Aintree Golf Centre

Set inside of the Grand National course and a former venue of the British Grand Prix lays the Aintree golf course. Since its opening in 1994 the track has matured and now presents a challenge to new golfers, mainly because they get lost following the holes or hit the ball at the wrong green. There are signs informing golfers of where to walk or aim, but I'm guessing the patrons are illiterate. They certainly don't understand the local rule of NOT playing shots from the horsey course. "OUT OF BOUNDS (RULE 27) The Motor Racing Track is the perimeter of the course and a ball is considered to be out of bounds if it comes to rest on or crosses it"

Aintree is a nine hole course, or 18 if played twice, or even a 27 holer if played thrice. Although it only as nine holes, this is a long track at 3,312 yards from the white tees, Aintree is one of the longest 9 holes in the country. Of the nine there are two par 5's, three par 3's and the rest are fours, obviously. The 9th plays as a par 6 when the wind blows in your face, which it most often does. The lake comes into play on two holes, it makes the fifth a particularly difficult challenge if you fancy a drive at the par 4 green. Tempting as it is, best shot is splitting the fairway and an easy dink to the flag.

Most of the greens are protected by bunkers which can present a challenge to escape as there is no sand in them.

Their website boosts the opportunity to play over Beeches Brook, a replica of the fence on the world famous course. Here is a picture of that famous replica.

The 20 sq ft shop stocks an extensive range of junior wedges. There also a selection of gloves, left and right. Balls can be purchased and that's the shop covered. Trolleys can be hired and they even have the three wheel push trolley, thought the scallies and inbred tend to drag these around.

The clubhouse is a relaxing place to review your round and to dwell on the missed opportunities of that par. There is a wide choice of food and drive available and the staff are always friendly. There is a pool table and dartboard, so more chances of lossing money to your friends. This should be call Aintree Sports Centre and not Golf Centre.

 The 30 bay, floodlit driving range is a good practise ground before venturing on course and the putting area is there. The members out on a Sunday can be counted on one hand. Aintree has been targeting the kids, not in a dirty way. They have been trying to attract junior members and this is an attractive starting base for juniors and new golfers. There are long holes and wide forgiving fairways. The course does drain extremely well after heavy downpours allowing for very few closures. There are plenty of courses nearby that does close from bad weather and Aintree is known locally the fallback option.

Midweek: 9 holes £8, 18 holes £10 Weekend: 9 holes £10, 18 holes £12
Tel: 01515235157
Website: http://www.aintree.co.uk/pages/about-aintree-golf-club/