8.0

Very Good

Overall Rating for Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa

Staff

8.4

Location

8.8

Room comfort

9.0

Facilities

8.4

Quality of bars & restaurants

7.4

Value for money

7.8

Reviews

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Excellent
Very good
Good
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Poor

6.0

Good

Although the package price of the break was excellent value for money, the food & bar prices where massively over priced.

Miles – Reviewed 31 Oct 2023

Excellent

Rooms were nice size with comfortable beds, good selection of evening meals,bar was a bit expensive,lounge was a bit dated but had sky sports.

Melvin – Reviewed 30 Oct 2023

6.0

Good

It’s difficult to give a true rating as course was so wet with all the resent rain which made the going difficult, ball constantly plugging ect, will go again in better weather for a more realistic round, there were some really nice holes

Paul – Reviewed 27 Oct 2023

8.0

Very Good

Good overall, very welcoming, bar prices high even with the 10% discount

Terry – Reviewed 9 Oct 2023

8.0

Very Good

I had a single room and it was lovely

Ken – Reviewed 26 Sep 2023

8.0

Very Good

Very good clean hotel with excellent facilities and the food was very good too Staff were extremely helpful and courteous

Martyn – Reviewed 10 Sep 2023

Excellent

Me and and my mate Sean stayed here for the August Bank Holiday week (same for last 7 or 8 years) playing 6 rounds of golf, 3 rounds on each course. The Emerald course was in superb condition as usual and it was great to see the condition of the Sapphire had greatly improved over the years, with greens in best ever condition. Both courses offering a great challenge for all handicaps!! The reception staff were brilliant and welcoming as usual, thank you Helen & Beth! The rooms were usual standard with a minor complaint of a blocked sink on the first day easily resolved by Martin in maintenance after less than 5 minutes of making the complaint!!!! The meals we found excellent from the included meals with the golf package, and the food and beverage team went above and beyond to make our stay enjoyable, so thank you to Brian the F&B Manager, Jenny, Alexa, Zoe, Charlie and last but not least Kayla. We just hope next years stay is as enjoyable as this years.........a tall order but they have a great team there at Whitchurch :)

Paul – Reviewed 7 Sep 2023

Excellent

Good size rooms large bathroom with shower and separate bath all very good

John – Reviewed 11 Aug 2023

4.0

Average

The hotel is very tired and in need of a refurb,restawise the food was fine but clearly they have a problem with staff firstly not enough and secondly the level of service was faulty towers esk,we was not give n the set dinner menu on the first nite and on the second was from the previous week…. So our main courses arrived and non was what we ordered,have to say it was completely unacceptable, ordering a drink was even worse taking nearly 30 mins on one occasion eventually we gave up and got them ourself like most people in the restaurant. Whilst I understand a lot of restaurants are struggling with staff this to be honest was beyond a joke I can’t tell you how many times any member of staff said “sorry for the delay”.

Mark – Reviewed 22 Jul 2023

8.0

Very Good

We wanted to visit the Open,play some golf and have a spa treatment so this ticked all those boxes. The only real negatives were the fact that they were so obviously short staffed and that the food options were very limited. All of our first choices were unavailable !!

David – Reviewed 22 Jul 2023

Excellent

Rooms & staff golf staff very good , food excellent

Harry – Reviewed 12 Jul 2023

8.0

Very Good

Craig – Reviewed 3 Jul 2023

8.0

Very Good

Room was comfortable and clean. Food good and breakfast served which we prefer,rather than a buffet.

Stephen – Reviewed 28 Jun 2023

Excellent

A warm welcome,comfortable rooms, friendly Staff. A very enjoyable visit for our Golf Society. Thank you Hill Valley.

Judith – Reviewed 13 Jun 2023

6.0

Good

Anthony – Reviewed 7 Jun 2023

8.0

Very Good

My family party have visited every year for many years and have always loved the friendly comfortable facilities and staff but in general things don't seem to be since covid. The hotel seems extremely under staffed and this has had a massive impact on the services provided. For instance this year we found we had been given double beds and we insisted we had booked twin bedrooms. They in turn blamed Y.G.T.stating this is what you booked for us. This was changed and then we had problems with the evening meal. There was just one young girl dealing with our restaurant and we waited a full hour before we got our starter, making it a very prolonged and late meal. The girl worked tirelessly and would not blame her one bit. In fact I told her so as well as letting he know the service, through no fault of hers, was unsatisfactory. A dire shortage of staff very evident. The food was good both in the evening and following morning. Very disappointed to see this happening to one of our favourite venues.

John – Reviewed 6 Jun 2023

6.0

Good

Sadly this golf hotel has slipped standards since we were last there (2018?). All needs a refresh. As with so many, staff are scarce and not very efficient. Slow to clear away tables etc. A shame.

Susan – Reviewed 4 Jun 2023

8.0

Very Good

Paid for an upgrade,nice room and view. Only 1dressing gown in the room! On our arrival 10.40am tee time 12 noon, there was nowhere for us to get a coffee or any food as they didn't open until 11am, and service was so slow on the food, the 2 vho ordered rolls had takeout. Used our food allowance towards al a carte menu, which we felt was expensive relative to quality, service was slow, and was also slow at breakfast

Elsbeth – Reviewed 27 May 2023

Excellent

Very good can't fault it

Robert – Reviewed 13 May 2023

Excellent

Graham – Reviewed 10 May 2023

Excellent

Staff were really good. Food an Drinks were nice. Room was clean and tidy. Steam Room was out of order, but didnt affect the stay. Would stay again

Paul – Reviewed 9 May 2023

8.0

Very Good

Short staffed but those that were there were great

Mark – Reviewed 11 Apr 2023

Excellent

Everything was just brilliant and value for money

Graeme – Reviewed 7 Apr 2023

6.0

Good

When I got to the room There was only a double bed even though I did ask for a twin room. They did place a camp bed in the room which I slept on. Shower was cold most of the time, Electric sockets in the room were coming away from the wall and was hesitant to use it. Booking stated a 3 course meal but this is only true if you pay above your £25 dinner limit. Food was very good though and cooked to your liken. Some of the beer prices extortionate, £7.40 for a Peroni. Geez. Honest opinion don't think ill be going there again.

Shaun – Reviewed 27 Mar 2023

6.0

Good

Very expensive for drinks... But saying that I can't fault the food and service

Luke – Reviewed 27 Mar 2023

Excellent

Excellent golf trip and would return. Breakfast and evening meals are really nice. Rooms are great and powerful shower

Dave – Reviewed 28 Nov 2022

6.0

Good

The accomodation was brilliant, lovely rooms, everybody was happy with their rooms.

Steve – Reviewed 12 Oct 2022

6.0

Good

Rooms good clean facilities great , Breakfast good , dinner not the best , drinks expensive London prices for a pint.

Kevin – Reviewed 9 Oct 2022

6.0

Good

The hotel was clean and the rooms were excellent. Reception was efficient and the bar staff provided excellent service but the bar prices were extortionate. Plenty of choice for food and but the quality was ok.

Andrew – Reviewed 14 Sep 2022

2.0

Poor

Good quality is poor. Two guests had tummy upset and pulled out of Monday golf. No bread roll served with Soup and when requested no offer was made. Chicken Pie didn’t have pie on the top. Meal portions were small.

Vaidy – Reviewed 14 Sep 2022

8.0

Very Good

Generally very good apart from the bar prices!!! Unfortunately because we were a party of only 8 apparently we were not eligible for any golfers' discount at the bar.

Paul – Reviewed 10 Sep 2022

6.0

Good

There wasn’t enough room for our party to sit in any bar area we had to stay seated in the dining room. And also the bar closed at 11pm?

Ken – Reviewed 9 Sep 2022

2.0

Poor

Staff were very young and inexperienced behind the bar, could not change barrels etc. glasses weren't collected resulting in long waits to purchase drinks. no-one seemed to be supervising. We ordered steak as a supplement and no-one asked how we wanted it cooked, so it all arrived medium. food was average quality with small portions, barely warm at times. overall very dissappointing

Nick – Reviewed 31 Jul 2022

Excellent

Comfortable and clean and no problems

Harry – Reviewed 12 Jul 2022

6.0

Good

Unfortunately the bar area was very poor, had to queue and lengthy waiting for drinks all the time, also running out of beer, bar shut at 10:00pm on Saturday, not the staff’s fault, just not enough staff, also looked like the hotel was overwhelmed with golf society’s, l have been using Your Golf Travel for a number of years and never known it as full of society’s before, hence the late tee times we were given on Saturday

Rowland – Reviewed 5 Jul 2022

2.0

Poor

Our stay was very disappointing, there was only one staff member behind the bar so the queues very long and it closed at 10 pm. The food portion were very small so after a day of golf not ideal. Breakfast, same person behind the bar was serving breakfast, one at a time. Wouldn't go back to this hotel. They will blame staff issues but you had 3 people clearing tables that weren't going to be re-used for breakfast?

