On MONDAY OCTOBER 9th 2017, team up with your friends for a one-off opportunity to play golf with European Ryder Cup Captain, Thomas Bjorn.
This is an exclusive chance to play golf with The Shire London's Honorary Captain 2017-18, European Tour legend Thomas Bjorn. We have limited availability so please book early to avoid disappointment. Teams of four cost £550 (non-members) and £395 (members). Your day includes: full English breakfast buffet, Shotgun start at 10am, 18 hole competition on the Ballesteros Masters Course, Callaway Golf and Odyssey Golf prizes, and a 3-Course Meal after the day's golf. PLUS, of course, the chance to Beat The Pro - Thomas Bjorn himself! Please call 020 8441 7649 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to reserve your place.
Wednesday 17th May 2017
Trevor Nelson's Swing 4 at The Shire London
Monday 15th May 2017
SEVE 60 EXTENDED THROUGH JUNE
JUST £60 FOR TWOBALLS IN MAY & JUNE
BARNET, NORTH LONDON, UK – On Masters Sunday 2017, golf celebrated what would have been European golf superstar Severiano Ballesteros’s 60th birthday.
But sadly the great man lost his brave three-year fight against cancer in May 2011.
The Shire London, where Ballesteros designed his only full UK golf course, has extended its special 'Seve 60' deal – created in his memory – into June.
So in May 2017, Monday through Thursday after 4pm, ‘Seve 60’ twoballs at The Shire London cost just £60 – that’s 25% lower than even the club’s best ‘Twilight Golf’ rate.
The deal’s the same in June, but the ‘Seve 60’ deal only applies after 5pm.
‘Seve 60’ enables two golfers to play the spectacular Ballesteros Masters Course at The Shire London for just £30 apiece, until June 30th 2017. You must mention ‘Seve 60’ to get the special price, when you call The Shire London on 020 8441 7649. Bookings can be only be made within seven days of the tee time.
Your booking must be for a twoball only: £30 is not available as a solo green fee. However golfers are welcome to 'double up' and book two pairs to make a fourball with their friends.
Please phone us on 020 8841 7649 to book your Seve 60 deal at The Shire London.
Monday 10th May 2017
The Dye comes to London…
One of the world’s top golf designers has pledged to create a spectacular new course in the south east of England, following the go-ahead by Barnet Council to start construction of an 18-hole golf course, luxury clubhouse and practice facilities. Lead architect Pete Dye has created some of golf’s most celebrated courses including The Stadium Course at Sawgrass, home to the Tour Championship.
Thursday 6th April 2017
Celebrate 'Seve 60' this May at The Shire London
LONDON, UK – On April 9th 2017 - Masters Sunday - our friend and course architect Severiano Ballesteros (who passed away on May 7th 2011 after a brave three-year fight against cancer) would have celebrated his 60th birthday.
All of us in golf miss the great man.
We have created a special 'Seve 60' deal in May 2017, in his memory.
That month, Monday through Thursday after 4pm, twoballs at The Shire London will cost just £60. That's 25% lower than our best Twilight Golf rate that month. So two golfers can play Seve's only full UK course design - the Ballesteros Masters Course at The Shire London - for just £30 apiece in our Seve 60 deal in May 2017. Call the club on 020 8441 7649 and mention 'Seve 60' to get the deal. Remember, Seve 60 applies to May 2017 only. The deal applies to twoballs only - £30 is not available as a solo green fee - although you are welcome to 'double up' and book two twoballs to make a fourball with your friends.
Discover more about The Shire London at www.theshirelondon.com, and about its sister venue The West London Golf Centre at www.westlondongolfcentre.com.
Monday 20th March 2017
The Shire London welcomes Thomas Bjørn as Honorary Captain
LONDON, UK – As it approaches its 10th Anniversary celebrations this summer, The Shire London today welcomes Thomas Bjørn, European Ryder Cup Captain, as Honorary Captain for 2017-18.
The 46-year old Dane will represent the golf club, which is located near Barnet in Hertfordshire, as momentum builds towards the 2018 Ryder Cup, due to be held from 28-30 September 2018 at Le Golf National close to Paris, France.
Speaking at The Shire London, Bjørn said: “I am very honoured to have been appointed Honorary Captain and to become an ambassador for The Shire London. It is the perfect golfing base for me in the UK with great practice facilities and the fantastic Ballesteros Masters Course. The Club has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and the Menai-Davis family are not only great hosts, but they are also passionate supporters of growing the game of golf”.
