Knole Park

[duncan mackie]

Wildernesse were incredibly unwelcoming when I called... they were not really willing to discuss much on the phone, had no real interest that both myself and my partner would consider joining, and for me, had the attitude that just isn't golf anymore!!

A close friend of mine basically said it is the best course he has played in the county, but unless they change their attitude, they are probably going only one way....

First impressions for me are everything, and it wasn't a good one.

They have been 'like that' for the 40 years I've been playing - the only way they are going is staying the same; which is how they want it.

 

[TheCaddie]

They have been 'like that' for the 40 years I've been playing - the only way they are going is staying the same; which is how they want it.

I wonder how sustainable that model is once the oldies go though!!

 

[spongebob59]

From memory I would put the 1st at about 175, 5th about the same - both play very much uphill and longer. 8th has lots of tees and is strict downhill to a firm green at about 155, 10th level at 160, 12th 210 or more, 16th is also up around 190.
But my memory isn't what it used to be

Think I'll have to have a trip back there one day

 

[duncan mackie]

I wonder how sustainable that model is once the oldies go though!!

Very when they are replaced by more of the same.

That it supports a significant joining fee is more significant to its sustainability than whether everyone feels at home there.

As another example I prefer the bar at Knole, but the overall catering at Wilderness is miles ahead.

 

[TheCaddie]

Fair enough.

 

[Bratty]

Westerham would definitely be worth a look too. Great practice facilities, and playable all year round, unlike Nizels. Tell them Bratty sent you.

 

[duncan mackie]

Westerham would definitely be worth a look too. Great practice facilities, and playable all year round, unlike Nizels. Tell them Bratty sent you.

You told him that when he first asked in a the ad a few months ago - I understand that he's now found a property and is joining Knole. If I was 5 mins away I would definitely be doing the same thing!

 

[Smiffy]

Just looking on the Wildernesse website and their "Society rates" don't look too bad for such a well respected and established course.
From November you can get coffee/bacon roll (or for an extra fiver a full English), 18 holes (am) followed by a light lunch (most probably ham, egg & chips) for £45.00.
Not bad value at all.
I've only ever visited there once, but unfortunately never got to finish the round. Felt a bit "groggy" when I turned up, but set off and wasn't playing too badly. But as the round progressed I was beginning to feel really bad, and after 9 holes had to come off the course. I could hardly walk I felt that bad, and it took me ages to trudge back to the clubhouse. I eventually managed to change my shoes (it was a struggle) and I drove home. Was off work the next four days with flu. Proper flu. I thought I was going to peg out it was that bad. First and only time I have had "proper" flu, and I don't want it again.
I'd love to go back and see the rest of the course because the holes I did play were crackers, and my playing partners kept telling me that the best was yet to come.

 

[baylie]

Thank you for the information mothers
This really helped us

 

[Smiffy]

Thank you for the information mothers
This really helped us

Cushty

 

[Swingalot]

Just looking on the Wildernesse website and their "Society rates" don't look too bad for such a well respected and established course.
From November you can get coffee/bacon roll (or for an extra fiver a full English), 18 holes (am) followed by a light lunch (most probably ham, egg & chips) for £45.00.
Not bad value at all.
I've only ever visited there once, but unfortunately never got to finish the round. Felt a bit "groggy" when I turned up, but set off and wasn't playing too badly. But as the round progressed I was beginning to feel really bad, and after 9 holes had to come off the course. I could hardly walk I felt that bad, and it took me ages to trudge back to the clubhouse. I eventually managed to change my shoes (it was a struggle) and I drove home. Was off work the next four days with flu. Proper flu. I thought I was going to peg out it was that bad. First and only time I have had "proper" flu, and I don't want it again.
I'd love to go back and see the rest of the course because the holes I did play were crackers, and my playing partners kept telling me that the best was yet to come.

That sounds more than reasonable based on the reports I have had of the course. Certainly would be keen when you organise it

 

[Smiffy]

Certainly would be keen when you organise it

You cheeky fooker

 

[duncan mackie]

You cheeky fooker

I saw the post as a huge compliment to your organisational skills and planning capabilities.....😂