Top 60 Half-Price Golf Courses by Today's Golfer

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This is classic parkland territory, with a huge concentration of great 2-FORE!-1 golf courses, now including The Grove.

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The Grove Chandler’s Cross, Herts. 01923 294266 The Grove – a new 2-FORE!-1 venue in 2009 – is one of the best golf complexes in Europe, with an 18-hole championship course located in 300 acres of mature parkland just 18 miles from central London. Designed by Kyle Phillips and opened in 2003, it shot to fame immediately in 2006 when it hosted a World Golf Championship, won by Tiger Woods. Playable all year round, the course is immaculately maintained. Woods said: “The greens are somewhat undulating, but they are really smooth. The course is in fantastic shape, the greens are absolutely perfect.” Construction started in 2000 and work was completed in the summer of 2002. A seeding and “grow in” programme ensured that when the course opened in September 2003 it was in immaculate condition from tee to green. With four sets of tees and fully integrated cart paths, which are set into the landscape, visitors can select the length of the course to suit their ability. Using 2-FORE!-1 will save you £85 on the normal summer green fee of £170.

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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The Dorset G&CC

Crowborough, East Sussex. 01892 661511

Newbury, Berks. 01635 568142

Wareham, Dorset. 01929 472244

Established in 1895, Crowborough Beacon is an excellent, mature heathland golf course close to the highest point in Sussex, at nearly 800ft above sea level. As at many of these old venues, accuracy is more important than distance. The signature hole is the par-3 6th, known as “The Speaker,” a 190-yarder played to a green beyond a ravine. But the 5th is our favourite – a par 4 with a huge ravine which requires a long carry to find an uphill fairway.

Rebuilt and redesigned between 1998 and 2000, Donnington Valley is a 6,353-yard, par-71 course set in mature parkland. It provides a challenge for most golfers. Its big defences are tight, undulating fairways, so positioning a tee shot is key. The front nine isn’t as good as the back, which features a 270yard par 4, a 600-yard par 5 and several par 3s, plus an approach over a lake on 17. Off-course there’s a four-star hotel.

The Dorset is home to 27 holes of the most challenging golf in the county. The Martin Hawtree-designed Lakeland, Parkland and Woodland courses are built to full USGA specifications and are well maintained. The par-72 Lakeland/Parkland Course boasts picturesque lakes, while The Woodland, a par-33 nine-holer, has tight, tree-lined fairways, which have been carved through a forest of rhododendrons. Many visitors stay in one of the idyllic Scandinavian Lodges on site.

Guildford GC

Meyrick Park GC

Selsdon Park H&GC

Guildford, Surrey. 01483 563941

Bournemouth, Dorset. 01202 786040

Croydon, Surrey. 0208 768 3116

Guildford is one of Surrey’s best kept secrets – a hidden gem on the edge of Merrow Downs. Founded in 1886, it is the oldest club in Surrey and remains one of its most challenging courses; the actual layout has hardly changed since the 1920s. At 6,090 yards, it is not a long course, but its par of 69 is not easy either. The views are spectacular: on a clear day you can see four counties and the skyline of central London as far as Canary Wharf.

This 18-hole course, established in 1894, is the oldest municipal course in England. Set in 120 acres of undulating scenic parkland, it’s a demanding test. From the 244-yard opening par 3 to the highly regarded par-5 14th, golfers are confronted with numerous memorable challenges. With its tree-lined fairways, Meyrick Park can make a realistic claim to be one of the best munis in the country.

Selsdon Park is a mature, well-established rolling parkland course in the heart of suburbia. It’s impressively tree-lined and scenic and there are some cracking elevated tees and a fine mix of holes – the 490-yard 12th being a gem of a par 5. Last year it hosted a Europro Tour event, where players were raving about the conditioning and elevation changes. It’s very hilly, so a buggy might be advisable. The rough in summer can be brutal, too.

