There are plenty of reasons to visit Barton-on-Sea – bordered by the New Forest, with its natural coastline near the bustling town of New Milton – but a big draw has to be the golf courses along this stunning coast, with views all around. Here are just a few:
Let’s start with this gem of a members’ club who also welcomes visitors for a round of golf. Founded in 1897, Barton-on-Sea Golf Club is located between Christchurch in Dorset and Lymington in Hampshire, and is within easy reach of Southampton and Bournemouth.
Boasting a clubhouse which overlooks the lake and an island green with truly breathtaking views of the Solent and the Needles on the Isle of Wight, every golfer should pop in for a swift one after their round. Nothing is too much trouble at this picturesque, challenging course, featuring excellent service by the professionals and clubhouse staff. Enjoy a round and then sit back and sip on a tipple of your choice in the bar or, on those warmer days, the balcony.
Top tip: If you’re visiting, be sure to check out the dress code in advance, and although handicap certificates are not required to be shown before playing, you’re expected to be a capable player with knowledge of the rules and etiquette of golf.
Another fabulous course nearby is Bramshaw Golf Club, one of the oldest in the area and renowned for having two spectacular courses, the Forest Course and the Manor Course.
The Forest Course was built first in 1865, followed by The Manor Course which opened in 1971; together, visitors can experience 36 holes with the stunning backdrop of the New Forest. Bramshaw Golf Club features gently undulating fairways and excellent greens, and is often referred to as one of the most testing courses in the South of England. A challenge for golfers of all abilities.
Bramshaw accepts a high number of visitors each year so feel welcome here and take in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Top tip: If it’s a golf break you’re after, Bramshaw Golf Club features a clubhouse open from 7am with catering every day from 9am and the bar opens until late – not to mention its restaurant and accommodation on site; ideal after a day on the course!
Situated in 100 acres of beautiful land, you’ll find Blacknest Golf and Country Club, a family-run business originally opened in 1992 and then taken over by the Parris Family in 2011.
Situated within half an hour of Farnham, Winchester and Petersfield market towns, Blacknest offers the very best of hospitality at its club, as well as golf in a rural location for people wishing to get away. With both membership and pay and play options, Blacknest provides golfers with a challenging 18-hole, Par 69 Parkland Course.
Outside of golf, the estate is family friendly and boasts activities for everyone, including footgolf, disc golf, walking, several lakes for fishing, some wonderful wildlife and can even accommodate children’s parties.
Top tip: Bear in mind that there’s facilities to eat, sleep and even get married at Blacknest with rooms and experiences for all occasions.
Founded in 1913, Highcliffe Castle Golf Club is another fantastic option for Barton-on-Sea golf located in the coastal village east of Christchurch, near Southampton and Bournemouth.
Visitors are welcome to play throughout the year and are advised to book tee times in advance with the course Professional, Kevin Saunders. It is described as one of the friendliest clubs in England featuring a challenging, but fair, test of golf, and the Highcliffe Castle Golf club house is steeped in tradition and history.
Here you’ll find a well-stocked bar, world-class catering, a dining room with elevated views over the 18th green, 1st tee and 9th green, and a wonderful veranda and terrace where you can relax in the warm weather and enjoy a drink, lunch – or both.
Top tip: Helpful and regular updates about the course and clubhouse are posted on Facebook so you can keep up to date by following Highcliffe Castle Golf Club.
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