Hendon Golf Club.
This is a course designed by Harry Colt, 1903,and located in North London. Colt designed hundreds of courses all over the world and you will not find many better examples of his work.
The course is a par 70, 6300 yards, parkland with tight well bunkered fairways and well bunkered small greens. The course is kept in excellent condition, is well drained and playable all year.All aspects of your game will need to be 100%, and your short game will be tested.
Being in North London, the course is located in a densely populated area, however do not let this put you off. Once on the course you are treated to a beauty of a course, with lots of wildlife and a wide variety of trees including great oaks . you would not know you are only a few miles from the city.Best hole on the course is perhaps the 6th, a par 3 at 192 yards, uphill, and a narrow gap between tee and green.
The clubhouse is friendly, with a great menu, and excellent bar staff. A large veranda overlooks the course where you can watch play on the 9th and 18th while soaking up the sun.
Everyone finds the course a joy to play.Are there any poor Colt designs?

From Derek Murray

The East Course - Wentworth
If "The East" stood alone, people would beat a path to it's door. Generally it is overshadowed by celebrity of The West Course and the much newer Edinburgh Course. It was built in 1924, a year after The Burma Road, and is mature and gorgeous, in a quiet tree lined setting. The greens are the best you will find anywhere in the U.K., and the course is an enjoyable challenge which I for one, want to return to again and again.
The index 1 eleventh is said, by some, to be the best Par 4 on all of the Surrey clubs 54 holes.
I cannot recommend The East course highly enough.

Elgin Golf Club

Often overshadowed by it's more famous near neighbours Moray and Nairn, Elgin Golf Club is definitely one not to be forgotten about if in that part of the world as it's just a great test of golf.

Set 6 miles inland from the Moray Firth, measuring almost 6500 yards in length with a par of 69 and a standard scratch score of 71 it is easy on the eye but is a tough proposition. It features 8 holes longer than 400 yards and has hosted many top level Scottish amateur and professional events in its 105 year history and has been described by Peter Alliss as the finest inland course in the North of Scotland.

The course is set amongst tall, mature trees and is played over heather and gorse covered land which despite being inland, has an almost links feel to it and has the city of Elgin as the backdrop at one end of the course and the distant Grampian mountains at the other.

The course demands accuracy from the tee throughout but it has something for everyone, from the driveable par 4 12th to the challenging par 3 6th that used to be S.I. 1. and remains an absolute pleasure to play every time you set foot on it.

The par fours are a collective highlight with it being difficult to decide which one is the best from the tough opening hole bordered by out of bounds on the left, to the very picturesque 8th, to the 10th hole which has no room for error along its full length to the 18th which has ruined many a scorecard with a accurate approach shot being required to be played to an elevated green set at a different angle to the fairway.

The course is always presented in excellent condition and the greens are worth special mention as they are as you good as you will play on all year. In the true definition of a hidden gem, Elgin Golf Club ticks all the boxes.

Merchants of Edinburgh Golf Club
Situated in the heart of the city of Edinburgh this is indeed a Gem. Designed in 1907 by Ben Sayers and later, in 1936, altered by James Braid despite its length of only 4837 yards and with a standard scratch of 64 it offers a challenge to golfers of all abilities. Above all, every hole has its own character. After the short par 3, 7th of only 116 yards you are faced with 2 difficult dog leg holes to finish the first nine. The 10th, known locally as heart-attack hill is the longest 281 yards on the course! Once at the top of the hill, however, you will enjoy 3 very different par 3s. The 11th and 12th are both blind, at 172 and 159 yards respectively with whins to the left and out of bounds to the right. Before hitting your tee shot on the 13th you will be awestruck by the views across the Firth of Forth and down towards East Lothian. Now you really need to concentrate again because the 214 yards in front, but more important below you, needs the right club and there is no bail-out here. The 17th is the last of the 7 par 3s on the course and if you are standing on the 18th tee level par for the par threes you have done well. At the end of your round you can enjoy the facilities of the clubhouse which was rebuilt in 2001 with a well stocked bar and excellent catering. Never to be confused with The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers (Muirfield), the Merchants of Edinburgh is a gem not to be missed.

West Lothian Golf Club.

Stirling Castle and the Trossachs, the Ochil hills, the Forth Bridges all the way to North Berwick. You get a great view from West Lothian Golf Club on a clear day.

The 6249 yard Par 71 'Airngarth' course is a testing layout which plays harder than the par suggests. There is also the winter 'Kinglass' course, which opens from November to March, this makes use of many of the original holes, but brings into play several par 3's, which use existing greens. At a par 4500 yards, the Kinglass course will get you back into the clubhouse, for excellent food in around 3 hours.

Of the holes, there is some memorable golf to be played here, especially 'The Coffin' which required an accurate approach, or you may end up back down the hill, to try again.

West Lothian Golf Club is well worth a visit.

newcastle west golf club,

Newcastle West Golf Club is beautifully situated Irish parkland golf course, set amidst mature woodland in the gently rolling landscape of County Limerick in Southern Ireland Founded in 1938, Newcastle West Golf Club is one of the oldest in the Shannon and mid-west region of Ireland. The golf course is open for play all year round and is very popular with societies and both Irish and International golf tours. Facilities include a driving range, pro shop, chipping green and two practice putting greens. this is a real hiden gem

Carnalea GC, Bangor, Northern Ireland.

Golf has been played at Carnalea for over a century, when a nine-hole Harry Colt design was played on by the members of Royal Belfast GC (Ireland's oldest club). Since then, Royal Belfast has moved up the road, a back nine has been added, and the course - which offers majestic views over Belfast Lough and the Irish Sea (and on a clear day sight of Ailsa Craig and the Scottish coast) - is now one of the finest in the area.

