For many of us, the golf course is a retreat where we can escape the bustle and stresses of everyday life. That’s particularly the case when our venue of choice perfectly encapsulates the tranquility of the natural surrounds.
Such can certainly be said for Berkshire’s Donnington Grove Hotel & Golf Club, which is set in picturesque English countryside and home to a brilliant golf course. But there’s more on offer here than just lush fairways and an abundance of trees, as we explain…
On the tee … When it came to building the 18 holes at Donnington Grove, the renowned architect Dave Thomas (of Brabazon fame) was tasked with creating a championship course which blended with the sweeping undulations of the landscape. Full kudos to the former Ryder Cup player, as he’s not only met the brief, but created a real gem in the process. The two nines feature very different characteristics; the front is what you’d expect from a classic parkland layout, with plenty of trees and water hazards testing your ability to keep it straight. The mood changes for the back half though, with hilly and undulating terrain resulting in many roller coaster-like holes all while you gaze out over stunning Berkshire countryside. The course remains in great shape throughout the year with a guarantee that you’ll never run into any temporary greens. And at 7,100 yards from the back markers or 6,600 yards off the yellows, it shapes as a stern yet enjoyable test of golf for players of all abilities.
Signature hole … Honours for Donnington’s best hole go to No.17, a tough par-4 which slopes dramatically downhill and from left-to-right. Dubbed “Skylarks”, this 463-yarder calls for a good drive with a fairway bunker and OB waiting ominously to the left. The second shot is equally demanding to a narrow green protected by a large bunker on the right. While on the tee, make sure you take in the stunning views out over Newbury – but don’t be distracted from the job at hand, for Skylarks can quickly ruin a scorecard.
Roller coaster ride … the signature 17th hole drops away sharply to the green, providing dramatic views over the Donnington Grove Estate.
Food and drink … Take advantage of the estate’s gorgeous surrounds by heading to the River Restaurant for a meal. Set among beautiful parkland and with the River Lambourn winding through, the restaurant’s large windows allow guests to appreciate serene views while feasting on an assortment of European fare. If the sun is out, then ring ahead to secure a table on the patio. For cold post-round refreshments, both the Members’ and Lounge Bars provide comfortable retreats for golfers to dissect the day’s play.
What else to do … Lovers of the great outdoors will find a haven in Donnington Grove, where fishing and clay pigeon shooting are among the extra-curricular activities on offer. The River Lambourn is well-stocked with both Rainbow and Brown Trout, and its gravel bottom and gin-clear water form the perfect territory for visiting anglers. First timers to the fly fishing game needn’t worry, as the hotel has a resident fishing guide available for hire. He’ll provide you with all the gear, plus instruction … not to mention the secret fishing spots!
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Running through the Donnington Grove Estate, the River Lambourn provides the perfect setting for stalking wild trout.
Who to take … Grab your mates or take a date; there’s plenty on offer to keep both groups and couples entertained. You’ll really earn some brownie points by taking the better-half for a romantic lunch or dinner at the River Restaurant, while there are few more relaxing ventures than an afternoon stroll through the tranquil surrounds of the estate. Besides the hotel’s golf and leisure activities, there is also the Newbury Racecourse situated at the opposite end of town. Why not time a weekend golf break with a day of beers and bets at the track?
Getting there … The Donnington Grove Estate is set on the northern outskirts of Newbury, about a 30 minute drive west of Reading. Visitors by train can jump off at Newbury Station, where it’s a short cab ride to the hotel.
