If you're finding it hard to decide on a venue for an away-day or a weekend with the girls then Colchester club Stoke by Nayland might just be the answer...
If, like me, you like surprises, then we’ve found the perfect getaway for you and your golfing friends. Located just fifteen minutes from Colchester, the resort at Stoke by Nayland hasn’t left anything to chance to ensure your stay is a memorable one.
The rows of apple trees on the road leading to the entrance of this 4-star hotel and golf resort are an indication of the history of the place. It was originally purchased as arable farming land by members of the Peake family, who grew various fruits which they then made into fresh fruit juice for their young family. From these humble beginnings, fruit from these same orchards have helped grow the now well-known Copella pressed fruit juice brand and have enabled the family to build what is quite simply a fantastic resort.
In the early 1970s, Bill and Devora Peake decided to turn 300 acres of their land into two picturesque, championship golf courses. The Gainsborough and Constable courses, named after the two famous local artists, have hosted women’s events on the LETAS Tour and International WPGA, as well as men’s Senior, European Challenge and Europro Tour events. The four lakes, undulating fairways, and testing greens provide a different challenge whichever course you play, while ensuring you’re able to take in the natural beauty of the local countryside.
The resort’s golf manager and head pro, Roly Hitchcock, and his team are happy to help organise your golfing requirements and will shortly be able to offer a golf simulator experience where you will be able to play regardless of whatever the weather is doing outside! There’s also a fantastic shop stocked with the latest women’s golfwear and accessories, along with a selection of locally grown produce and gifts.
Together with the hotel’s 80 contemporary styled bedrooms, there are five stunning, luxurious lodges, just a short distance from the main hotel building. Each has its own balcony and they are perfect for groups of different sizes. Again history plays a part on this site as it was once home to 100 Land Army girls and recognises their important work during the 1940s. Each lodge is well equipped and tastefully designed, reflecting the glamour of the post-war era. Look out for the interesting artwork and vintage playing cards arranged to remind us of some well-known wartime song lyrics. You’ll come away humming at least one tune!
Lodge guests can choose to self-cater, order from the casual dining menu or, as with all guests, can dine in the AA 2 Rosette Lakes Restaurant, the more informal golf clubhouse and terrace, or visit the newly opened Gallery Restaurant with its stunning views. There’s something for everyone.
If relaxation is what you’re looking for, a visit to the hotel’s Peake Spa won’t disappoint. It’s difficult to choose from the array of treatments on offer but most alluring is the Hammam or Rasul mud therapy experience. A sure way to feel a million dollars if you choose one of these. And for the more energetic, there’s a newly equipped Technogym gymnasium where you can exercise or book classes before jumping into the pool!
Great golfing and spa facilities, fantastic accommodation, excellent food and staff who happily tend to your every need – it’s a ‘yes’ from the team at Women & Golf!
Here are the fast facts about Stoke by Nayland...
Location
Stoke by Nayland is located just fifteen minutes from Colchester on the Suffolk/Essex border.
Travel Time
From Bedford: 80 miles - 1hr 50 minutes
From London (North): 70 miles - 1hr 30 minutes
From Cambridge: 50 miles - 1hr
From Ipswich: 20 miles - 25 mins
Stay & Play
From just £82pp, enjoy a round of golf, an overnight stay, with dinner and breakfast, plus free use of 100 x golf range balls. For groups, 1 in 16 goes free, with a complimentary room upgrade for the organiser.
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