The course is split into two sets of nine, with the Bangor-Belfast railway line separating these. The opening nine are played close to Belfast Lough, with the 7th, 8th and signature 9th being played with a coastal path immediately to one's right. The 4th and 5th holes are two of the most demanding on the course; however wherever you are, accuracy and distance control is paramount.

Around the back nine, the scenery isn't the same (although the 15th and 16th offer views that any other course would covet). That said, the course doesn't suffer for it. From 10-15, you simply must find the green or be left struggling.

Your round draws to a close with a true test, with the 16th, 17th and 18th holes providing a stern finish.

On most holes at Carnalea, a good tee shot and an accurate second is required. Stray too far from the fairway, and your round will very quickly come undone! Finish at the wrong side of a green, and a 3 putt comes into play. Miss it altogether, and a combination of bunker, rough, and raised green will ensure that you work hard to save par.

The course is relatively short, at 5700 yards from the back tees. It features five par 3s, and several short par 4s. It provides however a true test for a golfer of any level. The greens are testing, and you simply must hit fairway and green to build a good score.

Carnalea isn't a course blessed with a lot of room, and as a result there aren't wide run-off areas allowing a wild shot to remain in play. It can be a difficult beast when the wind gets up (and it can do, being right beside the shore). For a short course, it has a lot of bite! Particularly this past summer, the course has been in tremendous condition with the fairways firm, and the greens rolling quickly and truly. Throw in a bright, calm summer's day and there is no place I'd rather be!

Green fees aren't expensive, and societies are frequent visitors. The 19th is as famed for its welcome as the course is for the enjoying challenge it offers. There are several courses in the area Royal Belfast, Clandeboye, and some of the Belfast courses that have a grander reputation than Carnalea. Partly because of its length, Carnalea is often overlooked. It is however, one of North Down's hidden gems!

Whipsnade Park Golf Club

Tucked behind Whipsnade Zoo at the eastern end of the Chilterns this course is probably the only one in the UK where you might hear a lion's roar across the fairway. However it's not just that novelty which sets Whipsnade apart. A testing and imaginative layout which plays every inch of its 6715 yards, it's beautifully kept year round. Though perched on top of a hill, much of the course is flat. Though flat in this case does not mean open, errant tee shots will quickly find you in heavy rough or among the mature trees lining many fairways. Even seemingly innocuous holes have well placed bunkers and mounds which demand careful consideration on each shot. With stunning views of the surrounding country and a lovely old stone club house Whipsnade has to qualify as one of the hidden gems of the south-east.

Vale of Llangollen Golf Club
This Championship course has got the best views of any golf course I have ever played, set in a valley with the Welsh Hills all around and the river Dee running along side many holes. The view from the clubhouse is spectacular, and if you play in one of their open weeks you get to play this wonderful course at a great price. Llangollen itself with its steam railway and canal with the traditional horse draw boat is a great place to stay overnight

Possibly the only bone-fide golf club in the United Kingdom where a sand wedge is surplus to requirements ! Why ? Simply because it contains no sand bunkers. Charnwood Forest, founded in 1890 and designed by the one and only James Braid, this superb 9 hole heathland course in the heart of Leicestershire offers some of the most spectacular panoramatic views of the county. On a clear day, the "stump" at Boston, Lincolnshire can be seen of the western horizon. The course measures 5970 yards, has a par of 69, with the tees on the back nine different to the front making each hole a new challenge. However, do not be fooled with the absence of sand traps. All sorts of problems can confront the golfer who fails to keep his or her ball on the straight and narrow. Trees, stone walls and a stream dividing two fairways can be costly plus a tight out of bounds means it is advisable to carry spare "ammunition". The real treat is on completion of the round, the visitor will receive a welcome from the friendliest staff and membership in the British Isles, if not the world.

Bognor Regis Golf Club, is one of those little gems. Surrounded by the South Downs, most of any bad weather is blown away to the north, meaning that Bognor can have great playing weather when 5 miles away it can be raining. It is a James Braid designed Parkland course and still retains many of his original features. Course management is a must, as there are many hidden ditches that can ruin a good card. The two opening holes are often referred to as the two toughest in Sussex by visitors. There are also two doglegs where the big hitters can really open up.. The par 4, 6th hole, is one where a good drive across the OOB can get you to the green in one, and Braid designed it as such with a peep hole in the trees tempting you into trying. The 8th is the other hole where cutting across as much of the river as possible, will leave a short chip onto the green.
There is a small halfway house, that can be visited 3 times, from the 6th, 8th and 14th which is very welcome on cold or hot days.
If playing match play and you are all square on the 17th, then the 18th is a real test, as two good strikes are required to reach the green, and with the shape of the green sloping off to the right and a bunker on the left, it can be difficult to place a ball near the pin.
After the round you can retire to the spike bar, or the more formal main bar located in what was an old flint barn, with many of the original oak beams and features retained. There is a well stocked PGA pro shop on site, and practice facilities include a driving range, chipping green, practice nets and a putting green.

Thetford Golf Club

Norfolk's most famous son Admiral Horatio Nelson was renowned for his nautical exploits. Therefore it is logical that when you think of excellence in the region, you are naturally drawn to the coastline. But venture inland, to the heart of Breckland Forest, and you are in for a real treat.

The tone is set on the first tee at Thetford. Your focus channelled by two imposing columns of pine, as you gaze down at a beautiful green protected by a surly looking collection of threatening bunkers. The course, masterfully sculpted into the woodland by classic architect James Braid, presents a natural challenge using gentle contours and towering trees. The sand is soft, the bunkers deep and while the game plan might be to avoid them, their strategic location makes this easier said then done.