Neil – Reviewed 5 Jul 2022

Excellent

Had the best weekend lovely staff lovely food class hotel thanks alot👍

Warren – Reviewed 9 Jun 2022

8.0

Very Good

Always enjoy the atmosphere of the hotel but this year we sensed that there was a staff shortage and the fixed menu was extremely limited and unacceptable. We eventually got them to agree to us taking the ala-carte menu and the meals were very good. Couldn't understand why they were reluctant to cash in on extra money which was nearly £100 they took from us. Can only be something to do with staff who, incidentally, worked very hard and extremely kind.

John – Reviewed 9 Jun 2022

Excellent

Hotel is clean, staff are very friendly and rooms are comfortable. Had a nice view over the 1st tee and could see the 18th green of the Emerald course which was nice. Pool facilities were good and looked like plenty was going on with the gym and spa. Only issue for us was the cost of food and drinks when in the hotel. £5 to have chips on top of already paying £30 for a steak?!?!

James – Reviewed 4 Jun 2022

Excellent

The staff were so helpful the room was clean and comfortable everything was fantastic fantastic

David – Reviewed 3 Jun 2022

6.0

Good

Nice Hotel,but most of staff were incompetent and in a couple of cases rude. Two members of our party left due to the catalog of disasters,one didn’t even stay for the evening meal.

Mark – Reviewed 19 May 2022

Excellent

The overall experience of our stay at Macdonald hill valley hotel and spar was excellent and all the party was very impressed so much so we will be returning the same time next year.

Kevin – Reviewed 18 May 2022

Excellent

Martyn – Reviewed 17 May 2022

Excellent

The hotel is set in lovely surroundings of hills and countryside the town is only a ten minute walk away for extra entertainment if you wish to go to defo be going back

Chris – Reviewed 14 May 2022

4.0

Average

A Little disappointing in truth, the party of 6 could not fault the rooms what so ever, they where spot on and the check in desk staff where so helpful and so where the waiters at dinner service - could not do enough to help with any needs we had. The bar where the opposite, the staff where in hiding all weekend, we ended up being so frustrated we got a 20 min taxi into Crewe. The course's where really let down by the pitch and putt greens, very poor. Plus we didn't get chance to test out the spar.

Ashley – Reviewed 3 May 2022

Excellent

Excellent service from start to finish, hotel rooms food really good standards,

Stephen – Reviewed 1 May 2022

2.0

Poor

O. K

Stephen – Reviewed 30 Apr 2022

6.0

Good

Food and Reception excellent but Bar and Restaurant staff where appalling. Made a official complaint to duty manager who will discuss this with General Manager on his return and will come back to me I have also updated your John McGuffie

Peter – Reviewed 29 Apr 2022

2.0

Poor

Our 1st visit to a Macdonalds hotel last year was disastrous and this wasn't much better. Wasn't enough staff, drinks were extortionate over £20 for a double rubarb gin and tonic, had to queue 20 mins for a drink at the bar and the same for breakfast. They tried to charge for bread with starters, which had arrived after we had finished the starters. We were put in a conference room for all our meals, we had to pull 2 tables together so we could eat together.

Dale – Reviewed 26 Apr 2022

Excellent

clean comfortable rooms excellant food nice people .

David – Reviewed 12 Apr 2022

Excellent

Very pleasant welcome and early access to our room! The housekeeping staff then surprised us by letting themselves in as we unpacked!

Alexander – Reviewed 7 Apr 2022

Excellent

Another excellent visit to this outstanding venue. From our arrival greeting at reception,to friendly & knowledgeable Golf concierge to check out on departure everything perfect will return soon

Jeff – Reviewed 29 Mar 2022

8.0

Very Good

Clean spacious good value for money

David – Reviewed 16 Mar 2022

6.0

Good

Rooms were good but we thought that the drinks and bar food was expensive and poorly stocked eg no snacks for hungry golfers. Plus the service was generally rather slow and inefficient. For example, we pre ordered our food for 7.30 each evening and took our seats on time and after waiting ended up going to the bar to get wine and wine glasses ourselves so we could share a drink! No one had come to check if we wanted drink or to explain that they were struggling to staff our table and apologise. The food was late coming out and we dad to remind the staff to bring us bread. There seemed to be lots of staff on but they had no idea how to look after their customers. Fully appreciate difficulties with staffing after Covid 19 but surely the odd experienced member of staff could ensure customers were updated re delays. After 4 trips here I will be looking to take us elsewhere next year.

Rachel – Reviewed 23 Nov 2021

8.0

Very Good

Great couple of days away with the lads. Everyone enjoyed the break. No moans!

Rod – Reviewed 3 Nov 2021

6.0

Good

Very tired hotel,no tea,milk in room had to ask.all staff were brilliant.food looked like on a tight budget,small portions,short staffed waited an hour for dinner,wine came after we had our starters,the room,it was only ok,the bathroom radiator was held together at socket with gaffa tape,hooks had come off the back of bathroom door.no toiletries available. The courses,emerald we played first.mens tees were a very very old mat,small and tatty.greens were good.buggy had 90*rule,wasn't too wet though,tees not been cut for 2 weeks,especially the ladies tees which were sometimes behind the mens.the sapphire corse was very wet,tees not been cut for a long time,greens were not good on this championship course. For the package price we paid it certainly wasn't good enough or value for money.so we will not return.that was our second visit.

Barbara – Reviewed 28 Oct 2021

Excellent

We were greeted at reception by friendly staff who had menus ready for our evening meal.rooms were very clean and spacious overlooking the 1st tee.food was good and bars were busy but staff worked hard even though they looked down in numbers.overall very good

Geoff – Reviewed 13 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

Reception staff great. Karen in pro shop fantastic. Some staff need more training and need table service. No availability for spa treatments and no jacuzzi in spa. All together a very good break

Peter – Reviewed 10 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

Rooms comfortable, slow service at the bar, food ok

Steve – Reviewed 6 Oct 2021

Excellent

Short staffed but it was understandable as all hospitality places are experiencing the same. We were made very welcome?

Marlene – Reviewed 1 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

Good value for money for the DBB stay, weather was good which was a bonus, the staff were helpful and friendly.

Olwen – Reviewed 19 Sep 2021

8.0

Very Good

The hotel was clean and well kept and all the staff were friendly and helpful

Anthony – Reviewed 17 Sep 2021

Excellent

Superb stay at Hill Valley. Best ever in 5 years. Staff friendly, helpful. Yes we had some problems with the room but these were resolved quickly to our satisfaction. Only real gripe was the bar running out of Becks for a few days.

Paul – Reviewed 9 Sep 2021

6.0

Good

The room was spacious and well kept, the bed was very comfortable. Very small portions for the evening meal. Bar staff often ignored the golfers to attend instead to Spa guests often in the middle of serving yourself.

John – Reviewed 5 Sep 2021

6.0

Good

Food was great really enjoyed Beds were uncomfortable The rooms were not ready when we went to check in but offered a complimentary drink at the bar while we waited

Dean – Reviewed 1 Sep 2021

8.0

Very Good

Great place staff good but we're short handed communal bar areas looking a bit tired need freshening up rooms very good but a bit too warm and no heating controls we could find?

Ian – Reviewed 25 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Rooms were spacious had tea and coffee kettle etc juliet balcony comfy beds.Breakfast was very good as was evening meal .Service was quite good although it wasn't very busy so hard to judge.

Lee – Reviewed 23 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Excellent hotel and food was very good. The bar gases were not working for 3 days during our stay, so no draft beers were available. We reverted to purchasing our own drinks from a supermarket and consuming them in our rooms. Spoilt the overall experience some what.

Robin – Reviewed 19 Aug 2021

6.0

Good

The hotel is adequate but nothing special, the bar and prices are really disgraceful. 4 glasses of wine £60 4 poor quality beers £22. None of our rounds of drinks were the same price! apparently we were given a discount when we wernt entitled. We were told we got away with it??? we didn't even know! The food was good.

Eric – Reviewed 18 Aug 2021

2.0

Poor

Awful experience. Staff were rude, food was just edible and it felt very much like eating in a school cafeteria The bar had no draft beer on and out of the four rooms we had booked one had a coffee machine that didn't work and another had no kettle. Any requests were ignored. We didn't feel welcome at all and I would advise anyone thinking of staying here to avoid.

Richard – Reviewed 17 Aug 2021

Excellent

Lovely course. Great staff and food was ok.

Peter – Reviewed 13 Aug 2021

6.0

Good

Paid for upgraded room and did not get one left me and my playing comrades feeling cheated it was £10.00 per person and we got nothing for it and no refund or apologies were forthcoming, very very disappointing, will definitely not be going back there anytime soon.

Thomas – Reviewed 9 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Huge disappointment this year as there was no draught beer or lager due to gas problem. Left with only very expensive bottles which I understand had to be purchased from a local supermarket and which they charges £4 a bottle for. The hotel was very busy and I know of many complaints about how a first class hotel could find themselves in this situation. As usual the staff were very good - clearly short staffed I believe - and the rooms and other services were good.

John – Reviewed 4 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Room could have been cleaned to a higher standard. Limited staff serving Sunday evening causing lengthy wait for food and drink. No draught beer available. Food reasonably priced and well cooked

Brian – Reviewed 4 Aug 2021

Excellent

Accommodation was good , considering the the times we are at moment the hotel staff were brilliant 5 star !!!!