Holes

Par

Year founded

Buggy availability

Handicap required

Dress code

Season green fees

2-FORE!-1 vouchers redeemed against

PRO

2003

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Crowborough Beacon GC

PRI

1895

✔

£££ £££

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

Donnington Valley GC

PRO

1988

✔

£££ £££

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

The Dorset (Parkland/Woodland)

PRO

72/69

1978

✔

£££ £££

9/18 /DT

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

Guildford GC

PRI

1886

✔

£££ £££

18/ DT

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

Meyrick Park GC

MUN

1894

✔

£ £

18/ DT

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

Royal Ashdown Forest (West)

PRI

1889

✔

£ £

18/ DT

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

Selsdon Park H&GC

PRO

1929

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£££ ££

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Abbreviations: l GC = Golf Club l G&CC = Golf & Country Club l GCo = Golf Course

l GR = Golf Resort l GCe = Golf Centre l H&GC = Hotel & Golf Club

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Course style: P = Parkland M = Moorland H = Heathland A = American L = Links O = Other

Course type: MUN = Municipal PRO = Proprietary PRI = Private

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Full visitor green fee guide: £ or £ up to £25 ££ or ££ £26 to £35 £££ or £££ over £36

Vouchers are valid between: HIGH SEASON (Red) 1 Apr 09 - 30 Sept 09 LOw SEASON (Blue) 1 Oct 09 - 31 Mar 10 DT = Day Ticket; 18 = 18 holes

Days 2-FORE!-1 vouchers are accepted

Course type

The Grove H&GC

KEY

Course style

S ou t h & S ou t h - e a S t

2-FORE!-1 exclusive?

Donnington Valley GC

2-FORE!-1 tuition

Crowborough Beacon

When booking your tee time, check the following: l Exact tee times 2-FORE!-1 vouchers are valid l Price you will pay using 2-FORE!-1 vouchers l Are handicap certificates/dress codes required?

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Royal Ashdown Forest (West Course) Forest Row, East Sussex. 01342 824866 This 5,600-yard par-68 course (just one par 5) is the sister track of Royal Ashdown’s Old Course – a permanent member of Golf World’s Top 100 list. The West doesn’t quite reach those lofty heights, but it’s still a heathland gem in an area of outstanding natural beauty. There’s no bunkers, but small fast greens, tree-lined fairways and the heathland terrain reward good positional play. The last six holes, closest to the forest, are said to be the best, with a Wentworth feel to them.

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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Sand Martins GC Wokingham, Berks. 0118 989 3893 This challenging 6,212-yard, par-70 course is maintained to the very highest standards, with tees and greens built to USGA specifications. Opened in 1993, the layout has been cleverly designed using two distinct and contrasting nine holes: an outward nine, set in parkland with lakes, water hazards and doglegs; and a links-style inward nine with sand banks, broom and a host of challenges. Sand Martins is the perfect risk and reward golf course, offering a challenge to golfers of all levels. One reviewer said: “It’s an unusual treat to find a course with such strikingly different nines.”

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Dramatic seaside links combine with idyllic woodland tracks in this corner of England.

Trevose G&CC St Merryn, Cornwall. 01841 520208 A jewel of the south-west, Trevose has recently completed a five-year improvement programme aimed at modernising and refining Harry Colt’s 1925 layout. Tees have been added on 12 holes, extending the course to just shy of 7,000 yards. Bunkers have been newly revetted with a number of new traps. Cutting-edge irrigation has been installed, while revised agronomy policies have boosted a linksy feel. It all adds up to an intensified challenge on a better conditioned layout, a fact recognised by the R&A in awarding Trevose England’s premier men’s amateur strokeplay event, the Brabazon Trophy, last year.

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Cape Cornwall GC St Just, Cornwall. 01736 788611 Cape Cornwall should be on every golfers must-play itinerary – especially as it’s the “first and last course in Britain”. It’s a par-70 challenge, clifftops, undulating fairways, drystone walls and even ancient mineshafts to negotiate. There’s also a leisure club on site with a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and a gym.

Carlyon Bay GC St Austell, Cornwall. 01726 814228 The Championship golf course on the cliffs at Carlyon Bay is beautiful, dramatic and challenging. Stretching along the Cornish coastline, the course offers 6,500 yards of stimulating golf. The clubhouse is the perfect end to a round with wonderful views down the first fairway and across the Bay, especially from the new terrace.

Bowood Park H&GC Camelford, Cornwall. 01840 213017 A venue that offers the perfect holiday golfing experience. Immaculately groomed greens and wide, inviting fairways await you on this 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course situated in the heart of north Cornwall. The 31-room hotel is just 30 yards from the first tee and makes the perfect base to explore the county’s courses.

