|
 |
 |
Bearwood Lakes, England |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bearwood Lakes Golf Club
Bearwood Road
Sindlesham
Nr. Wokingham
Berkshire
RG41 4SJ
England |  | Martin Hawtree |  | Steve Harden |
|
 | +44 (0) 118 979 7900 |  | M3 J3, towards Reading |
 |
Golf Club Website
|
 | Limited number of day members tee times now available |  | Carl Rutherford |
|
|
|
 |
 |
|
|
| |
 |
|
The beautiful Jacobean-style mansion in the Bearwood Estate reminds us what it must have been like to be a wealthy 19th century English aristocrat. The fabulous Victorian house was built for the man behind The Times newspaper, John Walter. The course at Bearwood Lakes Golf Club first opened for play in 1996 and Martin Hawtree designed it to look mature beyond its years, just as John Walter did with his mansion house.
Bearwood Lakes is a thrilling course, which wends its way through the mature trees of the former Bearwood Estate. This is a golfer's golf course with skilfully designed and cleverly routed holes. This is certainly one of the very best new courses to have been built and, to quote Golf Links Magazine, Bearwood Lakes is "polished to perfection". Bearwood is immaculately maintained and the members benefit from stunning playing surfaces all year round.
 Hawtree has skilfully blended the course into the natural surroundings and the beautiful specimen trees add to the many attractive features. There isn't a single weak hole at Bearwood Lakes – each and every one makes you think. The most memorable holes are the six sited around the natural lakes, which cover more than 50 acres. The par four 13th is a stunner, which requires a long carry from the elevated tee across the corner of the lake to a distant fairway. The green is cut alarmingly close to the water's edge – this is not a hole for the faint-hearted. The 14th is probably Bearwood's signature hole – and it's a corking one-shotter, which requires an accurate mid iron across the corner of the lake.
To score well, especially from the back tees, you'll need to bring your 'A' game. The fairways are relatively generous in terms of width but if you stray off this carpeted surface, you'll be in all sorts of trouble – it's easy to lose a bucket load of balls in the rough at Bearwood Lakes.
Bearwood Lakes was once an inaccessible course, requiring member abduction to get a game. But recently the club has introduced a limited number of innovative Day Memberships. This includes a meet and greet service with a member of Bearwood Lakes staff, complimentary use of the extensive practice facilities, 18 holes of golf and unrestricted use of the restaurant and bars. Now more people can be delighted by the Bearwood experience and sample a course for the connoisseur. | |
|
| |
If the above course review article is not accurate, let us know by clicking here |
|
|
|
In the section below, headed “Your Reviews”, are golf course reviews posted by visitors to the Top 100 website. There are no specific rules for reviewing a golf course except you MUST have played the golf course first. Merits of each course are left entirely to your discretion. Important factors, such as course location, condition (or presentation), course difficulty and historical importance are all left for you to judge and we have developed a simple rating system where you can allocate one score to each course. | |
|
|
|
|
 |  | | Average Reviewers Score: |   | | As a self confessed golf club snob I always arrive at newer clubs with slight trepidation that they are going to be well manicured, long, boring slogs with super greens (think the Wisley). Bearwood lakes was a delightful surprise. Yes it does have wonderfully contoured greens which run at testing pace but to get to them you play holes which feel as though they've been around a similar time to all the great Surrey/ Berkshire sand belt courses. It was all very relaxed, we played off the very backs which was long but not depressing. Personal favourite hole was the 5th or 6th whichever it is, long par 5 played to a green which slopes away from you sharply. Great stuff! Will go back.  | | 12 August 2010
| Reply
| | This is a top quality course that can be enjoyed equally by good players and not so good players. From arriving at the clubhouse to walking in off the 18th, it is beautiful. May not be the toughest of courses but when ever I have been there it has always been in excellent condition. There are a variety of different holes to play, each requiring different strategies. I have played it several times with a group of friends and everyone always comments on what a wonderful course it is. I highly recommend you get along there. You will not be disappointed. The food is also excellent! | | 12 August 2010
| Reply
| | |
I played Bearwood Lakes recently for the first time with a group of friends. The day exceeded our expectations despite the course having already come highly recommended. The beautiful setting, the attention to detail in the design and layout of the course offering up tough challenges to low as well as high handicappers, the top quality of the greens, the excellent and spacious clubhouse with balcony views over the course, the most welcoming and friendly staff in both the clubhouse and pro shop, the great quality food on offer in the bar and restaurant. I’ve played many - perhaps better known - prestigious courses in the UK and I’m struggling to think of one that beats Bearwood Lakes from an overall golfing experience perspective. A real delight and very much looking forward to a return visit.
