Romford Golf Club

Although only a couple of miles away from the M25, Romford is one of the most scenic courses in Essex.  While not the longest of layouts at just shy of 6,400 yards, its par 71 is tricky, with many tight tree-lined fairways requiring accurate tee shots. Strategically placed bunkers and hazards are also waiting to punish the wayward.  Designed by five-time Open champion James Braid, it is a relatively easy-walking course with lush fairways and fast, true greens. The R&A recognised its quality when adding Romford to their list of Regional Qualifying courses from 1995 to 2000.  The 1st, a 351-yard par 4, offers a welcome straightforward start to your round but don’t be fooled by the lack of length.  There are many hazards waiting to punish the wayward drive, but an accurate tee shot will put you in great position for an opening par or even birdie chance. The tempo is maintained at the 2nd and the 3rd, a 193-yard par 3 where strong and accurate long-iron play is needed to reach the green. Leave here with a par and give yourself a pat on the back. The 4th presents another stern challenge – at 477 yards this long par 4 can easily leave an unsightly number on your a scorecard.  While the fairway is relatively easy to hit, it requires a couple of your very best shots in order to reach the green in regulation, hence its Stroke Index of two. Romford’s fast greens are a joy to putt on but make it tricky to chip close if you miss them, as will be the case for many of us on holes of this difficulty.  With only three par 5s, there are few easy birdie chances available, meaning clear thinking and accurate ball striking are required in order to negotiate your way to a good score.  The par-5 18th does, however, represent a chance to finish your round on a high, assuming you can find the short stuff off the tee to give yourself a chance of getting up in two. The Romford experience will live long in the memory and you will soon find yourself planning a return visit.

While not the longest of layouts its par 71 is tricky, with many tight tree-lined fairways requiring accurate tee shots. Strategically placed bunkers and hazards are also waiting to punish the wayward.

Top Holes by Richard Hall, Romford’s general manager:

2nd 304 yards, par 4 A short par 4, its defence is a rolling green reminiscent of Augusta. It even has azaleas bordering the green. Hit the green on the wrong side and you are in three-putt country. 6th 141 yards, par 3 Romford's signature hole, with water left of the green and out of bounds to the right, is a stern challenge. Bunkers short of the green make this a significant test of your nerve. 18th 505 yards, par 5 A pond and hedge face you off the tee, then a risk-and-reward decision with your second: try to carry three huge bunkers guarding the green or lay up and hope for a pitch-and-putt birdie.