As you leave the opening hole you begin to be struck by the real charm of Thetford: the wonderful feeling of isolation it bestows upon its guests. The wind almost offers up an Attenborough-esque whisper as hares, squirrels and Muntjac deer peer inquisitively at you from the forest. For significant periods you will feel as if you are the only golfers enjoying the sumptuous delights of this emerald treasure and that its woodland location is a well kept secret passed on to only the most worthy individuals.

Be warned however that despite the tranquillity, Thetford presents a tough challenge: measuring nearly 6700 yards (off the yellows I hasten to add). A series of daunting par 4s in excess of 400 yards pepper the scorecard, with the most testing of them all saved till the end. The 18th plays at 464 yards all uphill and leads you back to the modern clubhouse. The handicap golfer will be happy to complete their round with a bogey and many will need three blows to reach the luxuriant putting carpet. As well as testing distance and accuracy the course throws down a gauntlet to your short game. The greens are fast, true, roll beautifully and break significantly. Be prepared to arrive early and utilise the short game practice facilities, your score will be exceedingly grateful if you do.

It is not all brutal though with the 8th, a sweeping downhill right dogleg, appropriately timed mid round to give every golfer's ego a therapeutic massage. The length may read 445 yards, but on a summer's day a decent drive for the shortest hitter is likely to be much closer to 300 yards than usual. Thetford also boasts some wonderful short holes and I am sure that Lord Nelson would have been suitable impressed by the attractive and deceptive par 3 16th that resembles an island on a stormy day. The sea transplanted by thick rough and gorse leads up to a beach in the shape of a curved, stepped bunker with a verdant island awaiting accurate hitters.

A fantastic hidden gem of a course, I recommend golfers pay Thetford a visit in 2012 and join in the centenary celebrations.

The Roxburghe - Kelso.
Still a relative infant in terms of golfing history, this Dave Thomas designed course opened in 1997 is still a fair test to all standards of golfer.
From the drive in (Sat Nav users take care, otherwise you'll end up down a disused track) towards the Roxburghe Hotel you know that this is a special place.
Wide, immaculate fairways, cut to create their own Tartan, and large undulating greens built to USPGA standards mean that even though the average golfer can get the ball away and have an attempt to hit the dance floor in regulation, it is still course management skills and accuracy that are key in playing The Roxburghe.
It's a course that takes in the natural contours of its surroundings well making good use of natural tree lines and captivating views to make it appears as though the course simply meanders through the Roxburghe Estate, allowing golfers to mainly feel as if they are the only group on the course.
Its Par 3s are the holes which can ruin your scorecard. All require accuracy with the 4th and 13th having shots over ponds and the 15th being guarded by the largest bunker on the course so even on the shortest hole club selection is vital.
The signature Par 5 14th, aptly named Viaduct is the courses defining moment with breath taking views over the River Teviot towards the viaduct. Care has to be taken here that you concentrate on the golf and not the views.
With the course having its own clubhouse and the 4* Hotel for overnight visitors the 19th hole is also a delight making this a must visit to any golfing tour of the Scottish Borders.
All in all the Roxburghe is a course to be remembered and is my Hidden Gem.

Highcliffe Castle Golf Club - Christchurch
Approximately 100 years old with lots of history and Royal connections with the adjoining Castle. I've been fortunate to play this course a few times now with my Father (who unfortunately isn't well enough to play anymore) who was a member. It's a lovely little course, par 68 and only 4840 yards long but very tight and
always in first class condition.10 par 4'sand 8 par 3's including the 245 yard par 3 8th! You certainly feel standing on the 1st tee that you could easily overpower this little course but I only used my Driver twice and stuck to long irons and the ocassional hybrid as accuracy is really important. The greens are relatively small with lots of subtle breaks which the members obviously know like the back of their hands!!
A modern clubhouse offers great breakfasts and lunch and the staff are very friendly and welcoming, a weekday greenfee is still only £27.50 and in my opinion well worth the money.

Ladbrook Park Golf Club - Warwickshire

A gem hidden in the centre of the country Ladbrook Park is thus a perfect act of camouflage yet highly accessible and warmly welcoming. It is indeed a place of fine contradictions.

Designed by Harry Colt with over a hundred years tradition it nevertheless has a modern outlook, reasonable fees and a drive for continuous improvement which ensures a good test of golf even with the advances of technology.

The ground is parkland, undulating and tree lined with some fine elevation changes. It is nevertheless an easy walk, with tees close to the previous greens which are normally in excellent condition.

The front nine offers a number of birdie chances with three relatively short par fives, and the two shorter par threes. But this is not a place where brute strength is rewarded as the brook, which meanders through the course, demands both good course management and club selection. The fourth is a classic bunkerless hole of just over 350 yards where a perfect drive to the right of centre will allow a direct approach to a green guarded by a beautiful oak tree. Beware anything less than perfect requires first class shot shaping skills when the tree is in full bloom.

Make your score on the front nine as you will need every advantage if you want to hold on to your handicap through the back nine which features a tremendous variety of par threes and particulary tough par fours which would improve many more illustrious courses. The gently rising 15th is a 210 yard par three with a huge bomb hole short and left of the green and the course planner simply advises 'Do not go left !'. Sentinel like oaks define the gloriously elevated 16th whilst the brook, cavernous bunkers and a treacherous sloping green make a par on 17th feel like birdie, although this too is less than 400 yards.

So its an easy walking course with lots of birdie chances but the par 71 has a standard scratch of 72 and you will want to have made some of the chances you will certainly get on a normal day. A visit to the professional continues the fine condradictions as Gary Alliss, the king of swing, proclaims that his method is the 'anti-method', he teaches people not systems. If you finish with four pars you will almost certainly have a broad grin as you enjoy your pint on the sun terrace and enjoy food whose value and quality is without equal.

Ladrook Park, hidden gem, glorious contradiction.

