Essendon Country Club

New course

The New course is unique and more than a little quirky, in that it has two greens on 15 of its holes, this means our golfers get to play on quality greens all year around.

The par 72 New Course stretches over 6,700 yards, but your yardage doesn’t only depend on what tee you are playing from, but on what green. The A and B greens create an exciting variety, making each hole demand varying lengths and positioning off the tee to reach some of the more difficultly placed greens.

The 349 yard, par 4 1st is a picturesque opening hole, heavily guarded by a series of brand new, strategically placed bunkers framing the right side of the green.

The downhill, 146 yard, par 3 8th is a delightful hole with two lakes surrounding the green, requiring a straight and accurate shot if you want to avoid the water.

Accuracy is also at a premium off the tee on the scenic 384 yard par 4 17th, with its sloping fairway ushering the ball left towards a water hazard and a series of bunkers, which could easily catch any golfer out.

Old course

The Old course was designed by Fred Hawtree from the famous Hawtree dynasty and was opened back in 1976.

The mature, tree-lined Old course offers up a stunning variety of holes often lauded by the UK’s most knowledgeable and reputable golf media. Stretching over 6,800 yards, the par 72 Old course is a picturesque, undulating parkland course that provides a thrilling test for golfers of all levels.

One of the most loved holes is the challenging , downhill par 3 2nd. Measuring at 200 yards from the white tees, the hole leads down to a demanding uphill, two-tier green , which can demand some excellent putting to make it down in 3.

Another great feature of the Old course is the double green connecting the par 5 3rd and 12th. Both are fantastic birdie opportunities if you can manage to stay on the fairway and avoid the mature trees that carve the holes through the sloping landscape.

One of the tougher holes on the course is the 16th. The dog –legged hole turns to the right with a striking oak tree in the middle of the fairway, around 260 yards out. Placement from the tee is vital if you want to score low on this hole

Clubhouse

The first thing you’ll see when entering Essendon Country Club is an ‘All Welcome’ sign. This exemplifies our attitudes, and commitment to making the newly refurbished clubhouse an environment for all to enjoy.

The clubhouse makes a striking impression the moment you walk in. With its high ceiling and exposed beams it is the perfect central hub for this stunning club.

The restaurant area of the clubhouse was extended early on in 2015 to cope with the growing popularity of the club. The extension has created a more modern and airy feel to the clubhouse, which has played host to many societies, members and guests alike over its short life span so far.

Our goal is to make this a club that people want to come to whether it be to have a game of golf, read a paper, have a coffee or meet with friends. Right from the outset, we set out to create a friendly atmosphere, free from the shackles of traditional golf club rules, and we have been delighted by the way both members and visitors have bought into that philosophy.

Practice facilities

Whatever your skill level, or your experience of the game, Essendon Country Club has a vast array of tuition facilities and programmes specically designed to ensure you continue to enjoy the game of golf.

Driving Range

The new driving range at Essendon Country Club opened in spring 2014. Freshly laid and well-maintained hitting areas, including a sheltered section, offer members and visitors the perfect platform from which to hone their game. The Club is committed to offering high-quality range balls year-round thus providing golfers with all the tools necessary to practice every facet of the game.

Swing Studio

Essendon’s state-of-the-art swing studio, located adjacent to the range, offers users access to an advanced putting and learning environment unmatched anywhere in the vicinity. The studio holds a simulator, the highest specification launch monitors, PING and Titleist demo putting carts and everything else you could possibly require. Whether you’re after lessons, a gapping session or a new set of clubs, the pros at the Club can service your every need in the studio.

Short Game

Separate putting and chipping greens are conveniently located in close proximity to the first tee on both the Old and the New Course. The estate also offers further opportunities to enhance your ‘scoring zone’ with a practice bunker next to the driving range, as well as the par-three Muntjac Course, which all members have complementary access to.

