DE VERE CARDEN PARK 4*

The Nicklaus Course was one of the earliest of the Golden Bear's projects, and is one of the most interesting layouts around. It has been described by many commentators as a ‘thinking man's golf course', where strategy is all-important, particularly on the unorthodox holes like the 7^th and 15^th, where there are two fairways to choose from depending on how aggressive you feel. Nicklaus' layout is not the longest, but it is certainly tricky; good course management is the only way to score well.

The neighbouring Cheshire is considerably longer than the Nicklaus, and demands quality ball-striking, but the variety of tees ensures that it is a negotiable challenge for golfers of all abilities. The course is a charming blend of heathland and woodland, and takes full advantage of its position to provide stunning panoramic views across the surrounding Cheshire countryside towards the Welsh border.

The award of the Cheshire and North Wales Open is testament to the quality of the golf course, emphasising that there is more to Carden Park than the Golden Bear's legacy.

The Azalea is adjacent to the golf school, and offers some added depth to Carden Park's array of golf; the little course is ideal for beginners, or for those keen to sharpen their short game.

Take on the challenge set by the Golden Bear at holes 7 and 15, where two separate fairways make your choice down to raw bravery.

Carden Park's superb 196-bedroom hotel lies at the heart of the 17^th century, 750-acre estate, and with the recent completion of a £2.5 million investment scheme, the guest rooms are as impressive as the surroundings.

Every one features added extras to make your stay more enjoyable, including satellite television, but the real attraction may be the variety of rooms available; standard doubles and twins are supplemented by family rooms, singles, executive and deluxe kings, and junior and double suites.

With this in mind, there is an option to suit every visitor, and in conjunction with the golf and leisure facilities, it is clear that the standard on offer is excellent.

Carden Park is fortunate to be able to offer guests an endless list of activities if the golf is not enough. For relaxation, take advantage of the 20-metre swimming pool, steam room, sauna, sun beds, or the health and beauty therapy available in one of the 12 dedicated treatment rooms. For the more active, guests can use the excellent gym and tennis courts, or venture out into the estate for archery, quad biking, 4x4 off-road driving and cycling.

Fine international cuisine is the order of the day at the exquisite Garden Restaurant.

The relaxed atmosphere of the clubhouse makes all feel welcome for good eating and drinking.

After dinner, enjoy a refreshment in the Peacock Bar, or challenge friends in the snooker room.

Meetings/Conferences

De Vere Carden Park can be accessed easily from Liverpool, Manchester, Stoke and Chester, making it a central choice for a meeting or conference event in the North West. The resort has a dedicated business centre on site, with 12 purpose-built meeting rooms whose capacities range up to 400 delegates. Private registration areas, complimentary WiFi access and audio visual support underpin the excellent opportunity to host your meeting or conference at Carden Park.