| | 04 August 2010
| Reply
| | | I have played Bearwood several times this year and have been very impressed with it as a complete package. With relaxed and courteous staff the clubhouse is extremely welcoming. The golf course is tough but fun to play for all golfing abilities. Protected by high quality greens it makes for an excellent day out as a quiet fourball or with a group of fellow golfers/workmates. High quality food and drinks readily available at all times, without any fuss. | | 19 July 2010
| Reply
| | | Was lucky enough to play with group of friends from home club early june - many of whom were returning to Bearwood after having wonderful previous golfing experiences there over the last few years. Reminded me a little of Archerfield near Berwick except that Bearwood feels more personal and perhaps even more welcoming. Course was in great nick, staff and hospitality excellent ... recommended. | | 15 July 2010
| Reply
| | | It is rare to find a golf course that hits the spot both on and off the course.
On arrvial we were warmly greeted by the lady (Mandy) responsible for our booking and duly presented with a personalised bag tag, bag of tees, course guide and pitch repairer.
The Pro shop staff were nothing but helpful, even replaced a grip on my wedge while I warmed up on the range.
The food was excellent - we manged to experience Breakfast, half way house and post round food in the club house - all was generous and of exceptional quality.
The course it self is a real gem - beautifully set in the Berkshire country side - tall pines and the signature lake which comes in to effect on just the right amount of holes and providing a stunning back drop on others. The greens were fair but challenging.
This place is a gem and well worth a visit!
| | 14 July 2010
| Reply
| | | Quite simply a wonderful golfing experience. Maybe it was the glorious sunny day in late May, the warmth of the welcome from Carl Rutherford and all of his staff, the beauty and tranquillity of the surroundings, the architectural splendour of the clubhouse, the quality of the fairways and the truth of the greens; or, maybe it was all of these things and other little things that often go unnoticed, such as the abundant wildlife at work and play.
Certainly the joy of the day was not down to wonderful scoring, as for a high handicapper there were an abundance of challenges that also tested my lower handicapped playing partners to the full. Day membership is one way to access this most private, but unstuffy, of courses and the experience I found to be most rewarding. I have played a handful of the top 100 courses in England, but this one would certainly get my vote. I will be back. | | 08 June 2010
| Reply
| | | I had the pleasure to play Bearwood Lakes in December 2009. It was a lovely winters day and the course was in pristine condition. I really enjoyed the 1st 6 holes of the back 9 with nature at it's best with sightings of deer and plenty of woodpeckers. Very friendly staff all round and a very nice welcome at the half way house. After our round we had a lovely shower in excellent facilities and went upstairs to the superb clubhouse to enjoy one of their functions called 'the snow ball'. The food was really well presented and very tasty, then on to the dance floor to dance to their resident dj who in our opinion was excellent! What a great day at Bearwood Lakes and will be back soon! | | 15 December 2009
| Reply
| | It amazes me how much different opinion there is regarding the quality of BL. Personally I thought that the setting was spectacular - there are some wonderful vistas of the Berkshire countryside and beautiful, historic buildings. I also found the staff to be excellent: nothing was too much trouble and I was made to feel like a valued guest (unlike the usual experience at Wentworth!). Unfortunately I was somewhat underwhelmed by the golf; for sure there are some good holes but I found the course to be too ‘American’ and characterless. I played there a year or so ago and can’t really remember many of the holes (about three – the par four 9th, a long uphill par 5 on the back nine and a very good par 3 across water). All that said - it is a new track and I accept that given time will develop. I would like to go back there in 10 to 15 years time to see if it’s gotten any better. I won’t however be going back soon.  | | 10 November 2009
| Reply
| | | Having played many of the world's finest courses I cannot recommend Bearwood enough, for originality, breath taking views and excellent greens I can't find anything better in the UK.To try it, is to love it ! | | 02 November 2009
| Reply
| | | This for me is one of the best golf courses in the UK. This is a hidden gem of a course, with pleasent staff who can't do enough for you and excellent facilities, but then you reach the course...WOW. Perfect fairways, fantastic greens and a challenging course with some stunning par 3's over water and a wealth of wildlife and beautiful views acioss the Thames Valley. Having played at the likes of Wentworth and Sunningdale, myself and my colleagues all conceeded that this was by far the better of the three courses and would chose to play here over the others any day. This is a must play golf course. | | 14 August 2009
| Reply
|
| Response: | | | Shaun | 14 August 2009 | | Whilst I enjoyed Bearwood I thought start and finish of the course was average. To say it is better than Sunningdale is laughable in my opinion. | | | John | 18 September 2009 | | While laughable may be a bit tough on Bearwood, it's certainly aspirational to be compared to Sunningdale. Apart from the fact that they are very different styles, the history of Sunningdale marks it apart.