Denmark’s most successful golfer, Thomas Bjørn’s stellar career has included 15 wins and 94 top ten finishes to date on the European Tour. Twice runner-up in The Open Championship, and a three-time Ryder Cup player – always on the winning side – he was appointed Chairman of the European Tour’s Tournament Committee in 2007. He is a four-time Vice-Captain to the European Ryder Cup team, picked for the role by winning captains Bernhard Langer (2004), Colin Montgomerie (2010) and José-María Olazábal (2012), as well as by great friend Darren Clarke for the 2016 match at Hazeltine, Minnesota.
During his two-year Honorary Captaincy at The Shire London, Thomas Bjørn will each year host a new event, The Thomas Bjørn Trophy, the first of which will take place in September 2017. He will also use the club’s practice facilities and gym, as well as playing at the club’s spectacular 7,028 yard Ballesteros Masters Course, the UK’s only golf course fully designed by Severiano Ballesteros.
The Shire London, which has no traditional committees or club captains, has become one of the capital city’s most popular golfing venues in the ten years since it opened. “We could not be more proud that Thomas Bjørn is joining us here at The Shire London to make it his home club” said The Shire London’s Tony Menai-Davis. “It is a huge thrill for all of us connected with the club that such a successful and influential figure from world golf will be representing us for the next two years, and we look forward to seeing him around the club.
“To have the European Ryder Cup Captain based at The Shire London will be incredibly exciting, and like all golf fans we will be backing Thomas all the way as he builds his team in preparation for Paris in 2018. Go Team Europe!”
In 2018 Thomas Bjørn will become the first Dane, and the first Scandinavian to lead Europe when it returns to mainland Europe for the second time at Le Golf National. The Ryder Cup’s first appearance in mainland Europe also marked Bjørn’s debut as a player in the event, at Valderrama in Spain in 1997, where he went unbeaten for the weekend as Europe secured a thrilling victory.
His Team Captain that year was the charismatic Severiano Ballesteros, designer of the Ballesteros Masters Course at The Shire London. “It means a lot to me that my hero Seve designed the golf course at The Shire London” he said. “His legacy is everywhere in the world of golf, and with this year being the 20th anniversary of the European victory at Valderrama, which was also my Rookie appearance, the timing could not be more fitting. Being based at Seve’s course will inspire me in the build-up to my own captaincy.”
The Shire London will shortly announce details of The Thomas Bjørn Trophy2017, which the Dane will personally host, and which will be open to all golfers.
Discover more about The Shire London at www.theshirelondon.com, and about its sister venue The West London Golf Centre at www.westlondongolfcentre.com.
Thursday 6th October 2016
The Shire London reveals Winter pricing 2016-17
Fourball and Society deals to play Seve's London masterpiece
BARNET, NORTH LONDON, UK: The Shire London, rated London’s #1 overall golf experience by online golfers, has revealed its latest Legends Winter Golf prices for the off-season.
From November 1st it’s just £37.50 per golfer for the Legends Winter Fourball at The Shire London, with pre-golf coffee and bacon rolls, a round on the Ballesteros Masters Course, and post-golf hot soup all included.
Your fourball must tee off before 10am, and the offer is valid from Monday to Thursday until March 31st 2017, The deal is also available on Fridays for just £40 per golfer.
During the same period, the Legends Winter Society Golf deal offers superb value for twelve golfers or more at just £40 per golfer from Monday to Wednesday, with the society organiser playing for free. The price rises slightly to £45 per golfer on Thursdays and Fridays.
The Society deal includes pre-golf coffee and bacon rolls, a round on the Ballesteros Masters Course, and a one-course Golfer’s Meal post-round. Your society will also enjoy a private dining area and a dedicated Starter, with Long Drive and Nearest The Pin competitions also included in the price.
And every visit is guaranteed to be sprinkled with The Shire London’s unique brand of magic, which has seen it rated consistently as London’s #1 golf experience throughout the year (Source: Golfshake.com user ratings, Golf clubs inside the M25, Jan-Sept 2016).
“2016 has been an inspirational year as regards Tour golf” said director Ceri Menai-Davis. “Four first-time Major-winners, two of them European, plus Justin Rose’s Olympic Gold and a gripping Ryder Cup. If that alone doesn’t make you excited to play the only Seve Ballesteros golf course in the UK, then perhaps our Legends Winter Golf offers will!”