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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The Park Resort GC

Weston-super-Mare GC

Blackawton, Devon. 01803 712686

Bath, Avon. 0117 937 1800

Weston-super-Mare, Soms. 01934 626968

Two courses are available at Dartmouth in 2-FORE!-1: The 7,200-yard, par-72 Championship course has hosted the West Region PGA Championships and features meandering streams, 12 water features and undulating greens; The Dartmouth course is a 2,252-yard, par-33 layout which offers a more relaxing challenge.

The Park is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty, stretching over 240 acres of parkland. Two courses, the Crown and the Cromwell, have their own character, and both are in 2-FORE!-1. The Crown is a 6,252-yard, par-69 course surrounded by woodland; The 6,246-yard, par-71 Cromwell features mature trees, streams, lakes and modern, USGA-spec greens.

Designed by the architect of Augusta, Alister MacKenzie, Weston-super-Mare is a links situated at the southern end of Weston bay, with views across the Bristol Channel. The signature hole is the 15th, a 458-yard par 4 which is reputably modelled on the 17th at the Old Course, with a blind tee shot, OB down the right and a green set at an angle to a bunker at the front.

The Players Club

Perranporth GC

Royal North Devon GC

Codrington, Bristol. 01454 311818

Perranporth, Cornwall. 01872 573701

Bideford, Devon. 01237 473817

Set just a mile from junction 18 of the M4, The Players Club is now one of the best golfing set-ups in the area. The Championship Course can measure over 7,600 yards from the back tees, making it one of the longest in the UK. The Stranahan Course, which opens this year, is also in 2-FORE!-1. It will be player friendly and is designed to bring back the three-hour round.

Perranporth is a pure links – picturesque, unpredictable and demanding. Blind shots abound on this brilliant James Braid design. With direction posts and even boards marked with the hole number scattered atop the dunes, it’s a novel way to play. You can almost take it as given that the course is going to be in great nick, with very fast greens.

Another of the south-west’s fabulous links, where you play golf as it was meant to be played – negotiating the sheep as you go. One player described it as “ridiculously wide open in places, claustrophobically tight in the famous Sea Rushes holes around the turn. There’s also a huge sleeper-faced bunker that’s almost 100 yards wide, and animals grazing freely across the course”.

2-FORE!-1 vouchers redeemed against

Days 2-FORE!-1 vouchers are accepted

2-FORE!-1 tuition

18/ DT

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

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£££ £££

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£££ £££

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££ ££

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£££ £££

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£££ £

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

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PRO

1989

✔

Carlyon Bay GC

PRO

1926

✔

Dartmouth (Championship)

PRO

1992

The Park Resort (Crown/Cromwell)

PRO

69/71

1975/00

Weston-super-Mare GC

PRI

1892

Perranporth GC

PRI

1927

Players Club GC

PRO

2002

Royal North Devon GC

PRI

1864

St Mellion (Nicklaus/Kernow)

PRO

72/68

1976

✔

Trevose GC

PRO

1924

✔

Bowood Park H&GC

PRO

1992

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KEY

Abbreviations: l GC = Golf Club l G&CC = Golf & Country Club l GCo = Golf Course

l GR = Golf Resort l GCe = Golf Centre l H&GC = Hotel & Golf Club

12 JUNE 2009 // thE bEst 2-forE!-1 coUrsEs

Course style: P = Parkland M = Moorland H = Heathland A = American L = Links O = Other

Course type: MUN = Municipal PRO = Proprietary PRI = Private

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Full visitor green fee guide: £ or £ up to £25 ££ or ££ £26 to £35 £££ or £££ over £36

Dress code

£££ ££

Cape Cornwall GC

Handicap required

✔

Buggy availability

✔

Year founded

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

Par

18/ DT

Holes

££ £

Course type

✔

Course style

Season green fees

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2-FORE!-1 exclusive?

Dartmouth G&CC

Vouchers are valid between: HIGH SEASON (Red) 1 Apr 09 - 30 Sept 09 LOw SEASON (Blue) 1 Oct 09 - 31 Mar 10 DT = Day Ticket; 18 = 18 holes

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When booking your tee time, check the following: l Exact tee times 2-FORE!-1 vouchers are valid l Price you will pay using 2-FORE!-1 vouchers l Are handicap certificates/dress codes required?