As you enter the old gates of Kilkeel G C,and drive along the tree lined driveway which leads to the club house,you sence you are shortly going to be playing a special course ,or indeed a hidden gem. Designed by Eddie Hackett,it plays 6579 yards long and is a par 72. The famous Mourne Mountains serve as a back drop to this wonderful course which is set on the site of the old Mourne park country estate. The opening hole is a par 5 dog leg, you must carry a brook, at a 20 yard gap in the trees, 170 yards away,and dont forget it's your first shot of the day.As you continue your round through tree lined and rolling fairways,no hole is the same.Bunkers ,brooks's and a pond await the wayward ball.The tee box's are well kept and are not far from the proceeding greens.The course is easy on the eye and the feet.The club offers golf and meal combo's during the week at great value. The one thing a golf course is judged on at the 19th,is it's greens .And all agree Kilkeel's are the best,ungulating,reseptive ,and through.Which leads me to beleive that Kilkeel GC is the hidden gem in the Mourne Mountains....... .Kilkeel GC ,Mourne park,county Down NI

The Oaks, Carshalton, Surrey.

Situated on the London / Surrey borders, The Oaks enjoys mature trees, fine views across to the heart of the city, and enough slopes to give the holes a variety and you a challenge. Big-hitters could think it a pushover yet whilst a couple of holes could succumb to thundering drives, the tight raised greens still require accurate and confident approach play.

The indicator of a good course is how many holes you remember afterwards. The Oaks passed this test because we had long discussions in the 19th. The 1st got a mention due to its large hour glass shaped green with a big step in the middle, definite 3-putt probabilities. The 502 yard 7th plays along a fierce camber and the par-3 12th with its fast, upturned putting surface the far side of a ravine scored highly (in our debate and whilst we were playing it!). The short par-4 13th demands a drive back over not only a continuation of the 12th's ravine but two huge trees dead centre of the fairway a true test of nerves amply rewarded with a short pitch to the flag if you made the carry.

However, for me the signature hole would have to be the par-5 14th. At around 490 yards and ending gently down hill it isn't too daunting hit your best drive down the left for a chance of going for glory by arrowing a fairway wood onto the green. But watch out for the huge mature trees that stand on the right side of the fairway directly on the shortest line to the hole. Those branches just seem to reach out for any ball trying to sneak around the side.

This is indicative of the course as a whole, and especially the back nine that also includes birdie chances on 17 and 18 (what a lovely way to end a round!); enough risk to make you feel good when you avoid trouble, and enough reward in securing pars let alone better. Good play can yield good results, while errant shots will pose you some interesting recovery challenges. And the key to scoring well? Hitting the par-3s in regulation avoids being left very tricky up-and-downs; being steady on the several difficult par-4s; and then trying to take advantage of the three short par-4s and the three par-5s. Sounds easy?, well get out there and try it!

Green fees are about as reasonable as you'll get inside the M25 and twilight and senior rates are a steal. It enjoys excellent drainage, so whilst pretty firm in the height of summer it is in fine condition for the majority of the year. Being a public course it does have its share of divots, pitch marks, and unraked bunkers. Still, it boasts a driving range, a short 9-hole course, a well stocked pro shop for pre-round browsing and a decent cafe for post-round. And most importantly it has a number of holes that I'm sure you'll remember too.

Sutton Green Golf Club, Surrey.

After the amazing Solheim Cup Laura Davies star is in the ascendency again. And if her partnership in Ireland with Mel Reid was inspired I'd also like to put forward for praise her partnership with David Walker and their design of Sutton Green. Out in quiet countryside beyond Woking they have created a golfing oasis.

Once off the M25 and A3 you cruise by a pleasant village or two before receiving a nice welcome in the pro shop that sells everything you might need - and I would urge a yardage chart being your first purchase as this is quite a strategic layout. Its thoughtful combination of dog legs, trees, bunkers and water ensure all holes have their own character.

A par 5 starts your round, and whilst at first appearing straightforward a tree narrows your lay up from the left as does a bunker from the right. The tee shot on the 2nd hole appropriately enough has you second guessing yourself a long iron to hopefully find position or the big dog to attack?

And so it continues, a challenge of placement and power. Out of bounds close on the par 3 3rd; a sharp dog leg left; a 100yd par 3 tucked away in the corner with an ever present audience of rabbits; a sweeping dogleg right with a bunker smack on prime position (but play too safe and then trees will interfere with the approach); once you finally get a shot at the par 5 7th there are trees standing like guardsmen between which you must thread your shot; a long-ish approach to eight with a green that slopes severely away from you; and to end the front nine a lake that you must play first around and then over.

The back nine begins with the temptation to ignore the lake on the right and boom the driver right up there because though the second shot is blind and over bunkers the reward is possibly having an eagle putt on this par 5.

The variety of holes here mean you'll find your own favourites. Perhaps for you it will be the long par 3 11th; the par 4 12th that is only slightly longer than the preceding hole; 13 has water right and a terrific two-tiered green; 14 has a tricky line for your drive and then a shot over water to the putting surface; 15 is long and straight; the 16th is all but an island green; and then 17 and 18 both offer birdie chances for a memorable way to sign off here.

The course always seems in good condition from well-kept tee boxes, to fairways with just the right amount of give, to greens that run very true. And with more internal trees growing every year this is going to develop into an even more brilliant place to play golf.

HORNSEA GOLF CLUB

Established originally 1898 but with the current course designed and set up by Open Champion Sandy HERD in 1902. Alistair McKenzie, designer of Pebble Beech and Augusta national was brought in in 1912 and made alteration to the greens which now are visible to every golfer as they approach but are filled with various subtle undulations which would test even the best putters.

Other contributions have been made by various golf designers including, notably, the 5 time Open Champion James Baird who in 1925 helped to redesign the bunkers on the course.