As regards its leading position in online rankings, The Shire London is not resting on its laurels. “With our 10th anniversary year only a few months away, we are committed to improving our standards as regards both golf and customer service, with each passing season” said Menai-Davis. “
“We are incredibly flattered to be have been rated London’s #1 right through 2016, and I invite all UK golfers to come and see how much we care about remaining in the top spot. At our heart we have the tremendously enjoyable Ballesteros Masters Course, which is Seve’s unique and lasting legacy to golf in the UK. Around that, we have tried to create an equally enjoyable experience for all visitors, whether they are members, guests, golf day or green fee customers, or indeed non-golfers who just come here to enjoy the atmosphere.”
See www.theshirelondon.com for full details of the latest Legends Winter Golf offers at The Shire London, or call 0208 441 7649 to make a booking. You can also email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to enquire about a tee time, and bookings can also be made via the website.
Monday 11th July 2016
Play in the London Construction Open 2016
September 23rd 2016 - The new golf tournament for the building trade
BARNET, NORTH LONDON, UK: Attention all golf-loving, card-carrying builders, roofers, joiners, plumbers and other tradesmen in the London area!
The new London Construction Open is the golf tournament tailored just for you.
Mark the date and venue in your heavily-protected smartphones: Friday September 23rd 2016, at The Shire London, just outside Barnet – recently rated London’s #1 golf club by genuine golfers on Golfshake.com.
The tournament will be held on The Shire’s famous Ballesteros Masters course – which is not only spectacular, but is also notable for being the only UK golf course designed in full by Seve, the iconic Spanish golfing genius.
Open only to golfers who are members of either a professional organisation in the building trade, or a national trade association, the London Construction Open will be a fun day to share some golfing banter with your friends and work colleagues, while you compete to top the golfing pecking among the city’s building trade.
At just £275 per fourball, including food, prizes, a special bag tag and a free gift for every golfer, you won’t even need to book an extra job to pay for it.
To enquire further or to book your place in the London Construction Open, please call The Shire London on 020 8441 7649 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Tuesday 21st June 2016
'Golf Meets' at The Shire London 2016
The Shire London anounces ‘Golf Meets’ events for 2016
London’s highest-rated golf club, The Shire London, has announced a new monthly series of business-minded golf events which provide the ideal solution.
The new Golf Meets events for the capital city's golf-loving businessmen and women will take place at The Shire London on weekdays, once a month, until late October 2016. They will provide a relaxed atmosphere in which golfers can network with their existing customers and staff, and also make new golfing business contacts.
The Shire London (www.theshirelondon.com), currently London’s highest-rated golf club according to golfers on the web, has designed Golf Meets as an all-inclusive package where up to eight people can enjoy both the sport and the company of other golfers from nearby companies.
Fourball prices are just £52.50 per head including tea & coffee with bacon rolls, 18 holes on the club’s spectacular Ballesteros Masters Course (the UK’s only complete Seve design), and a delicious 2-course meal after the golf. Existing Shire London members pay just £43.75 per head for Golf Meets entry.
Although Golf Meets days are mainly focused on providing a relaxed golfing atmosphere, ideal for networking, each day will also have an optional competitive element, with traditional golf day prizes for Nearest The Pin, Longest Drive and the best overall scores. There will also be a live scoring service for those who like to follow their progress on the event's leaderboard.
From summer to autumn 2016, Golf Meets events will take place on the following dates:
Thursday July 28th
Thursday August 25th
Tuesday 27th September
Thursday 27th October
Golf Meets events start at 1000 with a shotgun start. Bookers can each bring up to seven customers on the day, playing as two fourballs. Larger groups of twelve and upwards qualify for The Shire London’s selection of golf day packages.
“If you want that ‘golf day buzz’ but don’t want to organise one of your own, Golf Meets events should be perfect for you” said The Shire London director, Ceri Menai-Davis.
“We’re all familiar with how golf meets business, day in day out, so we thought we would give our members and customers a little extra structure for those times when a thank-you is in order for important clients, or work colleagues.
“Hence the name Golf Meets!” he said. “You and your guests can choose to take part in the day’s competition, or skip the competitive element and just enjoy a friendly round on Seve’s memorable golf course with good food and good company guaranteed afterwards.”
To launch Golf Meets, the club is sending invitations to hundreds of businesses within a 20-mile radius.
The Shire London’s #1 status in London has emerged in 2016 after hundreds of golfers reviewed the club on Golfshake.com, rating it higher than any other golf club inside the M25. Among golf clubs with 50 online reviews or more, The Shire London is also rated #1 in Hertfordshire, #8 in England and #15 in the entire United Kingdom.
