Arriving at The Springs Resort and Golf Club late in the evening, after just under an hour-and-a-half drive from London, it was dark around, and the lack of city light pollution meant that the sky was beautifully sprinkled with shining stars.
Ahead of us was a brightly lit Tudor-style country house, which is the main building of The Springs hotel where reception, suites, and the spa are waiting to welcome its guests.
Hotel
Tucked into the Oxfordshire countryside, the resort attracts guests with its 18-hole golf course welcoming golfers of all levels. Guests can choose between accommodation in a beautiful lodge-style suite overlooking the course, the forest, or a variety of uniquely designed suites within the main building. With its recently redesigned spa and various activities on offer, The Springs is a perfect spot for a weekend nature reset.
Room
Each room is uniquely decorated with the option of super-king beds or twins. The Orange Balsam Suite is part of the deluxe suite category featuring floral wallpapers with burnt orange colour motifs throughout the room. The spacious room has a small seating area and a vanity wardrobe section, while the bathroom is large with a lot of natural light shining over the bright red tiles and brass elements with an ensuite shower and separate roll-top bath.
Food and drink
The Ridgeway Restaurant has hints of golf-inspired décor showcasing the history of the clubhouse and offers all-day dining. The à la carte breakfast features offer more than just all types of eggs, but also the kind of breakfast that is only justifiable if you are on holiday and about to play golf for four hours – think Belgian waffles with crispy bacon and a drizzle of honey. The lunch menu offers traditional clubhouse-style sandwiches, ciabattas, and burgers to enjoy on the outdoor terrace.
As for dinner, the restaurant’s menu taps into various favourites from international cuisine such as hoisin steak stir fry, katsu chicken burger, spicy nduja meatballs, or chicken saag balti. There really is something from everywhere on the menu.
Spa and wellness
Situated by the main reception, the 1893 Spa welcomes you in a state-of-the-art brand-new venue. Renovated just two years ago, the teal-coloured reception with its gold features grabs attention, which is the snazzy bar-reception area. Next door to it is the relaxation room, which has a back-to-nature feel about it with its floral wallpaper, soft sage coloured walls, and large windows overlooking the forest.
The 1893 Spa is not large, with just two treatment rooms, but it is enough for a post-golf pampering session. You can choose from aromatherapy massage experiences, various facials, and de-stress massage treatments, as well as manicure and pedicure services for an extra dose of pampering. Aside from massage therapy, the spa facilities also include a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, and steam room. The pool area is small and only accommodates six guests on the loungers, so bookings prior to your visit are advisable.
Golf club
As a beginner golfer, I was nothing short of excited and nervous all at the same time before embarking on my first-ever round of golf on a ‘real’ course. From the moment I arrived at the reception, the staff greeted me with warmth and enthusiasm, making me feel immediately welcomed and at ease. The staff had already prepared my club bag based on the information I had provided prior to my arrival, and an electric trolley was also waiting for me to begin my game.
The 133-acre Parkland golf course is mostly flat, though the electric trolley made the experience on the course hassle-free. I opted for a walk through the course instead of a buggy, although they are available upon request.
In the occurrence of bad weather, The Springs is also equipped with two indoor swing studios featuring GC Quad and a putting studio. However, the first stop for me was the outdoor practice facilities featuring a driving range and well-maintained putting and chipping greens – perfect for loosening up before hitting the course.
Despite the time of year, the golf course itself was in great condition. It also struck a balance between challenging and beginner-friendly layouts – making it suitable for golfers of varying skill levels.
The 18-hole course runs along the River Thames, it was designed by former Ryder Cup captain Brian Huggett and first opened in 1998. Its signature hole is the eighth, which is par three over water and presents itself as a challenge to all, especially a beginner.
And, of course, no round of golf is complete without a visit to the clubhouse. The clubhouse is situated in the hotel’s Ridgeway Restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for guests staying overnight. Aside from the restaurant is also the Spikes Bar, which is exclusive to members of the golf club, offering the perfect refuge for a post-game gin and tonic.
The golf shop was recently rebuilt and offers a wide range of golf equipment and clothing from leading brands.
To do
Next to The Springs, is the quaint town of Wallingford. With its narrow streets, an abundance of antique shops, and well-preserved Tudor-style architecture, Wallingford certainly catches the eye. Nestled in the town centre is the Five Little Pigs restaurant, which was strongly recommended by many of the locals for dinner. The restaurant certainly lived up to the high expectations of a ‘quirky menu’, as described by the locals, and had us Googling what deep-fried salsify is. A personal favourite was the pea and ham croquettes.
Factbox
Green fee for The Springs: Monday – Thursday £50. Friday – Sunday and Bank Holidays – £60.
Lead-in price: Stay and play packages from £135pp
Address: Wallingford Rd, North Stoke, Wallingford OX10 6BE
Phone: 01491 827300
Website: darwinescapes.co.uk
Photography courtesy of Azalea.