The course demands correct placement prior to approach into the green and the temptations and scoring opportunties are there but require bravery and skill to steal a birdie from the course - which will quite easily bite back and there is a double on the card instead.

The green are always immaculate and the speed can be ascertained from the well stocked pro shop prior to setting off down the first.

Although a park land course, the proximity to the east coast brings with it the east coast wind which gives golfers of all levels an extra challenege ona beautiful and distiguished hidden gem.

I am pleased to nominate Carlow Golf Club, Deerpark, Carlow in the Irish Midlands as a Hidden Gem.

Founded in 1899 and built on and around an esker (sand & gravel hill) which guarantees superb drainage, the course has a wide variety of holes with some great elevated tees especially at the 8th and 18th.

The winners board for the Carlow Scratch Cup reads like a golf honours list with long time amateur internationals Peter McEvoy and Mark Gannon featuring as multiple winners.

While all the holes are challenging, the closing stretch of 16th, 17th and 18th demand a strong finish.

Carlow added a third nine holes in 2002.

Details: 6025 Metres Par 70 Green Fee Euro 60 - 70
www.carlowgolfclub.com carlowgolfclub@eircom.net

North Down Golf Club, Caterham.

Hidden; adj. meaning out of sight, not in view. Have you seen NDGC? No, then it is hidden.
Gem; noun meaning something that is very special, of high quality. If NDGC were in the dictionary the only words you'd need to add to that definition would be friendly and fun. Actually, make that FUN!
Golfers tend to be masochists who hunt out the longest courses and then struggle to make a par or two. Why? NDGC does have a few holes where I cant reach the green in regulation, but it also includes a couple of driveable par 4s and a number of other holes where the approach will be about the touch and accuracy of your short irons and wedges. This naturally leads to birdie chances and the warm feeling that perhaps you can play this devious game after all.

Yet this is no pushover. Trees feature on every hole (including a terrific par three where the only route is over them), but it is the terrain and the small-ish greens that provide this course with its best defence. Clever use of its slopes mean that it remains a very walkable course and somehow you find lies that are mostly flat but you do have to take careful account of the topography with your tee shots and approaches if you are to get near to your targets.

And once you've had the fun of negotiating your way onto the putting surfaces more fun awaits. These greens are brilliant. Some subtle breaks, some large breaks, and all as smooth and true as can be. You can get the most beautiful roll on your exact intended line but pray you have judged it right because they can play so fast that the great first putt might still end up as a three putt on your card!

The middle section of the round is my favourite stretch. Eight is entitled Never Left and with a wicked slope at the front of the green I would say Never Short also. Nine is a gorgeous downhill par 3. Ten would be an interesting par 5 but for the fact it is a really difficult par 4! Eleven and twelve can offer birdie chances and thirteen, in addition to the aforementioned trees, has a couple of small bunkers either side of the green.

But then again I also like the start here and fifteen, sixteen, and seventeen are very good. I truly would single out the pro shop staff as some of the most helpful and friendly I've ever encountered. There is also a relaxed, welcoming ambience in the 19th making it perfect for post round reflections and recuperations. NCDG isn't that far off the M25 but don't hold that against it because there are other routes to it that avoid that three lane car park, and up in the beautiful hills of Caterham you are not disturbed by traffic noise.
So for fun come to this hidden gem.

Skellig Bay Golf Club, Waterville. Co. Kerry Ireland

Nestling in the shadow of its world renowned neighbour, (the Tom Fazio redesigned Waterville Links GC), the lesser known Skellig Bay Golf Club is situated just outside the picturesque village of Waterville Co Kerry with two very unique and challenging nines. The front nine is on the cliff and headland overlooking glorious Ballinskelligs Bay with some of the best sea views in Ireland. The back 9 uses the backdrop of the famous and beautiful mountain range MacGuillicudy Reeks and the Fionnglas river to frame some truly remarkable golf holes.

The opening hole, a gentle introduction of a 460 yard par 4, demands a long accurate drive to leave a significantly lengthy approach to a green where the sea appears to meet the course. On a rare day the wind will be benign but on most days expect the wind into and off the left making any approach to the green will require length and premium accuracy.

Two challenging par 5s back to back at 6 and 7 followed by a brute of a par 3 at the 8th (a mere 200 yards!), hug the boundary of the course and the 100ft cliffs falling to the sea. With stunning scenary and the need to have an accurate game, the scores over these three holes will detemine if you have the stamina to go on or to wave the white flag and seek refuge in the cosy, compact yet comfortable club house as you move back inland following the 9th.

The Par 3 10th hole can present some respite and reward if the mid iron is hit well and this prepares you for the next assault. Two back to back Par 5s at 11 and 12 with plenty of water courtesty of the fast flowing Fionnglass River will unsettle the mind and would require long accurate driving and a huge element of bravery to attempt to take on either of the greens in two (but only from the member's tees!).

If the course layout has got to you by then, simply stop and take a 360 degree look around you, the famous MacGuillicudy Reeks towering down over the course are simply inspiring as the cloud and mist rolls down. Enough to recharge the battery to continue with the round.

The golf challenge continues at the Par 3 14th, Par 4 15th and Par 4 16th where the yardage may indicate that these are less of a challenge but the river plays the predominant feature. Any mishits or inaccurate driving brings the peril of the river into play. Take level par through these any day and you've done well. Stand on the 17th tee and admire the beauty of the surrounding vista and the penultimate hole, a straight away but highly demanding Par 4. If the energy levels are still strong the Par 5 18th will test any good golfer and demands two very large hits to reach in two.

Sanctury of the modest clubhouse awaits for the weary golfer thereafter and a nice pint in the village pub will quench the thirst and ease the pain! If you are fortunate enough to play the course late on a fine summer's evening with the sun setting over Ballinskelligs Bay, the course is a magnificent spectacle bathe in warm rust, orange and golden colours surrounded by the mountains and the sea. And you'll think I'll be back again to this magical course!