To enquire further about or book into a Golf Meets event, call The Shire London on 020 8441 7649 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and let the magic begin!
Call 020 8441 7649 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to enter or to receive more details.
Friday 20th May 2016
Trevor Nelson Swing 3 - booking now for July 1st!
DJ Trevor Nelson Hosts Golf Nightclub At The Shire
Bigger, better, cooler. That’s the message for the third annual fund-raising golf event hosted by award-winning BBC Hall Of Fame broadcaster and UK urban music pioneer Trevor Nelson MBE, at The Shire London (www.theshirelondon.com) on Friday July 1st 2016.
“Some golf days can be stuffy – but not this one” said the Hackney-born DJ, who hosts the popular daily Live Lounge morning show on BBC Radio 1Xtra, and the late-night weekly Soul Show on BBC Radio Two. “The Shire is a tough golf course, so we’re going to make it as fun as possible.
“Everything about my golf event is laid-back, so feel free to come along dressed to impress” said the four-time MOBO Best DJ award-winner, who has a home just ten minutes away from The Shire London. “Other than golf shoes and a collared shirt, you’re free to wear what you like, including jeans.”
Over 200 golfers have enjoyed Nelson’s ‘nightclub on a golf course’ concept in the event’s first two years. Smooth tunes from Nelson’s latest albums are pumped out across the fairways, with an on-course BBQ to replenish hungry golfers, and Jägermeister and Heineken tents for the thirsty ones.
The golf event – named Trevor Nelson Swing 3 – sees teams of four amateur golfers competing over 18 holes in a shotgun start from 11am, with all players receiving gift bags from Nelson who also hosts the prize-giving back in The Shire London clubhouse.
Entry fees are £429 per fourball (£399 for Shire London members). The price includes breakfast, entry into the 18-hole tournament, and a 2-course post-golf buffet meal.
As the evening progresses there will be more music and – as the sun always shines on the Trevor Nelson Swing – drinks on the Shire London patio with spectacular sunset views across the UK’s only golf course designed by Spanish maestro Seve Ballesteros.
This year the Trevor Nelson Swing is supporting The Golf Trust, which is based at The Shire London’s sister venue the West London Golf Centre. Demonstrations will be staged on the day to showcase The Golf Trust’s achievements since its inception in 2012, and its ongoing work. In April 2016 Golf Trust founder, Cae Menai-Davis, was awarded the England Golf Innovation Award for his tireless work in providing golf experiences and coaching to inner-city communities.
As well as receiving a portion of the entry fees, The Golf Trust will also receive donations from golfers who enter the Beat The Pro contest on The Shire London’s popular 7th hole, a short par three across a lake with echoes of Sawgrass’s 17th.
Last year’s event attracted over 130 golfers. “We smashed it in 2015” said Nelson, “and we will have to go some to top it. I think we can though. There’s always a great vibe at this golf day, and it means a lot when many people described last year’s event as the best they had ever played in.
“Full credit to The Shire London – each year they really embrace the spirit I’m looking for. July 1st should be another memorable day. We want some fresh people to join us, as well as old friends, to help us raise money for The Golf Trust. They do an incredible job in opening golf up to thousands of people who have never played it before.”
“We are going all-out to make this the ultimate golf day” said event organiser and director of The Shire London, Ceri Menai-Davis. “Trevor is always a brilliant host, and it’s an annual chance for London’s golfers to let their hair down a little.
“Come and join the party on July 1st!”
Call 020 8441 7649 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to enter or to receive more details.
Monday 2nd May 2016
Legends Summer Fourball 2016
GET OUR BEST FOURBALL DEAL THIS SUMMER
From May 1st 2016 get The Shire Legends Summer Fourball deal - back for another season!
For just £190 (Mon-Thurs) or £200 (Fri) you and three friends can play the spectacular Ballesteros Masters course, designed personally by the great Severiano Ballesteros, plus enjoy pre-golf and post-golf food!
Can be booked up to 7 days in advance. You must tee off before noon. Price includes Tez/Coffee and Bacon Roll; 18 holes on Ballesteros Masters; 1-course Chef's Special meal post-golf.
NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE - TELEPHONE BOOKINGS ONLY
Call 0208 441 7649 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and take advantage of this great offer.
Thursday 17th December
Exclusive 2-for-1 January Offer from The Shire London
Book now for this exclusive 2-for-1 January offer!
Get 2 for the price of one this January when you book and quote 'January Exclusive'. Valid Monday to Friday for all of January 2016. Offer limited to one 2-for-1 voucher per recipient.
