WINTER HILL GOLF CLUB THE JOHN LEWIS PARTNERSHIP
“Berkshire’s Best-kept Secret”
Official Brochure 2013 - 2014
Contents Welcome................................................5 Our History............................................9 The Course..........................................13 Hole-By-Hole.......................................17 Becoming A Member..........................23 Benefits Of Membership......................25 Professional & The Pro Shop...............31 Tuition..................................................33 Society & Corporate Days...................35 Functions.............................................37 Conference & Meeting Facilities.........41 The Clubhouse....................................43 Visitors.................................................47 Find Us................................................49 Contact Us...........................................50
“Berkshire’s Best-kept Secret”
Photography by Sd-displays Ltd (www.sd-displays.co.uk) and WHGC
www.pinnacle.uk.com Tel: 08707 707 765m • Email: info@pinnacle.uk.com
Winter Hill Golf Club and Pinnacle Publishing wish to thank the businesses who appear in this publication for their support and wish them every success in deriving business from its circulation. The contents of this book are believed to be correct at the time of printing, nevertheless, we cannot endorse and readers should not rely solely upon the accuracy of any statements or claims contained herein without prior consultation with the service provider.
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WELCOME We are situated near Berkshire village of Cookham and the course was opened in 1976. It has matured into one of the finest parkland layouts in the county with a rich golfing tradition.
some stunning views across the River Thames and beyond
The course offers a fair and enjoyable test to golfers of all standards and at the same time provides some stunning views across the River Thames and beyond. We have come to be regarded as “Berkshire’s best-kept golfing secret”.
Here is a summary of what we offer: • Mature 18-hole golf course • Practice putting green and practice ground • Covered teaching area • Comfortable clubhouse with full facilities • Bar • Restaurant • Corporate and society packages • Meeting and conference room hire • Function hire • Golf Shop • Tuition from our PGA professionals
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Our History Winter Hill has one claim shared by very few golf courses. It was founded and is still owned by one of the country’s largest retailers. Winter Hill was the dream of John Spedan Lewis, who is regarded as one of the best British businessmen of the 20th century, as well as being a keen golfer.
The first rounds of golf were played in May 1976
After his father John opened his first flagship store in London’s Oxford Street, his eldest son joined the family business in 1904 at the age of 19. When he took control in 1928, forming the John Lewis Partnership in 1929, John Spedan extended his father’s work to distribute profits amongst one company’s employees and by 1950 had completed transfer of control to the people who worked for him. In 1938 John Spedan bought just under 200 acres of agricultural land with the intention of establishing the course for the Partners. However, during the Second World War, instead of bunkers and fairways, Winter Hill was designated for the “Dig For Victory” campaign. After war ended the Government continued to take a dim view of land being used for non agricultural use so the building of a golf course was put on hold. John Spedan Lewis died in 1963 but eight years later the John Lewis Partnership decided to honour its founder’s intention by building the golf course he had dreamed of more than 30 years earlier.
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Former Walker Cup Captain Charles Lawry was commissioned to design the layout, assisted by renowned golf course architect Donald Steel. Although the land had superb views it was very open and extensive tree planting was required. Unfortunately 1976 was not a great year for planting foliage. The long, hot summer was one of the driest on record and over 1,500 saplings perished. Winter Hill’s first intake of members came to the rescue by providing replacements which helped give the course its definition. The first rounds of golf were played in May 1976 and, in October, Winter Hill was officially opened by Peter Lewis, then chairman of the John Lewis Partnership. The ceremony was followed by an exhibition match featuring Donald Steel as well as Bernard Hunt and Bernard Gallacher, both stars of the professional game who went on to become Ryder Cup Captain, and Michael Bonallack who is regarded as one of Britain’s greatest ever amateur golfers. Winter Hill’s first club captain was Alex Poundon and Lois Ashwanden was the first lady captain.
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The Course Although a relatively young course, Winter Hill has matured into a truly enjoyable test of golf.
A continually improving course and without a doubt some fo the best greens in the region.
The John Lewis Partnership have invested significantly in its continued improvement and in Spring 2011 the final phase of fairway irrigation was completed to ensure that even during the driest summers the fairways remain lush and inviting. Our highly experienced green keepers consistently maintain the course to a high standard and Winter Hill’s greens are regarded as some of the best in the region. An ongoing programme of course improvements is in place to ensure that the course remains challenging even while golf equipment technology continues to develop. These changes are not solely based on increasing the length of the course but placing more of a premium on accuracy and good course management. Although the name suggests a tiring physical challenge, the course can be described as moderately undulating and relatively easy walking. The course is in two parts. The top section consists of the first 12 holes and the 18th. These are all on higher ground and separated by a railway line. The lower section consists of hole 13 to 17 and is, being close to the Thames, arguably the picturesque part of the course. The best view at Winter Hill is probably from the green on the short par-3 15th.
