Ashridge Golf Club

Ashridge is a beautifully presented 1930s parkland course, designed by Major C.K. Hutchison, Sir Guy Campbell and Colonel S.V. Hotchkin. The layout is unique, with three loops of holes, a traditional nine (1–9), a compact three-hole stretch (10–12), and then an out-and-back closing loop (13–18) that leads you past Ashridge House. The setting is a huge part of the experience. Mature woodland frames each hole, and from the clubhouse you look out over multiple tees and greens, giving a wonderful sense of space. Practice facilities are excellent, with a driving range and short game area conveniently next to the car park. On the course, the opening holes immediately impress, running down a shallow-sided valley that sets the tone for what’s to come. The round builds steadily, with the closing stretch particularly strong holes 16 and 17 offer striking views of Ashridge House, while the downhill 18th provides a fitting finish beside the clubhouse. Conditioning was very good, and the course has an understated elegance that makes it a joy to play. I arrived with little expectation, but Ashridge left a lasting impression. A fine example of English parkland golf and a great prelude to my later visit to Woburn Marquess.

I returned to Ashridge two years after being rather underwhelmed by my first visit and am delighted to report that our fourball had a great time.

The staff in the clubhouse were super as was the lunch overlooking the ninth,12th and 18th greens and tees on the 1st,10th and 13th holes.

The fairways were in mint condition and this time the rough was not nearly as dense on the first cut, so a slight stray was not so severely punished.

Indeed, Ashridge was how people had always told me and I am glad I can now park that tough day in 2021. In fact, I am looking forward to playing there again later this summer.

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Ashridge GC has been on my radar for a while. Hailed by some as one of the best parkland courses in England. Next door neighbour to one of my recent favourites, Berkhamsted GC. The major difference here is obviously the healthy number of bunkers on the Ashridge property. Recently remodelled and looking splendid!

The day was geared up to be great fun, organised by our host Adam and joined by Cambridge duo, Paul and Junior. Junior has been running the RACDG cook-offs over lockdown and has helped feed my family with some delicious dishes, so it was great to meet him and shake/fist-bump his hand/fist.

Ashridge really sells itself from the off thanks to the wicked view from the clubhouse. Six holes are in view and you get your first glimpse of the wonderful green-sites and deliberate bunkering. Elevation changes are utilised so well here and the land movement is a key characteristic throughout. What really highlighted this was the sheer audaciousness of the pin placements. On top of slopes, on slopes, two paces from bunkers. It was a battle on the greens out there for sure. Carnage some might say.

The overall condition of the course was pretty good for this time of year – especially being clay-based. There were a few patchy areas, but with an imminent over-seeding program and new drainage system, the course will undoubtedly improve over the summer and into next season. I am of course being pedantic. It was a thoroughly enjoyable layout with many interesting and aesthetically beautiful holes. For me, the green-sites makes this course. They made for some great chips and putts, although treacherous at times, there was no denying the entertainment.

Unfortunately, I forgot how to play golf this day. It is always disappointing to turn up to an away venue for the first time and let the side down. But Ashridge has got me wanting a return visit and hopefully I can find the top of my back-swing once again.

The greenfee should be lowered down, compared to other golf courses in the area.