Not many of us can enjoy work against a backdrop of deep blue ocean and Wales' number one golf course. Located in Rest Bay, The Royal Porthcawl Golf Club is widely recognised as the best in Wales and its links course is set to rival any in the world. From its newly refurbished accommodation to all the best things to do in the area, House Manager Joanne Hoskin tells us why we must pay it a visit this summer.
Tell us about your role at Royal Porthcawl
I've worked at The Royal Porthcawl for 16 years and I absolutely love it! We're in a fantastic place - it's like a ship overlooking the sea. Whether it's really stormy or the heat of summer, we've got fantastic views every day.
Could you talk us through the history of the club?
Our clubhouse dates back to 1891 and was built for Queen Victoria's Jubilee. It showcased in Crystal Palace before making the pilgrimage to Rest Bay. It was the cutting edge of architecture in its day! We recently hosted the Welsh Senior Open and the Senior Ryder Cup. We've got lots of exciting things in the pipeline too.
What makes Bridgend such a great golfing destination?
Rest Bay - and our course - is very special. It's steeped in history with a beautiful coastline. Everyone who comes to play here leaves with special memories. Not being a golfer myself, I make the most of all the coastal walks we have nearby. I particularly like the walk past Sker House. I'm more on the food and drink side of things! We've got wonderful food in our restaurant. We always try and get locally sourced food and always support the local breweries at our bar.
What does Royal Porthcawl have to offer visitors?
We offer excellent accommodation for parties up to 12 who are travelling from far away. We've got nine rooms and can accommodate groups of up to 12. We've had some new bathrooms put in and we are improving our bedrooms in August so it will all be new for summer. We're really excited about it.
What do you love about Bridgend County as a destination?
There's always somewhere to go for a nice walk. We don't have to go far in the motorhome to feel like we're getting away. We like to visit all the parks like Bryngarw Park and we will often take the motorhome somewhere to enjoy tea overlooking the sea. It's great for getting a break from everyday pressures. The baby also loves Wiggleys Fun Farm!
If you were planning the perfect weekend in Bridgend County, what would be on the itinerary?
I would definitely have a good walk on a nice day. Probably around the harbour and up to Rest Bay. I'd also have some nice food around Porthcawl town. The Harbour Bar and Kitchen is always fantastic and we're big fans of Isabella's Brasserie. We'd probably go further out on a Sunday, maybe have a walk through Ogmore and Merthyr Mawr.
What's coming up at Royal Porthcawl for visitors this summer?
Keep an eye on the website for our open days. We offer packages with golf and food included and have got great Green Fees rates which allow visitors to play on our greens as a guest. These include a full Welsh breakfast or a two course lunch Monday-Friday so you can enjoy your food overlooking Rest Bay.
Looking for somewhere to play golf in Bridgend County? Check out some of our fantastic golf courses in the area:
- Royal Porthcawl Golf Club
- Maesteg Golf Club
- Pyle & Kenfig Golf Club
- Coed-y-mwstwr Golf Club
- The Grove Golf Club