Call 0208 441 7649 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and quote 'January Exclusive' to book now and take advantage of this great offer.
Thursday 12th November
Club News update Nov 2015
WINTER OPENING TIMES
Monday – Friday Clubhouse and gym opening hours 7am -8pm
Weekend Clubhouse and gym opening hours 7am – 8pm (subject to function will be open later)
Weekend Kitchen opening hours 7am – 4pm (subject to function may be open later)
Weekend Reception opening hours 7am – 3pm
IN THE SHOP
We have recently acquired our new winter stock. This year we have the new ranges from adidas, Nike and Oscar Jacobsen. We also have the new adidas and Nike shoes in stock.
We will be stocking the new range of TaylorMade irons and clubs next year so please ask if interested in trying the new M1 driver or psi irons.
We have some special offers on all FootJoy shoes – some as much as 50% off the RRP.
For all shop information please contact 020 8440 4009 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
IN THE GYM
Steve Harris our resident gym instructor will be offering special offers this Christmas to help those who have over indulged during the festive period and to kick start those New Years resolutions.
For more information please contact Steve at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
AT THE ACADEMY
This year Lee, Chris and Josh will be offering a special winter package which includes 8 lessons for the price of 5.
These packages are very limited so please book quickly!
For more information or to book your lessons please call 020 8440 4009 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Ceri Menai-Davis, The Shire London
Tuesday 10th November
Member News update Nov 2015
The Turkey Shoot will take place on 13th December 2015. This will be followed by the annual presentation of prizes for all competition winners. The signup sheet is available in the changing rooms.
Yet again The Shire London members have done extremely well away from home this season!
Seb Carmichael Brown managed to retain the Trilby Tour trophy, which will be shown on Sky Sports on 7th December.
Our Tigers and Foxes experienced good seasons as did our scratch team. Unfortunately our teams didn’t win any trophies this year but our form was strong and looking promising for 2016.
This year’s Club Championship was won by Andy Orr: it was a close contest right up until the last few holes.
Again thanks to John Reynolds for all your help during the year to organise all the competitions so successfully!
Ceri Menai-Davis, The Shire London
Wednesday 11th November
What’s On Dec 2015
This year we will hosting “Santa Clause” on Sunday 20th December.
This is an event hosted by The Shire London for all members to bring their children to meet Santa and for the parents to enjoy mince pies and mulled wine whilst singing Christmas carols.
For more information or to put your child’s name down please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
EARLY NOTICE … the annual (and prestigious) Shire quiz will take place on 22nd January. To enter a team please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Ceri Menai-Davis, The Shire London
Tuesday 10th November
Course Condition update Nov 2015
This summer we have worked continuously to maintain and improve the health of the grass on the greens and playing surfaces.
We quad tine monthly and dress weekly to keep the speed of the greens up to scratch and the smoothness of the roll consistent.
Going into the winter months we will be raising the height of the cut on the greens due to the cold weather. This protects and reduces the stress on the grass.
On the fairways you will have noticed that we have started our winter drainage programme. This year we have decided to vertidrain a month earlier and we will be shock-waving some of the wettest areas on the course. The vertidrain and shock-waving increase the flow of surface water away by creating fissures in the ground below which allows the water to move away quicker into the drain lines.
We will start our bunker renovation programme this month. Our priority this year is to address the bunkers on 13 and tees on 14 and 17. We will be remodelling the bunkers on 13 by making them smaller, drain better and closer to the green. We will be creating a new back tee on 14 to increase the tee size and on 17 we will be adding an additional tee.
Everything is of course weather-dependant and we should have all works completed by mid-February.
Next year, we will continue with our 2-yearly renovations programmes. They will be early April and early august 2016.
Ceri Menai-Davis, The Shire London
Monday 12th October
The Shire London Winter Treats
If you can see your breath in the chilly air, then it’s likely that The Shire London – one of England’s most popular golf day venues – is offering special rates for fourballs and groups.
And the coming winter is no different at the north London golf club, which features the UK’s only full Seve Ballesteros-designed golf course.
The new ‘Legends Winter Offer’ at The Shire London is valid from Monday, November 2nd 2015.
From that date, special rates apply for Winter Fourballs, at just £155 per fourball Monday-Thursday, and £165 on Fridays.
All four golfers receive coffee & bacon rolls on arrival, and a Chef’s Special meal in the clubhouse after they have played the 7,028 Ballesteros Masters course.