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St Mellion H&GC Saltash, Cornwall. 01579 352002 (opt 2) St Mellion’s Jack Nicklaus track was a new entry in Golf World’s Top 100 last year, and it’s new in 2-FORE!-1 for 2009. Set in a glorious woodland near Plymouth, St Mellion – the first course built in the UK by the legendary golfer in 1988 – has undergone a £2.5 million improvement programme. Work has included the refurbishment of the clubhouse, a new and extended hotel and improvements to both golf courses, including better drainage. It was due to host the English Open this summer, but that event has been postponed due to the credit crunch. St Mellion’s second course, the par-68, 6,000-yard Kernow, is also in 2-FORE!-1.

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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European Tour stops, mature parkland and an East Coast links typify the golf on offer in this part of England.

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The Belfry (PGA National) Wishaw, Warwickshire. 08709 000066 The Brabazon was always going to be a hard act to follow but the recently-revamped PGA National has managed it. In fact the PGA is considered by some to be the best Belfry layout. Though itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s located just yards away from its superstar neighbour, the Dave Thomas-designed PGA is a whole new ball game: itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a serious test of US/ linksy-style golf with the star hole being the par-5 12th, the banks on either side of the fairway giving it an amphitheatre feel. The third course at The Belfry, the Derby, is also in 2-FORE!-1.

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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Forest Pines H&GC

Stapleford Park H&GC

Brigg, North Lincolnshire. 01652 650756

Stapleford, Leicestershire. 01572 787044

area. There are three loops of nine (the Forest and Pines is the main golf course, ably supported by the Beeches nine), but whichever loop you’re tackling, you’ll need to keep the ball arrow-straight, especially off the tee, to keep it out of the tall timber lining most fairways.

Stapleford Park Golf Club’s golf course itself is still a little raw in places – it sits on open countryside looping around the estate’s lake – but it’s less than 10 years old so that’s hardly surprising. However, its well-manicured greens are a stern challenge and you’ll be impressed by the

Thorpeness H&GC Thorpeness, Suffolk. 01728 454926

Leek Wootton, Warwickshire. 01926 622570

of the inland glories of Sunningdale and Woodhall Spa” – it has excellent drainage and is playable all year. It may only be a par 69, but plenty of gorse punishes wayward drives, and as the course is near the sea and exposed, the wind can be a major factor.

Just off A46 and five minutes from the M40, The Warwickshire complex is two 18-hole courses (The King’s and the Earl’s, both par 72 and variable in length from 5,900 to 7,400 yards) meandering through woodland and around lakes in a 465-acre estate. The venue has played

2-FORE!-1 vouchers redeemed against

Days 2-FORE!-1 vouchers are accepted

2-FORE!-1 tuition

2-FORE!-1 exclusive?

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£££/££ ££/£

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

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£££ £££

18/ DT

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

1997/77

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£££ £££/£

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

1993

✔

£££ £££

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

1923

✔

£££ £££

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

PRO

1996

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Forest of Arden (Arden/Aylesford)

PRO

72/69

1970

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Stapleford Park H&GC

PRI

2000

The Belfry (PGA National, Derby)

A/P

PRO

72/69

The Warwickshire (King’s/Earl’s)

PRO

Thorpeness GC

PRO

KEY

Buggy availability

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Year founded

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Par

MTWTFSS MTWTFSS

Holes

18/ DT

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£££ £££

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Forest Pines H&GC

Abbreviations: l GC = Golf Club l G&CC = Golf & Country Club l GCo = Golf Course

l GR = Golf Resort l GCe = Golf Centre l H&GC = Hotel & Golf Club

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Course style: P = Parkland M = Moorland H = Heathland A = American L = Links O = Other

host to many professional tournaments including a European Seniors Tour event and the Midland PGA final on three occasions. The King’s is the more American of the two courses, while the Earl’s is much tighter with narrow fairways winding through mature trees.

Season green fees

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Course type: MUN = Municipal PRO = Proprietary PRI = Private

Full visitor green fee guide: £ or £ up to £25 ££ or ££ £26 to £35 £££ or £££ over £36

Dress code

Set among the Suffolk coastal heathland, the course offers a tough challenge for all levels of players. Designed by James Braid in 1922, Thorpeness winds through silver birch, pine trees, gorse and heather and was described by the Sunday Telegraph Golfing Guide as “reminiscent

luxury clubhouse and hotel. The course is set in a valley and is cut from agricultural land and follows the river, with water in play on many holes. Scottish-style revetted bunkers and grassy humps and hollows have also been used to shape the holes.