Harry – Reviewed 19 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Accommodation comfortable, with expected amenities. The staff were very pleasant and helpful but unfortunately the service was not good. This maybe because of Covid but we stayed at this hotel a number of years ago and the service was not good then. Could be that more staff training is required and we do appreciate the current situation is causing staff illness (isolation) The food was good and overall we would consider staying again.

Reg – Reviewed 18 Jul 2021

Excellent

Hotel staff were marvellous and hard working. The service was sometimes quite slow but understandable considering the COVID situation.

George – Reviewed 17 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

The hotel was very well appointed and very comfortable. Food was lovely altho our breakfast got taken to 2 separate tables and not to us therefore causing a wait. The one disappointment was that maintenance was carried out on the cellar mid afternoon and consequently there was no draught beers or cider for the rest of the day. We had one round of drinks and before we could order another the cellar was closed...surely a staff member could have asked if we'd like a second drink before closing it. We we're the only two people on the terrace at that time so not difficult to do! The only thing wrong during a lovely stay.

Amanda – Reviewed 15 Jul 2021

Excellent

Despite all the Covid restrictions still being in place the hotel as brilliant and the staff could not be faulted despite it being very busy

Steve – Reviewed 6 Jul 2021

Excellent

Rooms where clean and comfortable. A little tired in some places. Staff where polite however they seemed a little stressed. They forgot two dessert and it took 30mins before we got them, Food was nice.

Dawn – Reviewed 30 Jun 2021

Excellent

All ok really but very difficult for everyone with the covid restrictions Nice tho’

Keith – Reviewed 21 Oct 2020

8.0

Very Good

Lovely rooms, staff doing their best to make everyone safe. Bar food is very expensive, that’s the only criticism.

Stephen – Reviewed 20 Oct 2020

Excellent

David – Reviewed 20 Oct 2020

Excellent

Dave – Reviewed 19 Oct 2020

Excellent

Very organised in the current Covid situation, food, drink, rooms and staff all excellent

Ian – Reviewed 1 Oct 2020

8.0

Very Good

Nice hotel, friendly welcome, good food!

George – Reviewed 1 Oct 2020

8.0

Very Good

Food was amazing, staff were just as good

Marc – Reviewed 4 Mar 2020

Excellent

staff where excellent , great value food was good

Derek – Reviewed 26 Feb 2020

6.0

Good

Hotel clean and bedroom spacious and comfortable. Breakfast had plenty of choice, hot food was served by Staff so long queues formed. The meal in the evening was ok and reflected our package price. Wine list very expensive. Understaffed throughout the Hotel though Restaurant Staff very pleasant. We received a free bucket of beers courtesy of Your Golf travel but no bottle opener accompanied the beer, my husband asked for an opener but non was forthcoming, we found our own bottle opener in our car.

Anne – Reviewed 10 Dec 2019

8.0

Very Good

The hotel was very good. Clean welcoming staff very friendly and helpful. The only let down was the food quality breakfast and our first evening meal ( avoid the beetroot salad ) The spa and pool facilities first class

Alan – Reviewed 29 Sep 2019

8.0

Very Good

Great hotel

Tod – Reviewed 20 Sep 2019

Excellent

Staff have been excellent throughout. When we started to arrive at a busy breakfast, staff quickly sorted us out with coffee, etc. No problem. All requests were dealt with promptly. Rooms were very well appointed. Hotel is modern and comfortable. We had a separate room for our group of 40 which was a good bonus. Drink and snack prices are a bit steep, but profits have to be made and the 20% off bar drinks helped. It didn’t hold anyone back!

Bob – Reviewed 19 Sep 2019

Excellent

Hotel was bery clean, nice rooms and great facilities. The restaurant seemed a bit short staffed at times however which prolongued times btween courses but bothing too bad. Would definitely be returning

Paul – Reviewed 2 Sep 2019

8.0

Very Good

Went on a very busy bank holiday weekend. There was also a large wedding reception underway as well. The rooms were roomy and very well appointed. The staff did an amazing job in looking after even though we could see they were under real pressure .

Ian – Reviewed 28 Aug 2019

Excellent

Very accommodating and helpful

Philip – Reviewed 17 Aug 2019

8.0

Very Good

Really good value and this place has huge potential to be much better. The hotel and facilities just require some updating.

Stephen – Reviewed 4 Aug 2019

8.0

Very Good

Hotel staff were friendly and helpful and offered excellent service. Breakfast was delicious and cooked to order. Dinner menu was limited and could have been better although it was acceptable. The room was comfortable and had windows which opened which made a pleasant change.The plumbing needed some attention to bring it up to full working order.

Jennifer – Reviewed 20 Jun 2019

Excellent

Everything excellent

Craig – Reviewed 19 Jun 2019

Excellent

Really well looked after, nothing was too much trouble, the food was outstanding. Thank you

Mark – Reviewed 14 Jun 2019

Excellent

Macdonald hill valley is definitely worth a visit, the hotel was very nice, food excellent and with a lovely view of north Wales from some parts of the golf course.

Stuart – Reviewed 4 Jun 2019

Excellent

Rooms were bright and airy with views out on the course. Beds were very comfortable and warm. Bathroom was clean and big enough for two people sharing.

Bernard – Reviewed 25 May 2019

Excellent

The gold course and the hotel were excellent. The staff were very attentive and did everything they could to make our stay first class. We will certainly return.

Terry – Reviewed 24 May 2019

6.0

Good

When we arrived the hotel manager took my to one side and explained that there was a problem with one of the single rooms that we booked. She first asked if one the gents would mind sharing with 2 from one of the twin rooms. He wasn't happy with this as he paid extra to be in a single reason and due to health problems didn't want to share. They managed to keep him in his single room for the first night but on the second night needed to move. We sorted it out between ourselves and myself and the lad I was sharing with moved into 2 separate twin rooms to make our room free so the gent could have his single room. This was fine for us but really wasn't on from the hotels point of view. On the Saturday afternoon I got a phone call to go to reception. On arrival I was asked to go and move the luggage from the single room as someone had ALREADY been checked into that room and given access!! When I went to move the luggage I was greeted by a guest that was already in the room amongst the luggage. Surely this is against the rules as there were valuable and personal belongings in the room?? This was totally unacceptable and the gent who got moved out the room went and questioned the decision to move another guest into his room without giving him time to take his belongings. The girl on reception just said sorry but he was really miffed off. We asked why our single room had to be given up for another guest but didn't get a clear answer? Why did someone from our group have to move and make way for another person to take his room? We got some bar vouchers and a voucher for the pro shop as "compensation" but being honest this wasn't enough. It brought unnecessary stress on our trip and just complicated things. We are really not happy with how we were treated and unfortunately won't be returning or recommending Hill Valley to anyone else in future.

Josh – Reviewed 14 May 2019

2.0

Poor

I have a complaint in with the hotel. The sapphire course was a disgrace and I would not recommend that you ask your customers to play this course. The hotel was not good with there service we had to wait for ages for tea and coffee to be served and there was a mix up with the payment of acup of tea and they argued with us that we had not paid.

Jean – Reviewed 2 May 2019

8.0

Very Good

Hotel was fine and staff polite and friendly. Football acceptable. Room good and excellent shower

Doug – Reviewed 24 Apr 2019

Excellent

Excellent will definitely recommend also will be booking again soon thank you Peter.

Peter – Reviewed 15 Apr 2019

8.0

Very Good

All good

Royston – Reviewed 10 Apr 2019

8.0

Very Good

staff were fantastic. room was good and food tasty. However food choice was very limited on the DBB deal. £25 allocation and no choice for any red meat. Two vegetarian, 1 fish and 1 chicken option!!! Very unusual

John – Reviewed 27 Mar 2019

Excellent

Give star based on what we paid which for dinner bed breakfast 2 rounds of golf was tremendous It was an unexpected stay as we were booked to stay st hawkstone park but when we arrived the course was shut They had snow up north The hotel couldn’t inform us as only had your golf travel unmanned tel no That they were calling at 7am Your golf travel should give hotels the emergency tel no Fortunately we got relocated to hill valley that opened at 11 and had a great Sunday saver

Kay – Reviewed 13 Mar 2019

6.0

Good

Whilst it was comfortable and staff friendly we thought the price of a cup of coffee and pre dinner drinks was very excessive compared to similar hotel chains.

Roger – Reviewed 25 Oct 2018

Excellent

Just wanted to thank you for the trip you arranged for me and my mates to Macdonald Hill Valley Golf and Spa. The hotel was magnificent with the members of staff being very friendly and helpful indeed. The evening meal and breakfast were super too. The location was only 50 minutes from my home and extremely easy to find as it was well signposted. Both golf courses were immaculate and very well maintained and the pro shop staff were very helpful and friendly. The only downside was the weather but on the whole, a fantastic weekend was had by all and I will be returning in the summer. I have now recommended this location to many of my friends and also recommended You Golf Travel as the service you provided personally was excellent, making booking my first golf trip easy.