I do have some sympathy for the view that for most mid handicap golfers, Bearwood is eminently more accessible and may well provide a more enjoyable experience. As a place to visit, it's so much less stuffy then any of the other courses in the area...such a great change for a golf course to want to make people feel welcome and provide proper service. Great place. | | | Christopher Clarke | 27 October 2009 | | Having just played at the magnificent Bearwood Lakes (only my fourth round there and I enjoy it more each time) I was interested to read the recent comments comparing Bearwood Lakes with Sunningdale and Wentworth. I am lucky enough to have played Sunningdale a lot over the years (and Wentworth three or four times in all) and I think Bearwood Lakes is right up there with the other two, possibly more challenging than Sunningdale Old which for some reason I find easier, maybe due to familiarity. They are all in fantastic condition and in wonderful settings. For Bearwood Lakes to be as it is after only 12 or so years is to the great credit of all concerned. I imagine it can only rise up the top 100 list as time goes by, and i would certainly like to see a top amateur or even professional tournament there to see how the experts fare. I would like another crack at it one day! |
| | | I played the course on a beautiful morning this week, and it was in excellent condition. Looking from the splendid clubhouse one is faced with an impressive golfing vista, and the course lived up to this early promise. Each hole presents challenges, with no two holes the same, but all the greens were of a consistently high standard – true and moderately fast. The lovely lake and its bird life are on view on a number of holes and it comes into play on three of them. Altogether it is a most attractive and challenging layout, and well worth a repeat visit - not least for the warm welcome, good food and excellent service in the clubhouse. | | 24 June 2009
| Reply
| | | I had the pleasure of playing here on glorious summer's evening. The course was in great shape from the manicured tee's to the immaculate greens that were very fast. The greens had many subtle breaks that were difficult to read, but were very true. For me the best holes were the par 5's in particular the 2nd and 5th, and the par 3 12th was a great looking hole that looked like it had been there for many more years than the course's age. There are a few weaker holes here such as 9th and 17th and a few of the holes just don't seem natural. All in all a bit overated, but still a beautiful course. | | 08 June 2009
| Reply
| | | Myself and a friend were invited to play Bearwood Lakes on April 5th and having heard and read so many good things about it were really looking forward to our visit. We arrived a little earlier than planned and made our way into the clubhouse where we enjoyed a cup of coffee whilst sitting on the balcony overlooking the 1st, 7th and 18th holes. The weather was absolutely glorious, and looking out over the course was a fantastic experience, with deer running through the pine trees, and the urge to get out onto the first tee was almost too much to bear!
Our hosts arrived shortly afterwards and we made our way down onto the first tee. The course looked a little short of the yellows, so we played off the white tees, which offered a very good game.
The course itself is a real treat, with every hole offering a different challenge, and makes for a memorable day out. The tees, fairways and greens were immaculate, considering how early in the season it was, and Paul, (our host), urged us to go back later in the year when the greens would be really slick. Every green has subtle, (and some not so subtle), borrows and undulations, and I would imagine that putting on these when they are really running fast could be a nightmare!
This really is a "must play" course with far too many good holes to individually mention, although the par 3 12th was my particular favourite. Stepping onto the tee instantly reminded me of some of the best courses I have played in Scotland with the green sitting down below amidst a backdrop of pine trees. This hole plays longer than it looks, it's very deceptive. It plays at least one, maybe two clubs more than you initially think. I managed a par on this one, and as 3's are my particular nemisis at the moment, I had a grin from ear to ear when I walked off the green. As I say, this course is a definite "must play"..I have played some glorious courses over the years and Bearwood Lakes is certainly in my top ten, most probably in my top 5. I cannot wait to go back and have another crack at it. I played superbly, shooting two under my handicap and three over (gross) on the back nine, so doubt if I could play it any better if I tried. But that's not the point. It's heaven and I just want the chance to walk those fairways again. | | 06 April 2009
| Reply
| | | This course is a real gem. Being so new it is almost unheard of but when you get there you are really surprised that word of mouth has not made this place better known. The course is in immaculate condition and with the variety of Tees available is a challenge for all standards of golfers.
