Prestbury - Cheshire - England

It always puzzles me why Prestbury doesn't feature, either higher or even at all, in the numerous 'top 100' golf course rankings.

I've certainly played many courses that are regularly included in the lower third of the listings and I would place Prestbury above many of them.

Maybe it's because of its lack of length. At 6,380 yards off the tips it is by no means short but there is only really the 13th (and perhaps the uphill 9th) where a long approach is required to a par four, all of the par fives are in range for longer hitters in two shots, and the set of par 3's average out at around just 160 yards, the longest being the downhill 7th at 186 yards. This isn't necessarily a bad thing though because it creates a really enjoyable and fun round of golf.

In my opinion, what sets Prestbury apart from many other similar courses is the siting of the greens which is truly exceptional. Each one sits perfectly into the landscape and creates entertaining shots. There are many holes when, even at the top of the balls flight, you are not sure where the ball will finish. This is achieved mainly by the excellent use of the changes in elevation with the 12th being the best example on the course. As you would expect of a course of this length if you miss the green on any hole you are usually faced with a tricky up and down.

The routing of the course is also exceptional. Here the architect, Harry Colt, takes us on a fabulous journey around the beautiful woodland estate. The layout twists and turns at every point and gives tantalising glimpses of holes that are to come later in the round at several points.

Ed is the founder of Golf Empire – click the link to read his full review.

I've visited Prestbury a number of times over the years and have always enjoyed playing this well designed and fast draining parkland/woodland layout. Located in an attractive Cheshire village, the course measures a relatively short 6400 yards from the white tees but as with most Colt designs good strategy is required to score well. Immaculate presentation and good greens are pretty much guaranteed but it's the natural undulation that provides so many interesting approach shots and gives this place much of its character. In fact most holes provide either raised tees, raised greens or shots over valleys which are such great fun to play. My favourite holes would include the 3rd a strong par-4 with a raised green perched beyond a shallow valley and the 5th, a lovely short par-4 where the green sits on a ledge with a steep fall-off rejecting anything pushed. The 7th is a good looking downhill par-3 played over a hollow and shortly after we arrive at the 9th where a bogey five will feel like a par to most. A semi-blind downhill drive is followed by a long uphill approach to a 3-tier green and with out of bounds beyond, this is comfortably the toughest hole on the course. On the back nine I particularly like the pretty 12th with its well positioned stream running across the front of the green and the 14th which requires an accurate tee shot over a picturesque bracken filled valley. The next three holes are also good, particularly the bunkerless 16th which offers an interesting angled approach and the excellent 17th with 140 yards of carry to a two-tier green beyond the aforementioned valley. The 18th may not be the greatest finishing hole but it doesn't detract from a very enjoyable round. Brian W

Great test of golf, showing all the Colt traits. The course would be a top 50 though with USGA greens and consistent bunkers.

I have played this course a number of times and it has never failed to entertain. Although it is not the longest of courses, it requires good placement from the tee and accurate approach shots to the bunker enveloped greens. The greens are fast but not too fast and are maintained tremendously, along with the rest of the course. due to it's old heritage, it presents quite an olf fashioned style course, with many elevated tees and greens. The fairways are generally heavily wooded and the holes are quite close together.There are also several notable holes. The 1st is a great, short par 5 and there is always a chance for eagle-or double bogey. The 4th is a great longish par 3 where you hit to a medium sized green from about 60 feet up. This is also one of the best spots on the course for views of the pennines and the rest of cheshire. The 9th is a 450 yard par4 where you hit over a hill from an elevated tee shot and then up a hill even steeper. bogey is definately a good score. The 11th is another short par 5 but has a severe dogleg to the right. The closing holes (14-18) are all very differet and all very challenging. A great finish.I believe this course(oh by the way great practise facilities -free balls- and clubhouse) could be up there with the greats, if only a few minor changes were made to the course.(add some water features flowers etc.) However, for the time being it will have to remain a hidden gem.