Pro shop

Essendon’s team of PGA Professionals are ready to help you take advantage of the Club’s well-stocked pro-shop. If we don’t stock what you’re after, we can almost certainly order it for you at no extra cost. To top it off, we aim to price match with American Golf to make sure you get the best deal possible.

For Men

Whether you’re a fan of Adam Scott or Jordan Speith, our clothing range has what you’re looking for . We offer the latest clothing ranges from the reputable FootJoy and new guys on the block Under Armour. We can also order from a wide range of suppliers through Foremost, who can offer brands such as : Nike, Callaway and PING.

For Ladies

To match the extensive growth of our Lady members , we have expanded our ladies clothing range with FootJoy and are excited to be introducing brand new Adidas clothing in 2016.

For Juniors

Following the continual growth of our Junior members, we will be introducing an extensive Junior range of clothing from FootJoy and Under Armour in 2016. We also have numerous options available on clubs, suitable for varying ages and abilities

Accessories

We have a wide range of Essendon branded merchandise from head covers, to ball markers, towels and many more. But we not only cater for every golfers accessory needs, we aim to have the latest technology and unique items for our members who like the odd gadget. From remote control trolleys to GPS units, we can get it for you.

Men

Whether it’s casual or competitive golf you’re after, we host ample opportunities for you to meet members and immediately feel part of our Club.

With a whole host of Men’s events you’ll never run out of things to do at Essendon. Having two courses allows us to offer frequent members events without impacting your ability to get a tee time throughout the week.

New to Golf?

If you have limited experience playing golf, we offer a Mixed Academy for Men and Women who want to start playing golf. This is a 24 week programme designed to help you learn the fundamentals of the game in order to become competent out on the golf course.

7 Day

As a full 7 Day member you will have access to two championship golf courses, the par 3 Muntjac Course, our Member’s Driving Range, and for coaching, our state of the art Swing Studio.

5 Day

For those that don’t have time to play on the weekend, or just want to play when the course is off peak, we offer a 5 Day membership for those wanting to play Monday to Friday.

Junior Plus and Intermediate

In our attempt to promote golf at every age, we offer a reduced rate for members aged between 18 and 30. Depending on your age you can receive up to a £950 reduction on the Full Membership rate.

Joint and Family

Don’t want to join alone? Our Joint Membership allows you to join the club with your partner/spouse or you can join our Family Membership and add all your children under the age of 21.

Ladies

Ladies Golf is the fastest growing section at Essendon Country Club growing from three, to over 100 since December 2011.

As a result of the growing popularity we host ‘Ladies Only’ events twice a week. It is our aim to cater for all of our members to the best of our ability and we hope to enter as many of the ladies competitions and leagues as possible moving forward.

New to Golf?

If you don't have much experience playing golf, you can join our Ladies Academy. This program is a series of sessions designed to help beginners learn the fundamental aspects of golf, with other like-minded ladies at the same level.

7 Day

As a full 7 Day member you will have access to two championship golf courses, the par 3 Muntjac Course, our Member’s Driving Range, and for coaching, our state of the art Swing Studio.

5 Day

For those that don’t have time to play on the weekend, or just want to play when the course is off peak, we offer a 5 Day membership for those wanting to play Monday to Friday.

Junior Plus and Intermediate

In our attempt to promote golf at every age, we offer a reduced rate for members aged between 18 and 30. Depending on your age you can receive up to a £950 reduction on the Full Membership rate.

Joint and Family

Don’t want to join alone? Our Joint Membership allows you to join the club with your partner/spouse or you can join our Family Membership and add all your children under the age of 21.

Juniors

Junior golfers are the future of every golf club, here at Essendon we understand that more than most, which is why we’ve been working hard to grow our Junior Membership.

Since the takeover in 2011, we have grown our Junior Membership from four members to around 60. This is due to the increased range of events and activities that junior golfers can get involved in, no matter their level.

More experienced junior golfers can become part of our Junior section straight away and can compete alongside our current junior golfers. We also have plenty of club competitions throughout the year, particularly during the school holidays. Junior golfers can also compete in various team matches against other clubs, particularly in the Lexus & VER League.