Clandon Regis Golf Club, Surrey

The tone of the day is set as you turn off the leafy Guildford to Leatherhead road and cruise down the driveway flanked on either side by the immaculate fairways of the 15th and 16th holes. Then, once the extremely friendly staff have signed you in, your stroll to the 1st tee is only interrupted by the excellent putting green and chipping area for a quick warm up.

This really is a quality club with a quality set up - and the course itself proves this beyond any doubt in both layout and condition. Looking American-style with its well defined fairways, greens and bunkers it possesses a parkland setting of established trees and rolling terrain. There is clever use of water hazards on 7 of the holes some with ditches to penalise only the most wildly errant of shots, but on other occasions as an integral obstacle for your drive or approach to carry.

All the time, from tee box to green, the presentation makes it a joy to play. Sometimes it's the little things such as a sign on the tee telling you the portion of the green the pin is on if it's a blind approach. Sometimes it's the grand things like the views across Surrey, or the sight of that bunker narrowing the landing area of a dog-leg even further.

Special mention must be made of the greens. They are fast. They have some devilish borrows from the wrong side of a hole but they run very, very true. If you come away without a three-putt you are a great putter. And if you are a great putter you'll enjoy the challenge of trying to coax one into the cup from any distance here.

And the holes themselves? From a short-ish par 5 that requires an intelligent lay-up and pitch, to a long-ish par 3 where accuracy is all, there is something for everyone.

As befits a superb course the finish is strong. 14 requires a good tee shot to avoid the lake followed by a second shot over the same lake to a sloping green. The par five 15th has two trees standing sentry at an optimum lay up point, as does 16 off the tee. But if I had to choose my favourites I'd particularly praise the last two holes. The par 3 17th has a massive tree encroaching from the right over a green raised at both the front and the back. The branches seem to be stretching out to deflect your ball. And, in full view of the clubhouse, the water in front of the green at the par 4 18th makes the approach a fine test of your skill and an even finer test of your nerves.

I would urge everyone to make the time to visit Clandon Regis. Because regardless of where you normally play, every golfer should experience such quality every once in a while.

Cleveland Golf Club, RedcarCleveland Golf club was established in 1887, the course is the only true links course in Yorkshire, and is also the oldest courses in the county.
The course has two known architects H.S.Colt and the newest holes the 14th, 15th, and 16th were designed by D.Steel.
Over the years the club has hosted the English Golf union, County, and Professional events in its 125 year history.
The Championship links course is situated by the shores of the North Sea and measures 6921 yards from the black tees CSS 74 and 6704 yards CSS 73 from the white tees, 6506 yards CSS 72 yellow tees with a par 72.
In the summer months players can play from any tee they wish to.
The Ladies play from red tees their course measures 5545 CSS 73 yards with a par 72.
The course is protected by strategically placed bunkers, both on the fairways and around the greens, in addition, and in common with many Championship links courses.
It is a true test of golf when the wind blows. The course offers easy walking and is a fair challenge to players of all abilities.
The club has practice facilities including a chipping green with bunkers, practice nets, and a putting green, and inside the clubhouse we have a well stocked PGA professional shop.
A special mention must be made about the courses greens they are said to be the truest, best surface coverage, and quickest that the players have played in many years.
Our modern clubhouse offers great packages for visiting parties and a weekday green fee is only £24 which we believe to be super value for money.
Cleveland golf club is undoubtedly a very popular Golf club with visitors being made very welcome and assured of a friendly atmosphere.
I think Cleveland Golf Club is a definite hidden gem, and recommend that any serious golfers pay the course a visit in 2012 and join us in our 125 year celebrations.

www.clevelandgolfclub.co.uk

Being a regular holidayvisitor of the UK for the last 25 years, I was amazed that I only recognize a few golf coursres in the list of 100 hidden gems, e.c. Thurlestone, Perranporth, Dartmouth and Almouth. This shows - in my opinion - the huge number of good coursed in the UK. Thurlestone, I played in September 2010, the other ones guite a number of years ago wherefore I cannot remember the details of these courses anymore.
Thurlestone got my attention due to an article of Peter Alliss who compared some holes of this course with Pebble Beach. As any golfer, I like to play champignonscourses; however Pebble Beach is money- and handicapwise far out of my reach. However, Thurlestone was a very good alternative with a fair greenfee price.
A warm welcome in the pro-shop; a good coffee as a starter in the clubhouse. If I my say a minor negative point, the building style of the clubhouse is rather stodgy (I do hope this is the right word!).
However, the course was wonderful, especially the outward 9 and especially in this the par 3 3rd hole.
On the tee, you only see the hole and the English Channel! As an inhabitant ofd a flat country, I am not used to cliff coursed and definitely not such a view on the 3rd.. Therefore, playing on this course was for me wonderful new experience. Although I never played Pebble Beach, I have the idea Peter Alliss was right in his comparison Thurlestone with this course. (Who am I to say that Peter Alliss is not right!)
Good, well maintained course, magnificant views and - despite the building style - a good clubhouse where they serve a good pint.
If I will be in the future in the neighbourhood, I will definitely visit this course again.

Bellingham, Northumberland.

This Northumberland 'gem' is hidden in the North Tyne Valley is an adrenalin packed, rollercoaster ride of golf which is composed of magnificent rising and descending fairways with two long par 5 holes, thought provoking, tricky par 4 holes toghether with breath taking par 3 challenges. You will need every club in the bag to negotiate this picturesque course which will test the nerve of every level of golfer.