Joe – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

Excellent

Thank you for your very efficient organisation of our very "last minute" golf break to Macdonald Hill Valley. The hotel was great, the weather fantastic and the courses were very interesting and in good condition too. It couldn't have been better and we will be back.

Jane – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

Excellent

We had a great time at Hill Valley which is a great location for a golf tour, being very easy to find. The hotel staff were very welcoming and could not do enough to help. The rooms were spacious and well equipped, and the meals were excellent. All round, it was very good value for the money. We all enjoyed the golf too. The courses were very well maintained; not easy, but very enjoyable. The shorter Sapphire course was very pretty but you had to be very accurate to get a good score. There appeared to be a bit of a discrepancy on the tee-times, we were due to go out at 9.30 each day, but on the Monday our tee-times encroached on the lady members tee-times, so we had to go out about 40 minutes late, also on Thursday we had to go out at 9.00 instead of 9.30, but it was not a problem as the staff in the pro-shop were so helpful. There was also a shed available to leave our clubs overnight which was very useful. The weather was great too, so we were able to enjoy a drink on the terrace after each game and watch everyone putt out on the last hole. The drinks in the bar were a little bit expensive, but the 20% discount helped. Overall, it was a very successful event, we will all be looking forward to the Vale next year.  We would rate this holiday 9/10 – everything you could wish for on a golfing break.

Jackie – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

8.0

Very Good

We really enjoyed our break at Hill Valley.  The hotel room was large and comfortable with all the facilities expected of a 4 star resort. There’s plenty of choice at dinner but the breakfast buffet was very sparse if you didn't want full English! The staff seemed a bit stretched and the bar prices were high, but we expected that in a hotel. We played both courses and enjoyed our golf. Daisies and dandelions on the fairways but the grounds staff were out in force on Monday sorting that out. Overall the quality of the courses was fine. Hill Valley was easy to find and we passed signs for a few other places which we might try next time.

Linda – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

8.0

Very Good

What a fantastic venue! Lovely hotel where the staff were friendly and helpful, good food and reasonably priced drinks (especially with our 20% discount), as well as beautiful bedrooms; what more could you ask for? There were two great golf courses too. We were fooled by the Sapphire which on paper looked simple, however although quite short, it was very tight and a good test of accurate golf. And what a killer of a par 5! The Emerald was in a class of its own and very challenging...perhaps a little too much for some of the higher handicaps in the group! We were lucky enough to be able to present prizes in the sunshine on the lovely patio too. I would certainly recommend this venue and also booking through Your Golf Travel as you made the whole process very easy.

Christine – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

8.0

Very Good

We had a great time at Macdonald Hill Valley. It’s a very good hotel, with lovely rooms...large and immaculately presented. The service in general was excellent. Everybody was very enthusiastic about the beautiful golf course too. Overall would give it 8/10 with the only complaint being that things like coffee and some of the drinks were "over the top" expensive. Thanks for your excellent service, and we would thoroughly recommend <a href="http://yourgolftravel.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">yourgolftravel.com.</a>

Lorraine – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

8.0

Very Good

We only played the Emerald course during our stay at Hill Valley but for a course using the natural terrain of the ‘Hill Valley’, you cannot fault it. Every hole is different, with great views and the tree lined fairways screening you off from the other holes; a great test of golf and very rewarding for our mixed ability group. Perhaps the quality of the greens didn’t fully match the rest of the course and if I were to note an area for improvement, this would be it. The bar prices in the clubhouse were silly for tea or coffee at £4.70. A pint of beer was slightly expensive too at £4.20 and the choice was limited, especially the upstairs bar. The atmosphere was fine though. The rooms in the hotel were great; well maintained and relatively spacious. The showers merit special mention being the best I have experienced across many hotels I use for work and pleasure.  The evening meal and breakfast were both of an excellent quality. The bar snack prices were, again like the bars prices, very high and would add a lot to the overall price of the break if you snacked every day.  The members of staff were great; efficient, helpful and with a smile plus good informal conversation. Our overall verdict would be 9 out of 10. The bar prices were a slight dampener and made us look elsewhere for our evening entertainment. Hill Valley is better than most of the golf break venues we have been to over the last 10 years and if they improved the greens, then only Celtic Manor, Le Touquet and Hardelot would beat it. Would I recommend YGT to a friend? For sure...and the same was true  last year and the year before that from other organisers in our group.

Philip – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

8.0

Very Good

We had a thoroughly enjoyable trip to McDonald Hill Valley this weekend so thanks to you and all your staff for help in organising our trip. The hotel staff were, I think it is fair to say, the most helpful we have encountered in our dozen or so golf trips away and were most accommodating. Rooms and food were all also as good as you would expect from this type of hotel and again quite satisfactory. The price of a pint is expensive – but again what you would expect that of a large hotel chain. We made our own entertainment in the local town of Whitchurch, but recommend booking in advance taxis for the round trip. The Emerald course was long, challenging and in good condition. Sadly, the Sapphire was in not so good condition with several poorly kept greens and tees. However we did play in March after a particularly wet winter so maybe no better than could be expected. All in all a good weekend.

Ian – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

8.0

Very Good

Thank you for organising our golf and spa break at Hill Valley; everything went like clockwork, the men enjoyed the golf on the Emerald & Sapphire courses and the ladies really enjoyed their spa treatment. The Emerald course was in good condition and gave a reasonable challenge for our party with handicaps at the higher end of the scale. The course was not over burdened with golfers and on occasions we felt like we had the course to ourselves. The Sapphire course is a different challenge, not as long and with more par 3's, but tighter, which made you think a lot more about your shots. It makes for an enjoyable change from the Emerald course too. The bar prices are on the high side but that’s what you expect at these type of hotels! The food overall was good, with the exception of the sandwiches we had in the bar which were expensive and nothing special. We were lucky with the weather and sitting on the terrace watching the golfers and enjoying a few drinks was very enjoyable. Overall the package and venue were very good.

Philip – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

Excellent

Our golf trip to Hill Valley was excellent. The course was a fantastic challenge and in superb condition. The hotel rooms and staff were all fantastic too, and I would recommend it to any standard of golfer. The help we received when booking via Your Golf Travel was first class. All in all it's a massive A+ for all concerned from us!

Garry – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

Excellent

We were very fortunate to play on two such splendid courses, The Sapphire and The Emerald, at the Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Country Club.  The layout of both courses was excellent. The Sapphire, a shorter and narrower course, proved an excellent test of accuracy, with the greens and fairways in very good condition. The Emerald, a longer, tougher and in places more forgiving course, pushed our golfing ability. The condition of the fairways was very good but the greens weren’t quite as good as the Sapphire course. The bunkers were in good nick as well and were tricky traps on some occasions. Both courses were suited for different abilities. I consider myself an OK golfer whose handicap used to be 12, but haven't played consistently for about ten years, and I thoroughly enjoyed playing both courses, considering them both a decent challenge. My golfing partner only began playing golf consistently over the past two years and he thought the course was a good challenge for him too.  The clubhouse was welcoming, with comfy chairs, sky sports and a laid back atmosphere. We enjoyed a sandwich before our evening meal which was delicious. The barman looked after us all very well but the price of a pint and a bottle of beer was expensive.  The hotel was very welcoming too with good cleanliness and everything you needed. We didn't use the spa facilities but as we walked passed them they looked very tempting. The restaurant was very nice, the food tasted great and there was enough choice on the menu. The room was spacious, clean with a lovely shower! The staff were welcoming and caring for our needs and created a good impression on me; very chatty which made you feel at ease with them.  My overall verdict for the weekend was: Experience 10/10, Courses 9/10, Hotel 9/10.

Rhys – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

Excellent

The hotel at Hill Valley was brilliant and exceeded our expectations. The staff were very friendly and helpful; nothing was too much trouble. Rooms were spacious, clean and very comfortable so no complaints at all. Food was delicious and there were good choices available on the menu included in our package. Drinks were a little more expensive than in your average pub, but no more than one would expect in such surroundings and the cost was mitigated by a discount for our party members in one of the bars. We thoroughly enjoyed our golf too. The two courses provide a great experience for golfers of all handicaps and the Emerald in particular was a delight to play. The other facilities in the complex are lovely – I can vouch for the swimming pool – a fantastic extra to relax the body after a day on the course. I would thoroughly recommend Macdonald Hill Valley (luxurious surroundings at a very reasonable price) as well as yourselves at YGT to anyone organising a golf trip. Many thanks for your help – I dare say we will be planning something for next year in which case your voucher will be much appreciated!

Gerald – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

6.0

Good

The hotel at Hill Valley was very good and we all enjoyed it. Food and staff were both excellent and the only blip was that the lifts were out of order and as we were an older party, those on the higher floor did struggle. Unfortunately the golf course was not on good condition, with the areas around the trees had not been cut and the long grass made it impossible to find balls. The bunkers had very little sand in them and the water hazards were not in view, due to lack of yellow stakes. The Emerald course was very difficult and only when we played from the red tees was it suitable for us. We would not return as the golf courses here were much too hard for our party. We will find an easier course next year!

