Tucked into 400 acres of rolling Hampshire countryside, Old Thorns Hotel & Resort gives you the full golf-break package: 4-star accommodation, a Peter Alliss-designed championship course, a health club and spa and plenty of reasons to linger for one more night.
The course has serious pedigree too. The official opening in 1982 saw Seve Ballesteros, Jack Nicklaus, Isao Aoki and Open champion Bill Rogers tee it up in a competitive four-ball, with Aoki signing for 69. If you're a golfing geek like me, you'll love that the scorecards are still on display by the Sports Bar entrance.
On the course, it's classic Alliss in the best way: fair in parts, sneaky in others. Mid-handicappers will find it playable, but there's enough shape, bunkering and green-side questions to keep better players honest. Off the course, you've got solid dining options, a proper post-round bar and spa facilities that make it easy to switch off without ever leaving the estate.
In short, it's a hassle-free Hampshire base for a weekend with the lads, a society trip or a couples' break where the non-golfers still get a decent run at the facilities.
Who is this for?
Golfers or groups looking for a weekend or short break that combines quality parkland golf with comfortable resort facilities, good food and easy access from London and the south coast. Couples and societies will find plenty to do on and off the course, and the mix of accommodation options means it works for everything from a quick overnight to a longer stay with family.
Who is it best for?
Mid-to-high handicappers who want a playable but interesting championship test, groups seeking a relaxed country-house atmosphere with a proper golf pedigree, and anyone after a southern England break that doesn't require a long drive or complicated logistics.