The challenge begins as it means to go along with the par 4, 367 yard, first which has a ditch and a road in front of the tee, out of bounds to the right and tough rough to the left of the fairway.Those who hit an accurate tee shot are left with a shot to a partially blind green guarded to the left and right by two front bunkers, but anything left of the green will run down the bank away from the green leaving an impossible chip and putt for par. The second hole is a driveable par 4 (270 yards) but the dangers include the burn which crosses the fairway then runs down to within feet of the left hand side of the green. An eagle is possible but the dreaded bogey or double bogey are more common by those who are tempted to have a go for the green from the tee. Even with a good start there are still sixteen varied holes to go.

The signature 12th hole requires an accurate tee shot to position you for a solid iron shot over the burn to the green, a wayward tee shot or a poor second shot can wreck many a good start. The four par 3 holes each present a different challenge, none more than the stunning 14th hole. The last of these shorter holes being the more straight forward 160 yard 17th hole but this merely provides a short rest bite before the final test, the 374 yard 18th which has the clubhouse,the greenkeepers shed, the car park, the practice area and a dried out duck pond to avoid on the right. An accurate drive drive to the top of the hill should ensure that your ball rolls to the left leaving you with an iron shot over the double ravine to a plateau green. This is a tricky finishing hole to test the nerve of anyone protecting a good card.

The clubhouse offers a warm friendly welcome to all, where good traditional fayre is served whilst you reflect on how you kept on or fell off the tracks during this roller coasting test.

Strensall (York).
Consistently interesting, this design is complimented by fairways and greens that are in as good a condition as courses where you would pay treble the green fees. The turf here is a joy to play from. It's soft enough to feel the spring in your step as you stride the course and firm enough to provide that sought after compression on pure strikes. On putts you can concentrate wholeheartedly on line and length knowing that the blemish free surfaces will run fast and true. It's no surprise to learn on their website of the prestigious events they have hosted.

For me Strensall isn't about individual holes. It's the unremitting quality of the whole that sets this as a cut above. But this is a review and so it would be remiss not to give you a flavour of at least a few of the highlights:
An angled drive to a tree lined fairway with a ditch all the way down the left and a bunker on the safe line to the right. A superb par 3 which proves sub 120 yards can be challenging. Some short par 4s where bunkers dictate unerring accuracy. And mature trees everywhere you look on this JH Taylor par 70 6,290 yarder.
For many the signature hole might be the 7th. Whilst on many new designs a par-3 with water can look artificial here there is no hint of it being tricked up or shoe horned into the design to satisfy our desires. Rather, and in common with the rest of the course, this is 100% natural golfing terrain and all the better for it. The green slopes beautifully towards the tee presenting an inviting target for the well struck shot. But of course once on the putting surface that slope requires a very accurate read, and can punish those going too aggressively for their birdie.
There is a simple but effective range with a large chipping area to warm up on and a superbly conditioned practice putting green between the pro shop and the first tee. So no excuses for a poor start other than the fact that the opener seems to play longer than its 434 yards!
On a course of this quality and history you would expect a grand clubhouse such as at Moortown or Alwoodley. Photos hanging at Strensall show the fire that put paid to that. Yet whilst the external look of the new building hints at local library, it is very comfortable inside with tons of natural light in the spacious upstairs bar (and, it goes without saying, even more on the bar's large balcony which is a fine place to while away the hours on a summer's day).
Great layout, peaceful setting, lovely food, and good company provided by the knowledgeable and friendly secretary. Golfing nirvana. (And a big thank you to whoever handed in my playing partner's expensive putter cover and to the said secretary who posted it back at no cost to us!)

Bellingham Golf Course

This Northumberland ‘gem’ is hidden in the North Tyne Valley is an adrenalin packed, rollercoaster ride of golf which is composed of magnificent rising and descending fairways with two long par 5 holes, thought provoking tricky par 4 holes together with breath taking par 3 challenges. You will need every club in the bag to negotiate this picturesque course which will test the nerve of every level of golfer.
The challenge begins as it means to go along with par 4, 367 yard, first which has a ditch and a road in front of the tee, out of bounds to the right and tough rough to the left of the fairway. Those who hit an accurate tee shot are left with a shot to a partially blind green guarded to the left and right by two front bunkers, but anything running left of the green will run off down the bank and away from the green leaving an impossible chip and putt for par. The second hole is a driveable par 4 (270 yards) but the dangers include the burn which crosses the fairway then runs down to within feet of the left hand side of the green. An eagle is possible on this hole but the dreaded bogey or double bogey are more common place for those who are tempted to go for the green from the tee.
The signature 12th hole requires an accurate tee shot to position you for an iron shot over the burn to the green, a wayward tee shot or a poor second shot can wreck many a good start. The four par 3 holes each present a different challenge, none more than the stunning 14th hole, the last of these tests being the more straight forward 160 yard seventeenth but this only provides a short rest bite before the final test, the 374 yard par 4 which has the clubhouse, the green keepers shed, the car park, the practice area and a dry duck pond to avoid on the right. An accurate drive to the top of the hill should ensure that your ball rolls to the left leaving you with an iron shot over the double ravine to the plateau green. This is a tricky finishing hole to test the nerve of anyone protecting a good card.
The clubhouse offers a big warm friendly welcome to all golfers, where good traditional food and drinks are served whilst you reflect on how you kept on or fell off the tracks on this roller coasting test.

Tony Garton
Tel. 01665 714491 Mob. 07772939263

Forfar GC in Angus is a Tom Morris layout formed in 1871 by James Brodie. To say it's a 'gem' is an understatement, this is possible the best course i've played, and after golfing for 35 years i've taken in 'a few courses'. the condition, layout, and welcome were second to none. If your planning a trip or are ever in the area, don't miss this course.