Frank – Reviewed 2 Dec 2014

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7.2

Good

Overall Rating for All courses

Condition overall

6.6

Condition of greens

6.4

Speed of round

Slow About right Quick

Facilities

7.2

Value for money

7.2

Difficulty

Easy Average Hard

Reviews

Filter by:

Excellent
Very good
Good
Average
Poor

8.0

Very Good

The round took over 5 hours to play and the course was extremally wet and muddy.

Miles – Reviewed 31 Oct 2023

8.0

Very Good

Course was wet and boggy in parts but understandable with the recent weather but we was lucky with a mixture of cloud and sunny spells.

Melvin – Reviewed 30 Oct 2023

8.0

Very Good

Lovely staff and all you could want for a golf break

Paul – Reviewed 27 Oct 2023

Excellent

Played this course on the 2nd day and was far superior to the Sapphire

Terry – Reviewed 9 Oct 2023

8.0

Very Good

Overall a challenging little course, let down by the conditions of the greens

Terry – Reviewed 9 Oct 2023

Excellent

Excellent course, everything that the sapphire wasn't.

Ken – Reviewed 26 Sep 2023

2.0

Poor

I am afraid that this golf course has been neglected and is not for for purpose. Poor condition of greens and tees, unable to work out fairways from the rough, no rakes in bunkers etc etc

Ken – Reviewed 26 Sep 2023

8.0

Very Good

A short course but very challenging. Don’t be put off by the length of the course. It’s one of the most interesting courses I have played

Martyn – Reviewed 10 Sep 2023

8.0

Very Good

Excellent course in very good condition and absolutely no hold ups apart from our own poor golf

Martyn – Reviewed 10 Sep 2023

Excellent

Me and and my mate Sean stayed here for the August Bank Holiday week (same for last 7 or 8 years) playing 6 rounds of golf, 3 rounds on each course. The Emerald course was in superb condition as usual offering a great challenge for all handicaps!! The reception staff were brilliant and welcoming as usual, thank you Helen & Beth! The rooms were usual standard with a minor complaint of a blocked sink on the first day easily resolved by Martin in maintenance after less than 5 minutes of making the complaint!!!! The meals we found excellent from the included meals with the golf package, and the food and beverage team went above and beyond to make our stay enjoyable, so thank you to Brian the F&B Manager, Jenny, Alexa, Zoe, Charlie and last but not least Kayla. We just hope next years stay is as enjoyable as this years.........a tall order but they have a great team there at Whitchurch :)

Paul – Reviewed 7 Sep 2023

Excellent

Me and and my mate Sean stayed here for the August Bank Holiday week (same for last 7 or 8 years) playing 6 rounds of golf, 3 rounds on each course. It was great to see the condition of the Sapphire had greatly improved over the years, with greens in best ever condition offering a great challenge for all handicaps!! The reception staff were brilliant and welcoming as usual, thank you Helen & Beth! The rooms were usual standard with a minor complaint of a blocked sink on the first day easily resolved by Martin in maintenance after less than 5 minutes of making the complaint!!!! The meals we found excellent from the included meals with the golf package, and the food and beverage team went above and beyond to make our stay enjoyable, so thank you to Brian the F&B Manager, Jenny, Alexa, Zoe, Charlie and last but not least Kayla. We just hope next years stay is as enjoyable as this years.........a tall order but they have a great team there at Whitchurch :)

Paul – Reviewed 7 Sep 2023

8.0

Very Good

Nice course ot quite as good as the emerald very hilly.

John – Reviewed 11 Aug 2023

Excellent

Great course fantastic views not to busy either.

John – Reviewed 11 Aug 2023

Excellent

Really nice course with not a bad hole on there Look forward to playing it again some time

Mark – Reviewed 22 Jul 2023

Excellent

Beautifully designed course. More space than the Sapphire with wider fairways but slopes and hollies everywhere. Another gem of a course.

David – Reviewed 22 Jul 2023

8.0

Very Good

An amazing little gem of a course. They should play the Open here !!

David – Reviewed 22 Jul 2023

8.0

Very Good

Apart from the weather we enjoyed the course mind have coming her for the last 8 years so it must be good !!!

Harry – Reviewed 12 Jul 2023

6.0

Good

Craig – Reviewed 3 Jul 2023

8.0

Very Good

Craig – Reviewed 3 Jul 2023

8.0

Very Good

Much better coarse,better maintained,and greens faster than Sapphire.

Stephen – Reviewed 28 Jun 2023

6.0

Good

Could do with money spending on it. Badly signed and greens very slow.

Stephen – Reviewed 28 Jun 2023

Excellent

Shorter course well maintened despite dry conditions.

Judith – Reviewed 13 Jun 2023

Excellent

The Emerald Course was enjoyed by all players. Considering the dry spell well looked after.

Judith – Reviewed 13 Jun 2023

2.0

Poor

Anthony – Reviewed 7 Jun 2023

Excellent

Anthony – Reviewed 7 Jun 2023

8.0

Very Good

We always play the Emerald on the 2nd day and thoroughly enjoyed it. The course was in good condition but the greens, whilst good, not up to their usual standard - probably because of the long dry spell of weather. Despite our disappointments this year my group will wish to return next year - does that make sense?

John – Reviewed 6 Jun 2023

4.0

Average

Once again we found the course in poor condition, the greens in particular extremely poor. We have come to expect that the Sapphire doesn't receive the same attention as the Emerald and this year was no different. Always appears to be badly maintained but never the less we always enjoy playing it.

John – Reviewed 6 Jun 2023

6.0

Good

Course in desperate need of some serious tlc. As with the hotel, more staff required to bring it up to standard. Tees and greens just about okayish, but fairways, rough and adjacent areas need mowing and manicuring. We think that Macdonald Hotels have forgotten about the whole place.

Susan – Reviewed 4 Jun 2023

8.0

Very Good

All enjoyed the course, felt greens were very slow,but played the course twice as we were told by locals Sapphire was in poor condition Pro shop staff were happy to help and accommodate our request

Elsbeth – Reviewed 27 May 2023

6.0

Good

Liked the course but condition wasn't the best.greens and fairways need some TLC.

Robert – Reviewed 13 May 2023

6.0

Good

Golf in a great setting course was good condition could of been better.

Robert – Reviewed 13 May 2023

8.0

Very Good

Graham – Reviewed 10 May 2023

Excellent

This course felt more forgiving then the Sapphire course. Really enjoyable course and well kept.

Paul – Reviewed 9 May 2023

Excellent

I really enjoyed the Sapphire course, This was narrower then the Emerald with a few challenges. We played a 3 ball of average standard and took us around 4 hours.

Paul – Reviewed 9 May 2023

6.0

Good

We were a party of 6 and we all enjoyed the course Due to the time of year the fairways were muddy and the greens iffy I am sure in the coming months the course condition will improve

Mark – Reviewed 11 Apr 2023

6.0

Good

We were a party of 6 and we all enjoyed the course Due to the time of year the fairways were muddy and the greens iffy I am sure in the coming months the course condition will improve

Mark – Reviewed 11 Apr 2023

8.0

Very Good

Greens could do with heavy roller was a little uneven causing ball to bounce on putting

Graeme – Reviewed 7 Apr 2023

8.0

Very Good

Greens could do with a heavy roller was a little uneven causing ball to bounce on putting

Graeme – Reviewed 7 Apr 2023

4.0

Average

Played the course on Saturday and while you cannot control the weather, the course was very very very wet with water raising up above your shoe line on most greens. We were allowed to use a buggy which was a surprise and shouldn't really have been allowed as very slippy underneath the wheels. Will say though proshop staff especially the lady were wonderful.

Shaun – Reviewed 27 Mar 2023

8.0

Very Good

Played this on first day Friday and again while soft it was playable and the greens were in not bad condition for all the rain they had seen recently. Would be a lovely course to play when dried out and fairways cut.

Shaun – Reviewed 27 Mar 2023

6.0

Good

Not bad for this time of year. Million times better that the sapphire rubbish over the road.

Luke – Reviewed 27 Mar 2023

2.0

Poor

The course was in a disgusting state and should not have been allowed to play it. 2 buggys were just abandoned half way round due to be stuck in mud. Shambles

Luke – Reviewed 27 Mar 2023

8.0

Very Good

Played at the end of November so the fairways was long and leaves but it’s to be expected this time of the year. It’s never rained for both days which helped

Dave – Reviewed 28 Nov 2022

Excellent

The boys really enjoyed this course, thank you.

Steve – Reviewed 12 Oct 2022

6.0

Good

Greens were awful, weeds growing on them and bunkers were in poor condition. Fairways were ok for this time of year.

Steve – Reviewed 12 Oct 2022

2.0

Poor

Tee to green worst condition weve ever seen , unplayable in most parts.

Kevin – Reviewed 9 Oct 2022

6.0

Good

Tee boxes terrible. Greens poor. Was due to play on the Friday aswell but we cancelled and paid to play on Hawkstone park again.

