Hamptworth Golf Club Review: A Golfer’s Experience
Nestled in the heart of the New Forest, Hamptworth Golf Club offers a golfing experience that challenges and delights players of all skill levels. This hidden gem boasts beautifully maintained greens and a course layout that seamlessly blends with the natural landscape. With its signature hole, aptly named ‘The Beast’, Hamptworth has earned a reputation as a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts seeking a unique and memorable round.
Beyond the course itself, Hamptworth Golf Club provides a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience. From the well-equipped driving range to the welcoming clubhouse, every aspect has been designed to meet the needs of both seasoned golfers and newcomers alike. This review delves into the course design, facilities, golfing experience, and additional offerings that make Hamptworth a standout choice for those looking to enjoy a day on the links in the stunning surroundings of the New Forest.
Course Design and Challenges
Hamptworth Golf Club offers a course that seamlessly blends with the natural landscape, providing a unique and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels. The course’s design takes full advantage of the stunning New Forest setting, creating a memorable journey through ancient woodland and undulating terrain [1].
Layout and Terrain
The course gently weaves its way through the Hamptworth estate, giving the impression of a well-established layout that has stood for over a century [1]. Golfers will encounter a variety of terrains, including forest and downland, which add to the course’s character and challenge. The undulating landscape, while not overly demanding, adds an unexpected element to the round, requiring players to adapt their strategy and shot selection [2].
Water Hazards and Bunkers
One of the most striking features of Hamptworth Golf Club is the integration of natural water hazards throughout the course. The River Blackwater meanders through the layout, presenting a natural obstacle or an attractive feature on nine of the holes [3]. This clever use of the existing landscape not only enhances the course’s beauty but also adds a strategic element to play.
In addition to water hazards, the course features a variety of bunkers strategically placed to test golfers’ skills. These sand traps are designed to catch wayward shots and require a high degree of proficiency to escape successfully [4]. The combination of water hazards and bunkers ensures that players must carefully consider their club selection and shot placement on each hole.
Signature Holes
While every hole at Hamptworth presents a unique challenge, the course is perhaps best known for its infamous 16th hole, aptly named “The Beast” [3]. This par 6 monster stretches an impressive 666 yards, presenting a formidable test for even the most skilled golfers. The club challenges every player to “Beat the Beast” by scoring a net birdie or better, adding an exciting element of competition to the round [1].
Other notable holes feature elevation changes, two-tiered greens, and prominent bunkers, ensuring that no two holes are alike [3]. This variety in hole design keeps players engaged throughout their round and rewards thoughtful course management and shot shaping [2].
Facilities and Amenities
Driving Range and Practise Areas
Hamptworth Golf Club offers excellent facilities for golfers to hone their skills. The driving range provides ample space for working on the long game, featuring four sheltered and four open-air bays. This setup is ideal for beginners, improvers, and experienced players looking to tune up their game or warm up before a round [5]. The practice range also includes a putting green, chipping green, and practice bunkers, giving golfers a comprehensive feel for the course [6].
To use the driving range, players can collect range balls from the dispenser outside the clubhouse and make their way to the range, which is just a short walk across the car park [5]. For those seeking to improve their game, the club’s professional staff is available for quick pointers or more comprehensive lessons, catering to all skill levels [5].
Clubhouse and Locker Rooms
The clubhouse at Hamptworth Golf Club has recently undergone a multi-million pound refurbishment, resulting in a modern and welcoming space [7]. The club takes pride in offering a warm welcome without the formalities often associated with traditional golf clubs [7]. The fully operational clubhouse serves as a hub for socialising and relaxation, featuring daily use lockers and a comfortable atmosphere [6].
Catering to various needs, the clubhouse offers all-day bar service and dining options. Golfers can enjoy freshly prepared golfing favourites, with breakfast available from 8 am every day [7]. For those planning special occasions or organising golf days for clients and friends, the talented head chef provides fantastic dining options [7].
Pro Shop and Equipment Rental
The clubhouse houses a fully stocked pro shop, where golfers can find a range of equipment and accessories [6]. While specific details about equipment rental are not provided in the given information, the presence of a well-equipped pro shop suggests that golfers have access to necessary gear and potentially rental options.
Hamptworth Golf Club’s facilities extend beyond golf, offering additional amenities such as a gym and tennis court [6]. The club also caters to various events, with conference facilities, meeting rooms, and spaces for weddings and ceremonies [6]. These comprehensive facilities ensure that Hamptworth Golf Club provides a well-rounded experience for golfers and visitors alike.
Golfing Experience for All Levels
Hamptworth Golf Club offers a diverse golfing experience that caters to players of all skill levels. The course’s design and facilities ensure that both beginners and seasoned golfers can enjoy a challenging and rewarding round.
Beginner-Friendly Features
For those new to the game, Hamptworth provides an excellent environment to learn and improve. The club’s practise facilities, set in the beautiful New Forest, include a fantastic Huxley surface driving range with brand new golf balls and state-of-the-art ball machines [8]. Beginners can benefit from the short-game area and putting green, allowing them to hone their skills around the green [8]. The relaxed guidance of professional coaches, such as Katie Dawkins, helps newcomers feel at ease and excited about the sport [9].