The Warwickshire G&CC

Handicap required

Since it opened a decade ago, Forest Pines Golf Course has picked up a whole host of golf course awards and accolades, and for good reason. It is a revelation: the Woburn lookalike looks and feels like it’s been here forever, springing up out of the arable farmland which dominates the

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Vouchers are valid between: HIGH SEASON (Red) 1 Apr 09 - 30 Sept 09 LOw SEASON (Blue) 1 Oct 09 - 31 Mar 10 DT = Day Ticket; 18 = 18 holes

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When booking your tee time, check the following: l Exact tee times 2-FORE!-1 vouchers are valid l Price you will pay using 2-FORE!-1 vouchers l Are handicap certificates/dress codes required?

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Marriott Forest of Arden Coventry, West Midlands. 01676 526113 This famous complex in the Warwickshire countryside is home to two courses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both of which are in 2-FORE!-1. The Arden championship course is a former host of the British Masters, and a stiff challenge. Highlight is probably the 194-yard par-3 18th, over a lake-filled ravine to a green in front of the hotel. The much-improved Aylesford is a highly creditable No.2 course and a fine test of golf in its own right. As you would expect from a major venue, it is extremely well maintained and the greens are great. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a pleasant easy-walking golf course, but you can tackle it aboard a GPS buggy.

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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Conwy GC

Marriott St Pierre H&GC

Conwy, Caernarvonshire. 01492 593225 Home for the Ryder Cup Wales Seniors Open for the past two years and the venue for the prestigious European Amateur Team Championship this July, Conwy is a classic links surrounded on three sides by the Irish Sea and inland by Snowdonia. There’s

Chepstow, Gwent. 01291 635205

a good mix of holes and some severe bunkering, and the par 3s are particularly good. In benign conditions it’s tough, but when the wind whips in off the sea it can be brutal. Tee booking is available online or contact admin@conwygolfclub.com

Set in 400 acres of parkland with an 11acre lake and some of the oldest trees in Britain. Two courses are available – the 6,818-yard par-71 Old, and the 5,762-yard par-68 Mathern. The Old is the one to play, though. There’s some great holes, with changes in elevation. The finishing

Tenby GC

Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan. 01443 665899

the venue of the 2010 Welsh Amateur Championships. Tight fairways and fast-running greens provide a good challenge, and as the course runs alongside Tenby South Beach, with views across to Caldey Island, a strong gusting wind makes this a great test.

Buggy availability

70/69

1995/07

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Conwy GC

PRI

1890

✔

Marriott St Pierre (Old/Mathern)

PRO

71/68

1962

✔

Tenby GC

PRI

1888

✔

The Vale GC (National/Lake)

PRI

73/72

1994/02

✔

l GR = Golf Resort l GCe = Golf Centre l H&GC = Hotel & Golf Club

Course style: P = Parkland M = Moorland H = Heathland A = American L = Links O = Other

Course type: MUN = Municipal PRO = Proprietary PRI = Private

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2-FORE!-1 exclusive?

Year founded

2-FORE!-1 tuition

Par

PRO

Days 2-FORE!-1 vouchers are accepted

Holes

2-FORE!-1 vouchers redeemed against

Course type

Celtic Manor (Roman Road/Monty)

woodland, and features US-style bunkers, tricky water features and USGA standard greens. Off the back tees, it’s also one of the longest venues in the UK. The Lakes is shorter, but not less challenging. It is dominated by a 20-acre lake and has water coming into play on 12 holes.

Season green fees

Course style

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Dress code

The Vale Resort boasts two championship golf courses, a hotel, Wales’ largest spa and exceptional leisure facilities. The Wales National Course (7,413 yards, par 73) and the Lake Course (6,426 yards, par 72) both provide challenging rounds. The former is set among mature

Handicap required

Founded in 1888, Tenby is regarded as the oldest club in Wales. It has appeared more than once in the list of UK top ranked courses, and it is easy to see why. This is a course with fast, true greens and stunning sea views. Tenby is regularly chosen to host national events and will be

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stretch from the 15th include the best holes on the course, with the 18th being a 235-yard par 3 to a two-tiered green – into the wind it’s a daunting finish. Buggies are available, and they’re equipped with a sat-nav guide to the course.

