ‘pit stop’ when required. If you decide that putting should lead to playing our beautiful course then we have various golf memberships available to suit your
requirements. Golf lessons can also be booked with our professional, Luke, who is experienced at coaching both beginners and experts alike. Our bar is well stocked with beers, ales, lagers, wines and soft drinks and our friendly bar staff will make your visit enjoyable. Our chef offers a selection of lunch choices in addition to running food-themed social evenings with musical entertainment. We do ask that Social Members comply with the Club’s smart casual dress code, which is not onerous.
130 YEARS OF HISTORY / 40
Royston Golf Club plays on a course first laid out (unofficially) by others on Therfield Heath in 1869. Royston is not only an old 18-hole golf course, the oldest in England, but is a historic golf site, where the first recorded English golfer, George Villiers, 1st Earl of Buckingham, played and where King James VI/I and his sons may well have played.
Golf at Royston dates back to 1624 (and possibly up to two decades earlier), when King James VI/I selected Royston to build his hunting lodge, turning Royston into the Falkland Palace of the south. Two centuries later, two Cambridge students laid out the first 18-hole golf course outside Scotland on Therfield Heath and that area is still played today. The two students who laid out the first Royston course were Andrew Murray and George Gosset. Andrew Graham Murray matriculated at Trinity College, Cambridge in 1867 and he later became a prominent lawyer, MP and 1st Viscount Dunedin.
However, he is better known at Cambridge as the first person to ride a ‘penny-farthing’ bicycle there. George Gosset was the son of Rev I H Gosset who introduced golf at Westward Ho! In 1869, they and their fellow Cambridge golfers were in need of a course and they selected Therfield Heath at Royston as the best prospect in the whole region because of its underlying chalk foundation, which gives it the quality of an excellent links course. The duo apparently arrived with their golf clubs (and a hole cutter) and decided where the 18th green should be. From there, they mapped the course out, establishing the
holes by eye and the distance of their ball striking. The course was well received and the Cambridge club soon had 17 members, paying a 2/6 (two shillings and six pence) annual subscription. However, Royston is eight miles from Cambridge and it was much more difficult to travel to in those days, so the course was abandoned in 1871, and the Royston-based club did not survive.
When Royston golfers decided to form a club in 1892 they resurrected the old Royston course with the encouragement of the Conservators of the Heath and the help of students from Cambridge. The club reports that: The course that was designed followed much of the original eighteen holes set out in 1869. This was the prelude to the establishment of Royston Golf Club on the 1st May 1892 and although there have been many changes over the past thirty years, mainly to increase the length and avoid playing over the road, every effort has been made to preserve its character.
The map of the course in early 20th century supports the fact that the current course is laid out where Murray and Gosset laid out their first course. Royston town itself is steeped in history, after growing up around the crossing of two ancient highways. In Norman times, a lady called Rosia marked this famous crossroads with a wayside cross that was erected on a stone base. This became the site of a settlement known as ‘Rosia’s Cross’ where the carefully preserved stone base can still be seen today. The derivation, it is believed, of the name Royston.
COURSE NATURE / 43
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Royston’s course is situated in a site of special scientific interest (SSSI). Working with natural England under a Higher Level Stewardship Agreement the Club is closely involved in the maintenance of Therfield Heath and protection of the very special environment for the benefit of golfers and the public alike. As may be expected, there is an abundance of flora and fauna that are all protected by the SSSI status.
As you play your round look out for skylarks either nesting in the long grass or high above you. Their chorus, especially in spring, is unmistakable. Birds of prey abound. Look up and it is likely that you will see red kites, the broader winged buzzard and the smaller kestrel; also know by its country name of Windhover. On the ground, particularly the south facing slopes of Church Hill, there are the Pulsatilla or Pasque Orchid, a very rare purple and yellow flower that has been adopted by the Club’s senior section as their emblem.
According to folklore the Pulsatilla only grew where Danish blood had been spilled. This is the largest colony of wild Pulsatilla in Europe. Other rare flowers abound which attract butterflies including marbled whites and chalk hill blues. If you are lucky during the summer you may even see them hatching. If the golf gets you down fall back on nature; we all have bad days.
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HOW TO FIND US / 45 Mark Byles
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Royston Golf Club is located in an idyllic spot on the Hertfordshire/Cambridgeshire border yet within easy access of public transport links. For satellite navigation purposes our postcode is SG8 5BG. From the North or East - At the roundabout where the AA505 and the A1198 meet, Tesco is prominent. Leaving Tesco to your right head into the town. Continue to follow this road until you reach a T-junction with traffic lights. Turn right. Continue over the mini roundabout and past the fire station. The Clubhouse is situated on the left just before the 40mph speed sign.
From the South - If approaching from the south on the A10, continue into the town, turning left at the first roundabout. Continue along this road through pedestrian lights then traffic lights over a mini roundabout and past the fire station on the right. The Clubhouse is half a mile further on the left, near the 40mph speed sign. From the West - If approaching on the A505, turn off the roundabout at the start of Royston bypass (second exit) towards Royston. McDonalds is before you. The Clubhouse is approximately a mile on the right close to the 30mph speed sign as you enter the town.
Public Transport The nearest railway station is Royston, which is less than a mile away. Three trains an hour depart from central London with an estimated journey time of between 50-60 minutes.
CONTACT US / 46
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H
ere at Royston it is always a pleasure to meet new members, visitors and guests. If we can assist you with any queries or questions that you may have then please do not hesitate to get in touch. Royston Golf Club Baldock Road Royston Hertfordshire SG8 5BG
The Pro Shop Professional: Luke Bailey 01763 242696 Ext: 1 lukebaileygolf@gmail.com Office Secretary: Lynne Howorth Tel: 01763 242696 Ext: 2 office@roystongolfclub.co.uk
Catering 01763 242 696 Ext: 3 kitchen@roystongolfclub.co.uk Bar 01763 242 696 Ext:4 bar@roystongolfclub.co.uk Ladies Section ladies@roystongolfclub.co.uk Course Manager – Ian Coote ian@roystongolfclub.co.uk
All Natural Stones - Mosaics Wet Rooms - Underfloor Heating Telephone: 0751 516 6394 brettstiling@yahoo.co.uk
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