Challenges for Low Handicappers
Experienced golfers will find plenty to test their skills at Hamptworth. The course, considered one of the best in the South of England, has hosted professional tournaments and presents unique challenges on every hole [3]. With features like elevation changes, two-tiered greens, and prominent bunkers, the course demands strategic play and precise shot-making [3]. The infamous ‘Beast’, a par 6 16th hole measuring 666 yards, offers a particularly formidable challenge for even the most skilled players [3].
Junior Golf Programmes
Hamptworth Golf Club places a strong emphasis on nurturing young talent. The club offers weekly junior golf lessons on Sundays and golf camps during school holidays, providing a fun and engaging introduction to the sport [8]. Junior membership is available at competitive rates, with members’ children enjoying free Junior membership [8]. These programmes aim to instil a lifelong love for golf in young players, recognising that the sport can be enjoyed from junior level well into one’s later years [3].
Beyond the Course
Dining and Socialising
Hamptworth Golf Club offers a dining experience that goes beyond the typical clubhouse fare. The beautifully designed restaurant, complete with a large terrace, provides stunning views of the surrounding New Forest [10]. Golfers and visitors can enjoy a range of options, from hearty breakfasts to leisurely lunches and afternoon teas. The menu caters to various tastes, featuring home-made soups, fresh baguettes, and pizzas [10]. The spacious outdoor terrace is perfect for relaxing with refreshing drinks while taking in the picturesque scenery [10].
Special Events and Tournaments
The club is an ideal venue for private parties and golf events [11]. Hamptworth takes pride in hosting golf days, providing flexible packages to accommodate different golfing abilities [12]. The unique 666-yard par 6 ‘The Beast’ adds an exciting challenge to these events [12]. For those planning special occasions or corporate gatherings, the talented head chef offers fantastic dining options [7]. The club’s enchanting backdrop, surrounded by ancient woodlands, makes it a perfect setting for weddings and celebrations [7].
Membership Options
Hamptworth Golf Club offers various membership categories to suit different needs. Options include 7-day membership at £1,800 per annum and 5-day membership at £1,560 per annum [13]. The club also provides age-based rates, with 18-27 years membership at £900 per annum and 27-35 years at £1,200 per annum [13]. A ‘try before you buy’ option allows potential members to have their green fee refunded if they join on the same day [14]. The membership team offers tours of the club and introductions to staff and other members, ensuring a welcoming experience for newcomers [14].
Conclusion
Hamptworth Golf Club stands out as a top-notch golfing destination in the New Forest, offering a blend of challenge and natural beauty. The course’s design, with its signature ‘Beast’ hole and clever use of water hazards, has an impact on players of all skill levels. The club’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the fairways, with recently upgraded facilities and a welcoming atmosphere that caters to both serious golfers and casual visitors.
The club’s approach to fostering a love for golf among juniors and its range of membership options show its dedication to grow the sport. With its stunning setting, diverse amenities, and commitment to providing a memorable experience, Hamptworth Golf Club proves to be more than just a place to play golf. It’s a destination that invites golfers to enjoy the game, socialise, and soak in the beauty of the New Forest, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to tee off in a truly special environment.
FAQs
How can you tell if a golf course is of good quality?
To determine the quality of a golf course, consider several factors:
- Routing: This refers to the layout and sequence of holes, affecting the direction in which the holes are played.
- Design: Look at the overall design of the course.
- Variety of Holes: A good mix of holes can enhance the playing experience.
- Ability to Shot: The course should allow players to use a full range of shots.
- Reasonable Challenge: The course should offer a fair challenge that matches your skill level.
- Flexible Scheduling: Availability of tee times that suit your schedule is also an indicator of a good golf course.
References
[1] – https://www.golfshake.com/course/view/14926/Hamptworth_Golf_Country_Club.html
[2] – https://www.golfpass.com/travel-advisor/courses/33177-hamptworth-golf-country-club
[3] – https://members.hamptworthgolf.co.uk/golf_introduction
[4] – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazard_(golf)
[5] – https://members.hamptworthgolf.co.uk/driving_range
[6] – https://www.visit-hampshire.co.uk/things-to-do/hamptworth-golf-and-country-club-p15901
[7] – https://www.hamptworthgolf.co.uk/
[8] – https://www.hamptworthgolf.co.uk/academy/
[9] – https://wilts.muddystilettos.co.uk/things-to-do/review-hamptworth-golf-club/
[10] – https://www.hamptworthgolf.co.uk/our-new-forest-restaurant/
[11] – https://members.hamptworthgolf.co.uk/upcoming_events_and_news
[12] – https://members.hamptworthgolf.co.uk/societies
[13] – https://www.hamptworthgolf.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/hamptworth-golf-tariff-2023.pdf
[14] – https://members.hamptworthgolf.co.uk/how_to_join
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