The Vale H&GC

Tenby, Pembrokeshire. 01834 844447

Abbreviations: l GC = Golf Club l G&CC = Golf & Country Club l GCo = Golf Course

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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Full visitor green fee guide: £ or £ up to £25 ££ or ££ £26 to £35 £££ or £££ over £36

Vouchers are valid between: HIGH SEASON (Red) 1 Apr 09 - 30 Sept 09 LOw SEASON (Blue) 1 Oct 09 - 31 Mar 10 DT = Day Ticket; 18 = 18 holes

✔ ✔

When booking your tee time, check the following: l Exact tee times 2-FORE!-1 vouchers are valid l Price you will pay using 2-FORE!-1 vouchers l Are handicap certificates/dress codes required?

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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north-west One fantastic links and four terrific parklands across this celebrated region.

De Vere Carden Park Chester, Cheshire. 01829 731000 This impressive De Vere complex boasts two championship courses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and both are part of the 2-FORE!-1 scheme. The Nicklaus perhaps just has the edge over The Cheshire, but both offer excellent challenges and are always manicured to perfection. The Nicklaus was designed by the legendary American in one of only a handful of UK courses laid out by the 18-time Major champion. At over 7,045 yards off the tips itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not for the faint-hearted with the par-4 17th, played as an acute right-to-left dogleg around a lake, providing a fantastic penultimate hole.

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Macdonald Portal H&GC

Seascale GC

Tarporley, Cheshire. 01829 734160

Seascale, Cumbria. 01946 728202

water, and the 18th with its waterfall backdrop. Portal also boasts one of Europe’s largest indoor golf academies, which includes a bunker, eight putting holes, a simulator featuring 22 different courses and a video swing analysis area, plus a recently-upgraded hotel.

Airlift Seascale into the stretch of courses in St Andrews, Ayrshire, East Lothian or Merseyside and you would already know all about this hidden gem. The fact it’s located on the west coast of Cumbria means it never gets the recognition it truly deserves. Seascale

Windermere GC

Blackburn, Lancs. 01254 202177

2-FORE!-1 vouchers redeemed against

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£££ £££

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1891

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1891

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£££

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Carden Park (Nicklaus/Cheshire)

PRO

1993

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Macdonald Portal H&GC

PRI

1990

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Seascale GC

PRI

1893

Windermere GC

PRI

Pleasington GC

PRI

KEY

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Abbreviations: l GC = Golf Club l G&CC = Golf & Country Club l GCo = Golf Course

l GR = Golf Resort l GCe = Golf Centre l H&LC = Hotel & Golf Club

Course style: P = Parkland M = Moorland H = Heathland A = American L = Links O = Other

opened on several holes, extending the length of the 3rd, 8th and 17th holes, and creating a spectacular new tee high on the hill for the 12th hole. The course is within two miles of exit three of the M65 motorway in Pleasington, on the outskirts of Blackburn.

Course type: MUN = Municipal PRO = Proprietary PRI = Private

Full visitor green fee guide: £ or £ up to £25 ££ or ££ £26 to £35 £££ or £££ over £36

Vouchers are valid between: HIGH SEASON (Red) 1 Apr 09 - 30 Sept 09 LOw SEASON (Blue) 1 Oct 09 - 31 Mar 10 DT = Day Ticket; 18 = 18 holes

2-FORE!-1 exclusive?

Pleasington was established in 1891 and opened as a nine-hole course, set in some 142 acres of east Lancashire countryside. The course has undergone many changes since then, and still continues to develop. Most recently, new blue championship tees have been

2-FORE!-1 tuition

These surroundings have led Windermere, which has been enchanting golfers since 1891, to be described as a mini Gleneagles. You can play here every day of the week with your 2-FORE!-1 vouchers, so there is no excuse not to visit.

Dress code

The name says it all – and Windermere really does benefit from its spectacular location to provide good golf and sensational scenery. This Lake District beauty offers breathtaking views over the famous water as well as the surrounding fells.

boasts gorgeous turf, bumps and hollows, proper links bunkers and fantastic greens – all the ingredients of a top-class seaside course. Nearby Sellafield is an eyesore on a couple of holes, but don’t let that put you off visiting this terrific links.