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Hole-by-Hole Hole 1, 342 yards, par 4
A mid-length par four requiring an accurate tee shot favouring the left side of the sloping fairway. The approach should also be kept a little left to avoid the bunker on the right and there is a bank that will feed the ball towards the green.
Hole 2, 274 yards, par 4
A short uphill par four where you should aim between the two trees with your tee shot. Long hitters may go straight for the green but beware the entrance to it is narrow.
Hole 3, 200 yards, par 3
Long par three over 200 yards from the white tee. It is the highest point on the course so the wind is a factor and the testing green is long and narrow.
Hole 4, 353 yards, par 4
A right to left dogleg with two well-placed bunkers to avoid off the tee. This hole offers the first of many superb views with a tricky approach to a two-tier green. Be very careful not to overclub your shot in.
Hole 5, 350 yards, par 4
An inviting downhill tee shot played to a generous fairway, but don’t be fooled. Approach shots played from out of position invariably result in dropped shots and, once again don’t over-club!
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Hole 6, 476 yards, par 5
This shortish par five is often a birdie opportunity but the well-placed cross bunker 40 yards short of the green means longer hitters must make a decision to go for it or lay up.
A stunning view of the 4th green and beyond.
Hole 7, 392 yards, par 4
A well-struck tee shot preferably with a right to left shape is needed to hold the fairway on this right to left dogleg. The green is generous but is two-tiered so a quality approach is required.
Hole 8, 139 yards, par 3
This short uphill par three plays at least one more club than you would expect and it is rare to go over the back of its well bunkered green.
Hole 9, 523 yards, par 5
A long par five with a left to right dogleg. The downhill tee shot is inviting but longer hitters beware as a selection of trees and bushes lay in wait to punish an over ambitious drive if you try to cut the corner
Hole 10, 515 yards, par 5
Another par five that runs parallel to the 9th and therefore plays uphill and longer. The tee shot should favour the left side of the fairway and the approach is played to an elevated green so be sure to take enough club.
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Hole 11, 184 yards, par 3
At nearly 200 yards from the white tees this challenging par three can be played two ways. Longer hitters may aim to pitch the ball all the way but a ball landing short should be aimed a little left as the approach has a left to right slope. Like several of the holes there is a severe slope at the back of the green so don’t over club.
Hole 15, 121 yards, par 3
Only 125 yards but a potential card wrecker. Miss the plateau green on either side and a bogey is a good score. Play smart instead by ignoring the pin and aiming for the centre of the green.
Hole 16, 491 yards, par 5
Like the 6th, this represents a birdie chance especially to the longer hitter. The entire hole is One of the most visually pleasing holes, this- on a right to left slope so approach shots landing mid length par four sweeping right to left will short should be aimed a little to the right. make you think. The approach shot can either be through the air or a running shot chosen to Hole 17, 373 yards, par 4 land short and right of the green. The blind tee shot is the key to this hole which is played uphill. Try to favour the left side and when approaching the green beware of a hidden Hole 13, 437 yards, par 4 A long par four which runs parallel to the river bunker just to the left of the putting green. and requires two good shots to reach the generous green. Two clubs difference from Hole 18, 288 yards, par 4 front to back. A short and straightforward par four to finish which is driveable for the biggest hitters with Hole 14, 381 yards, par 4 the fairway bunker on the right representing a The tee shot on this mid-length par four good line off the tee. But beware – the green is requires a right to left shape to hold the sloping well bunkered. fairway. The inviting green nestles against a wooded backdrop. Hole 19 After your round Winter Hill’s welcoming clubhouse awaits ready to offer food and drink in relaxed and enjoyable surrounding.
Hole 12, 387 yards, par 4
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Becoming a Member Winter Hill Golf Club represents fantastic value for money through a variety of membership categories that suit all ages and standards. We’re open for membership to John Lewis partners and non-partners alike.
for those looking for a quiet and relaxing retreat in a splendid location.
Our seven-day memberships allow unlimited use of the course and our clubhouse, the opportunity to enter club competitions and the opportunity to maintain an official handicap. We recognise the future of our great game is in the hands of our junior golfers and offer vastly discounted membership rates to younger player, with even more attractive rates on offer for those juniors aged 18 or under, while there is also a Cadet membership for those without a current handicap. As well as golfing membership, social membership is also available which is perfect for those looking for a quiet and relaxing retreat in a splendid location. You will be assured a warm welcome so please don’t hesitate to contact us by telephoning on 01628 536017 or to view the current annual fees visit our website, www.winterhillgolfclub.net
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Benefits of Membership The opportunity to play at Winter Hill’s fine course every day and meet friendly and like-minded golfers who share your passion should be reason enough to persuade you to become a member of our club.