Kevin – Reviewed 9 Oct 2022

8.0

Very Good

A much better & challenging course. The overall layout was excellent although the back 9 needed a little more TLC. Unfortunately there was a root protruding on one of the greens but the rest were good.

Andrew – Reviewed 14 Sep 2022

4.0

Average

It was a short course & the layout was good. Conditions of the greens were poor which let the course down.

Andrew – Reviewed 14 Sep 2022

2.0

Poor

Green conditions were atrocious. None of us enjoyed the course. Sign posting is poor.

Vaidy – Reviewed 14 Sep 2022

6.0

Good

No starter provided this time around. Leaves everywhere. Bunkers needs sand, very poor for a championship course.

Vaidy – Reviewed 14 Sep 2022

8.0

Very Good

The highlights were the 2 holes in one on the same hole, 17th, by 2 different party members on different days. What would the mathematical odds of that happening been?

Paul – Reviewed 10 Sep 2022

4.0

Average

Short, tight and tricky to score on. The general condition of the tees, fairways and in particular the greens was poor. We were reluctant to play the course twice as planned but were fortunate to be able to play an extra round on the vastly superior Emerald course.

Paul – Reviewed 10 Sep 2022

6.0

Good

A little bit better condition than the emerald course

Ken – Reviewed 9 Sep 2022

4.0

Average

Generally in poor condition

Ken – Reviewed 9 Sep 2022

6.0

Good

the course lacked TLC on tee boxes and greens. excellent layout but just needed additional care. it was very much the poor relation to the Emerald

Nick – Reviewed 31 Jul 2022

8.0

Very Good

excellent course, very impressed.

Nick – Reviewed 31 Jul 2022

Excellent

Tough but fair

Harry – Reviewed 12 Jul 2022

Excellent

Loved the course, but found it very slow, didn’t tee off until 12:00pm, leaving very little time to chill before evening meal

Rowland – Reviewed 5 Jul 2022

8.0

Very Good

Enjoyed the golf as always

Rowland – Reviewed 5 Jul 2022

6.0

Good

Neil – Reviewed 5 Jul 2022

8.0

Very Good

Neil – Reviewed 5 Jul 2022

8.0

Very Good

A few flags on in pins and missing

Warren – Reviewed 9 Jun 2022

6.0

Good

Lovely course a few flags missing

Warren – Reviewed 9 Jun 2022

8.0

Very Good

Always enjoy the Emerald course and the course in general was extremely good. The greens completely the opposite to the Sapphire course and in very good condition. A most enjoyable morning to finish our short stay.

John – Reviewed 9 Jun 2022

6.0

Good

As usual it was very quiet and we had an extremely comfortable afternoon. The course has always played second fiddle to the Emerald and this year was now exception. Several bunkers had been grassed over and the greens were very poor.

John – Reviewed 9 Jun 2022

6.0

Good

Challenging course. Some very nice holes and overall in good condition. However, the greens all had sand on which made putting very difficult and ruined the round

James – Reviewed 4 Jun 2022

6.0

Good

Course is nice enough. Played it twice (day 1 and day 3) Day 1 we had issues with the greens as at least 5 of them had visible standing water which made putting through it difficult. Day 3 they had put sand down which once again ruined the overall putting experience as it was impossible to read speed etc. Course is nicely designed with some interesting holes but we were slightly held up by a group in front

James – Reviewed 4 Jun 2022

8.0

Very Good

The greens were having sand put on them as we were going round making putting hard to judge but fairways were in good condition

David – Reviewed 3 Jun 2022

Excellent

The fairways and greens were in magnificent condition

David – Reviewed 3 Jun 2022

8.0

Very Good

Good course,interesting and challenging.

Mark – Reviewed 19 May 2022

Excellent

This is one of the most challenging courses we have played all of us agreed and one of the most scenic. We cant wait to return next year.

Kevin – Reviewed 18 May 2022

Excellent

Our first days golf was so good the weather was fair and the golf fantastic .A very good challenge.

Kevin – Reviewed 18 May 2022

8.0

Very Good

Had to walk the course because the buggies that we requested were not booked by YGT !!

Martyn – Reviewed 17 May 2022

Excellent

Would of been fantastic if we would of had the buggies which we requested (no fault of Hill Valley !)

Martyn – Reviewed 17 May 2022

8.0

Very Good

This course is the small of the two and a bit easier than the other one the greens were poor this year on this course but still a lovely course to play lovely views from both courses

Chris – Reviewed 14 May 2022

Excellent

This course is the hardest out of the two it was a slow round only because the group in from were slow the course is kept in tip top condition but love the course very challenging

Chris – Reviewed 14 May 2022

2.0

Poor

Stated above, the greens where shocking and ruined the day really, like a dog track was the common comment. The phone app and setting of the course where really nice touches.

Ashley – Reviewed 3 May 2022

2.0

Poor

Stated above, the greens where shocking and ruined the day really, like a dog track was the common comment. The phone app and setting of the course where really nice touches.

Ashley – Reviewed 3 May 2022

8.0

Very Good

Again greens need attention this course was little more challenging but enjoyed both courses

Stephen – Reviewed 1 May 2022

8.0

Very Good

Greens need a bit of attention but overall two really good course

Stephen – Reviewed 1 May 2022

2.0

Poor

Will never pay to play at Hill Valley again, totally embarrassed for my group, one overcharged for our 4th bottle of wine at the meal, buggy ran out on the 12th/13th hole got another one on the 14th which emptied on the 17th had to get.other buggia to push us on the 18th, ruined whole 2 days. Never again.

Stephen – Reviewed 30 Apr 2022

8.0

Very Good

O. K

Stephen – Reviewed 30 Apr 2022

6.0

Good

Peter – Reviewed 29 Apr 2022

6.0

Good

Peter – Reviewed 29 Apr 2022

4.0

Average

Again,as with the sapphire course the greens and the tees were not the best.

Dale – Reviewed 26 Apr 2022

2.0

Poor

Greens and tees were of a poor standard. There was a two ball in front of us only using 1 set of clubs and pulling a golf trolley across the greens and taking an age to play

Dale – Reviewed 26 Apr 2022

Excellent

better greens a bit different on the holes

David – Reviewed 12 Apr 2022

8.0

Very Good

good green a bit sraight

David – Reviewed 12 Apr 2022

8.0

Very Good

There had been a lot of tree damage due to recent high winds. The tees needed cutting and the red tee markers need improvement.

Alexander – Reviewed 7 Apr 2022

8.0

Very Good

The early greens were damaged due to fusarium? As such the grass height was greater than normal. The other greens were fine. There was too much rubbish, beer cans and bottles, around the course.

Alexander – Reviewed 7 Apr 2022

8.0

Very Good

Similar experience to Sapphire lots of repair work ongoing but the overall appearance was good. The golf was enjoyable and again the greenkeepers were working hard.The WIP (work in progress) was much more visible than the Sapphire understandable with possible Covid restrictions being responsible for the delay/shortages of labour!

Jeff – Reviewed 29 Mar 2022

8.0

Very Good

Again a challenging course has been subjected to the recent wet weather plus the high winds/storms encountered during the winter months. WIP (work in progrees) is visible and some holes maybe improved by removal of trees!

Jeff – Reviewed 29 Mar 2022

Excellent

David – Reviewed 16 Mar 2022

6.0

Good

David – Reviewed 16 Mar 2022

8.0

Very Good

Great to be playing golf in November. The fairways were wet and the grass long but not unusual for the time of year. That said, many of the greens were being treated and very very sandy and no warning of this. Plus the lady in the pro shop told us we were playing at 12.20 on the Saturday despite the email from you saying it was 11.40 and me checking with her colleague earlier in the day that we were off at 11.40. She treated me like a difficult customer and i think was raising her eyes about me to other customers that i do not think is acceptable as the error seemed to be hers. Alternatively if something had happened that morning and the club needed to move our slots, surely there should have been an apology and explanation.

Rachel – Reviewed 23 Nov 2021

8.0

Very Good

Great golf experience on a testing course. Better in summer when less leaves on the course. Will be back.

Rod – Reviewed 3 Nov 2021

Excellent

Did not play this course as the Emerald was offered to us to play twice.

Rod – Reviewed 3 Nov 2021

4.0

Average

Tees scruffy not cut in a while greens weren't good,a couple had fuseriam

Barbara – Reviewed 28 Oct 2021

4.0

Average

Good greens.tees very bad.mens had a very very old mat

Barbara – Reviewed 28 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

The course was in decent condition for October.some of the tees were of poor standard but overall was very good.would probably give it 8/10

Geoff – Reviewed 13 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

Peter – Reviewed 10 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

Bunkers are poor with compacted sand and a bit untidy in places. Some trees need to be trimmed. Greens were great and recovery after rain was good

Peter – Reviewed 10 Oct 2021

6.0

Good

Better condition than Sapphire course but surprised all 18 tees were off mats at beginning of October when the main tees are so big

Steve – Reviewed 6 Oct 2021

4.0

Average

This could be a great little course but let down by lack of maintenance, all tees had no grass on them

Steve – Reviewed 6 Oct 2021

6.0

Good

Okay.

