Silvermere GC

A course of two distinct halves, Silvermere?s opening six tree-lined holes are tight and demand accuracy from the tee.

Cross the road for the next 10 holes and there is more room for error, although this parkland section of this attractive public layout has matured greatly. As a par 71 and 6430 yards, it is a real challenge for the average muni golfer

You are then rewarded with a grandstand finish, a sort of mini TPC at Sawgrass for the average golfer ? in our opinion this Surrey track?s finest two holes.

A tricky 175-yard par three over a lake and then a testing dogleg par four which runs beside the lake and requires a short or mid-iron approach to an island green ? in full view of those in the restaurant/bar who have already safely (or more likely not) negotiated this hole.

Find a watery grave with your first attempt and you can feel the pressure rise as your audience waits in anticipation of further failure.

It?s not just the closing holes that feature water ? the 605-yard par-5 11th doesn?t just rely on its length for its defence; a pond on the right-hand side some 250-260 yards from the tee is waiting to collect a pushed drive.

The same pond comes into play on another par five, the 13th, forcing you to decide to play safe and lay up with an iron or grip it and rip it with a drive over the water.

This is one of the best pay and play courses we?ve played in the south-east. It?s interesting, enjoys a picturesque location, is easily accessible and provides a challenge for golfers of all standards.

But part of Silvermere?s attraction is its off-course facilities. The Inn on the Lake boasts an excellent menu, the pro shop is one of the biggest and best in the county and extensive practice facilities include a floodlit driving range.

Best Hole: The 18th. Can you cope with the pressure or will you dunk it into the water with everyone watching you?

Green fee: £18.50 weekdays; £35 weekends

Address: Cobham, Surrey

Tel: 01932 584300

Web: www.dougmcclellandgolf.com