insideKENT Magazine Issue 49 - April 2016 | Page 78

GOLF Kent: A Golfer’s Paradise CONT. Etchinghill Golf Course Chart Hills Golf Club The courses at Etchinghill in Folkestone include the Leas Course, the Valley Course, and the Academy Course. Situated in the heart of the Garden of England, Chart Hills is an awardwinning course designed by Sir Nick Faldo. Sitting in the High Weald of Kent, the course and clubhouse are easily accessible from major routes into the county and Ashford International Station is just a 20-minute drive away. An ideal situation for weddings and private functions, Chart Hills enjoys quiet, uninterrupted views across its 200 acres of parkland course complete with oak woodlands and lakes. The 6,101-yard Leas Course is Etchinghill’s main 18-hole golf course. Stretching across the beautiful Kentish downland countryside, it comprises five par 3s, ten par 4s and three par 5s, posing a fantastic challenge to golfers of all abilities. The magnificent Elham Valley lends its name to the versatile Valley Course. The course is made up of nine holes played from multiple tee positions to give the option of nine or eighteen holes. This 5,592-yard course combines four par 3s, twelve par 4s and two par 5s into a wonderfully impressive test for all golfers. The par-three Academy Course is popular with families and beginners alike. Extending over an area of stunning natural parkland, it offers great golf challenges for every golfer. Chart Hills is recognised as a course which offers diversity and challenge all laid out in a stunning location within the High Weald. The course has matured in to one of the finest in the South of England. When you join Chart Hills you will also gain access to the intelligent golf online management system, making it easier for you to plan and organise your game, view your handicap and the course status. Chart Hills has just been awarded the England’s Golf Championship Venue, and it is holding an open day on 30th April with a complementary round of golf included for all guests. www.pentlandgolf.co.uk/etchinghill www.charthills.co.uk JUST ACROSS THE BORDER… Dale Hill Hotel and Golf Club Located deep in the historic 1066 English countryside, with breathtaking views across the high weald ridges and valleys, you will be surprised and delighted to discover Dale Hill Hotel and Golf Club. At Dale Hill they are very proud of their two magnificent 18-hole golf courses: The Ian Woosnam designed course and The Dale Hill course – both uniquely positioned in over 350 acres of undulating hills and historic woodland with stunning panoramic views. Each course has been designed to offer something for everyone; as Ian Woosnam OBE says the Woosnam course "is challenging enough to test the pros, yet accessible enough to be enjoyed by amateurs." The first of the two courses is the original Dale Hill Course which opened over 35 years ago; the second being the Ian Woosnam designed course which opened in 1997. The Ian Woosnam designed course hugely compliments Dale Hill; for one it was designed by the former Masters Champion and Ryder Cup Captain, Mr Ian Woosnam. As well as this, the Woosnam course is exceptionally well balanced, in keeping with its partner: Dale Hill course. The comprehensive buggy fleet enhances the enjoyment of playing golf at Dale Hill, and they also allow both courses to be walked. As well as the opportunity of playing these two courses, 78 they have practice facilities including a driving range with several covered bays, a practice bunker and two practice putting greens. Whatever your golfing needs may be, the Pro shop is on hand to answer any queries you may have. For enquiries about green fees, golf days and membership please contact 01580 201090 or email [email protected]. www.dalehill.co.uk