What makes this course stand out is the variety of holes. From 1 to 18 you get a different challenge. Some holes are long and demanding while the shorter holes are very well protected by bunkers, rivers and lakes. Its always nice when you have finished a round to be able to remember every hole for its different challenges rather than each hole blending into each other.
Having played many great courses around the world I would rate this course very highly. | | 21 November 2008
| Reply
| | | I was invited to play this course and was very pleased with what I saw. From the clubhouse you have views down 1st and can see the approaches upto the 18th green, great viewing on a nice summers day. I really liked the layout of the holes especially where you get close to the water at the par 4 13th and the par 3 14th. I think this course is going to be much liked by anyone who plays it. | | 04 November 2008
| Reply
| | | Bearwood must be one of the best courses that nobody has heard of. It's immaculately kept, challenging, mature and stunning. You would never guess that this course is only 12 years old and that probably explains why it is not a household name (yet). | | 17 October 2008
| Reply
| | | An inspiring course in stunning surroundings, with greens which are immaculately kept and very quick, focusing the mind when approaching. Feels long and plays long, and rough is suitably punishing without being ruinous. Food and service is 5 star but warm and friendly, not stuffy. All in all, an excellent experience. | | 16 October 2008
| Reply
| | | This is by far the best new course that I have played in the UK in recent years.
I played it in June this year, and desppite the fact that it rained all day I loved it.
Some truly great par 3's, and a magnificent layout. | | 26 September 2008
| Reply
| | | Had the pleasure of playing of playing Bearwood Lakes last week on a gloriously sunny day and I must say it would be hard to find another parkland course in as good a condition as here. The fairways are generous and beautifully sculptured but if you strayed too far offline there was some very penal primary rough waiting probably resulting in a lost ball. The greens were fast and true and great to putt on. There are no obviously weak holes but the ones around the lake are the most picturesque, particularly the 13th and 14th. The clubhouse and amenities are all excellent and the staff are friendly and courteous. I would highly recommend a day at Bearwood Lakes, its a fantastic course and a great place to get away from the hustle bustle of our busy lives. | | 28 July 2008
| Reply
| | | This is the fourth time I have played the course and not many courses improve on each visit but Bearwood Lakes certainly does. A few years ago the rough was too rough – this has now been cut back – still very much a hazard though but now in just the right places. A special mention about the greens which have matured into great putting surfaces which are quicker and truer year on year. Courses that are under fifteen years old in the south-east of England are bound to be up against it as the standard is so high (Sunningdale, Walton Heath, The Berkshire, Wentworth … the list goes on and on). Bearwood Lakes is a newcomer that is doing all the right things to be a memorable experience on and off the golf course. A warm welcome awaits in the clubhouse with some very attentive staff that make it their job to take care of the golfers before and after the golf. Many memorable holes and the pick of the bunch for me would be the short par-4 8th and the par-3 14th with the ‘Bearwood Lake’ to tackle. I am sure that in time, the course will be mentioned in the same circles as the established names above | | 25 July 2008
| Reply
| | | 2nd time I've played this course, the first being the dry Summer of a couple of years ago. For such a relatively young (13 years or so ?) course I think there's huge maturity to it, challenging and aesthetic alike. The clubhouse and the staff are excellent with a real customer enjoyment ethic. We found the greens deceptive although they'd been recently sanded following a corporate event. I'd thoroughly recommend going out of one's way to play there.....but make a day of it. | | 23 May 2008
| Reply
| | | Situated between the highly urbanised suburbs of Readng and Wokingham it is extrordiary what a beautifully scenic course has been created. Full marks to the designers for enhancing the natural landscape to create a magical course which appeals to golfrers of all standards.The design of the clubhouse deserves special mention for the way in which it blends into the landscape and provides spacious and relaxing facilities for all who make use of it | | 05 May 2008
| Reply
| | | I have only played Bearwood Lakes twice, and in winter months, but it has certainly impressed me with its attractive and varied layout - several of the holes are spectacular and all pose an interesting challenge. As an added attraction, it would be hard to beat the friendly welcome by the clubhouse staff. | | 29 April 2008
| Reply
| | No, this course is a bit of a yawn. There must be 500 similar courses in the USA alone and if 6 balls represents one of the best in the world (Pine Valley et al), then Bearwood Lakes is worth about 3.  | | 12 March 2008
| Reply
|