Marlene – Reviewed 1 Oct 2021

6.0

Good

Been there three times and know what to expect. Overall it’s okay.

Marlene – Reviewed 1 Oct 2021

6.0

Good

Too difficult for my standard, lost more balls than I could count! It would appeal to low handicappers who enjoy a challenge.

Olwen – Reviewed 19 Sep 2021

Excellent

We had a lovey game, not having played here before made it interesting. Hit into the water on the 18th but took a drop and redeemed myself with with a nice chip not far from the hole.

Olwen – Reviewed 19 Sep 2021

4.0

Average

Poor relation to emerald course if we go again would give it a miss and play emerald twice

Anthony – Reviewed 17 Sep 2021

8.0

Very Good

Well kept easy to find your way around some of the par 3 were difficult

Anthony – Reviewed 17 Sep 2021

Excellent

Course was in fantastic condition all week. We've played this every year in August for the last 5 years and it was the best we have ever played. Could not fault it. The greenkeepers have done the course proud this year!

Paul – Reviewed 9 Sep 2021

Excellent

Very challenging for a short course but really rewarding when you play the holes well. Quite tight and with some challenging par 3's. I always look forward to this course every year, and it does get some stick on the reviews. Yes, the greens and tees aren't as well manicured as the Emerald but it was the best it's been in 5 years at this time of year. Credit to all the greenkeepers!

Paul – Reviewed 9 Sep 2021

2.0

Poor

In 45 years of golfing, the worst greens i have ever putted on, the 14th green had mushrooms growing on the surface. many bunkers had been allowed to be grassed over with no GUR in place. Very poor condition all round.

John – Reviewed 5 Sep 2021

6.0

Good

Sadly we were behind a very slow society and our round took 5 hours to play having to wait on every shot we played.

John – Reviewed 5 Sep 2021

8.0

Very Good

Is a lot better than the saphire This is a great golf course Unfortunately there is no driving range and the practice putting area is small So no chance to loosen up

Dean – Reviewed 1 Sep 2021

4.0

Average

Wouldn’t even bother the greens are terrible my local council course have better greens then this absolutely avoid playing this course will ruin you golf break

Dean – Reviewed 1 Sep 2021

8.0

Very Good

Great potential course but needs a lot of work on the greens sort this and it's probably more of a challenge than the emerald tight interesting course some tees have trees that need a trim as they hang into tee box would play again

Ian – Reviewed 25 Aug 2021

Excellent

Great course would play again needs a better driving range and a chipping area would be great

Ian – Reviewed 25 Aug 2021

6.0

Good

A lot of blind shots greens were neglected compared to the Emerald course very tight

Lee – Reviewed 23 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Course was in very good condition excellent greens tough test with trees collecting any wayward shots.

Lee – Reviewed 23 Aug 2021

6.0

Good

Very hard course albeit a short course. Greens left a lot to be desired. Some of the holes with carries over water and trees were extremely difficult as the gap to go through them was very tight. We are all accomplished golfers and we struggled with it.

Robin – Reviewed 19 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Very good test of golf. Some greens were not up to their usual standard.

Robin – Reviewed 19 Aug 2021

6.0

Good

Lot better than the sapphire but still should be in better condition especially the greens.

Eric – Reviewed 18 Aug 2021

4.0

Average

The greens are appalling, full of weeds and patchy. my lawn is better! bunkers the same.

Eric – Reviewed 18 Aug 2021

2.0

Poor

Should not be open the greens and the course overall were the worst I have played on. It has the making of an excellent little track with the views and layout however it has been neglected and as a result is below par with a communal pitch and put.

Richard – Reviewed 17 Aug 2021

6.0

Good

Average course. Greens and tee boxes were okay but with a bit more care it could be excellent. The views were exceptional. We rented out 4 buggies over 3 days at £90 each. one out of group had to push the buggy back to the club house after the 14th as it had a dead battery. No apology or offer of a few quid off.

Richard – Reviewed 17 Aug 2021

6.0

Good

Compared to the other course it was tired and scrappy. It did the job and was quite challenging

Peter – Reviewed 13 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Beautiful course. Quite tough. But greens brilliant

Peter – Reviewed 13 Aug 2021

2.0

Poor

This course was a disgrace and should not be in play, asked for a refund but as with the rooms nothing forthcoming, if there was a No star rating that is what it would have got, as the organiser of this trip I was left feeling embarrassed. Something should be done about this they should not be sending players out on that course and expecting them to pay it spoiled the whole trip not just for me but for everyone who attended al 56 of us, absolute worst course I have ever played was the most common remark I heard, diabolical.

Thomas – Reviewed 9 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Very good course needs a little attention on greens and in some others areas but in general very good, but no Marshall’s on course to keep play moving, over 5 hours for a round of golf not acceptable.

Thomas – Reviewed 9 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Once again we had a very clear and trouble-free round on the this course which was well maintained and very enjoyable. Despite my comments we do enjoy this venue very much and will be returning next year.

John – Reviewed 4 Aug 2021

4.0

Average

As usual the course appeared completely neglected with all bunkers out of play. It did, however, suit our standard of play and we did enjoy a quite and uninterrupted round. At one stage we felt we were the only ones on the course so it was millionaires golf as far as we were concerned.

John – Reviewed 4 Aug 2021

6.0

Good

Course in tired condition with lack of regular maintenance very evident

Brian – Reviewed 4 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

5 hour round due to no course marshalling thereby allowing 5 and 6 ball groups

Brian – Reviewed 4 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

There was 16 of us all different categories but we enjoyed the course ( we should be we have been coming here for the last 12 years !!!

Harry – Reviewed 19 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Reg – Reviewed 18 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Inadequate signage re direction of next tee. Most bunkers out of action (GUR) Some challenging holes, overall a good course.

Reg – Reviewed 18 Jul 2021

4.0

Average

The greens were in poor condition. As were the tees. The layout of the course is fantastic and could be a real pleasure to play but for the condition.

George – Reviewed 17 Jul 2021

Excellent

Really enjoyed this. Great layout and kept interest all the way around.

George – Reviewed 17 Jul 2021

6.0

Good

The greens had all been treated with sand do making putting quite difficult. We felt the course was not as well kept as the emerald. Poor relation really.

Amanda – Reviewed 15 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

It was very quiet so it was basically millionaires golf!

Amanda – Reviewed 15 Jul 2021

6.0

Good

The tees and greens need some TLC as they were in not great condition which is a shame because some of the holes, with their 2 level greens are better designed than those on the Emerald course. A little TLC and this would be a proper challenge

Steve – Reviewed 6 Jul 2021

Excellent

Great golf course with some really challenging holes in excellent condition even in the rain

Steve – Reviewed 6 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

This is a lovely course. Speed of game was a little slower than normal, Some greens had brown patches. But the overall experience was excellent. Will go back again.

Dawn – Reviewed 30 Jun 2021

6.0

Good

This was probably the worst condition I have ever seen on a golf course. However the course was very challenging.and had some lovely holes, the 15th has a complete dogleg to the left, can be a little confusing if you don’t know the course . I’m taking COVID may have played a part in the condition of the course. We will revisit in a year let’s hope the course is in better condition.

Dawn – Reviewed 30 Jun 2021

Excellent

Good greens, nicely cut fairways a very good lay out The only thing was the bunkers had been left to go to grass due to the covid and unable to rake Overall tho’ Very good

Keith – Reviewed 21 Oct 2020

Excellent

Cracking course, it was autumn though so the amount of leaves on the course made hitting a wayward tee shot interesting. Other than that, lovely greens and good speed of play.

Stephen – Reviewed 20 Oct 2020

Excellent

Don’t be fooled by the small yardage, some of these holes are card wreckers if you don’t hit your tee shot right.

Stephen – Reviewed 20 Oct 2020

4.0

Average

Slow play, poorly maintained

David – Reviewed 20 Oct 2020

8.0

Very Good

Nice course

David – Reviewed 20 Oct 2020

8.0

Very Good

Dave – Reviewed 19 Oct 2020

6.0

Good

Greens not good, bunkers terrible, course layout good but lots of leaves made finding balls even on the fairway was sometimes difficult. Many holes had Tee shots where you couldn’t see the group in front, we had several holes where we were nearly hit as the group behind played before we were out of range. There were bells to ring but nothing on the tee’s to tell people to wait until they heard it.

Ian – Reviewed 1 Oct 2020

8.0

Very Good

Lovely layout, greens and tees poor, some really nice holes. Real shame about some of the greens!

George – Reviewed 1 Oct 2020

2.0

Poor

Course should of been shut due to how wet it was. But pro advised he was really sorry he couldn’t move us onto other course as a convo was on all day.. even though it prob should of been shut anyway but couldn’t they couldn’t turn that sort of money away. Electric trolleys wouldn’t even work on the fairways/paths as it was so wet, after trying to push them up the first with no joy we had to retire after 1 hole.. not impressed. Ruined the weekend 0 value for money. Had we been informed before we arrived we would of gladly rescheduled as the whole weekend was a waste of money. Managing only 9 holes in 2 days. 👎

Marc – Reviewed 4 Mar 2020

2.0

Poor

Course was unplayable due to recent rain. Only managed 8 holes. Should of been shut, but couldn’t as “ can’t turn down the money generated from a am am comp on the sun”. Very disappointing as we would of reached had we been informed, even though phoned earlier and was told course would be playable.

