Situated just three miles from the centre of Romsey on the A3057 at Nursling, less than a mile from the M27 motorway lies Romsey Golf Club. Nestling at the south eastern edge of Broadlands Estate, on beautifully mature wooded parkland blessed with undulating contours, the course meanders through the trees, with its own version of Amen Corner on the front nine, three holes that will provide a challenge for any golfer. For although the course is less than 6000 yards, the narrow wooded fairways, doglegs and strategically placed bunkers make it an examination of accuracy rather than length.
The Club, which celebrated its Centenary in the year 2000, moved to the present site in 1924, it was originally a nine hole course, laid out by George Kirby, the professional from Stoneham. It was extended to an eighteen hole layout in 1974, and it is now a very tight par 69, which demands accuracy and patience to score well. It is a credit to the members of the day that their design has stood the test so well. Rightly described a woodland gem, the colours of the trees change as the months pass, and the autumn is a delight with the gold’s and warm browns of the leaves as they change from spring and summer greenery.
Broadlands Estate was once the home of Lord Palmerston, and in more recent times, Earl Mountbatten of Burma, who was President of the club for many years, and was a frequent visitor. Not so many years ago the Queen was a regular visitor to Broadlands, and several times members have been surprised to see Her Majesty on horseback riding down the track at the rear of the 9th green and near the 16th tee, a surprise to see on Sunday morning. The land on which the course stands is leased from the Trustees of the Estate, and the club have an extended lease that gives the members security of tenure.
Romsey has long had the reputation of being a very friendly club, from the time you drive into the car park, expect a welcome both from the members and the staff in the clubhouse and the professional’s shop. The professional team in the Pro Shop are always happy to help to make the visit an enjoyable one.
