Newbie friendly courses in Mid Sussex

[Thustwest]

Hi All. I've just started playing and wondered if there are any recommendations for a Newbie friendly course around the Burgess Hill area. My short game is ok but would prefer some wider fairways.

 

[duncan mackie]

Hassocks or Mid-Sussex

 

[ADB]

Welcome to try mine, very friendly.....but wide flat fairways are at a minimum! The benefit though is being able to play all-year round due to the fast-draining land, something Mid (AKA 'Mud') Sussex and Hassocks tend to suffer from being more flat.

Another option is Singing Hills just outside Hurstpierpoint - 3 x loops of 9 and always tends to be in good nick (with nice wide fairways mostly ) Fellow forummer Golfmmad is a member if you want to drop him a PM, likewise PM me if you want a crack at Pyecombe.

 

[Thustwest]

Thanks. Didn't think about Pyecombe.

Up to now, I've only had a couple of attempts at the little par 3 course at Burgess Hill.

I've got a lesson at Mid Sussex this weekend. If I get a glimmer of confidence with my 3 wood I'll let myself loose on a "Proper" course.

I live around the corner from Singing Hills but it looks pretty challenging.

 

[ADB]

Thanks. Didn't think about Pyecombe.

Up to now, I've only had a couple of attempts at the little par 3 course at Burgess Hill.

I've got a lesson at Mid Sussex this weekend. If I get a glimmer of confidence with my 3 wood I'll let myself loose on a "Proper" course.

I live around the corner from Singing Hills but it looks pretty challenging.

Being honest, the range and course at Burgess Hill are perfect for a beginner - some decent length par 3's. It may be worth spending time on there (the pro's are decent for lessons as well). Not wishing to put you off, but if you are a beginner there is a lot to be said for a good Par 3 course to hone your swing before forking out for a full membership.

 

[duncan mackie]

Being honest, the range and course at Burgess Hill are perfect for a beginner - some decent length par 3's. It may be worth spending time on there (the pro's are decent for lessons as well). Not wishing to put you off, but if you are a beginner there is a lot to be said for a good Par 3 course to hone your swing before forking out for a full membership.

completely agree - I'd read the initial post to suggest that this had already been conquered and that the next level of challenges was being inquired about

I see Pyecombe as the top of the local tree in terms of a golf challenge; but as you point out it also has great benefits in terms of all year round condition and, although it's harder for you to post it, I would suggest it's overall clubhouse ambiance it up with the best the game offers.

 

[JustOne]

I live around the corner from Singing Hills but it looks pretty challenging.

Some of the holes are easier than others.

From what I understand a membership comes with 12 free rounds at East Sussex National (which is worth about £600) so if you live on the doorstep it's a no-brainer. You'll probably struggle at all courses if you've only just started playing golf, so Singing Hills is as good as any.

 

[Thustwest]

completely agree - I'd read the initial post to suggest that this had already been conquered and that the next level of challenges was being inquired about

I see Pyecombe as the top of the local tree in terms of a golf challenge; but as you point out it also has great benefits in terms of all year round condition and, although it's harder for you to post it, I would suggest it's overall clubhouse ambiance it up with the best the game offers.

I think "Conquered" is pushing it a little

I was really surprised by the quality of the place. Really nice greens and a quality Range. I can see myself spending quite a few winter evenings there (especially with the nearby Apres-Golf)

 

[Thustwest]

I see Pyecombe as the top of the local tree in terms of a golf challenge; but as you point out it also has great benefits in terms of all year round condition and, although it's harder for you to post it, I would suggest it's overall clubhouse ambiance it up with the best the game offers.

So which local course would be the most natural progression from Burgess Hill?

 

[duncan mackie]

So which local course would be the most natural progression from Burgess Hill?

see post #2, although there's no reason that you wouldn't enjoy Singing Hills; and quite a few reasons you would.

living nearby, and the practice facilities are just as important as the 18 holes you 'test yourself on' in terms of progression and, ultimately, enjoyment.

you also can't ignore the financials

it's relatively easy to visit all 3 of them, including looking in on the bar on a weekend and playing a round.

from the sound of it you are at the stage where you can reasonably expect to progress quite quickly given the opportunity to hit a few balls on, and off, course.

enjoy

 

[ADB]

So which local course would be the most natural progression from Burgess Hill?

My opinion would be Hassocks then Mid Sussex - mainly due to price.

 

[Thustwest]

Thanks guys. I'll be trying them all out in the coming months. Just didn't want to loose my enthusiasm by trying something outside of my skill level

 

[NST]

I much prefer mid Sussex to hassocks. Who you having your lesson with at Mid Sussex?

 

[Thustwest]

I much prefer mid Sussex to hassocks. Who you having your lesson with at Mid Sussex?

The Lesson is with Alastair. Not a conscience decision, he just happened to answer the phone

 

[Sybez]

There're loads near BH!

Hassocks is nice and simple course with some decent greens and deals on green fee's most weeks. Can get pretty busy but is def worth a try.

Personally found Signing hills a bit boring, but apparently missed the better 9 holes so will reserve full judgement till then. Has cheap range tokens though, putting green needs some work too.

Theres loads in the area, Pyecombe is a hilly walk I hear (never played), Lewes GC is similar. Haywards heath is nice. You also have Cuckfield up the road which is a funky little 9 holer...

Mid sussex have some great offers on trial memberships for a month, works out cheaper than one green fee alone! Also does a practice only membership which is good. Pro's there are good, and have Flighscope on the range for fittings/lessons etc.

Don't forget you have Waterhall, West Hove, Brighton GC (9Holes), The Dyke, depending on your skills and budget....