A superbly maintained parkland course that has tested the best players in the world. It’s a welcoming and enjoyable place to visit and play.
The Grove Golf Course Review
Top 100 Ranking 2021/22 – TBC
Previous Rankings
2019/20 – 85
2017/18 – 83
2015/16 – 87
2013/14 – 82
2011/12 – 85
2009/10 – 81
Summer Green Fees
Round – £99 – £179
Medal Tee: Par 72 – 6,766 Yards
Changes since previous ranking
Full bunker replacement
The Grove Golf Course Review
Designed by Kyle Phillips, this beautifully laid-out course flows naturally across an impressive swathe of mature parkland.
It played host to the WGC-American Express Championship won by Tiger in 2006 as well as the 2016 British Masters hosted by Luke Donald and won by Alex Noren.
The 7th at The Grove
Related: Top 100 Courses UK and Ireland
The course has a traditional feel and it’s clear Phillips was influenced by the great British parkland and heathland courses built in the early part of the 20th Century.
Making use of the natural contouring, the undulating fairways stretch attractively across this mature piece of parkland with a wonderful array of trees lining many holes.
The sumptuous 3rd, with its approach over ‘Hell’s Lake’, is a real test of the nerves, and the short hole that follows is all about hitting the right length.
The 3rd at The Grove
There are further excellent par 4s both at the 5th and the perfect 18th to its raised green, and in 2006 Tiger Woods recorded an eagle three on the 567-yard 9th hole three days in succession.
The short holes are all very appealing, particularly the inviting 13th from its elevated tee.
The course is always presented in fabulous condition and the greens are a joy to putt on. Recent work to renovate the bunkering has further enhanced the look and condition of the course.
Assessor Feedback
Condition and presentation is the area that sets The Grove aside from many of its competitors, particularly out of season. The condition and presentation of the course is truly exceptional.
Presentation of everything course side is impeccable. It is the dedication to upkeep and maintenance that is most impressive at The Grove.
GM Verdict
A superbly maintained parkland course that has tested the best players in the world. It’s a welcoming and enjoyable place to visit and play.
Rob Smith Visits…
I’ve been lucky enough to play at The Grove on a regular basis over the last decade, and having liked it from the start, it has continued to grow on me.
I know that not everyone is a fan of big, modern courses, but as someone who enjoys the best features of every style, I think this superbly maintained course is a real beauty. I will let a few of my photos from a recent visit offer a cross-section of what is on offer.
The view from the third tee
The par-4 fifth is another very tough 2-shotter
The short seventh plays up the slope
The Kyle Phillips bunkering such as here at eleven is distinct, strategic, and very attractive
The par-3 thirteenth is played from an elevated tee
The lovely sixteenth is the final short hole
The approach to the closing green at The Grove, a very strong par 4
On my most recent visit, I was lucky enough to play with fellow GM columnist Dan Walker who was excellent company and who also hits the ball further than just about anyone with whom I have played.
Me and Dan Walker… he is the marginally taller one
I always enjoy returning to The Grove – the course has terrific variety and great visual appeal, and the informal and friendly welcome is a refreshing alternative to that at some of our rather more traditional clubs.
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