Pleasington GC

Cleabarrow, Cumbria. 01539 443123

Handicap required

Portal’s Championship course is set in 210 acres of parkland, with panoramic views over the Cheshire plains. Three holes which encapsulate the course are the 602-yard par-5 3rd, with its elevated tees and lake-fronted green, the picturesque par-3 14th surrounded by

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When booking your tee time, check the following: l Exact tee times 2-FORE!-1 vouchers are valid l Price you will pay using 2-FORE!-1 vouchers l Are handicap certificates/dress codes required?

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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Some terrific links you’ve never heard of and several inland beauties – all effectively available at half price.

Seahouses GC Seahouses, Northumberland. 01665 720794 Views from Bamburgh to Beadnell and out to the Farne Islands dominate the round of rugged charm at Seahouses. Two tremendous par 3s are also a key feature. The 10th plays almost its entire length over Logan’s Loch – a stretch of water which runs up from the North Sea and splits the course in two – while the 15th is spectacularly played over the rocks at the most eastern point of the course. Seahouses does not rely on length to be testing. The last two holes demonstrate why, with bunkers, out of bounds and rough ready to challenge you.

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the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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Moor Allerton GC

Harrogate, North Yorkshire. 01423 872100

might expect of this American-style course, there’s plenty of water to steer clear of while the slopes on the large greens certainly concentrate the mind. All three loops return to the large clubhouse, making it a tremendous destination for visiting golfers.

Rudding is one of the most forwardthinking clubs in the north of England. Not content with a lovely 18-hole Martin Hawtree-designed parkland, they have added a floodlit driving range and a sixhole par-3 course. The pick of the Repton Course is probably holes 3-6, where you

Matfen Hall H&GC

Leeds, West Yorkshire. 0113 201 4470

2-FORE!-1 vouchers redeemed against

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£££ £

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££ ££

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1995

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Moor Allerton GC

PRI

1923

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Rudding Park H&GC

PRO

1995

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Seahouses GC

PRI

1913

De Vere Oulton Hall H&GC

PRO

1990

Slaley Hall (Hunting/Priestman)

PRO

1999

KEY

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Course style: P = Parkland M = Moorland H = Heathland A = American L = Links O = Other

Course type: MUN = Municipal PRO = Proprietary PRI = Private

Full visitor green fee guide: £ or £ up to £25 ££ or ££ £26 to £35 £££ or £££ over £36

Vouchers are valid between: HIGH SEASON (Red) 1 Apr 09 - 30 Sept 09 LOw SEASON (Blue) 1 Oct 09 - 31 Mar 10 DT = Day Ticket; 18 = 18 holes

2-FORE!-1 exclusive?

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PRO

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9/ 18

Handicap required

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Matfen Hall H&GC

l GR = Golf Resort l GCe = Golf Centre l H&GC = Hotel & Golf Club

long, straight hitting is essential to keep your card in tact. Water features prominently on several holes while the tree-lined fairways attractively frame the large, undulating greens. It’s also home to Yorkshire’s only five-star hotel and terrific practice facilities.

2-FORE!-1 tuition

De Vere have breathed new life into the golf side of Oulton Hall since taking over this impressive complex. The main 18-hole course has been revitalised and is poised to benefit from further improvements in the near future. It is already a true championship track where

Days 2-FORE!-1 vouchers are accepted

flowing River Pont comes into play at several holes including the 14th, one of many strong par 4s. The dog-leg 16th is the pick of the par 5s, but Matfen’s signature hole is surely the long par-3 17th, with a narrow green sited teasingly just over the river.

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Abbreviations: l GC = Golf Club l G&CC = Golf & Country Club l GCo = Golf Course

must avoid a series of cleverlypositioned water hazards, the 5th being a fine short hole. After you’ve enjoyed your 2-FORE!-1 bargain on the Repton, tackle the par-3 course, including Yorkshire’s very own version of the 17th at Sawgrass (above).