| Response: | | | Scott | 30 March 2008 | | I'm not sure how anybody who has played this course could 'yawn'. Huge on course variety - parkland, woodland, heathland, water, terrifc terrain and undulation - make this course more interesting than (in my opinion) any other in the region. A valid criticism might be that it is a very 'American' style of course and so out of keeping with the style of the heathland tracks (though in my opinion, variety in the area is no bad thing - vive le difference). It's also not remotely true to say that there are 500 similar courses in the US - Bearwood has somthing very rare, a very fine piece of land complimented by very skillful design. Boring? Complete nonsense. | | | Paul James Brown | 01 June 2009 | | I think this particular reviewer must of played bearwood! Not Bearwood Lakes! |
| | | One of attractions of playing Bearwood Lakes is that is relatively unknown compared to some the courses in the surrounding area. However once you play the course and enjoy the top notch facilities you will certainly tell all your friends about it. I would agree with an earlier comment about the course lacking a little definition out of season but that is addressed during the Spring/summer months when the rough is left to encroach. I also am a member (interesting to see a few others reviewing here!) and before taking that decision considered just about every other well thought of club in the Surrey/Berkshire area. For me the decision was made in the first five minutes of arriving there, even though it was the club furthest away from my home. There are no "weak" holes on the course at all and the only changes I personally would advocate would be; 1. The par 5 2nd and 11th holes should be a little longer to make them a full 3 shot hole. 2. Introduction of Heather/gorse to add some colour and maturity all year round-a la Sunningdale etc. 3. Introduce a hazard in front of the par 5 16th green as this looks a shade featureless in my opinion. Also the tee for this hole is a little "lost" and could do with re-positioning or perhaps elevation maybe. But overall I'm nitpicking here given what a great club and course it is. Enjoy when you have the chance to! | | 10 March 2008
| Reply
| | | Comments are already on a reply to the person who found it forgettable. I just wanted to rate this fantastic course. | | 10 January 2008
| Reply
| | | Played Bearwood based on the recomendations below and was not dissappointed. This is a fabulous course in a stunning setting. This is one of the best inland courses in the UK and I think over time will become known as classic. I read recently that Martin Hawtree, Bearwood's designer, has been selected by Donald Trump to build the new course up in Aberdeen. Hawtree also did the refurbs at Birkdale, Carmoustie, Lahinch and Portmarnock. As his profile increases, I think Bearwood will start to get the recognition it deserves. I will certainly be back. | | 20 October 2007
| Reply
| | | Three lady golfing frineds and I recently visited Bearwood Lakes, between Reading and Wokingham. We play many courses and all agreed Bearwood Lakes is quite outstanding. Set in a beautiful wooded landscape, it was in superb condition, with many holes involving the waters of a huge lake. The clubhouse is lovely and the food and service excellent. Don't miss any chance you have to play it! | | 15 October 2007
| Reply
| | | It s great to see some excellent debate on on what is a wonderful golf course. It is a shame people continually compare it with some of the older, established heathand golf courses in Surrey as it is a very different golf course altogether. However "typical modern american parkland"!!!. If it is I cannot wait to play every other golf course built in the last 11 years if this is an example of a typical golf course!!!
The golf course should be judged, in many cases, as a product in its own right. The architecture is fair for the moden player with well placed bunkers to account for the development in club technology. The conditioning is always superb and the views stunning. The topography and routing is well thought out and the clubhouse is extremely welcoming.
BLGC is a great golf course and well worth a visit. | | 03 October 2007
| Reply
| | | Given the paucity of good golf course being built in The Isles in the past generation this is pretty good. But to put it at the top of British inland courses is way off the mark. For thos who haven't played it, take a good look at the pics above and you'll see a fairly typical modern American style design with bulldozer shaping (pic 9 for example). | | 30 September 2007
| Reply
|
| Response: | | | Paul | 01 October 2007 | | I am not quite sure how anyone no matter what their taste in golf could ever call Bearwood average (3 ball) in relation to UK golf courses. Even though I have a natural bias for heathland, I think Bearwood stacks up very well against all of the decent heathland tracks and is better overall than the majority – excluding heathland or links, I think it is by some way the best course I have played in the country. It also has one of the best pieces of land for an inland golf course anywhere in the UK. | | | David Newling ward | 02 October 2007 | | As the owner and developer of Bearwood lakes I am obviously biased, but to mark the course down to 3 golf balls because you consider it to be 'a typical American style design with bulldozer shaping' seems rather odd. Bulldozers or mechanical diggers have been used in the construction of every worthwhile course for the past 60 to 100 years. When building Bearwood Lakes we were fortunate to have an outstanding piece of land that needed very little 'bulldozing' apart of course from the construction of the greens, tees and some landing areas.
