Orsett Golf Club

Founded in 1899, this magnificent championship course was designed by the legendary James Braid, who weaved the layout into this piece of the Essex countryside.  Situated within five miles of the M25, this fine par-72 course has a demanding layout of over 6,600 yards which in recent years has been established as host to the regional qualifying round for the Open Championship. Indeed, it has staged qualifying on 11 occasions.  No matter what the weather is like, the course is renowned for its year-round playing surface; it's classic woodland and striking heathland features, free-draining soil, combined with the latest irrigation system makes this a course of outstanding quality. Indeed, there are no need for temporary greens or winter tees – so bear it in mind whenever the weather is inclement.

The picturesque par-3 12th is recognised as one of the course's finest holes, where a mid-iron is required to find a small putting surface and avoid the six bunkers which surround it.

The picturesque par-3 12th is recognised as one of the course's finest holes, where a mid-iron is required to find a small putting surface and avoid the six bunkers which surround it. Take more than three at the 12th and you face a tough finishing third because the 13th begins an exacting section; you have to drive towards the fairway bunkers on the left to give yourself the best angle into the green. The 358-yard 14th is a terrific two-shotter too. You should favour the right side of this sloping fairway to avoid being blocked out by the tall conifers. A one putt is tricky on the up-turned saucer of a green. The 17th is another fine hole; a shorter, accurate tee shot will at least give you a second shot to a well-protected green that slopes heavily from back to front.