Why golfers simply must experience The Grove

Widely considered to be among the finest resorts in Europe, The Grove is a five-star jewel in the crown of Hertfordshire, with its location little more than 18 miles from the centre of London making it a massively attractive prospect for any keen traveller.

There is much to recommend about this spectacular venue that has hosted everything from the G20 London summit in 2009 to the 2019 NATO Leaders' Meeting.

But if you're a golfer, then the best place to start is the fabulous championship course itself, which memorably staged the WGC-American Express Championship in 2006, which was won in typically impressive fashion by Tiger Woods.

Renowned for the quality of its facilities and the remarkable levels of service offered throughout the resort, guests will leave with unforgettable memories and a sense of expectation that few other destinations can possibly match.

Let's take a closer look at what you could anticipate experiencing from a magical time spent at The Grove.

Superb Championship Golf Course

Undeniably prestigious, challenging and immaculately presented, The Grove's superb golf course was designed by the creative imagination of Kyle Phillips, who also laid out the likes of Kingsbarns and Yas Links. 

Opening for play in September 2003, its holes are stretched out across the expansive property, leading to a sturdy overall length of 7,152 yards from the back tees.

It was from those where Tiger Woods triumphed two decades ago, with a more recent success coming for Alex Noren in the British Masters here back in 2016.

Golfshake Ambassador Matt Holbrook grasped at the opportunity to play The Grove in 2024 and the impression it made on him was beyond positive. 

"The combination of a championship golf course, practice facilities, a world class hotel, spa and dining options really does set the standard for what a modern golf resort should offer. The levels of service received is superior to anything you may have experienced anywhere else."

For golfers, the chance to play a layout of this standing and test is enough of a draw, but there is far more to behold at The Grove than just that.

Luxury Hotel Service

You have the choice of 214 luxurious rooms and suites when staying at The Grove, which at its heart is a Grade-II listed mansion that boasts generations of history.

Matt describes an "outstanding selection of rooms, from bedrooms to suites all furnished impeccably, offering luxury in abundance."

Comfort, relaxation and the warm embrace of premium accommodation attract families, couples and groups of friends to a setting that stands way above many of its contemporaries around the country.

A night spent at The Grove is without question a special one.

Outstanding Dining Options

If you're someone who relishes a good meal and the chance to consume a spectrum of dishes, The Grove has you covered at the dining table with an offering that will impress even the most discerning of connoisseurs.

The Glasshouse is where you will discover the best buffet you will ever enjoy with chefs providing food from all manner of countries and continents as you move around the room. 

For a relaxed bite to eat, The Stables is hard to beat, while Madhu's serves delectable Indian banquets.

Should Turkish cuisine be more to your taste, then make a reservation at the award-winning Skewd restaurant, while Head Sushi Chef Christian Sta Maria has much to present to lovers of Japanese food in the Lounges.

But if you desire to simply pass the day away in style, then a magical Charlotte Tilbury Afternoon Tea is a fine choice indeed.

Experience The Sequoia Spa

If you require a sense of complete revitalisation, then the Sequoia Spa is just the remedy that you've been searching for.

Whether it be time spent in the Jacuzzi, or discovering the joys of a massage or facial performed by skilled experts, this is a haven to feel better, with the sauna and steam room helping to relax those muscles even more.

The spa days here are spectacular, but more active guests will also find much to enjoy about the state-of-the-art fitness studio, which possesses everything that you could possibly need.

The Kingdom at The Grove

Opening in the spring of 2026, The Kingdom at The Grove is an extraordinary facility that has brought a world-class testing and fitting service to the UK, courtesy of TaylorMade Golf.

This will be a hotspot for tour players, elite amateurs and avid golfers keen to immerse themselves and take full advantage of TaylorMade's expertise and innovation. It will be home to a team of experienced fitters who will deploy technology such as Trackman, Foresight, GEARS, and Quintic alongside the entire range of TaylorMade products, giving players the chance to sample what the likes of Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy have benefitted from in the United States.

It's simply a dream space for any golf equipment nerd.

What Else Can You Do at The Grove?

There is much to discover during your time at The Grove, which has something to excite every person and all ages. This includes taking a bike ride or exploring the woodland trails, and more precision pursuits like archery and axe throwing. 

During school holidays, there is a petting farm and pocket village for the kids to enjoy, while there is a snow centre to experience too for those who were inspired by the Winter Olympics. 

Football and rugby camps are available, with golf clinics, including for women and juniors, also being a regular feature. Tennis is a summer sport here - but you could receive horse riding lessons all-year round. There is also a vintage, art deco inspired cinema.

However, what will intrigue many visitors is the nearby Warner Bros. Studio Tour, where you can walk in the footsteps of the Harry Potter movies and feel the magic of those blockbuster productions.

Given its close proximity to London, The Grove can be your gateway to explore the capital.

How to Book a Stay at The Grove

Our travel partners Golfbreaks offer packages for golfers to experience The Grove - and we'd heartily recommend that you check them out - while the venue's website itself is packed with all the information that you could wish for.

The Grove has also been a host of Amateur Golf Events, which is a great opportunity to play the course in a fun but competitive format that offers tremendous value for money. Spaces are always in demand, so be hasty to ensure that you don't miss out.

Ultimately, it's clear why this destination has separated itself from the pack to become a genuine must-visit.

As our reviewer said after his visit: "You can't not like the experience at The Grove. From the service, golf course, food, staff, everything here is done to the highest of standards."

This could be your moment to see what the hype is all about.