New to Golf?

If you are new to golf or don’t have much experience you can join our Junior Academy, this is an introductory course to teach new golfers the fundamentals of golf. Once you progress through our Bronze, Silver and Gold levels you will be able to get a full Junior Membership.

Find out more about our Junior Academy.

Packages

At Essendon we have a wide range of facilities which can be enjoyed by golfers of all ages. Our dedicated Societies Manager will do everything possible to meet your societies needs, both throughout the planning stage and on the day.

With your own private hosting space and a choice of both golf courses we can accommodate anything from 12 to over a hundred golfers for your perfect golf day down to a tee.

We understand how stressful organising a golf day can be, so we are here every step of the way to make sure the process is as easy as possible. Our Society Manager will take you through your numbers, your preferred course and required tee times, along with your catering requirements. You will then meet on the day to be shown around the club, go through your itinerary and be handed your score cards ready for your round.

Clients included, we had a fantastic day thank you. We are looking to organise another day next summer so we will be in touch. Thanks again for taking care of everything, it really helped on the day.

Testimonials

We have had the pleasure of hosting some major organisations for corporate golf days here at Essendon, from Facebook to EE and HSBC. So whether you’re having a small society with friends or a large corporate event we are confident that we can deliver an amazing day.

Just wanted to say a massive thanks to you for your help and support with my Golf Day. It all went well and I know everybody enjoyed the day and the hospitality and thought the course was in excellent condition.

The day went really smoothly and we received some fantastic feedback from our guests as to the quality of the course, clubhouse facilities and the food, your support was much appreciated and made it a lot easier.

Thanks again for all your help with everything, really good fun and everyone expressed a desire for us to do another one early in the New Year.

Brand your day

At Essendon we like to go above and beyond what is expected to ensure that your golf day with us is the best it possibly can be. So now you can logo items such as balls, polo’s, caps and towels to add a personal touch to your day.

To help ensure your corporate golf day is a memorable one, we have a range of golf apparel and accessories that can be personally branded with your logo.

• Personalised Titleist Pro V1 Sleeve from just £10.00
• Personalised FJ Essential Polo from just £34.95

Request a Society Pack for more information

Practice facilities

Whatever your skill level, or your experience of the game, Essendon Country Club has a vast array of tuition facilities and programmes specically designed to ensure you continue to enjoy the game of golf.

Driving Range

The new driving range at Essendon Country Club opened in spring 2014. Freshly laid and well-maintained hitting areas, including a sheltered section, offer members and visitors the perfect platform from which to hone their game. The Club is committed to offering high-quality range balls year-round thus providing golfers with all the tools necessary to practice every facet of the game.

Swing Studio

Essendon’s state-of-the-art swing studio, located adjacent to the range, offers users access to an advanced putting and learning environment unmatched anywhere in the vicinity. The studio holds a simulator, the highest specification launch monitors, PING and Titleist demo putting carts and everything else you could possibly require. Whether you’re after lessons, a gapping session or a new set of clubs, the pros at the Club can service your every need in the studio.

Short Game

Separate putting and chipping greens are conveniently located in close proximity to the first tee on both the Old and the New Course. The estate also offers further opportunities to enhance your ‘scoring zone’ with a practice bunker next to the driving range, as well as the par-three Muntjac Course, which all members have complementary access to.

Golf lessons

Essendon is amongst the South East’s premier facilities and excels in providing the ideal coaching environment for all standards of play. The team of professionals will help you develop every aspect of your game. Whether it is a putting lesson, video analysis, on course coaching or developing a detailed practice plan, one of our PGA Professionals will be able to facilitate your needs.

