You can almost see Central London from The Grove’s south-east facing windows.
Just 18 miles from the capital, the resort bills itself as London’s Country Retreat. There are 300 acres of beautiful parkland to wander – more than enough to make City visitors who like the finer things feel they’re getting a slice of rural life. But the level of luxury is such that there’s certainly no compromising on comfort for your weekend “in the sticks”. Far from it. This feels like the place to come, when you’ve already got it all…
My husband Tim and I arrive at The Grove from a different direction to most guests – driving south from our farm in the Peak District. The car park is chocka – and the cars are incredibly smart; London making the most of its holiday home, even on a Wednesday. Our room is not yet ready, so we head straight to the golf course to start our round. First, a warm-up on the well-appointed range, and then out to the course, which weaves its way through the parkland, downhill from the red-brick Georgian façade of the hotel’s main building.
A SETTING TO CALM THE MIND
Tim pars the 1st, and then birdies the 2nd – a long par-4 with an enormous green. Not such hot start for me; I blame the long car journey. It’s June, and the mature oaks and beeches are in full leaf, the rough is up and the golden grasses beginning to flower. The fairways are swathes of vivid, perfect green, tumbling down the slope towards the willow banks of the River Gade, whose clear, pebbly waters babble through the course.
It’s beautiful and challenging. The rough is penal, and the bunkers annoyingly well placed. The course feels long, too, especially the par-4s. This is, after all, a Championship course, though the distance was no problem for Tiger Woods, who won the WGC event here in 2006. Tiger eagled the par-5 9th hole three times that week – you can find plaques on the fairway to mark the points from which Woods hit his second shots. Safe to say, mine were nowhere close.
THE BACK NINE A HILLSIDE TEST
The welcome arrival of the beer cart sees us onto the back nine, and there’s a courtesy visit from a member of the golf team, checking that we weren’t being held up. There are two corporate golf days on the course this midweek afternoon and the going is pretty slow. But there is plenty to keep us entertained as the course swoops downhill again – the par-3 13th an inviting target from the elevated tee, and then a clippety-clop across the Billy Goat’s Gruff bridge spanning the river to the lush, tricky 14th.
The closing holes traverse the slope again, running across the hillside – one of the trademark tests of The Grove’s layout, the ball bouncing savagely. The 17th crests the last pull of the slope – another long par-4. By this time, the two-ball in front of us are waiting on the tee, so we join up with them to play the last couple of holes. Peter and David are the closet thing The Grove has to members – they’re signed up to the Clarendon scheme, a points-based programme they can redeem to play the course. Regular play proves no advantage and they both fall foul of the deep valley of sin in front of the 17th green, while we’re all wayward off the tee on the narrow 18th, and we head inside for a much-needed drink after shaking hands on the last of The Grove’s signature square greens.
NO DETAIL OVERLOOKED
The golf is great, but The Grove is such a fantasy playground that we’re already wondering what’s next. First, it’s up to our room: a haven of olive green soft furnishings and warm, welcoming lighting in the modern West Wing. And then down for dinner, in the Glasshouse restaurant, where the enormous windows look out onto the ornamental ponds of the glorious gardens.
The experience here epitomises The Grove; hundreds of options, deliciousness and quality at every turn. It’s a buffet dinner, but not as you know it – 5-star food from all corners of the world. If you don’t fancy the limitless sushi (you must be mad) – there are other dining options, including Asian Restaurant of the Year for 2024, Madhu’s. Or a Lebanese barbecue in the walled garden. Or a fine-dining tasting menu in a miniature hot air balloon on the lawn. See? If you’ve dreamt it up, The Grove has already got there before you.
In the morning, we opt for a long, rare lie in and a swim in the outdoor pool. We have it all to ourselves – rare solitude at this popular place. And then into the spa for a warm soak in the huge jacuzzi where we watch the minutes tick down until it’s time to leave. The archery, cinema, bike ride, axe throwing, hawk experience, a-la-carte dining, spa treatments etc etc will have to wait until next time. And we’ll bring the dog. Londoners do Country Retreats differently. These cynical Northerners are not complaining.
*For more information or to book a stay at The Grove visit TheGrove.co.uk
*Katherine and her husband, Tim, were guests of The Grove
THE GROVE GOLF RESORT: KEY FACTS
Address:
The Grove,
Chandler’s Cross,
Hertfordshire
WD3 4TG
The Grove post code for Sat Navs: WD17 3NL
The Grove Golf Telephone No: 01923 807807
Email: [email protected]
THE GROVE GOLF SCORECARD
THE GROVE GOLF COURSE MAP
THE GROVE GOLF: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Where is The Grove Golf Resort?
The Grove is located in Chandler’s Cross, Watford, Hertfordshire, England. It is about 18 miles (29 km) northwest of central London, making it easily accessible from the city. The resort is situated within 300 acres of countryside, offering a peaceful and scenic setting for golfers and other visitors. The proximity to major roads, including the M25 and M1 motorways, makes it convenient for both local and international guests. Watford Junction, the nearest train station, offers direct connections to London Euston.
What is The Grove’s golf course known for?
The Grove features an award-winning, 18-hole championship golf course designed by renowned architect Kyle Phillips. It is known for its immaculate course conditions and has hosted prestigious events, including the British Masters and the World Golf Championship.
Is the golf course open to non-members?
Yes, The Grove is a non-membership course, meaning it is open to all visitors. You do not need to be a member to book a round of golf.
How do I book a tee time at The Grove?
Tee times can be booked online through The Grove’s official website or by contacting the golf reservations team. Advanced booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Does The Grove offer golf tuition?
Yes, The Grove has a team of PGA professionals who offer lessons for golfers of all skill levels. Private lessons, group clinics, and junior coaching sessions are available.
What are The Grove golf practice facilities like?
The Grove provides a state-of-the-art practice facility, including a driving range, short-game area, and putting greens. These are open to all guests who have booked a round of golf.
Is there a clubhouse at The Grove?
Yes, The Grove has a luxurious clubhouse that includes locker rooms, a pro shop, and a bar/restaurant where guests can enjoy refreshments before or after their round.
How long does it take to play 18 holes at The Grove golf course?
On average, a round of 18 holes at The Grove takes around 4 to 4.5 hours, depending on pace of play and group size.