You seem to be denigrating Bearwood Lakes just because it is new, I don't know of any 'typical modern American design' inland course in England that incorporate 50 acres of original lakes, with stunning views of the impressive Bearwood mansion or that has half of its holes lined by mature trees or that has such a change in elevation across it's 200 acres? Not to mention the brilliant condition of the course throughout the year.
Obviously the reviewer is entitled to his views, which I have no doubt are genuinly given, but I am delighted that critics of the calibre of Brian McCallum and the great majority of other reviewers rate Bearwood Lakes amongst the best inland courses in Britain.
David Newling Ward, Chairman, Bearwood Lakes Golf Club. | | | Carl | 25 May 2009 | | The term 'bulldozer' seems to be used in pejorative terms. But lets not forget architects like Colt were famous for their mounding. They might not have been so big as a few men and some shovels are no match for a caterpillar but I bet he would have used them. I'll be playing it in two weeks time as a guest and I am a lover of traditional links and heathland so if it is a 'standard American course' then it won't be good. But somehow from the rest of the comments I don't think it will be. |
| | | To the person above all the courses in surrey are good heathland courses. Bearwood lakes is a parkland so they are played in totally different ways.You obviously like the hard fairways and car park geens in summer.When you play Bearwood it is a target golf type of course so it is different type of golf.The course is in superb condition throughout spring and summer.Very memorable because it had very testing fast greens which were very receptive | | 29 September 2007
| Reply
|
| Response: | | | James Statton | 03 October 2007 | | I was rather bemused by your review. You appear to be disagreeing with the review of the 23rd of September that awarded the course only 4 golf balls and that compares Bearwood Lakes unfavourably to the Surrey heathland courses, you then proceed to compliment Bearwood Lakes on it’s condition, greens etc however you only award it 3 golf balls! This is the lowest rating the course has received – was this a mistake?
| | | steve | 04 October 2007 | | yes this was a mistake. I meant to put 6 balls however I was so keen to post my reply that i forgot to change the rating. | | | Paul | 19 November 2007 | | The guy doesn't know what he's talking about! Had an awesome round with the junior pro Jon. Thanks Jon - i'll be back! (6 balls) |
| | | “What a truly fine course. It speaks for itself. Great piece of land, great design. Nearly a week later, I can remember every hole. Bearwood Lakes is as good an inland course as I have played anywhere in the UK, and better than many I have played that enjoy loftier reputations” – Brian McCallen, probably the world’s leading golf course critic, writes of Bearwood Lakes.
“With such an abundance of great, old golfing establishments in Britiain, every new development faces increased scrutiny. Bearwood Lakes compares favourably with the very best of the more mature layouts. Bearwood Lakes is a fabulous layout offering an interesting alternative to the heathland tracks of the Home Counties” – Golf Monthly, when awarding Bearwood Lakes a gold medal in its regional ranking.