Ian Taylor - PGA Head Professional

Duration	Junior	Member	Non member
45 minutes	£35	£45	£50
60 minutes	£45	£55	£60
1 hour on course MOT	£30	£30	£30

Matt Spencer - PGA Teaching Professional

Duration	Junior	Member	Non member
45 minutes	£30	£40	£45
60 minutes	£40	£50	£55
1 hour on course MOT	£30	£30	£30

Daniel Woods - PGA Teaching Professional

Duration	Junior	Member	Non member
45 minutes	£30	£40	£45
60 minutes	£40	£50	£55
1 hour on course MOT	£30	£30	£30

Daniel Armsby – Assistant Professional

Duration	Junior	Member	Non member
45 minutes	£25	£30	£35
60 minutes	£30	£35	£40
1 hour on course MOT	£30	£30	£30

The Team

Essendon’s friendly, knowledgeable and experienced teams of Professionals are here to offer you a service unmatched anywhere in the county.

Ian Taylor – PGA Head Professional

Ian joined the team as Head Professional in January 2014 and has over 10 years experience as a professional. Ian has a huge passion for coaching. He is enthusiastic about helping his pupils learn and develop, whilst making the journey of doing so fun and enjoyable.

Alongside his club roles, Ian is a Hertfordshire County Coach working with the development and elite squads at under-18 level.

Ian is main interests is sport, he is a massive Tottenham Hotspurs fan, enjoys to ski and is a huge foodie!

Ian@essendoncc.com

Matt Spencer - PGA Teaching Professional

Matt has been coaching since 2009 during which time he has gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise from various top coaches around the world. He enjoys learning and improving his knowledge from the very best in the industry.

Matt's passion is helping golfers achieve a specific goal by creating personalised programmes, as well as fulfilling two roles as a Hertfordshire County Coach working with the Boys Under-16's Development Squad & Playing Squad.

In his down time, Matt enjoys playing sport & socialising and hopes to make more time for playing golf himself.

Matt.spencer@essendoncc.com

Daniel Woods - PGA Teaching Professional

Dan has been in the golfing industry for over 12 years which has seen him achieve a national diploma in golfing excellence and PGA degree. He has worked at other prestigious clubs such as Verulam Golf Club, Moor Park Golf Club and South Herts Golf Club.

Dan’s passion for golf coaching has brought him here to Essendon to help inspire, improve and develop all standards of golfers from complete beginners through to scratch golfers.

Dan is a huge Norwich City fan and enjoys spending time socialising with friends and family.

Daniel.woods@essendoncc.com

Daniel Armsby – Assistant Professional

Dan has joined the professional team at Essendon in early 2019. He’s studying for his PGA Professional Golf qualification and quickly building his skills and knowledge in the industry. Dan graduated from university as a qualified paramedic, however decided to make his love for the game more than just a hobby. Having played golf from a very young age Dan is very excited to help grow the game in junior and adult golf alike along with helping golfers improve their skills.

The Adult Academy

Here at Essendon, we realise golf is sometimes tarnished with a reputation of being inhospitable, expensive and elitist.

We pride ourselves on creating a relaxed and welcoming environment for everyone. The Essendon Adult Academy is the perfect platform to learn for those with limited or no previous experience. Academy Golfers get into the game for various reasons. Whether it’s aspirations to take up a new hobby, to socialise and meet new people, reap the health benefits the game has to offer or a chance to enjoy time with friends and family, golf facilitates all of these things.

Our learning curriculum consists of a Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced 7 week course. Each level of the program provides you with the necessary knowledge and skills to allow your game to flourish. Not only will we provide you with a first class golfing experience, we will provide all the equipment throughout the program and encourage our players to utilise the facilities as much as possible outside of their session time.

Sessions are delivered in groups of 6-7 to encouraging a fun, interactive and social environment. Once the members of the Adult Academy have progressed through each level they are able to join our Introductory Membership scheme exclusively only for those that have been through the program. Players can take advantage of a reduced price membership for the first 12 months whilst enjoying all the benefits of club life.

Junior Academy

We understand the importance of encouraging young people to participate in the wonderful game of golf, that's why Juniors are a huge part of club life at Essendon.

Come and join the popular Essendon Junior Academy. Whether you’re brand new to golf or you’ve had some experience but are still looking for some support, Essendon is the perfect place for young golfers to start playing the beautiful game.