Membership is available for gentlemen, ladies and juniors
There are, however, many other compelling reasons why joining us represents an excellent choice. Our members are able to benefit from all club activities, participate in competitions, enjoy social events and meet new golfing friends. Membership is available for gentlemen, ladies and juniors and currently there are vacancies in several categories.
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“Berkshire’s Best-kept Secret”
Benefits include: • No need to book a tee time • 2 PGA qualified golf professionals available for lessons and advice
Our members are able to benefit from all club activities, participate in competitions, enjoy social events and meet new golfing friends.
• Monthly medal competitions • Monthly stableford competitions • Weekly roll-up competitions • Trophy and knockout competitions • Club matches against local golf clubs • Social activities – dinners, dances, quizzes etc. • Golf Shop • Changing rooms and showers • Buggy and trolley hire • Putting and chipping greens • Clubhouse with a newly refurbished bar and members’ bar with Sky Sports • Excellent range of hot and cold food • Members’ card allowing 10% discount on bar and food purchases • Quarterly newsletter containing the latest information • Annual diary listing all club events If you are interested in becoming a members please contact us on 01628 536012 or email winterhill_administration@johnlewis.co.uk
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PROFESSIONAL AND THE GOLF SHOP Winter Hill’s location means that other than golfers and visitors to the club we do not have any passing traffic but the shop does provide a full range of merchandise although we do not stock clubs.
We offer a comprehensive range of balls, tees, Pull trolleys and buggies are available for hire gloves and accessories as well as some clothing from the golf shop. To reserve a buggy call the including a club crested range, waterproofs, shop in advance on 01628 527613. shoes and bags. We also have a selection of gift items suitable for society prizes. We do, however, provide the level of service you would expect from the John Lewis Partnership and our staff are always ready to offer help and advice. Julian, the club professional, is on hand and happy to offer advice.
Julian is very passionate about his coaching and he teaches golfers of all ages and abilities
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Tuition Winter Hill has two fully-qualified PGA professionals on hand to provide top-quality tuition to members and visitors alike. Both club professional Julian Goodman and coaching professional Gavin Clark are PGA Members and are both dedicated and enthusiastic coaches with a strong desire to provide excellence in their coaching.
Gavin has been coaching adults and juniors at Winter Hill for 15 years. He is an instinctive golf coach and believes that you should play golf to learn golf. Gavin’s lessons are task led not technique led which he believes is a more brain compatible way of learning. Gavin also provides coaching to hundreds of children each week at local schools. He is a certified Mind Factor coach which promotes simple and straight forward thinking techniques which can be applied instantly.
Both Julian and Gavin are available for individual and group lessons and can also provide group clinics for corporate days. For more information or to book a lesson call the golf shop on 01628 527613. Contact Julian on 07759 223505 or email julian_goodman@johnlewis.co.uk Gavin can be contacted on 07789 766872 or email gcgolfpro@btinternet.com
Julian is a former coach at European Tour events with more than 20 years of experience who enjoys working with golfing of all levels and has coached several players to professional standard. Julian believes that lessons should be tailored to suit the individual’s needs with the aim of helping the pupil achieve their potential. He has a holistic approach to coaching and provides on course assessments and bespoke lesson packages. Julian also organises overseas golf holidays including coaching trips open to members and non-members alike.
Both Julian and Gavin are available for individual and group lessons and can also provide group clinics for corporate days.
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Society & Corporate Days When Winter Hill hosts a Society or Corporate Day it goes without saying that the course will be well turned out and a pleasure to play. But we also believe that what we offer away from the course is equally important and therefore everyone at Winter Hill strives to provide excellence in all departments.
As well as providing a well-stocked bar we have a good selection of quality wines
We offer a broad range of packages to suit all types of groups from summertime, twilight 9-hole deals to full day 27 or 36 hole packages. We offer a comprehensive selection of menu options to suit all tastes and when requested can cater for all dietary needs. As well as providing a well-stocked bar we have a good selection of quality wines all at very reasonable prices. The Golf Shop can provide a selection of suitable prizes. We will also organise Longest Drive and Nearest the Pin markers and offer advice as to which holes to choose for these. Should you want to add some special touches we can also provide corporate logoed clothing or golf balls. For more information or to book a Society or Corporate day contact Pam White on 01628 536102 or email pam_white@johnlewis.co.uk
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Functions Our peaceful setting and superb vistas make the clubhouse at Winter Hill a superb venue to host a private function. We have facilities to provide everything from small intimate dining events to larger gatherings with food options to suit all requirements.
