Our New Course
The new course, created by the landscape design company and opened in 1992, is over 7000 yards and unique in the fact that 16 of the holes have two greens, in addition to the designated species of tree and shrub on each hole! The greens are not optional, however the concept offers the opportunity to play, in many respects, two courses, as the angle of approach and subsequent clubbing differs on many holes.
The 4th is a monster of a par-5 at 644 yards and even those who think they are prodigious strikers of the ball; this is definitely a regulation 3-shot hole, with the fairway ending some 70 yards short, and water running in front, of both greens.
The back nine starts with a fairly searching par-4 and the par-5 12th is another huge hole, of particular note, two very well placed bunkers, short of the greens, waiting to swallow up any aggressive second shot.
The 14th and 15th offer a little respite, although both courses require well placed shots from tee to green to score low.
The 16th is probably the best example of the contrasting nature of the two greens as one presents a great birdie chance and the other, nearly 30 yards longer, a challenging five. Well placed bunkers down the fairway mean accuracy is imperative on the 17th, while the final hole is a brute of a par-4 from the back tee.
Our Old Course
Designed by Fred Hawtree, from the famous Hawtree dynasty, the Old Course was opened in 1976 and, in this superb, mature park, with an abundance of tree species, is a testament to parkland courses. Undulating in nature and at 6808 yards, the course provides a stern test for golfers of all abilities, combined with some majestic views over the Hertfordshire Countryside.
The par-5 6th not only provides spectacular views from the tee but the chance of a birdie with two well struck shots. A poor second shot and the hole can take on a totally different look, with water running across the hole some 40 yards short of the green. The 9th, whilst not being a long par-3, puts a premium on accuracy and club selection.
The back nine starts with a par-5 that has two distinct teeing areas. The ground falls away quite significantly to the right of the landing area and water and out of bounds run down this side also.
While the out of bounds drifts away from the green, the water remains ominously close. Probably the most demanding par 5 is the 12th, with tee shots halted by a sloping, narrow, tree lined fairway. The final hole, whilst being a long par-3, has a green well below the tees and will hopefully ensure a good end to a most enjoyable round.
