St Mellons

Designed by Harry Colt and opened for play in 1937, the course at St Mellons Golf Club lies halfway between Cardiff and Newport, so it’s conveniently positioned to cater for golfing needs of players in both cities.

In The Golfers Guide to Wales by John Pinner, the author has this to say about the course: “The opening hole, a par-4, which is perfectly flat and straight from tee to green, more often than not gives the first-time visitor a feeling of complacency.

The same can also be said about the 2nd hole if you are not in the habit of slicing your tee shot, which, although a dogleg left, is another comparatively easy par-4. After this the course throws up an exciting challenge.

Especially so at the the slightly uphill par-3 3rd, which is guarded by some large bunkers and a grassy bank at the front and to the right of an undulating green. The remainder of the outward nine holes go gently downhill and uphill with woods awaiting the sliced shots.

The inwards half levels out somewhat, but has many trees to contend with. The closing two holes offer a tremendous, challenging finish. The 17th, a par-4, is all about accuracy from the tee. The same can be said about the par-5 finishing hole.

You realise you have done rather well if only one shot has been dropped over these two excellent finishing holes. Definitely a course to visit!”

N.B. The 18th is a par four for men and a par five for ladies.