There is a lot to enjoy at Peterhead Golf Club, It has character and charm in abundance that many a golfer can testify to and lays claim to be the 18tholdest in the world. Indeed as you walk from the car park and over the Ugie Bridge to the awaiting club house you are aware that this is an ancient links and a treat awaits. The course was founded in 1841 and originally a 9hole layout designed by Willie Park Jr has been extended to 18holes that run from the clubhouse and head North hugging the Buchan coastline.

The first few holes are an appetiser to the main event and are somewhat overshadowed by the cream of the course which shows its colours from the 6th hole onwards. The 332-yard 7th is well named and a more intimidating tee shot will be hard to find. A mixture of emotions await on this tee, the view is simply stunning and well worth a moment to enjoy, however the task at hand must take priority as the fairway at the bottom of the valley seems a long way away and the wispy rough of the dunes awaits a miss hit tee shot.

The next two holes are equally superb played between two sets of high sided dunes giving a respite from the winds that normally buffet this Buchan coastline. The short par 9th is thing of beauty and the green looks a small target when you look down from the elevated tee high up on the dune. The run of holes home keep the golfing juices flowing, whilst the 16th and 17th are stand out holes that remind you that Peterhead is a worthy track for all seasoned golfers. The 19th hole is an excellent place to recuperate from your adventures around the links and provides a comfortable and welcoming end to your round.

Dartmouth

The course is situated between the hills of Dartmouth, and half way up a few of those hills too. That should really give you the clue to the overall view you will have after playing here. Its loooonnnggg, 7200 from the blues, if you care to play them, for the championship course. There is also a 9 holer too for a little practise (in fact the 9 hole course is just that, a half course rather than a set of smaller holes that most are).

Starting out from high up beside the clubhouse/hotel, you won't see much trouble until you get to the 2nd a short par4, unfortunateley only the brave, or the locals, are likely to play this a a reachable par 4 as you have to know which tree to cut over and then hope the green is clear before blasting it. Onto the 3rd and one of the prettiest holes I've ever seen. The tee is set high on the hill over a lake to the green way below. With a big rock face on the left and sharp drop to the right the choice of club is going to be crucial for this. Then on to the snaking par 5 that will quickly make grown men cry with a precise drive and 2nd shot only leaving you a further precise wedge to the green which has another pond next to it. It all about position on this hole as a stream runs down the left and a huge hillside on the right will catch anything not down the middle. Next a par 3, with a pond down the side (do you get the idea of these holes yet). Be prepared for some mountain goat walks between a few of the holes here.
The back nine concludes with a couple of Par 5's, but only after playing another par 3 tee shot from across the pond.
A walk past the clubhouse now takes you up and around the hills on the other side of the clubhouse. Giving breathtaking views across to Paignton and the sea, you will hope the wind isn't blowing too much when up there. Not as much spectacle in the back nine but its still a great test of golf and some of the holes give a restful time after the front nine.
If the 3rd hole is pretty then the signature hole 18th is stunning. A drop from the hillside to the green next to the clubhouse, across a lake to the full view of everyone in the bar and balcony. If your playing the blue tee then I hope your hybrid is upto the job as hitting 3 wood to such a par 3 is going to be tough proposition.
Wondefully maintained, I would certainly consider a buggy for the less able legged but so long as the wind is not blowing its walkable for most.

The members of Market Dayton Golf Club call their course a hidden gem and I have to agree with them. Theres simply such a varience in the greens. Some big, some small, some narrow. some wide.. Throw in some two tiered greens and some on a slope and this course is bound to give your short game the ultimate work out. And I am yet to say that these greens are in extremely good condition. The course could have been laid out by a famous architect The risk/reward factor features on so many holes. Its not a long course by any stretch and on a good day, its there for the taking. But if your game is not on, or the greenkeeper had a bad night,, beware. You do not have to play that much differenly and your score could rise by a shot a hole.
I first played the course in 1994. A friend, shortly after this, scored 42 points having never played it before. Ignorance can indeed be bliss at Market Drayton. He has never got anywhere near this score since. And we have played it many times!. You will never be bored and the warm welcome and understanding members are a credit!. go for the '9 holer' breakfast and a well earned gunners afterwards.

Bonnyton Golf Club

Situated on high ground, just above the conservation village of Eaglesham, Bonnyton offers spectacular views across the beautiful Scottish countryside as far as snow-capped Ben Lomond, the Campsies and beyond.
The course is surrounded by dramatic, rolling, heather-covered moorland and has been landscaped to combine the relaxing pastoral feel of mature woodland with the drama of its natural surroundings.
Bonnyton has been thoughtfully created. The tree-lined fairways, plateau greens, subtle, perfectly-situated bunkers, natural burns and a unique variety of holes combine a beautiful natural environment with a layout that offers the golfer both challenge and reward.
Bonnyton is of historic interest.The course was designed by Dr Alastair McKenzie of Leeds who also designed Augusta and Royal Melbourne. Sir Stanley Matthews was married and his wedding reception was held in the clubhouse.
On the tenth of May 1941, in a field adjacent to the sixth tee, a German Messerschmitt crashed. Hitler's deputy Rudolph Hess had parachuted into Scotland in a vain attempt to contact the Allies.
The Greenkeeper Ross Monaghan and his staff keep the course in immaculate condition. Each and every hole at Bonnyton is a challenge. The moorland turf in the fairways allows the ball to sit up and present an inviting target for each shot. The greens are of an exceptional standard; fast, true and with borrows which baffle members who have played there for many a long year.
Bonnyton is blessed with eighteen interesting and varied holes. One would never tire of playing this hidden gem. I joined Bonnyton in 1984 and have played many rounds of golf with guests. As they walk off the first green, they look back having just played a wonderful opening hole, and muse can the rest of the course be so good.The answer to that question is a resounding yes, which they come to realise as they leave the eighteenth green.