Coed-y-Mwstwr Golf Club

Coed-y-Mwstwr golf club, situated on the eastern edge of the charming Welsh town of Bridgend, is a relative newcomer to the area, having opened its doors in 1995. However, don't let its youthfulness fool you, as this course packs a punch, with plenty of quirky surprises in store. In fact, if we had to use just one word to describe Coed-y-Mwstwr, it would be "quirky. " Our playing partner was a godsend, as the layout is such that we would have missed out on no less than seven holes without their guidance.

As we ventured forth from the clubhouse, we were met with the imposing 1st hole, a challenging 340-yard par 4 with a raised green that sets the tone for the rollercoaster first six holes. With plenty of elevation changes and tricky hazards throughout, the course certainly keeps players on their toes. After traversing back over to the 7th hole, the course takes a wandering route on high ground around some stables before the long, dramatic downhill 9th. The back nine is equally as challenging, with tree-lined fairways that punish wayward shots.

Despite experiencing significant rain, the course was in surprisingly good condition, which bodes well for future visits. We were pleased to find that a spur-of-the-moment visit only cost us £13, making it an affordable option for avid golfers passing through the area. While we didn't locate a pro-shop, our tee time was confirmed by the bar staff, and we enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere with views overlooking the 18th hole.

Given the course's unique layout, I highly recommend picking up a scorecard before embarking on your round. All in all, Coed-y-Mwstwr is a charming and challenging course that is well worth a visit for golfers seeking something a little out of the ordinary.