Marc – Reviewed 4 Mar 2020

8.0

Very Good

the weather was bad and course wet but fully understandable - but the greens held up well and the course just about was playable

Derek – Reviewed 26 Feb 2020

8.0

Very Good

Hired a buggy, used the pathways as the course very wet and boggy, so the game obviously took longer to play than expected. The course was challenging in places. The greens were quite fast but held some moss and previous players had not repaired greens from divot marks. Would play again in better weather.

Anne – Reviewed 10 Dec 2019

Excellent

Great condition the better if the 2 courses by far Beware the 17th green Definitely require a buggy fir this one

Alan – Reviewed 29 Sep 2019

Excellent

Considering the amount if rainfall tbe previous col day the course was in really good condition greens true and fast

Alan – Reviewed 29 Sep 2019

4.0

Average

We were offered another round on the Emerald on our second day. I suspect this was because the Sapphire was not well maintained. Very little effort had been done on the greens which were patchy and sandy. The fairways were quite long grassed and the course condition was poor.

Tod – Reviewed 20 Sep 2019

6.0

Good

The better maintained course of the two

Tod – Reviewed 20 Sep 2019

8.0

Very Good

Judging by the results from our group of40 seniors, this was a challenging course, but it was in very good condition and looked superb. After quite a lot of rain, the ground was rather greasy in places and the ball did not run as it might but the greens were fast. Everyone enjoyed the course and all reactions were positive regardless of results. As tour organiser, I was very happy to have brought my group to Hill Valley.

Bob – Reviewed 19 Sep 2019

6.0

Good

This shorter course is quite challenging and was the correct choice as a warm up before two rounds on the Emerald. However, as the pro shop admitted, the course is in need of improvement. It is a tight tricky course with only one par 5. There are too many trees and they are too large, narrowing a tight course even further. Too much searching for balls in trees and undergrowth. The greens are patchy and do not run evenly which further frustrates. My members came in from this round with moans and criticism. However, I understand that plans are afoot to sort things out over the winter and it could be a much better prospect by next summer. Having said all this, a course is a course and you have to play it as it stands.

Bob – Reviewed 19 Sep 2019

Excellent

Yhis is a fantastic course and just because it is shorter, doesn't make it easier! A few signature holes where carefull golfing of the ball is needed. It was quite windy at the time we played making it more of a challenge but no less enjoyable. This course is only let down by the poorer quality of the tees and greens compared to the Emerald. Get these right and the course would be brilliant!

Paul – Reviewed 2 Sep 2019

8.0

Very Good

Course was hard to play as we chose to play off the white tees and is a great test of golf. However, we found that if straying from the fairway the rough was penal and several balls lost. It was 6-7 inches deep in places. Other groups complained about this too while we were there. Would love to play the course again but trimming back the rough a bit more would make it more enjoyable and speed up play.

Paul – Reviewed 2 Sep 2019

6.0

Good

Didn’t play this course as time at the resort didn’t allow . Had a walk round and it looked fairly tatty by comparison to it’s big sister. Still great value though.

Ian – Reviewed 28 Aug 2019

8.0

Very Good

Cracking course, lovely set up with lots of variation including ponds, ditches and some interesting approaches. Too many people on the course resulting in a 5 hour plus round. Would like to play again when less busy.

Ian – Reviewed 28 Aug 2019

6.0

Good

Philip – Reviewed 17 Aug 2019

Excellent

Very enjoyable

Philip – Reviewed 17 Aug 2019

8.0

Very Good

This course has been poorly maintained. Pathways and course guidance is nonexistent in places. That said, what a course this could be. One of the most amazing hillside courses I have ever played. If brought up to the standard of Emerald, this would be a way better course. The variation in each hole is incredible, it reminds of las ramblas in Alicante, but this is better.

Stephen – Reviewed 4 Aug 2019

Excellent

Beautiful course, great weather and a good round. Bunkers are poor, but the course is otherwise beautiful.

Stephen – Reviewed 4 Aug 2019

6.0

Good

Again it isn’t possible to give a helpful review as the weather was awful and we plodded round in the rain.

Jennifer – Reviewed 20 Jun 2019

6.0

Good

Very difficult to give fair review of the course as the weather was diabolical and we played for 4 hours in torrential rain. Were we wise to do so? Well we enjoyed ourselves.

Jennifer – Reviewed 20 Jun 2019

6.0

Good

Poor greens and tee beds

Craig – Reviewed 19 Jun 2019

8.0

Very Good

Very testing

Craig – Reviewed 19 Jun 2019

8.0

Very Good

The greens on the first day were a little woolly and could do with a cut, the bunkers were not brilliant, but otherwise the course was really very good. Second day the greens had been cut and probably would have been good however the weather was very very wet, and many had standing water on them. I think if this had been a private club the course would have been closed, the rest of the course was draining reasonably well.

Mark – Reviewed 14 Jun 2019

8.0

Very Good

The course was tight and tricky, nowhere near as good as the emerald course or in the same condition.

Stuart – Reviewed 4 Jun 2019

Excellent

The course was very enjoyable, played very tough but with the venue being used for the Euro pro tour you would expect that.

Stuart – Reviewed 4 Jun 2019

Excellent

The Emerald course was fab, big wide fairways challenging greens and just enough water hazards to keep you sharp

Bernard – Reviewed 25 May 2019

6.0

Good

Fairways were quite narrow and accuracy off the tee box was essential. Greens were quite slow and you really had to hit the ball.

Bernard – Reviewed 25 May 2019

Excellent

The settings are beautiful. The course is a good test of golf

Terry – Reviewed 24 May 2019

Excellent

All in all a very good testing course

Terry – Reviewed 24 May 2019

6.0

Good

Really nice layout of the course but the tees and greens let it down massively.

Josh – Reviewed 14 May 2019

8.0

Very Good

"Wait for the bell" signs needed!! Unfortunately due to not knowing the course and there being NO signs regarding teeing off after a bell we nearly hit the groups in front of us and nearly got hit ourselves. This is not acceptable and really dangerous. It needs sorting out ASAP before someone gets injured.

Josh – Reviewed 14 May 2019

2.0

Poor

The quality of the course was disgraceful and I would recommend that you do not sell this to your customers. We were given the option to play on the Emerald course on the second and third day at a much later t time so some of our ladies couldn’t play as they had to get home. The emerald course was very exceptable for the ladies that did play.

Jean – Reviewed 2 May 2019

4.0

Average

Same as the Emerald but greens very poor and uncut until some done halfway round.

Doug – Reviewed 24 Apr 2019

6.0

Good

Disappointed with fairways grass quite thick not really been able to distinguish fairways from rough. Some greens not cut either. Understand it was a bank holiday but other courses were in top condition.

Doug – Reviewed 24 Apr 2019

Excellent

Very good apart from the heavily spiked greens on the first game next day was better.

Peter – Reviewed 15 Apr 2019

8.0

Very Good

Great course but busy

Royston – Reviewed 10 Apr 2019

6.0

Good

an interesting layout, difficult for first time due to unknown hole configuration. Fairways long, wet and soft. Bunkers were in poor condition but better than Sapphire course. Greens had been hollow-tined so putting was a lottery. Probably good to play in middle of summer but definitely not in Winter or Spring

John – Reviewed 27 Mar 2019

6.0

Good

A very short course but very interesting layout. Really good test of golf. However the fairways were like deep rough, the bunkers were full of weeds and didn't look like they had been raked for weeks and the greens were more moss than grass. Disappointing to say the least

John – Reviewed 27 Mar 2019

8.0

Very Good

Weather was awful and under circumstances course very playable Hardly anyone but us on it

Kay – Reviewed 13 Mar 2019

8.0

Very Good

Not so long as the Emerald but good scoring is very dependant on where you put the ball. Played regularly or at least more often would have helped. We were blocked out so many times.

Roger – Reviewed 25 Oct 2018

6.0

Good

Due to the weather being slightly wet and windy, we, like loads of others, had trouble with leaves on the course and finding balls, hence slow round. Was a long and difficult course for a woman with a high handicap. Very tiring.

Roger – Reviewed 25 Oct 2018

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Par	73
Designed by	Peter Alliss and Dave Thomas
Opened in	1975

White	6,714 yards	SSS 72
Yellow	6,304 yards	SSS 70
Red	5,509 yards	SSS 71

Par	66
Designed by	Peter Alliss and Dave Thomas
Opened in	1975

White	4,801 yards	SSS 64
Yellow	4,454 yards	SSS 62
Red	4,145 yards	SSS 64

Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa

Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa

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Golf Courses at Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa

Emerald Course

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Sapphire Course

Signature Hole

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Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa

Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa

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Golf Courses at Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa

Emerald Course

Course Information

Tees

Sapphire Course

Signature Hole

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Tees

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How to get to Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel and Golf Club

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