42. Wentworth (West): Top 100 Courses UK & Ireland 2015/16

Wentworth (West) in England has been ranked number 42 in Golf Monthly’s top 100 UK & Ireland golf courses 2015/16.

42. Wentworth (West): Top 100 Courses UK & Ireland 2015/16

Wentworth Drive, Virginia Water, Surrey, GU25 4LS

T: 01344 842201

W: wentworthclub.com

GF: £360 per round including caddie

Architects: Harry Colt, Ernie Els

Visitor information: Welcome Monday to Friday, weekends if staying on site

Catering options: Full catering and halfway house

2012 Ranking: Down 7

Work undertaken since 2012 ranking: None

The West Course at Wentworth has long been the home of the PGA Championship, the European Tour’s flagship event, and is instantly recognisable whenever it is shown on TV.

Originally a Colt design, it has received regular revisions over the years, most recently from Major champion Ernie Els, who lives next to the course.

In places, this means that there is now something of a ‘designed-by-committee’ feel as there are modern traits such as the extension of the water hazards both at the 8th and 18th.

It’s also more tricky, with entirely new greens and deep, punishing bunkers. That aside, it’s a joy to play with every hole distinct in design and separate from the others.

The par 5, par 5 finish is particularly tough with length, out of bounds and a fall-off area the protection at 17, and the extended and intrusive waterway a serious threat at the last.

In the 2014 PGA, Thomas Björn shot an incredible 62, which included eight birdies and an eagle. As you would expect from somewhere that is both upscale and customer-focused, the off-course facilities and catering are hard to beat.

+ Iconic course with many great holes – Most expensive green fee in the Top 100

Panellist comments

“An excellent course, with unbelievable bunkers. Not for the novice player.”

“Probably the most expensive piece of golfing real estate I have played on – save up for a mid-summer round at Wentworth and know that you’re walking in the steps of many of the game’s greats!”

Next course: 43. The Berkshire (Red): Top 100 Courses UK & Ireland 2015/16