Inside stunning golf resort that takes you from feeling rough to well above par

I’M no golfing expert — but this stunning trip was way above par.

Someone once described the sport as a good walk spoiled — well they had clearly never had the pleasure of strolling around the magnificent Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort.

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It’s beautifully nestled in the heart of the Wiltshire countryside at Calne, and will make you fall in love with the game, regardless of whether you’ve ever picked up a club in your life.

Now I’m no Annika Sörenstam — in fact I don’t know my pars from my elbow — but if you’re going to try golf for the first time, there can’t be many better places to learn

I was a bit nervous as a novice to be given the opportunity to spend a weekend there and test myself on the exceptional PGA course — but I soon felt at home.

My partner Martin is far more accomplished than me and also had an absolute ball at this amazing venue.

A lot of posh golf clubs and resorts tend to look down their noses at beginners but here, they throw their arms open to all-comers and the welcome we got made us feel right at home the moment we set foot inside the breath-taking 4 AA Red Star boutique-style hotel.

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I was delighted when I learned that it offers you the chance to join a unique coaching programme that guides you from the foundations right the way through to feeling confident on the golf course in a fun, relaxed and friendly environment.

After a quick check-in we headed to our room which would be home for the next couple of nights and had everything we needed.

Stylish, spacious, light and airy with an uber-comfy bed.

The large bathroom was filled with products from the spa and complimentary luxury bathrobes but the best part was the Juliet balcony opening up onto picture perfect views.

Just a shame it was too chilly and wet to sit outside.

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After all the fresh air and golf it was time to eat at the Two AA Rosette Shelburne restaurant.

Head chef Rupert Taylor produces seasonal local and fresh food and the menu caters for all tastes.

From the Cornish hake and quails egg that Martin chose as a starter, to the Castlemead chicken breast, roasted celeriac and gnocchi of my main. Every mouthful was delicious and perfectly cooked.

The desserts also went down a treat as did the bottle of red – the bar manager was happy to rattle off a good number of suggestions from their extensive wine list — in front of the roaring fire.

Next morning after a relaxing sleep and a hearty breakfast (everything from fruit, yogurt, pancakes to the traditional fry up was on offer) the heavens opened so I decided to stay put and explore the hotel.

If you are more about pampering than playing golf and just want to unwind, the incredible spa with its infinity pool, rock sauna, Jacuzzi, and Crystal Steam room is just the place.

The treatment list is extensive and the therapists second to none, although I would advise booking in advance.

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I was in heaven after my facial and spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing with some peppermint tea in the lovely spa lounge curled up with my book while Martin, not deterred by the rain, teed up for another round.

To be honest, I don’t think I’m likely to be entering the Women’s Open any time soon, but now that I’ve tried golf for the first time I can safely say I’ll give it another go soon — thanks to this lovely, friendly and welcoming experience.

The hotel is an idyllic retreat for weekend escapes, golf and spa breaks, honeymoons, family holidays or just getting away from it all.

And it also allows you complimentary access to Bowood House & Gardens between April and October — which means you can enjoy the countryside without having to push a golf trolley.

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