De Vere Oulton Hall H&GC

Matfen, Newcastle Upon Tyne. 01661 886400 Laid out on a classic parkland landscape in the hills overlooking Newcastle, the 6,700-yard Matfen course incorporates challenging water features and unique obstacles such as the dry stone “ha ha” wall. It offers an enjoyable test for golfers of all abilities. The picturesque and fast

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Leeds, West Yorkshire. 0113 266 1154 This was the first UK course designed by Robert Trent Jones and the stamp of class of the renowned American architect is clear on all three of Moor Allerton’s nines. It’s not in the class of Jones’ creations at Spyglass Hill or Hazeltine, but it is a terrific parkland test nonetheless. As you

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De Vere Slaley Hall Hexham, Northumberland. 01434 673350 Slaley is part of the elite group of clubs to have not one but two championship courses. And while they may not be quite in the class of Sunningdale, Wentworth or The Berkshire, both the Hunting and the Priestman are worthy tests. The Hunting was designed by Dave Thomas on rolling moorland and is good enough to have staged European Tour events in the 1990s. Streams and lakes, towering trees and numerous bunkers make the course â&#x20AC;&#x201C; new to 2-FORE!-1 this year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a real test. The Priestman is a splendid second course which has matured very well since opening in 1999.

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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The Home of Golf is also home to some great 2-FORE!-1 deals.

Montrose Golf Links Montrose, Angus. 01674 672932 The Medal Course at Montrose (the fifth oldest course in the world) is a majestic layout in the true traditions of Scottish links golf and has hosted many important events including the Scottish Professional Championship in 1967 and 1970, the Scottish Amateur Championship in 1975 and the British Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Championship and Internationals in 1991. It was also chosen by the R&A as a Final Qualifying Course for the Open at Carnoustie in 1999 and 2007. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a par 71, playing to 6,544 yards off the back tees and 6,203 off the yellows.

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Fortrose & Rosemarkie Fortrose, Inverness. 01381 620733 James Braid designed many courses in this corner of Scotland, but few have the dramatic setting of Fortrose. It’s laid out on a peninsula bisecting the Moray Firth, so you have the sea on three sides. The course turns back towards the mainland when it hits the lighthouse on the end of Chanonry Point. It’s not long, it’s never going to host a Tour event, but Fortrose is a brilliant, fun golf course in a spectacular setting. You don’t really need driver unless the wind is blowing, and there’s plenty of gorse to catch wayward tee shots. But it’s difficult to concentrate on your game as you look out to sea, with Inverness to the west and the North Sea to the east. Oh, and did we mention the dolphins? The Moray Firth is home to a resident population of bottle-nosed dolphins, and they can often be seen swimming just offshore from the course.

Marriott Dalmahoy Kirknewton, Edinburgh. 0131 335 8026 Designed by James Braid and opened in 1927, the East is Dalmahoy’s championship golf course. Recent restructuring has seen it become the longest golf course in Scotland off championship tees. It has hosted the Solheim Cup as well as nine Scottish PGA Championships and three Scottish Seniors Opens. At the foot of the Pentland Hills, the course stretches through scenic and mature wooded parkland. Wide off the tee, the fierce bunkering and sloping greens set up the challenge. Over £1million has just been spent on the famed East in a bid to bring big tournaments back to Edinburgh. Now at nearly 7,500 yards off the whites and with all the bunkers having been reshaped (though reduced from 81 to 72), the pros will find it a stiff challenge. The two new holes (13 and 14) are excellent, and there’s a stirring finale in the shape of a par 4 with a two-tier fairway. Dalmahoy’s second course, the West, is also 2-FORE!-1.

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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Fairmont St Andrews H&GC (Kittocks) St Andrews, Fife. 0800 257 7544 The Kittocks Course is the result of an extensive redesign of an older golf course on the property, formerly known as the Devlin Course. The redesign was overseen by noted US designer Gary Stephenson, who created the Lower Course at Whisper Rock Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. In crafting the Kittocks Course, which plays along rolling terrain and cliff tops above the crashing surf of the North Sea, Stephenson and his team revised the layout â&#x20AC;&#x201C; adopting two holes from the original Torrance Course, repositioned several tees, altered the bunkering and built new green complexes. The result is enhanced playability, shot values and strategy which blend nicely with the spectacular views afforded by the golf course of St Andrewsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; medieval skyline and the Scottish coast. The Kittocks Course takes its name from a deep, wooded ravine that bisects the golf course on its way to the sea. Known as Kittocks Den, the ravine is a protected natural area filled with mature trees, blackberry bushes and wildflowers.

the best 2-fore!-1 courses // JuNe 2009

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