Southwell Golf Club

The opening 9 holes are set in the centre of Southwell Racecourse and present several unique challenges. Firstly the OTB tightly circles the golf course, consequently putting those with a slice/ fade to their game under pressure from the second hole onwards. The first 9 holes are exposed to the elements giving it the same feel as a coastal links golf course. Thirdly the 7th hole is a short (122 yard) par 3 set on an island and tests both the distance and direction control of even low handicappers. The closing 9 holes are a more traditional parkland layout with tight tree lined fairways and several water hazards. The final hole (stroke index 18) is a nice 138 yard par 3 which involves playing across the River Greet back towards the clubhouse for a grandstand finish.

Strange course. I called in Summer 2003, was passing through the area. No professional available, club shop was closed. Was booked in by a member who was opening the members club house as I got there. The course in in 2 halves, the front 9 is in the middle of the racecourse, flat, treeless but interesting. This part is fairly new & water features everywhere. One green is on an island and another was being repositioned onto a new island. The back 9 is over 30 years old, very nice and loads of trees. The contrast is amazing and makes you feel like you are playing 2 different courses. Get your lob wedge out for the 17th green, you will need it. The greens when I called were in a poor state, grass was long and fringes around the holes needed trimming. They may have been recently fed. The club was betweeen pro's and seemed to be short staffed all round. Nevertheless, potential is good, people were very friendly indeed and I would certainly play there again.