Our structured pathway allows young golfers of any level to participate, play and progress through our Junior Academy Program, designed to get all players to a level in which they are course competent.

Our Academy Program offers the most comprehensive golfing experience by providing a first class coaching, multiple competitive opportunities, a fun and engaging group environment whilst being able to take advantage of full use of the facilities outside of your coaching times.

Once each junior has reached the playing requirements to complete the Academy Program they become eligible for a full Junior Membership. At this stage they will be able to take advantage of club life, the numerous playing and competitive opportunities, representing the club in team matches and being a part of the Junior Squad.

Ladies Academy

The Essendon Ladies Academy is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the fresh air, socialise, reap the health benefits and enjoy time with other family members through learning to play golf.

One of the fastest growing sections at Essendon is our Ladies Academy. Whether you’ve never played before or have limited experience, Essendon is the perfect place to develop your skills and find out what Golf is really about.

Our Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced 8 week courses allow you to progress through each level as you start to learn the fundamentals of the game. Sessions are delivered in groups of 6-7 to encourage a fun, interactive and social environment.

Once the members of the Ladies Academy has progressed through each level they will be encouraged to join our Introductory Membership scheme, which will give them a cut price membership for 12 months to support each players journey towards a Full Membership.

Mixed Academy

The Essendon Mixed Academy is a structured programme specifically designed for men and ladies looking to take up the game.

Whether you have little or no previous experience, Essendon is a great place for Men and Ladies to join together and learn the basics of golf.

Our Beginner, Improver and Advanced levels creates a pathway for golfers to progress until they are course competent. Join other like minded players of a similar level as you lay the foundations of your golf game.

When the members of the Mixed Academy have progressed passed the Advanced level they will be encouraged to join our Introductory Membership, which will give them a cut price membership, the opportunity to join in roll up events and enjoy club to support each players journey towards a Full Membership.

Courtyard Kitchen Menu

Our Courtyard Kitchen Restaurant is a modern addition to the Club and is the perfect space for breakfast before your round of golf or for meeting friends for lunch.

We are currently open for food and drink, however we are offering a restricted menu due to COVID 19, please ring in advance if you have any dietary requirements

Essendon Sunday Roast

We have received overwhelming praise for our Sunday Roast service since it started on the 20th September 2015, with the restaurant almost filled to capacity every weekend.

Due to current government regulations we are unable to offer a Sunday roast service. Keep up to date with our social pages for the latest information regarding this, thank you!

DRINKS

We work closely with our suppliers to provide you with a great selection of drinks to accompany your meals.

Our tap beer comes from Marston’s Brewery, our wines from Hallgarten are chosen to match our menu dishes, we offer Hartridges juices and we use Fever-Tree tonics to pair with our wide offering of back bar spirits.

If you’re joining us for lunch or dinner we would be delighted to assist you with any wine recommendations, and if you’re here for breakfast or a Golf Day why not have a fabulous coffee to kick-start your morning?

Why Essendon

Essendon Country Club is conveniently located in a setting that allows seclusion and privacy for your conference, along with excellent transport links:

• 10 minutes from Junction 4 on the A1(M)
• Just over 11 miles East of St Albans, easily accessible on the A414
• Stansted is located 49 minutes from the Country Club
• Luton is located 43 minutes from the Country Club

Other Key Reasons for Choosing Essendon:

• Complimentary use of Wi-Fi
• Full Stationery Supplies
• Breakout Area
• Light and Contemporary Style
• Air Conditioned
• Free Car-Parking
• Use of Heli-Pad

Thank you so much for all your help planning our meeting, the service was attentive but not intrusive and the surroundings were just so lovely and peaceful, we felt all our needs were met with a smile

Packages

By utilising the plentiful space available, we can cater for all types of businesses. Our Events team at Essendon are ready to design a bespoke package to suit your businesses needs.

