The Strokesaver's Guide to Classic Golf Courses of Great Britain and Ireland

A superior guide to 25 of the top courses on the other side of the pond. Covering all the classic courses in the UK and Ireland -including St. Andrews (Old), Turnberry (Ailsa), Gleneagles (King's), Carnoustie, Royal County Down, K Club, Birkdale - it does include a couple of strange selections - notably Nick Faldo's Chart Hills and The Belfry (Brabazon). A welcome inclusion is Prestwick, not a Open course anymore, but still a wonderful links course in any age. Ballybunion is the glaring omission, as Strokesport haven't yet made it there to chart the course. That minor gripe aside, each course is covered in loving detail - with wonderful graphics for each hole that clearly provide all you need to know before stepping out to play. Full yardages are provided; hazards, contouring and obstacles are clearly marked; and a brief but informative course overview advises the many options for playing each hole, depending on conditions, ability, etc. Each course is introduced with a few historical anecdotes as well as details of major tournaments played there. The well-chosen color photos simply entice you to jump on the nearest plane to any one of these wonderful destinations. From reading this, and observing each courses' design, it is clear that all are intriguing venues in their own right.In sum, brilliant for course guidance and equally satisfying as an armchair reference for cold winter nights indoors.

I would agree that the Belfrey does not belong in the book but it has hosted a couple Ryder Cups. The yardage illustrations were well done and give the reader a lesson in course design.

This is a good book. The text is fine although I would quarrel with the inclusion of the Belfrey. The stroke-savers drawings are very detailed and handsome. Perhaps better for someone who has already played the course to help relive old memories

This is a good book. The text is fine although I would quarrel with the inclusion of the Belfrey. The stroke-savers drawings are very detailed and handsome. Perhpas better for someone who has already played the course to help relive old memories