Are These The Best 19th Holes in Golf
After a gruelling round of golf and battling the elements, there is no view more welcome than the warmth embrace of the 19th hole.
The 19th hole is the perfect place to reflect on the day’s activity and ponder whether you really should have hit 3-wood to a 280-yard target that requires a carry over water!
Golf clubs can boost their reputation by having a world-class 19th hole and it’s something that is discussed between golfers around the world.
Fortunately for UK-based golfers, we have some of the best 19th holes on the planet that provide beautiful scenery and scrumptious food.
We have selected some of the best to discuss today - have you visited any of them to date?
The Belfry
Known as one of the greatest resorts to be based in the UK, The Belfry boasts three golf courses that are kept in a pristine condition. The Brabazon Course has hosted the most Ryder Cups in history and regularly welcomes the DP World Tour’s fantastic stable of players. Golfers will have plenty of choice when it comes to relaxing after their round, with Sam’s Club House serving light meals and showing all live sports. The Ryder Grill offers sublime views of the surrounding golf course in a relaxed atmosphere and there are numerous stops for drinks too. Whether you want to enjoy cocktails in the Brabazon Bar or prefer something lighter at the Leisure Cafe, the facilities at The Belfry are industry leading.
Celtic Manor
Celtic Manor is another reputable resort that is home to multiple golf courses. Considering the magnitude of the venue, it’s unsurprising to learn that all three are maintained to a perfect standard. Twenty Ten played host to the Ryder Cup, whilst Montgomerie and Roman Road provide hefty challenges of their own. The resort boasts more than 325 refurbished rooms, which is why seven restaurants are located on-site. Situated within the Resort Hotel is The Olive Tree, where guests can enjoy a spectacular buffet. Alternatively, the award-winning Steak on Six is positioned here too. If you stay at the Manor House, you will find PAD, who specialises in delicious Asian-inspired cuisine. Additionally, golfers will have the option of the Cellar Bar, which broadcasts live sports throughout the day and evening. The Grill overlooks the Roman Road Course and The Rafters is found inside the Twenty Ten Clubhouse.
The London Club
With two world-class golf courses - International and Heritage - and the famous architect to create the latter, The London Club should be on every ardent golfer’s bucket list. Jack Nicklaus expertly pieced the Heritage together and offers an outstanding test to any golfer brave enough to answer his calling. What elevates this venue above the terrific golf is the superb clubhouse that provides delectable food and the finest beverages all-year round. You’ll travel to The London Club for the golf, but you’ll return for the exceptional hospitality.
St Andrews - The Jigger Inn
St Andrews is the ultimate golfing destination for pretty much any golfer in the world. You’d be surprised to know just how many Americans travel to Scotland to experience this majestic place. The Jigger Inn has long been labelled the world’s greatest 19th hole; the special setting that the establishment finds itself in will undoubtedly strengthen that argument. The building dates back to the 1850s but has since been renovated to offer golfers the model 19th hole. Through vast golfing memorabilia and lovingly home-cooked food, The Jigger Inn somehow improves the experience of St Andrews… who would have thought that was even possible?
Silvermere Golf Club
Occasionally, you find venues that don’t boast the reputation of the leading locations, yet still provide a terrific experience of both golf and hospitality. Silvermere Golf Club is one of those venues. Alongside the challenging golf course is one of the biggest driving ranges in England, boasting 52 bays across two-tiers. The Inn on the Lake is part of Silvermere Golf Club and offers a wide range of tasty food, in addition to refreshing beverages. Known for their wonderful breakfasts, the Inn remains open until 9pm to ensure all golfers who play the course will have an opportunity to have a bite to eat before they depart.
The Gleneagles Resort
A champion of Scottish golf, The Gleneagles Resort is one of the very best to be positioned in the world, let alone the UK. The King’s Course dates back to 1919, whilst the PGA Centenary was created by Jack Nicklaus and has played host to both the Solheim and Ryder Cup. Finally, The Queen’s joins The King’s in being expertly made by the legendary James Braid. Considering the sheer size of the resort, it should come as little surprise to learn that there are many eateries and restaurants that can cater to a wide range of taste. If you’re someone who enjoys a view with their food, then the Dormy Clubhouse Bar & Grill provides stunning scenery of the golf courses. On the other hand, if fine dining is a delight for you, then you’ll love the stylish Strathearn that source their ingredients from the highest quality local produce.
Old Thorns Hotel & Resort
Located in the peaceful county of Hampshire lies Old Thorns Hotel & Resort, a fantastic venue that is hugely popular throughout the calendar year. The golf course has been designed for all abilities and that is reflected in the tremendous feedback that golfers leave. Multiple dining options are available but the Kings Brasserie is the trademark restaurant, serving food from their Brasserie menu. In addition to the first-class eatery are two brilliant bars. The Sports Bar plays live sports and serves pub food, whilst the Atrium Champagne and Cocktail Bar offers guests the opportunity to enjoy drinks in an informal setting.
Royal Liverpool Golf Club
Royal Liverpool Golf Club recently enjoyed their time in the limelight as the host venue for the 2023 Open Championship, which Brian Harman won rather convincingly. The Royal Liverpool Golf Club clubhouse was built in 1895 and underwent heavy renovation in 2006, costing more than £2 million. The Lounge and Spike Bar is the ideal place to pore over the day’s activity, where golfers can enjoy drinks, breakfast bites or a light meal after the round. Perhaps The Hall is the greatest place to visit, which is stacked with memorabilia to showcase the important part that Royal Liverpool has played in golf’s history.
Golf House Club, Elie - The 19th Hole
Elie isn’t too far from St Andrews and the quaint and beautiful town is home to one of the best golf courses to reside in the local area. One of Fife’s most picturesque layouts, the golf club found at Elie is steeped in rich history and provides an outstanding test of golf. Across the road is The 19th Hole, who serve delicious home-made food that has been sourced from the highest quality local vendors. Whether you’re looking for a post-round bite or a quick tipple to pore over the day’s activity, The 19th Hole proudly accommodates all golfers.
Royal Portrush - The Harbour Bar
(Image Credit: Kevin Diss Photography)
As part of The Open rota and an absolute beast of a golf course, Royal Portrush is world renowned for very good reason. Heroes have been made and heartbreak has been realised at this legendary venue and amateur golfers long to walk in their icon’s footsteps. Once you’ve completed the round made in heaven, The Harbour Bar - which is just up the road from the club - will provide you with a very warm welcome. This is Darren Clarke’s favourite pub in the area and you are obliged to visit when in the area!
Muirfield
Muirfield is a legendary course that has played host to important championships and inspired the greatest golfers of the game. A round of golf at this Scottish venue is one that is stored in the memory bank for life. The clubhouse was built in 1891 and has since been modified by numerous extensions, with the famous building now resting behind the 18th green. Inside the remarkable clubhouse are large oil paintings of previous captains and the famous Smoking Room.
Foxhills
Surrey is blessed with many terrific golf courses and stunning countryside, which is why it’s one of the most popular areas to play golf throughout England. Championship courses and delectable food is a common combination in Surrey, just ask Foxhills. The surrey-based club has 36 special holes of golf and many famous people are fond of the esteemed venue. After a splendid round of golf, head to The Fox Dining Rooms for a taste of luxury. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, then the Manor Lounge offers an informal environment and is ideal for reflecting on the round. Finally, Nineteen has been designed specifically for golfers and is positioned between the shared 18th green of the Longcross and Bernard Hunt courses.
Related Content
What do you think? post your thoughts and feedback on the Golfshake comments: jump to comments here.
Tags: GOLFERS Golf daily picks