We can offer extensive menu options from traditional three-course dinners to buffets
We can offer extensive menu options from traditional three-course dinners to buffets, carvery lunches and, should your require something a little different, barbeques. We are happy to discuss all the options available and offer advice and help planning your event to ensure it is a very special day for you and your guests. For more information or to make a booking contact Pam White on 01628 536102 or email pam_white@johnlewis.co.uk
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Conference & Meeting Facilities Located within 15 minutes of the M25, M4 and M40 motorways and less than 40 minutes from central London we are easily accessible. As soon as you arrive the friendly professional welcome coupled with picturesque tranquillity of the venue provide the perfect environment to host business event.
the perfect environment to host your business event.
and the will your
We can provide rooms for the smallest groups or up to 30 delegates. Boardroom layout or seating arrangements to suit your needs and first-class catering and refreshments can also be provided. Our aim is to provide quality service and flexible packages to suit your individual requirements.
Room hire includes: • 42 inch Led screen • DVD and VCR unit • LCD Projector (laptop/PC not provided) • Wi-Fi • Flip chart and easel For more information or to book our facilities contact Pam White on 01628 536102 or email pam_white@johnlewis.co.uk
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The Clubhouse Winter Hill clubhouse has a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors, whether you are playing golf or just visiting the club for the first time and with stunning views across the Thames Valley, it’s the ideal surrounding in which to relax.
If you wish to book our facilities then please contact the General Manager on 01628 536017
Enjoy a relaxing drink in our recently refurbished bar or on the patio area looking across the course. A wide selection of bar snacks and delicious daily specials are available throughout the week including a Sunday Carvey If you are deciding where to book your wedding, anniversary or birthday party, look no further than our clubhouse. We can comfortably cater for functions of up to 80 people and with wonderful views and sumptuous menus this is the perfect venue for your social gathering. A flat screen TV with Sky Sports is also available in our members’ bar, so all the year’s major sporting events can be enjoyed in comfort in the company of one’s fellow members, creating an atmosphere that cannot be matched watching at home. Whether it’s a quick coffee before a round, a few at the 19th with a bar meal, or a more substantial meal in the restaurant, our accommodating staff provide first class customer service that will make your visit with Winter Hill Golf Club a memorable one.. www.winterhillgolfclub.net
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Visitors At Winter Hill Golf Club we extend a warm welcome to visitors, with both our green fees and society packages representing fantastic value for money.
Our professional will advise you as to the best time to play for a more relaxed and enjoyable round.
Visitors are welcome to play the course at any time throughout the week and are invited to use our club’s outstanding facilities including changing rooms, lockers and the Pro Shop. A range of hot and cold drinks, refreshments and snacks are available while the catering facilities in the clubhouse are superb with a full range of meals on offer. All visitors are respectfully asked to familiarise themselves with the club’s dress code. On the course, no jeans, T-shirts, football/rugby shirts or trainers are allowed. Shorts are acceptable but must be a tailored type with long or short white socks. In the clubhouse, the dress code is smart casual, however, we like to keep this area fairly smart with many members wearing a jacket and tie in the evening. It is advisable to phone in advance to ensure there is no competition being held at the club at the time you are hoping to play. Our professional will advise you as to the best time to play for a more relaxed and enjoyable round.
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Find Us From M25 (clockwise)
At junction 15, take the M4 exit to London (W) / London (C) / Slough. Keep right at the fork, follow signs for Slough/Reading and merge onto M4.
From M4
At junction 7, exit towards Slough (West) / A4. Merge onto Huntercombe Spur. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Bath Rd/A4 heading to Maidenhead (West). Go through 1 roundabout. At the Roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Ray Mead Rd / A4094. Continue to follow A4094. Turn left onto High St / B4447. Take the 2nd right onto Terry’s Ln. Turn Right onto Grange Ln. Winter Hill Golf Club is on the left.
From M25 (anti-clockwise)
At junction 16, exit onto M40 toward B’ham / Oxford.
From M40
At junction 3, take the A40 exit to High Wycombe(E) At the roundabout, take The 1st exit onto Knaves Beech Way / A4094 heading to Maidenhead/Bourne End / Woodburn Green. Continue to follow A4094. At 2nd roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Cores End Rd / A4094. Slight left onto Furlong Rd / A4094. Turn Left onto Hedsor Rr / A4094. Continue To follow A4094. Turn right to stay on A4094. Slight right onto High St / B4447. Continue to follow B4447. Take the 2nd right onto Terry’s Ln. Turn right onto Grange Ln. Winter Hill Golf Club is on the left.
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Contact Us It will be our pleasure to answer any questions or queries you may have so do not hesitate to contact us. Winter Hill Golf Club Grange Lane Cookham Maidenhead Berkshire SL6 9RP
Tel: 01628 527613 Email: winterhill_administration@johnlewis.co.uk Website: www.winterhillgolfclub.net
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Official Brochure 2013 - 2014 Winter Hill Golf Club, Grange Lane, Cookham, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 9RP Tel: 01628 527613 • Email: winterhill_administration@johnlewis.co.uk Website: www.winterhillgolfclub.net
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