Donnington & Co is a relaxed four-star golf resort in the West Berkshire countryside, just south of Newbury, with its own 18-hole course, a spa and a two AA Rosette restaurant. It sits in the North Wessex Downs, yet London is about an hour away and the M4 and A34 are minutes from the gate.
The golf
The par-71 parkland course measures 6,221 yards from the back tees. Generous fairways keep it friendly for higher handicaps, while water, changes in elevation and sloping greens give better players plenty to think about. The front nine eases you in and the back nine is noticeably tougher. The clubhouse is in the Grade II-listed Snelsmore House, overlooking the 9th and 18th greens, and there is a driving range, putting green and chipping area.
The hotel
Many of the bedrooms look out over the fairways and the Berkshire hills. The spa uses TEMPLESPA products and is a real draw for non-golfing partners, or for tired legs after a round. PRESS, the main restaurant, holds two AA Rosettes for seasonal British cooking, and The Hangout serves relaxed outdoor dining from April to October.
Best for: mixed-ability groups, families and couples, especially when not everyone plays golf.
Address: Old Oxford Road, Donnington, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 3AG
Telephone: 01635 551199
Website: donnington.co