Royal Porthcawl Golf Club is located east of Swansea and west of Cardiff and despite being the highest ranked course in Wales, it remains relatively unknown. This is actually hard to believe because it is fair to say that we were both absolutely blown away by this course and have added it to our personal lists of the best courses we have ever played!
| Over the years, the layout has been extensively modified, primarily in 1913 by Harry Colt and by Tom Simpson in 1933. The first four holes and the last six holes represent classic links golf, while the holes in the middle rise up onto higher ground, offering fantastic views across the Bristol Channel. |
It is safe to say there is not a weak hole on the whole course. The first 3 holes run away from the clubhouse and alongside the channel. They all offer spectacular views and more than enough challenge with the winds off the channel, devilish pot bunkers and tricky green complexes that can give you fits.
A strong par 3 follows. Measuring 200 yards, this is an uphill beauty that pays longer than the yardage, especially into the wind like we had that day. Ego got in the way and irons and fairway woods were hit but in retrospect, a driver was the proper club that day!
All the par 3’s at Royal Porthcawl are wonderful holes with a variety of lengths, uphill and downhill shots, wonderful bunkering and beautiful green complexes. The short seventh hole is TJ’s personal favourite. At only 120 yards, a short iron or wedge is the call but with a long, thin green, challenging mounding around and on the green and strategic bunkering, it is far from an easy hole and definitely a beautiful hole
All the par 3’s at Royal Porthcawl are wonderful holes with a variety of lengths, uphill and downhill shots, wonderful bunkering and beautiful green complexes. The short seventh hole is TJ’s personal favourite. At only 120 yards, a short iron or wedge is the call but with a long, thin green, challenging mounding around and on the green and strategic bunkering, it is far from an easy hole and definitely a beautiful hole
A round at Royal Porthcawl is a chance to play some of the best links golf you will ever experience but on top of that, the hospitality and unique clubhouse make the day one you will not soon forget. Take the time to explore the many nooks and crannies of the classic clubhouse, preferably with a pint of local beer, and you will be rewarded with pictures and stories from over 100 years of golf at this amazing club.
TJ had the chance to speak John Edwards, Secretary at Royal Porthcawl to learn more about this wonderful course and you can see that conversation by following this link.
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