So don’t worry James, the experts also agree with you. I must declare that I am a member here, so I will leave it to the experts to give their views…
| | 24 September 2007
| Reply
| | | I have read the flurry of new postings over the past few weeks with great interest. I completely agree with James and the majority of reviews except Mr 20th September – to say that Bearwood is forgettable is one of the strangest assessments I have ever heard, and I have read nearly all the reviews on this site and played many of the top courses in the South East and some further away – it feels memorable just going up the driveway, and even more so with the view from the clubhouse, and that is even before you start playing golf! I also agree with James that Bearwood is a better course than Wentworth West and Walton Heath which, despite being nice courses are, I feel, punching above their weight in the rankings due to history – I would prefer St Georges Hill to these two but am not sure if it as rounded overall as Bearwood. Unlike James, I must confess that I am a member and therefore could be accused of bias, but Bearwood is still one of my very favourite courses to play – even yesterday with the rough cut down and the greens not great after course-maintenance the week before, it was thoroughly enjoyable and it always makes you feel special – and there are not many other courses where I could say that about – Woodhall Spa and Hankley Common being two examples. There are 18 very good gold holes at Bearwood with several truly excellent ones (2-7, 10-14 and 18) and that is what elevates it above the good into the very good – the only main thing that I would say counts slightly against it, is that it is better with the rough up and therefore, maybe, too reliant on the rough – I would prefer to see slightly less rough and more gorse, heather, trees, rhododendrons, lakes, bunkers or other features to give a bit more definition through the autumn and winter. After closely following the rankings and the changes in the rankings over the past few years, it is nice to see Bearwood moving up the field. Ranking courses is a very hard, inexact and subjective measure and it is only through some of the more open schemes – such as this website and Golf Monthly, which uses lots of club golfers – that people can see more reflective, honest and unbiased reviews and a more accurate list of the best golf courses. It is not the difficulty, exclusivity or what tournaments you have held that should count; it is the overall package of course design, challenge, variety (only 1 par 5 on certain older heathland courses such as Swinley, for instance, will count against on this measure), aesthetic qualities, the piece of land itself and how well a course fits into the surrounding landscape, conditioning, and the overall enjoyment that golfers of all standards get out of the experience that need to be judged. On all measures, I think Bearwood scores highly – and Bearwood in the summer when the rough is up, the sun is out and the greens are running at up to 13 on the stimp takes a lot of beating! I also applaud the decision of the management to open up Bearwood for limited play to non members in the week as hopefully more people will get the opportunity to experience one of the country’s best courses. Paul, Wokingham | | 24 September 2007
| Reply
| | | I agree with James except for the bit about Walton Heath. A friend is a member of Bearwood Lakes so I get to play on a fairly regular basis and really love this course. I rate it in the top few courses I have played anywhere. If this course is not memorable you are playing it with your eyes closed. It has some stunning views and scenes. The view from the elevated tee on the 4th is breathtaking. As others have said it is an exciting course with lots and lots of variety but really nicely balanced. Nice variety in elevation of tees and greens. Nice combination of switches left/right up/down. Uses a good variety of different defences throughout. Good use of water that really comes in to play on a couple of holes but doesn’t over do it. Each hole has a different challenge and it tests the mind with some very nice strategic questions. I play here reasonably regularly and it still makes me think. The course is always in great condition though it is a pity they cut down the long grass for winter as it does alter the nature of the course. | | 23 September 2007
| Reply
| | | Nice but by no means outstanding. Last 3 reviews are clearly by an existing member! Good trek but forgetable compared to the better heathland courses in Surrey, Berkshire. | | 20 September 2007
| Reply
|
| Response: | | | James | 22 September 2007 | | Very strange review. I wrote the review below this one and for the record - I am not a member (not even a Brit). I do play at one of the top 15 American courses and have played a good number of the top US, Canadian, Australian, and now UK courses, so consider myself reasonably well qualified to have an opinion (which, by the way, seems to me to be pretty consistent with most of the other opinions on this page (including the top 100 review)). This time round I played Wentworth (I don't see what all the fuss is about: poor conditioning and unsubtle design that overly relies on length); Walton Heath and St Georges Hill (both of which I found to be alot of fun, but too inconsistent to be up there with the very best, some great holes mixed with too many ordinary ones). Couldn't play Sunningdale this time around as I couldn't get a tee time that fitted my schedule, but do look forward to it. In terms of Bearwood, I absolutely stand by my comments. The thing I appreciated most about it was the cleverness of the design (completely agree with the top 100 review above) on what is already a pretty special piece of land. I recently played Lahinch (Ireland) which is another Hawtree course (at least he modified it) and really enjoyed that as well. | | | Luke | 23 September 2007 | | Forgetable?? Really?? No way!! There ARE many fine courses in the Surrey and Berkshire area and this one IS at the top of the tree. | | | Nev Nerwich | 24 September 2007 | | I agree with the others. This is an outstanding course. Must be noted though that it is quite different in character to the heathland courses. Much more American in look and feel and probably more 'polished'. So it does make a nice contrast. |