Package Deal

Day Delegate Rate @ £55.00 includes:

• Private Meeting Room Hire
• Unlimited Tea & Coffee & Biscuits
• Delegates Lunch
• Paper & Pens/Pencils
• Unlimited Still and Sparkling Water
• Complimentary Sweet Station
• 60” Smart TV
• Flip Chart and Pens
• Wireless Internet in the Conference Rooms and Public Areas

Inclusive of VAT at 20%
* based on a minimum of 6 delegates

Alternative Options

Here at Essendon Country club we are happy to create a bespoke package, should you not want a day delegate rate we can quote separately to suit your requirements.

• Full Day Room Hire at £500.00
• ½ Day Room Hire at £250.00
• Per Hour £50.00
• Equipment – 60" Smart TV & Flipchart and Pens Included

Room settings

Funeral Receptions

Set within 400 acres of peaceful Hertfordshire countryside Essendon Country Club is a comfortable and unobtrusive venue for holding a Funeral Reception or Celebration of Life, with picturesque surroundings and a dedicated team to take care of all your requirements.

Our 16th century oak beamed barn offers three beautiful areas which can privately host between 20 – 200 guests.

For Funeral Receptions we offer an Afternoon Tea or a Buffet Menu with a choice of hot or cold options. We can also offer bespoke menus to suit you.

Our experienced events team will ensure that you are looked after with the utmost respect and compassion from the start of the planning process and throughout your time here at Essendon.

If you would like to visit Essendon Country Club or discuss further details then please fill out the Enquire Now box.

Alternatively our Events Co-Ordinator Laura Lightfoot can be contacted directly on 01707 629 107 or laura.lightfoot@essendonncc.com

Catering

Our food is freshly prepared on site and all dietary requirements can be catered for. For Funeral Receptions we offer an Afternoon Tea or a Buffet Menu with a choice of hot or cold options. We can also offer bespoke menus to suit you.

Freshly baked scones served with Devonshire
clotted cream and strawberry jam

Selection of cakes and pastries

Freshly brewed tea, coffee and herbal infusions

All prices are fully inclusive of the following: venue hire, white table linen and napkins, unlimited tea and coffee throughout service

The venue

The Grand Barn

Our 16th century Grand Barn, set over two levels is the most popular hosting space at the club. It can hold an impressive 120 seated guests and can happily welcome over 250 guests informally for the evening. The striking Grand Barn is the perfect setting for any occasion, with its exposed beams and views of the New Course through the impressive double height windows.

Our fantastic open terrace area looks out onto one of our stunning championship golf courses and is ideal for a BBQ reception on a summers afternoon.

The Maple Suite and Conservatory

The newly refurbished Maple Suite and Conservatory are perfect for hosting your all important private event.

From intimate private dining to groups of up to 70 people, this warm & inviting setting is perfect for any special occasion.

Private Parties

Essendon has been lucky enough to host an array of incredible events and feel very proud to be a part of some of the most important days of our clients lives. The Grand barn plays host to stunning wedding ceremonies & receptions, birthday’s, christenings, engagement parties, anniversaries and many more.

Our ethos is to ensure each of our clients have the opportunity to create a unique and bespoke event tailored to their every wish.

Enquire now to find out how Essendon could be the perfect venue for your private party.

Seasonal Events

Why not let Essendon Country Club take the stress out of managing your seasonal event by joining us for an evening to remember.

Our attention to detail ensures a professional service delivered to all with our proven track record of hosting over 40 organisations for their exclusive Christmas/private parties.

Throughout the Christmas period we deliver mixed and exclusive party nights for up to 200 guests. Situated in our 16th century Grand Barn we offer a fantastic space for all to enjoy throughout the festive period.

It’s never too early to take the pain out of planning your event, send an enquiry to see how we can help...

Just wanted to say a huge thank you once again to you and your staff. So many people have said ‘everything was just perfect’ we’ve had loads of compliments on the venue, the food the staff so thank you all for a great night. We also wanted to thank you for making the organising process so easy and stress free for us.