Braai and 9-hole golf at Sussex wine estate

Mannings Heath Golf Club & Wine Estate in Horsham, West Sussex, has converted its Kingfisher course from 18 to 9 holes and is promoting it as part of Golf England’s Golf Express initiative to attract busy people who want to get fit and play more often.

by Caryn Edwards

14-07-2017 10:59

in Lifestyle

The South African based owner, entrepreneur Penny Streeter OBE, has closed half of the original 18-hole course to create a new 20-acre vineyard. The club is hosting wine tastings and other related events, with wines from the owner’s South African vineyard.

Set in an area of outstanding natural beauty and with views across Sussex parkland, the Kingfisher course strikes a good balance to meet the needs of both new and experienced players, says general manager Adam Streeter.

Two of the holes are combined to create a challenging par 5 on the second hole, while the par 36 course now plays much longer than other nine hole courses, he says.

Skilled players will enjoy the added challenge of the second hole, and can expect to go round the course in around 90 minutes. New players will find the layout a good test, and be able to finish the course in around two hours.

Players of all ages and skill levels that want to pick up the sport or are looking to improve their game can join through the new Academy membership. Members have unlimited access to the Kingfisher course as well as monthly group clinics with PGA Professionals.

“Based on feedback, the Kingfisher is a tough course; it does play a lot longer than a standard 9-hole. When people say 9-hole they think pitch and putt, just a short course. But it doesn’t play like that. It’s a good test,” says Andy Hailes, head professional at the club.

Mannings Heath is now promoting a regular Wednesday roll up on the Kingfisher course, open to both visitors and members. Players can arrive between 5 pm and 6.30 pm. Green fees are £9 for visitors, which includes entry to a weekly competition.

“The format of the competition will change regularly to keep it interesting,” Adam Streeter says.

Food is available on the day, with the resident chef providing a special dish for guests, such as a curry or a braai for example, priced at around £10.