Larger groups also receive a superb winter deal at the highly-rated golf club, which is ranked inside England’s Top 20 golf courses on Golfshake.com after over 150 independent reviews by golfers who have played Seve’s challenging and spectacular track.
Each golfer in a group booking of 12 or more receives an 18-hole green fee plus morning coffee and bacon rolls and a 1-course Chef’s Special meal for as little as £40 per person on weekdays between November 2015 and the end of March 2016 at The Shire London.
Each such group also enjoys a dedicated Starter on the first tee, private dining room, free Nearest The Pin and Longest Drive competitions, and the group organiser plays for free.
“It will soon be time, once again, to throw on a couple of extra layers and come to play Seve’s masterpiece at our winter discount rates” said Director at The Shire London, Ceri Menai-Davis. “This is something we do each year, to reduce the pain of having to wave the summer goodbye!
“We are not the UK’s favourite new golf day destination for nothing” he continued. “Although we are only approaching our 8th winter season, word has spread throughout the country that The Shire London has the perfect cold-weather combination of a brilliant, well-maintained golf course plus international-class facilities, at an exceptionally fair price.
“I guarantee you will never forget playing the Ballesteros Masters Course, and you’ll not find a warmer winter welcome anywhere in the UK”.
Call 020 8441 7649 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to book your winter deal at The Shire London.
Friday 25th September
The Legends Winter Offer 2015-2016
TUESDAY 8 September 2015
PLAY IN THE LONDON 9-HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP (EVENT NOW CLOSED)
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In a busy city where time feels as precious as money, today sees the announcement of a new golf tournament which recognises the growing trend towards a quick nine holes.
The event has been created jointly by England Golf, the sport’s amateur governing body, and the owners of London’s newest nine-hole golf course, near Northolt in north-west London. All proceeds will be donated to charity.
Friday October 23rd will see golfers of all ages competing in the first London 9 Hole Championship at the West London Golf Centre. The all-day event is open to men, women and children, with a maximum entry fee of £10.
50% of entry fees will go to the Breast Cancer Care charity, and 50% to the charity of the winner’s choice.
“Is nine holes the new eighteen? I think it might be” said the West London Golf Centre’s Cae Menai-Davis. “People certainly seem to be busier than ever, and maybe that’s why we have seen so many play here in the year since we opened our golf course.
“We devised the event in discussions with England Golf, who share our belief that golf is currently undergoing an image change for the better, and we hope that it will become a regular fund-raiser for Breast Cancer Care and other charities”.
“This is the first event of its kind in the area” said England Golf’s Jason Mitchell, the County Development Officer for golf in Middlesex. “We are breaking down the stereotype that golf is a segregated sport – it simply isn’t, any more. This new tournament is for anyone who can swing a golf club, and it will showcase how diverse golf has become.
“If you can manage nine holes this October, then please play in this event and help us to raise valuable funds in the fight against breast cancer!”
As well as the charity donation, the event’s winner can look forward to a free year’s membership at the golf centre plus a £100 voucher to spend at american golf superstores. The runner-up receives a fourball voucher for the prestigious Seve Ballesteros golf course at The Shire London, plus a £50 american golf voucher.
For all the details see www.westlondongolfcentre.com or call the club on 020 8845 5350. Emails should go to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
MEDIA: Andy Hiseman, Magic Hour Media, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., +44 (0)7795 360112
03 August 2015
Eccles storms to UK Disabled Open victory at The Shire London
THE SHIRE LONDON, BARNET, UK – The new star in the world of disabled golf is a 14 year-old from Rotherham called Lewis Eccles. Remember his name.
Representing Special Olympics GB the young Yorkshireman, who despite his autism, ADHD and dyspraxia has become a passionate and regular golfer, smashed his personal best in shooting an astonishing gross 78 off a 12-handicap on the challenging Ballesteros Masters Course at The Shire London, to walk away with the 3rd annual UK Disabled Open, staged by golf’s most inclusive charity The Golf Trust on Monday 27th July 2015.
His fellow competitors on the day have successfully overcome a huge variety of challenges in life to become golfers, including amputation, sensory disabilities, MS, Parkinson’s, strokes, autism, brain injuries, cerebral palsy, Downs Syndrome and learning difficulties.
With supporters ranging from British Airways and England Golf to Colleen Ramsey Cakes, and with dozens of volunteers helping the 70 competitors with everything other than actually hitting the ball, this year’s UK Disabled Open was not only the largest pan-disability golf event of the year, but also the most extravagantly well-attended.
