A lesser-known Harry Colt design, Northamptonshire County is situated in the quiet village of Church Brampton, Northamptonshire. A stretch of three new holes was opened in 2004 to create a route back to the clubhouse for those wishing to play just nine holes, and the club also has an entertaining 6-hole Par 3 course which is named after the original great architect. The course is currently going through the delicate process of restoring the original Colt features - that means more bunkers, gorse and heather as well as strategic tree removal, to give it an even more natural feel.
Golfers after a gentle start will be left wanting as the opener presents a stern test with trees and more severe trouble down the left and a bunker lurking to the right. Despite being regarded as the ‘easier’ nine, the front side presents a challenge with its narrow fairways and various areas of penal gorse strategically positioned at driving distance. The fourth hole is a classic risk-and-reward par four, which is driveable due to it playing significantly downhill but only for golfers that can drive the ball both long and straight.
The approach into the par-four 10th often plays blind
Elevation changes are plentiful, especially on the par four seventh as it drops down in front of the tee and then rises up to a large green. The ninth hole is a beautiful but tough end to to the front half with a boundary bush running all the way down the left side and a creek running in front of the green.
The back nine takes you under the railway line and onto a set of holes with a slightly different visual feel. Less gorse, you’ll be relieved to read, but three newly plotted bunkers that protect the corner of the dogleg on the right of the 11th fairway mean the demands on your driving skills remain. The par four 14th is arguably the most visually spectacular, teeing off from an elevated position down to a fairway littered with bunkers. The approach shot is short, but the green has some steep slopes to ensure any birdies are hard earned.
A view behind the par-four 13th
The finishing par five is easily reachable for the longer hitters, and with the clubhouse sweeping into view as you turn the corner it's a lovely way to end the round. Drive the ball accurately, and you’ll enjoy a relatively stress free experience at Northamptonshire County, enhanced by the high quality of the greens and their surrounds. Located close to the M1 motorway, it’s easy to get to and is well worth a visit if you’re seeking somewhere to play that will impress without breaking the bank. Regardless of you ability, this is as the leading venue among the best golf courses in Northamptonshire having hosted regional Open Qualifying for the last four years, and will do so again in 2024.
