THERE'S a taste of the old and the new on offer at Northwich's Vale Royal Abbey Golf Club.
England's largest Cistercian Abbey was founded here in 1278 by Edward I. And Vale Royal Abbey remains an important historic landmark to this day.
Set in its grounds, the golf club was created slightly later - 720 years later to be exact!
Today, the Abbey itself and the course complement each other perfectly as the 18 holes weave around in the Abbey's magnificent grounds.
Course architect, Simon Gidman, has utilised the numerous natural features to great effect, producing a variety of holes with water hazards, mature trees and strategic bunkering.
The course is characterised by having a number of long, testing par fours which are in sharp contrast to several shorter par fours where accuracy is paramount.
Similarly, holes 10 and 11 are distinctly parkland, sheltered by the Great House and bordering dense woodland by the River Weaver.
The holes at the far end of the course resemble a more exposed links-style course, with fewer trees but many humps and hollows.
Stunning water features further add to the beauty of the course, which is built largely on sand, resulting in excellent natural drainage from the North West's wet winters.
'Aprés-golf', players have access to what must be one of the most extraordinary clubhouses in the country.
It features a golf bar and a lounge bar for members, together with some magnificent function rooms.
With its unique history, rural setting and superb facilities, this is a club that is able to offer members and guests a most unusual environment for the enjoyment of golf and good company.
* For more information on Vale Royal Abbey please contact 01606 301291, e-mail vra-admin@crownsportsplc.com or visit www.vra.co.uk