The 200-strong gathering started the day by watching a video message from Justin Rose, 2013 U.S Open Champion and current world #5 golfer. Specially-recorded to inspire competitors in this year’s event, the message from Rose – who is an Ambassador for both British Airways and England Golf – added a special touch of Tour golf glamour to what was already an exciting atmosphere.
Out on Seve’s golf course the BA theme continued, with air hostesses greeting golfers on the first tee, before The Shire London’s own David Rose did his best Ivor Robson impression while announcing the starters.
And as well as supplying an amazing 70 on-course volunteers, the global airline also put up two fabulous Nearest The Pin prizes that for once were really worth winning – Club World flights to anywhere in Europe.
With Shire London members adding their support across the golf course, Eccles quickly built an unassailable lead, and afterwards was presented the Craig Waugh Trophy in the clubhouse by Graeme Robertson from the Disabled Golf Association and Mark Pickard from British Airways.
In winning this year's main event Eccles completed a hat-trick, as the delighted young golfer won the Junior Prize in this event in 2013 and 2014. In addition to the trophy, he also won a 36-hole golf break in Wales, a golf shirt signed by Rose and free entry for his team into August’s The Golf Trust charity golf day.
Amie Bullock, an Egham golfer who has MS and represents the Disabled Golf Association, picked up the Ladies’ trophy, and 18-year old Bobby David from Ascot, a golfer with autism representing Special Olympics GB won the Junior Prize as the next-nearest junior golfer after Lewis Eccles.
The BA Club World tickets for Nearest The Pin were won by Jake Conroy, a 19 year-old cerebral palsy golfer from Hemel Hempstead representing the Disabled Golf Association and Welshman Jason Heathfield, a partially-sighted ex-serviceman representing the Battle Back sports initiative from the M.O.D.
“What an honour it was to host this event at The Shire London for the third year” said event organiser Cae Menai-Davis, co-founder of The Golf Trust. “The support from British Airways, England Golf and many others was phenomenal, and the event showed the true meaning of the sport. Lewis played great golf by any standards.
“The UK Disabled Open 2015 inspired us all to keep pushing The Golf Trust’s message that we need more inclusivity across the sport” he said.
Mark Pickard at British Airways said: “My colleagues and I at BA all look forward to this inspiring annual event, and we are honoured to supporting and volunteering at the UK Disabled Open”.
The winner’s proud father, Peter Eccles, said: “Lewis had a fantastic day both on and off the Seve course at The Shire London, which was in amazing condition. Our thanks go to the organisers, who have created a truly inspiring event”.
The Disabled Golf Association’s Graeme Robertson said: “It's amazing to have so many players of different abilities/disabilities all playing together at a top golf course. This year’s event showed how the human mind has the power to overcome adversity, and it should encourage other disabled people to start playing golf”.
England Deaf Golf chairman Ben Stephens said: “There are very few golf events which incorporate all disabilities playing together in one event which makes the UK Disabled Open such a valuable event. I would definitely encourage all deaf golfers to take part in future events to support The Golf Trust”.
Follow The Golf Trust’s activities on Twitter (@TheGolfTrust) or Facebook (thegolftrust), or via their website www.thegolftrust.com. Lewis Eccles can be found on Twitter at @lewisgolf2000.
MEDIA: Andy Hiseman, Magic Hour Media, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., +44 (0)7795 360112
GOLF TRUST: Cae Menai-Davis, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., 020 8441 7649 / 07736 246294
24 July 2015
UK Disabled Open is this Monday
Competitors with a range of mental and physical impairments will gather at The Shire London, near Barnet, on Monday 27th July for the UK’s largest disabled golf event of 2015.
IN SHORT
•EVENT TITLE: “The UK Disabled Open”
•COMPETITORS ARRIVE FROM 0830, TEE TIMES FROM 1000
•70 competitors with a range of physical and mental impairments will compete on the UK’s only golf course designed by Spanish maestro, the late Severiano Ballesteros
•Largest pan-disability golf event in the UK in 2015
•Video message from Major-winning Tour golfer Justin Rose aired at 0930
•Organised by up-and-coming charity The Golf Trust
•Supported by British Airways and England Golf plus Special Olympics GB, England Deaf Golf and The Disabled Golf Association
•Event now in 3rd year – 2015 event will be the biggest yet
•Selection of interesting interviewees available on the day
•LOCATION: The Shire London, St Albans Rd, Barnet, Herts EN5 4RE.
