
The Blue Course at The Berkshire is a superb example of English heathland design – long, sweeping, and masterfully routed through mature woodland and vibrant heather. Opened alongside the Red in 1928, both were designed by Herbert Fowler, but the Blue plays tougher and more classically. It features more elevation change, more demanding par-4s, and tighter landing areas. There’s no gimmick – just great golf architecture at work. Tee shots must be shaped to avoid heather banks and gorse, and approaches must account for firm, fast greens that subtly deflect even well-struck balls. The stretch from 5 to 8 is particularly memorable – pine-lined corridors with sloping greens and elevated tees. Like the Red, the Blue is immaculately maintained and wonderfully peaceful. Fairways are generous to the eye but tighten quickly. There’s no weak hole – just a steady, rewarding march through one of Britain’s finest inland golf estates. While not flashy, it’s a timeless, thoughtful challenge that tests all facets of your game.
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Tiger’s best round
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Patience and placement matter. Work the ball both ways and avoid the heather edges. Club selection into long par-4s is crucial.
Play within your means – don’t force shots from the heather. Stick to fairways and take your chances on the shorter holes. Manage the pace and enjoy the walk.
More challenging than the Red, but still enjoyable with the right attitude. Use shorter tees, keep it in play, and appreciate the landscape. Every hole tells a story.
10 – true and consistent, but can run firm and fast in summer
Light – woodland provides natural shelter, though elevation can expose you to breezes
Excellent – traditional structure and courteous play keep things moving
Low – peaceful environment, classic start with no crowd pressure
Elegant, understated, and full of character – a proper English retreat
The 6th is a tough par-4 over heather with a long carry and sloping green. The par-3 10th is a downhill beauty framed by trees. The 13th is a dogleg par-5 with a rising approach and deep bunkering that tests decision-making late in the round.
Dry and playable most of the year thanks to sandy soil. Spring and autumn bring crisp conditions; summer is peak for firm, running turf. Rarely affected by strong winds.