Run for the hills...
18 Apr 08, 17:40
Above expectations
This is at the back of Harpenden, with the course sloping away down to the river Lee in the valley. So there are some quite steep ascents and descents—enough to keep a golfer fit, but not enough to require crampons, oxygen and resuscitation. The downhill holes are also good for the ego, as even an ordinary golfer can hit 300 yard plus drives—my wind-assisted record is now 350 yards (but I still didn’t par the hole!)
The management have been spending money to improve the course, and it shows, though maturity will take a few more months. Young hedges will need time to thicken up.
There’s very little water on the course, though the lake on the 18th gets a few visitors. The fairways are wide, and, at least in the spring, the rough isn’t too rough and if you stray into the trees you stand a good chance of finding your ball. The story from the members is that they don’t have to buy too many balls, and that favourite balls retire from old age, not because they get lost!
Some of the holes have hedgerows across the fairways, so golfers have to decide between going for glory, and laying up, which adds interest. The clubhouse is smart, and, thank goodness, stops short of being pretentious. There are security codes on the changing room doors, which are necessary, but I find a little irritating.
The bar and lounge are big, pleasant rooms overlooking the 18th hole and its magnetic lake, and, as visitors, we found the staff very welcoming and catering good. We have already booked our return trip, and would recommend it to you!
Groups: chiltern96
