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Cricket St Thomas Golf Club Chard

Let's be honest, most of us spend our weekends wrestling with the lawnmower or fighting for a parking space at the supermarket. But what if, instead, you could spend a few hours wandering through a place that feels like a secret garden with a few golf clubs thrown in? That’s exactly the vibe at Cricket St Thomas Golf Club in Chard.

Why You’ll Actually Enjoy It (Even If You Can't Hit Straight)

You don't need to be a professional or even particularly good to have a brilliant time here. Think of it less like a serious sport and more like a pleasant walk with a purpose. I once watched a man slice his ball into the rough, shrug, and then spend ten minutes admiring a family of ducks on the lake. That’s the energy.

The course is set in the grounds of an old country estate, which means the scenery is absolutely stunning. Forget those flat, featureless courses that feel like a farmer’s field. This place has rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and views that will make you forget about your triple-bogey on the last hole.

The Course: Not Your Average Pasture

The fairways are cut beautifully, and the greens are surprisingly quick for a place that feels so relaxed. It’s the kind of course where you can actually enjoy your playing partner’s good shot, instead of quietly hoping they hit it into a bunker. There’s a lovely mix of open holes and tighter, tree-lined ones that feel like a puzzle rather than a punishment.

One of my favourite moments is the par-3 where you have to hit over a little stream. It’s not a huge carry, but it gives you that satisfying “plop” of a good shot landing on the green. And if you don’t make it? Well, that’s just an excuse to practice your short game while listening to the water.

Plans for flats near Chard at Cricket St Thomas Golf Course - BBC NewsPlans for flats near Chard at Cricket St Thomas Golf Course - BBC News

More Than Just Swinging a Stick

What really makes this place special is the feeling you get when you walk into the clubhouse. It’s not stuffy or intimidating. The staff remember your name, and the tea and bacon butties are legitimately good. After a round, you can sit on the terrace and watch the sun go down over the Somerset countryside, feeling smug that you aren’t stuck in traffic.

They also host a fantastic Sunday carvery, which is the perfect excuse if your partner isn't into golf. You can say, “Fancy a roast?” and then casually slip in, “Oh, and I’ll just do nine holes while we’re there.” It’s a win-win.

A great place for a Christmas Party Night - Reviews, Photos - CricketA great place for a Christmas Party Night - Reviews, Photos - Cricket

Why You Should Care (And Maybe Visit This Weekend)

If you’re a local in Chard or anywhere near the Somerset border, you’ve got a hidden gem on your doorstep. It’s the kind of place where you don’t need to be a member to feel welcome, and you don’t need to be a scratch golfer to have a laugh. It’s a gentle escape from the daily grind, a place where the biggest decision you have to make is whether to use a 7-iron or an 8-iron.

So next time you’re fed up with the washing up or the kids are driving you up the wall, grab a borrowed set of clubs and head to Cricket St Thomas. You might not improve your handicap, but I guarantee you’ll improve your mood. And in the end, isn’t that what a good Saturday is all about?