On the Cliffs is Where We Shall Play (Freshwater Bay Golf Club (Isle of Wight))

Member Name: JJJJ

Product:	Freshwater Bay Golf Club (Isle of Wight)
Date:	20/02/09 (152 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Fairly Well Kept

Disadvantages: Always Windy

As I mentioned in my review of Westrige Golf Centre, the Isle of Wight has it's fair share of golf courses (eight in total) which makes it an ideal location for a golfing holiday.

Freshwater Bay Golf Club is billed as being one of the most spectacular courses in the UK, due to its clifftop location which offers stunning views overlooking the English Channel. Whilst I would agree with the claim of stunning views, the course itself isn't that spectacular.

Found on the West coast of The Island, the eighteen hole course (which is in the seaside links style) is 5,725 yards long, and would be suitable for both novice and advanced golfers. Although the course is fairly open, there are a selection of difficult holes which feature undulating slopes, making it difficult to judge distances. This open nature combined with the elevated position makes things even harder due to the fact that the golf course is constantly windswept. Even on a calm day, a gale seems to be blowing throughout the clifftop location.

In terms of its condition, the green are generally well kept and fairly fast, and there seems usually to be less divots than at Ryde, and certainly Westridge's course.

The Clubhouse is fairly large and features a licensed bar. The premises also offer food, with lunch available between 12 and 3pm, and evening meals served from 5.30pm.

The course is moderately priced to play, costing £30 on weekdays and £34 on weekends and bank holidays. In relation to other clubs on The Island, Freshwater is a bit more expensive but it does offer eighteen holes rather than the nine which many other Island Clubs are limited to. Hire of an electric golf buggy will set you back £18 which is actually a bit cheaper than many other courses around the UK. I personally wouldn't bother with the buggy unless it's pouring down -having said that, they are fun to drive, even though I managed to crash one in France once... a memorable experience.

Freshwater Bay Golf Club makes for a pleasant round of golf due to the decent seaside views, and general good course condition. That said, during the winter months, the experience can be lass than pleasant with howling gales making for a cold and damp round. Pick your times carefully and you won't be disappointed.

Summary: Island Golf Course