1 Night, 2 Rounds
Set on a 500-acre Berkshire estate just 30 minutes from Reading, Donnington Grove Hotel and Golf Club pairs a peaceful countryside setting with a seriously good round of golf. Donnington Castle sits above the property, giving the place a real sense of occasion as you head out for your tee time.
The par-72, 18-hole course was designed by Dave Thomas, the former Ryder Cup player whose work also includes The Brabazon at The Belfry. You can see his influence here in the shape of the holes and the way the course asks you to plot your way around rather than simply swing hard. Fairways are generous in places, but they roll and tilt enough to make stance and shot selection a constant theme. The greens are well protected, and if you're not thinking about your approach angle, you'll find yourself scrambling more than you'd like.
It's classic parkland golf: mature trees frame many holes, the River Lambourn adds plenty of atmosphere and there's enough movement in the greens to keep you honest. Mid-handicappers will enjoy the scoring chances if you keep it in play, while better players will like the strategic options from the tee and into well-protected putting surfaces. The course walks well despite the undulation, and the peaceful estate setting makes it easy to forget you're within striking distance of the M4. All told, it's a smart choice for a UK golf break when you want something with character, not just another hotel-and-course package near the motorway.
Who is this for?
Golfers, couples and societies after an easy-to-reach Berkshire break with an on-site course, historic hotel and a genuinely quiet estate setting.
Who is it best for?
Mid to low-handicappers who enjoy strategic parkland golf, plus groups who want an intimate base with a separate Summer House option, two bars and activities like fishing or clay pigeon shooting.
1 Night, 2 Rounds
2 Nights, 3 Rounds
At over 7,100 yards from the championship markers, the course represents a stern test for even the most skilled golfers, but the choice of tees ensures that it is playable for everyone. The lush fairways reflect the sweeping undulations of the landscape, while the higher points allow for superb panoramic views across the surrounding countryside.
The front nine spans the higher ground and is relatively exposed, while golfers will have to negotiate the woodland and water of the exacting closing stretch. The entertaining and demanding course has staged two PGA Europro Tour events, and is a certain highlight during a golf break at Donnington Grove.
In addition to the golf course, there is also a Golf Academy managed by the world renowned instructor, Jonathan Yarwood. The Academy will provide lessons within the exclusive facilities, which includes an in-door academy room, fitted with the latest videoing and viewing technology and the new academy tee, chipping and putting green areas located at the far end of the range.
Donnington Grove prides itself on the condition of its putting surfaces, and manages to avoid switching to temporary greens in the winter months.
Originally completed in 1772 to a Gothic design by John Chute, Donnington Grove's mansion-house hotel brings plenty of period character to a short golf break. The 3-star AA-rated property has 24 bedrooms and keeps things intimate, which suits smaller groups and couples nicely. Rooms come with modern essentials such as satellite television, while the public areas lean into the building's heritage with traditional décor and original features. The beautifully maintained gardens offer a peaceful spot to unwind after your round, and the whole place has a relaxed, unhurried feel that works well when you're not rushing between tee times.
If you're travelling as a society or a larger group and want a bit more breathing room, the self-contained Summer House next door is a handy option. It includes six twin rooms, a shared lounge space, its own parking and a private terrace, so you can keep the trip sociable without taking over the main hotel. It's particularly popular with groups who want their own base while still having full access to the estate's facilities.
There's enough to do off the course too. The River Lambourn runs through the estate and is stocked with rainbow and brown trout for anyone keen to fish, while clay pigeon shooting is available if you fancy something competitive that doesn't involve a putter. When the day's done, you've got two relaxed spots for a drink or a bite to eat: the Members' Bar and the Lounge Bar, both comfortable places to settle in with your group.
Food is served in the hotel restaurant with a European-leaning menu. It works well for an easy post-round meal, especially if you've got an early tee time the next day and want everything on site. The combination of historic surroundings, solid facilities and a genuine sense of tranquillity makes Donnington Grove a strong choice for golfers who want more than just a bed and a tee time.
Simon
✓19 Apr 2026
We booked 2 twin rooms through YGT in January and on arrival found that the upgrade we had paid for was not available. We were relocated in different rooms which were obviously not of the same standard. Staff blamed YGT for the error and have been told to contact them for a refund.
David
✓6 Aug 2025
Looks like money has been spent on bar and restaurant standard of food was was nice. Staff were very attentive. Hotel lovely looking building could do with a lot of TLC to bring it up to a high standard
Peter
✓14 May 2025
Generally comfortable apart from inability to control heating which was too warm even with windows open. Dtaff helpful, meals very good.
Brian
✓17 May 2024
Ross
✓18 Mar 2024
We were not put inside the hotel, the rooms were in out buildings like dorms, tiny beds. Food terrible. Golf course likely good in the summer but not a winter course doesn't take the rain well. Buggies needed as long walks between holes. Staff were good everyone very pleasant.
Nicholas
✓19 Jun 2023
Very clean rooms staff brilliant and food very good facilities very good
Alan
✓9 Jun 2023
We stayed one night in a Lake View room (No.7) which was a disabled room and not requested. The bathroom needed attention. Leaking shower rail and all the chrome fittings were very rusty, so not impressed. Otherwise room was clean and tidy but looking tired. Staff were excellent although restaurant service a bit slow.
James
✓3 Jan 2020
The Hotel was really lovely, in a beautiful setting! The room was really spacious and well equipped. We had a four course dinner and the NYE party which was great fun and really impressive food. Staff were also very kind and helpful, definitely recommend!!
Dean
✓30 Oct 2019
Rizwan
✓15 Oct 2019
Nice building, though Deco is very tired!! Staff friendly but not very organised.
Simon
✓19 Apr 2026
David
✓6 Aug 2025
as you drive into Golf club you feel you're at top class golf club , tee boxes and greens in very good condition fairways are a little bit bear , if you don't mind playing preferred lies then I would highly recommend this as a venue
Peter
✓14 May 2025
Gtratcourse for Club golfers. Long enough and excellent variety of holes. Dry and fast running for this time of year. We would definitely return.
Mike
✓15 Apr 2025
A very decent golf course. Good variety of holes. Fairways a little hard and bare, but it was early April. Greens good.
Brian
✓17 May 2024
Ross
✓18 Mar 2024
Course is not a winter course doesn't take the rain well. Greens poor.
Nicholas
✓19 Jun 2023
Interesting course
Alan
✓9 Jun 2023
Mainly in good condition, greens a little slow but ran true once we got the pace. Buggies a bit dirty and needed a good hose down. Pro shop staff very friendly and helpful.
David
✓29 Aug 2021
great course a real gem hard but fair greens had been sanded but still good would play the grove again hopefully soon
Matthew
✓20 Jul 2021
Course lies either side of A34 so some walking between holes but didn’t feel too disturbed. Good tee options and better than average fairway, bunker and green condition. Good parkland course although holes not as isolated as some of the best.
Check-in from 2:30pm | Check-out from 10:30am
7-9:30am
Smart Casual
River Restaurant
Yes
Yes
Tee times for members only before 11am
There is complimentary car parking