| | | Simply outstanding. I am not normally a big fan of British parkland/heathland course, though the links are of course world beating. I have played a number of the big name British inland courses this trip and have found most to be wildly over-rated (sorry). Bearwood Lakes however ranks with the very best of the American parkland courses in my opinion. Not overly long but has all the ingredients. Very picturesque, cleverly designed, variety right through the 18 holes, requires full range of shot making, great course conditioning. Alot of fun to play. 1st class facilities and the staff are very welcoming. One of the very very few truly world class inland courses in the UK. | | 15 September 2007
| Reply
|
| Response: | | | pbt | 30 September 2007 | | This a response on a response...Bearwood Lakes close to Walton Heath and St George's Hill?? And the best American parkland course are better than the English heathland?? I don't think so. | | | SL | 20 October 2007 | | PBT has obviously not played Augusta, Shinnecock etc. Yes, they are better than the English heathland courses. Is Bearwood Lakes better than Walton Heath? Yes in my opinion, though it is a very different style of golf course. The reviews above have it pretty well nailed. Can't comment on St George's Hill as haven't played it. |
| | | Last month I played Bearwood Lakes for the third time. It really is a pleasure to play this course. Each time the staff have been very friendly and welcoming. The clubhouse and facilities are spacious, modern and very impressive. These very positive feelings carry you on to the elevated 1st tee and a lovely panorama of three fairways. The greens were superb and the fairways, the best I have ever played on. There are lovely views from each and every tee and the lake at 13 and 14 is viewed from several other parts of the course. I played with my son-in-law. We both had a very memorable day. I have played Woodhall Spa , Alwoodley and Moortown several times each. They are great courses but playing at Bearwood Lakes gives me that extra, extra buzz. Edward Nicholson | | 14 September 2007
| Reply
| | | I have played alot of good golf course's in my time but Bearwood Lakes rates up there with the best of them! I work for a golfbreak company so i get to see alot of great golf course's around the world but Bearwood is just down the road from my House and never thought you could see such a beautiful golf course around Reading!! Excellent condition in the summer and perfect for all golfers. | | 11 September 2007
| Reply
| | | It is hard to add much to the glowing reviews written by others lucky enough to play Bearwood Lakes. However one particular charm not yet mentioned is that the sensible variation in the different tees enables players of almost every standard to have a wonderful golfing experience. The setting and condition are quite magnificent and it is fully worthy of a professional tournament, particularly now with the wet early summer creating rough that is presumably far more punishing than normal for early September. | | 04 September 2007
| Reply
| | | Possibly the most beautiful course that I have played (in a golfing career spanning three continents). It is an exquisitely designed course that takes full advantage of the natural landscape and surroundings – an intoxicating blend of heath, forest and lake. Also, bountiful wildlife and terrific views of the Bearwood estate. The course itself is a very thorough test; you will need brains, but you will also need brawn – long straight hitting over water is a requirement on a number of holes. The course is maintained in immaculate condition; terrific tees and fairways, very well bunkered, with lightening fast greens. World-class. I am amazed that I had never heard of it prior to being invited to play there. | | 04 August 2006
| Reply
| | | Having played golf around the world,and in the Berkshire Surrey area . I moved from my Golf club of 21years to find in my opion one of the best course anywhere both for standard of playing conditions and welcome of the club members. Forget Royal Westmoreland, Wentworth, Paires Landings, Reflection Bay, Beath page, this is the best yet!!!!. | | 28 July 2006
| Reply
| | | I have played this course numerous times with a friend who is a member. It is long, but relatively wide open. If you like American style courses then you will like this course. | | 24 April 2006
| Reply
| | | Bearwood Lakes is a course which is mature beyond its years. The layout is through woodland with stands of pine trees defining many holes, and the lake impinging on several holes on the back nine. Holes dogleg right and left, there are uphill and downhill holes, and holes where a birdie is a real possibility and others where a par is a great relief. It is this variety which makes BL a great course. Fine course conditioning is a bonus, and the practice facilities and clubhouse are also excellent. | | 24 October 2005
| Reply
| | | This course is quality. I have had the incredible pleasure of playing Bearwood five or six times and it is the best UK course I have played in recent times, and that includes The Oxfordshire, Slaley Hall, The Dukes at Woburn Abbey and Celtic Manor. You can't get on without a member and that is the only reason this course is not in the top 30 UK courses. | | 29 July 2005
| Reply
| | | Bearwood Lakes must be one of the most underrated courses in the area. Superbly designed with the varied holes going in all directions. Especially memorable are the holes by the lake - 13th and 14th are simply outstanding. The condition is always first class - loads of definition between the different cuts. Greens are like glass in the summer. If you can get on this course, go for it, you won't be disappointed. | | 23 July 2004
| Reply
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
