85 The Grove

Architect: Phillips Stats: 6,766 yds, par 72, SSS 72 GF: £99-£175 Visitor information: As a pay-and-play course with no members, individual golfers, society and corporate groups have seven-day access to the course W: thegrove.co.uk 2008 Ranking: 81 (Down 4) Improvements since 2008 Rankings: Course: None Clubhouse: None

Run on unique lines as the UK's foremost pay-and-play, this immaculately conditioned parkland course has excellent bunkering and contouring with a terrific variety of features such as tight doglegs, big carries over water, and inviting drives from elevated tees. The 3rd, with its approach over ‘Hell's Lake', is a real test of the nerves. The green complexes must be seen to be believed. Super slick putting surfaces are surrounded by severe run-off areas that will test even the sharpest of short games. Off course, the service is super efficient yet relaxed and friendly.

Panellists' comments: "A fine example of modern golf course design"; "Expensive, but you are without doubt made to feel special"

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