Mad Swans in the Mendips

Mad Swans is a concept that the traditionalists of the sport might not like. However, the 12-hole format is one that Mad Swans is sticking with, with both of their current venues in the United Kingdom featuring a 12-hole layout. Don't be thinking that it is just a gimmick, as MacKenzie & Ebert were brought in to design the course, one that has been designed in a way that each of the 12 holes stands out in their own way.

It begins in an unusual manner, with a par 3 to kick things off. It is not a gentle start either, as the green is an upturned saucer, and with steep runoffs on either side of the putting surface should you be slightly offline. The 3rd is another par 3, and an absolute cracker. The views form the elevated tee box are sublime, with the downhill approach to this green played over a water hazard that also winds its way around the left edge of the surface.

The 6th is a good scoring chance, should you be able to keep the ball on the straight and narrow. It is not the longest par 5, but there is sand everywhere. Just two holes later, and another par 5 comes into view. Longer hitters will fancy their chances, but will have to take on some of the famous Mendip stone hollows. 11 is a great little par 3, before the closing hole is a dog-leg that will see some of the bigger hitters try and take the corner on.

Golf is not the only sport on offer at Mad Swans in the Mendips. The two new kids on the block when it comes to racquet sports – Padel and Pickleball – are both on offer at Mad Swans, with multiple courts offering both sports.

There is also a fully equipped gym, with access available to all those staying on site. There are also darts and shuffleboard to play in The Hangout, the sports bar at the venue.

They do things differently at Mad Swans, and that follows suit when it comes to the accommodation at the resort. Unlike most venues, which offer a large hotel and different type of rooms, the accommodation at Mad Swans in the Mendips comes in the form of cabins.

As it says on their website, “sustainability meets comfort in the heart of nature”. The Eco Cabins on the resort are all around 30 square metres, and come in either Twin or Double form, with high-speed Wi-Fi and access to the gym, along with some stunning views of the Mendips.

Where is Mad Swans in the Mendips?

As you might expect from its name, Mad Swans in the Mendips is based near the Mendip Hills National Landscape. It sits just outside the village of Midsomer Norton, with the cities of Bristol and Bath both within a 15-mile drive from the resort. The English capital is around 125 miles to the east of Mad Swans in the Mendips.

What is the nearest airport and station to Mad Swans?

Bath is also home to the closest train station to the resort, with services running to Bristol Temple Meads, Portsmouth Harbour and London Paddington from Bath Spa. For international visitors to the region, Bristol Airport is less than 15 miles from the venue. London Heathrow, the busiest airport in the United Kingdom, is around 110 miles east.

What golf facilities does Mad Swans offer?

Along with the 12-hole golf course, Mad Swans in the Mendips is also home to the Swing Barn – an indoor driving range-style facility with TopTracer technology. There is also a large putt putt course in the ground as well, along with the traditional short game area and putting green.

Does Mad Swans offer golf lessons?

Lessons are available at Mad Swans in the Mendips, with a team of experts on site to help golfers. There are on-course lessons, along with coaching in the Swing Barn, with the use of the TopTracer technology to aid tuition.

What are the green fees at Mad Swans?

The price of a green fee at Mad Swans changes throughout the year, depending on the season. It is also different depending on whether it is a weekday or weekend. There are also stay and play offers at the resort as well.

For more information on current green fees at Mad Swans, visit their booking website here (opens in a new tab).

What accommodation is on offer at Mad Swans in the Mendips?

The accommodation at Mad Swans in the Mendips comes in the form of cabins instead of rooms. There is a variety of Twin and Double Eco Cabins, all of which offer great views of the Mendips, as well as privacy for all guests.

What other venues on the NCG Top 100s: GB&I Resorts list are nearby?

Mad Swans in the Mendips is one of several venues in the southwest of England on the NCG Top 100s: GB&I Golf Resorts list, with Bowood and The Manor House within a 30-mile drive. Across the border in Wales, both the Celtic Manor Resort and the St Pierre Country Club are also within 45 miles of the venue.

Visit Mad Swans’ website here (opens in a new tab).

Go back to the NCG Top 100s Homepage.