Take a trip to Stapleford Park in Leicestershire and you really do move into the heart of England. From the classic Donald Steel designed parkland course and the sheep that happily wander around it to the country house hotel and estate, this is an experience that beautifully suites the natural landscape.
That isn't to say the course is a gentle, relaxing track that doesn't challenge every facet of your game. It's a real links style course, replete with revetted-face bunkers, a couple of terrific signature holes and typically brisk winds. The 11th is a stroke index one, par five, where a 260-yard carry must be made off the tee unless the player wants to try and hit a tiny landing area.
Stapleford Park is one of the most finely-manicured courses in the East Midlands, that you can't fail to be utterly impressed with. The attention to detail is superb - a pyramid of Srixon balls awaits players to leave permanent scuff marks in on the range.
Best Hole The 8th is a par 4 with a narrow landing area where the low handicap player is tempted to go for the green.
Location: Stapleford Park, Stapleford, Leicestershire LE14 2EF
Green fees: Must be accompanied by a member or staying in the hotel. Member's guest rate £35; hotel rate £75
Tel: 01572 787522
Web: www.staplefordpark.com
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