Lovely woodland golf course (Oakdale Golf Club (Harrogate))

Member Name: degsy70

Product:	Oakdale Golf Club (Harrogate)
Date:	26/02/09 (24 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Course, food

Disadvantages: Pricey for non members

Oakdale golf club is an 18 hole woodland golf course set in the heart of Harrogate. Many people are still astounded that a course exists just minutes from the town centre but it is testiment to the architect nearly 100 years ago.
The course itself offers a different type of challenge to any golfer who takes it on. So many courses are designed to benefit 'big hitters' but at Oakdale most of the par 4s and par 5s are doglegs forcing the long hitters to re-think before bring out Big Bertha!
The course is 6470 yards long, Par 71 for the men and 5513 yards long, Par 72 for the ladies. It is immaculately kept although due to it's location it is prone to flooding as it runs longside a beck. There have been many changes made in the last year to add extra bunkers.
The pro shop is well stocked and well run by Clive the resident professional. I have had lessons from him (£20 for an hour) and he is excellent. Lessons are available to none members also.
Visiting parties are welcome, there are many society days held there as it is well priced and the 19th hole is great! Green fees for none members are high but that is the same for all private clubs (£61 at weekend). The key as always if possible is to try and play with a member as that's only £10 green fees.
The clubhouse has excellent facilities. The changing rooms are very modern with plenty of lockers and showers etc. The main bar area has ample seating and a great plasma tv showing live sport. There is a nice balcony area overlooking the 18th green.
Drinks are very reasonably priced, members get a 12% discount on all drinks and snacks. The food is absolutely superb and that's because the chef is the former head chef of Rudding Park hotel. Food is subsidised and therefore ridiculously cheap. Their barbecue nights on a Tuesday are superb.
It is a very welcoming club with a nice mix of members, so many clubs are still snobbish but Oakdale have bin men to managing directors and they all mix socially.
If you are in the area I suggest you try the course, challenge yourself!

Summary: see review