•EVENT CONTACT: Cae Menai-Davis / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / 020 8441 7649 / 07736 246294
Inspired by a special British Airways-arranged video message from Tour star Justin Rose – 2013 U.S Open Champion and current world #5 ranked golfer – at 0930 that morning, 70 competitors will tee off on the Ballesteros Masters Course from 10am on the day.
This highly ‘inclusive’ event offers a plethora of interesting visuals and potential interviews. It brings together dozens of personalities, each with a fascinating story to tell about how they came to enjoy golf, in light of the personal challenges they face in life.
The golf course they will play is lasting testament to the imagination and buccaneering spirit of the late Seve Ballesteros, one of the most charismatic and successful figures in golf history. It is the only golf course designed in the UK by the Spanish maestro.
Organiser Cae Menai-Davis says: "Golf takes a lot of knocks from people who don’t understand what a power for good it can be. Four years ago we launched The Golf Trust to start to change that, and 2015 sees this fantastic event continue to grow.
“It’s our third year hosting the annual UK Disabled Open at The Shire London, a venue which has proven itself as one of the country’s leading proponents of inclusivity in golf through the years.
“More and more people with physical impairments are discovering golf, and the welcome support shown by British Airways and now England Golf joining the event helps create a professional event feel to this pan-disability golf tournament.
“The UK Disabled Open showcases how friendly and inclusive golf can be – while maintaining a competitive edge, of course! We are looking forward to the smiles and the intense bond between friends which this amazing sport can provide. Events like can be truly inspiring, and disprove the theory that golf is inaccessible and unwelcoming.
“We are all equals, on the first tee, in the clubhouse and in life itself”.
All media are welcome to attend and interview participants. Pre-and post-event please coordinate through the event’s Press Officer, Andy Hiseman, and your contact on the day is Cae Menai-Davis (details for Andy and Cae follow).
MEDIA: Andy Hiseman, Magic Hour Media, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., +44 (0)7795 360112
GOLF TRUST: Cae Menai-Davis, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., 020 8441 7649 / 07736 246294
1 August 2014
The Shire London Legends Winter Offer!
Golfers need not wait until December 25th to receive their seasonal gift from The Shire London.
The popular Hertfordshire golf club’s annual Winter deals have been announced, and they are available from as early as November 1st.
This year, a fourball can play the UK’s only Seve Ballesteros golf course from just £155 during the week including coffee & bacon rolls on arrival, 18 holes on the 7,028 Ballesteros Masters Course, and a Chef’s Special Meal afterwards in the clubhouse. This year’s Shire Winter Fourball price applies to Monday-Thursdays, rising slightly to £165 on Fridays, and is available from November to the end of March 2015.
For groups, the Shire Winter Society deal is a neatly-packaged golf day for twelve golfers or more, with the Organiser playing for free at the golf club, which is based slightly north of Barnet near the M25 /A1 intersection.
As well as coffee & bacon rolls, 18 holes and a Chef’s Special, the society also gets Nearest The Pin and Longest Drive competitions, a dedicated starter per group and a Private Dining area afterwards. Shire Winter Society prices are £35 per person on Mondays, £40 per person Tuesdays-Thursdays, and £45 per person on Fridays, and like the Fourball deal these special prices run from November to the end of March.
“Each winter we like to lay our cards on the table, and put some really good off-season offers out there” said the golf club’s Ceri Menai-Davis. “We offer the same warm welcome, great food and outstanding service as we do all year round, but at a very special price.
“Golfers love a deal, and we love golfers – so we’re all happy”.
Continued investment throughout 2014 has seen The Shire London grow and improve in its seventh full season, with remodelled bunkers and clubhouse updates.
Call 020 8441 7649 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to book your Winter deal at The Shire London.
The Shire London, which features the UK’s only full Severiano Ballesteros course design, has announced the completion of a major series of course refurbishments and facilities upgrades for the 2014 golf season.
The announcement was made on April 9th, which would have been the great man’s 57th birthday.
The changes include new bunkering and greenside modelling work on The Ballesteros Masters Course to increase the challenge of what is already regarded as one of England’s most demanding tests of golf.
Other improvements cover everything from new sand, course furniture and flags to a renovated driving range. The club has even upgraded its coffee machines, TV sets and soft furnishings.
Please welcome Steve Harris, a new face at The Shire London.
Steve is the new Personal Trainer in our gym.
He originally trained as a PGA Golf Professional, and spent nine years teaching at Harpenden GC. During that time he became involved in personal training, and Strength & Conditioning, subsequently deciding to focus his career on this interesting and fast-growing field.