Overlooking the cars thundering by on the busiest motorway in Europe it is hardly “Surreys best kept secret”! Reigate Hill Golf Club is passed by thousands of motorists every day and yet many remain unaware of it’s existence, even now it’s 12 years old. Just 5 holes sit high on the chalk hillside of the North Downs in view of the M25 and these enjoy the benefit of excellent natural drainage. The turf here has an almost links-like quality, and yet the course is very much Parkland by nature. Looking South, you enjoy a panoramic view over the remainder of the course, a contrast to the higher holes, a traditional parkland feel with lush green receptive fairways. These are well-defined as they meander through the ancient oaks, one of the oldest in the county sits alongside the 1st green. Whilst the golf course makes no unrealistic claims to be a “championship” venue, being short of the seemingly obligatory 7000 yards, it does have the unmistakeable feel of a quality layout. There are 99 bunkers folded into the landscape although they don’t overpower or dominate as at some other American-style courses. The excellent fairways mentioned above are complemented by tees which cope admirably with all-year round play, no mats in use here. The greens are interesting, ranging from dead flat to severely undulating, surprisingly fast, yet true. The spacious clubhouse, which enjoys a tranquil setting, has become an increasingly popular venue not only for weddings and parties, but for business conferences and seminars. It has handy motorway access, peace and quiet, good food and good golf - quality and value that is going to be hard to beat. Catering is available daily from 8-4 (earlier during winter weekends) RHGC is lucky to have Professional Golfer Stephen Dundas bringing a quality that far bigger clubs would envy. His playing background includes some remarkable career highlights; 1992 British Amateur Champion, appearances in the 1993 US Masters and Open Championship. Since retiring from the tournament circuit, he has become a highly regarded coach working around the world with renowned names such as David Leadbetter and Bob Torrance. Now returned from the middle-East as coach to the Qatar national team, he is now one of the Surrey County coaches. |