I recently played Churston Golf Club for the first time as preparation for Dan Hendriksen’s LRG Day in July. Having never played the course before, I wanted to get a proper feel for it ahead of the event. I currently play off an 18 handicap and was joined by my friend Roger Cole, who plays off 12.9.
For anyone visiting Churston for the first time, the first thing that stands out is just how peaceful and scenic the course is. The views across Torbay are stunning, and several tee shots feel as though you are driving the ball directly towards the sea. It is one of those courses where you naturally pause for a moment to take everything in. The entire setting has a calm and tranquil atmosphere, and the excellent condition of the course only adds to that experience. The fairways were immaculate, while the greens were smooth, quick and rolling beautifully throughout the round.
As I worked my way around the course, a few holes particularly stood out from a first time visitor’s perspective. The opening hole is a perfect example of the course demanding sensible course management from the start. It is certainly not a driver hole, and I opted for a 5 wood simply to keep the ball in play. I imagine most golfers around my handicap would make a similar decision.
The 5th hole was another that caught my attention, mainly because of how much thought it requires. The shape of the fairway, combined with the coastal breeze, can quickly punish a poor decision if you are not careful. The 7th hole offers a completely different challenge. It opens up visually in a beautiful way, but it is exposed to the wind, meaning you really need to commit to your line and trust the shot. The 14th was probably the standout hole of the day for me, an elevated tee box with incredible views across the bay and the sort of setting that stays with you long after the round has finished.
Another aspect that really adds to the experience at Churston is the atmosphere around the course itself. Every so often, you hear the nearby steam train passing with its whistle sounding in the background. Rather than being distracting, it adds real character and charm to the course. There are also lovely houses bordering certain parts of the layout, which gives the whole place a welcoming and relaxed feel as you make your way around.
As an 18 handicapper playing the course for the first time, I found Churston challenging but very fair. The fairways can feel tight in places, and the coastal wind constantly asks questions of your decision making, but nothing about the course feels overly punishing. As the round progresses, you begin to appreciate just how well designed the layout is and how each hole presents a different challenge.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my first experience at Churston Golf Club. It is a beautiful and exceptionally well maintained course with a relaxed atmosphere, fantastic scenery and greens that are a pleasure to putt on. For anyone visiting for the first time, particularly golfers around my handicap level it provides a genuine test while still remaining highly enjoyable. Even when the golf becomes difficult, the surroundings make the entire experience feel rewarding and memorable.
Richard Freeman