The Springs Resort & Golf Club can provide you with everything you need and more in the English countryside.
Located in Wallingford, Oxfordshire amongst the glorious countryside, The Springs Resort & Golf Club houses a spa, restaurant, golf club and more to keep you entertained during your stay. Whether you just want to relax and unwind in this stunning Tudor-style house or you want to use it as a base for exploring the area, there are so many reasons why The Springs is the perfect get away for you; below we have listed a few of those reasons. No matter who you are and what you want to do during your stay you will be able to enjoy the most perfect escape here.
facilities for you to take advantage of
Within The Springs hotel you will find some amazing facilities that you can take advantage of during your stay. One of the most popular being The Ridgeway Restaurant, throughout the décor you will be able to find hints of golf, the hidden history of the house and large windows that showcase the stunning grounds. There is also a fully-equipped gym that will provide you with everything you could need for a full body workout.
luxury hotel rooms & lodges
The Springs can offer you the best of both worlds, it caters for groups that want hotel rooms and groups that want lodges. Our hotel rooms offer both twin and double bedroom options and all have an en-suite and vanity area. Relax and unwind in luxury and take in the views of the golf course from your bedroom window. We also have a lodge-style hotel suite that can really offer you the best of both worlds. And if you are looking for a longer stay there are also our self-catering lodges with fully-fitted kitchens.
relax in the 1893 Spa
Looking for a place to relax and unwind? The 1893 Spa at The Springs will provide you with exactly that. We have fully trained therapists who are there to give you the most perfect treatment from pedicures to massages and everything in between. The stunning reception will instantly make you relaxed with its warm and welcoming décor. Along with the peaceful treatment rooms and relaxing hydrotherapy pool. Sit on the beds at the side of the pool or soak in the heat with the underwater beds and seating areas.
short drive to Oxford
To get to Oxford from The Springs it is only a 28 minute drive and exactly 15 miles away. There are so many different things you could do around Oxfordshire during your time with us. Especially in Oxford city centre, from the museums to the Harry Potter tours you will definitely find something to suit everyone. To give you some more inspiration we have a linked our blog below on a range of different things to do in Oxfordshire.
explore all the things to do in Oxfordshire
perfect for a golfing holiday
For all the golfers out there the main thing that would attract you here would be the amazing golf course. It runs alongside the River Thames and is 133-acres of parkland. Whether you are a pro or just starting out on your golf journey it’s the perfect course for everyone. As well as the golf course itself we also have a clubhouse, golf shop and practice facilities that all can use! There is also an option to become a member here, follow the link to our sister site to learn more about golf at The Springs.
great base for exploring the countryside
As you know already, The Springs is based in Oxfordshire but there are so many amazing nature reserves located around the area. Warburg Nature Reserve which is 24 mins away and the stunning Cotswolds is only an hour drive away from the resort. These are only 2 from the large list of other amazing nature reserves too where you can really explore the amazing countryside that surrounds Oxfordshire.
find out about nearby nature reserves
The Springs Resort & Golf Club really is the perfect get away for anyone and can provide you with a huge variety of things to keep everyone entertained.
The Pimento cheese sandwich is synonymous with The Masters, many peoples FAVOURITE golf tournament.
Let’s face it, we all love The Masters don’t we? It often signals the true start to the golf season.
If you are one of the few that have been lucky enough to attend The Masters at Augusta National, you will have no doubt eaten one of their famous ‘Pimento Cheese Sandwiches’.,
Originally created by Nick Rangos from South Carolina, he supplied Augusta with his famous sandwiches for 45 years!
The pimento cheese sandwich – pimientos (peppers), a mix of cheeses, mayonnaise and a few spices on white bread has become almost as iconic as the green jacket!
Have a taste of The Masters at home, with our version of the Perfect Pimento Cheese Sandwich.
Dundonald Links lodges are coming soon in August 2021, but have a look at our artist illustrations below to take a little sneak peek inside these sure-to-be stunning lodges in Ayrshire, Scotland.
Explore the west coast of Scotland when you book your break away with us at Dundonald Links, we have beautiful lodges waiting for you, each with self-contained bedroom suites, with their own bathrooms, open plan living spaces, and panoramic views of the stunning golf course around.
Take a virtual tour of our artist’s impressions below and scroll down for some more images.
Book your lodge holiday at Dondonald Links, Ayrshire, and start planning your Scottish dream break away today!
Our brand new resort along the west coast of Scotland is currently under development and we’ve got the latest pictures here for you to see!
Our stunning Dundonald Links, Ayrshire will home to beautiful lodges and an outstanding clubhouse, which will including a dedicated whiskey room and world-class restaurant. Known as a first-class links golf course, hosting many prestigious tournaments, here at Darwin Escapes, we can’t wait for you to see the purpose-built lodges in Ayrshire, where you can book your getaway and explore the breath-taking Scottish landscape.
Scroll through our images below for the latest update on the development of the clubhouse, lodge foundations, and the redesign of the beautiful golf course.
And the best part is you can book your lodge holiday break away today, make an enquiry and find out more.
Our stunning Dundonald Links location has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the 1800s!
Always home to one of Scotland’s most beautiful links golf courses, Dundonald also played a role in both World Wars and has gone on to host the most prestigious tournaments.
Here at Darwin Escapes, we are so excited to show the new course redesigned by Kyle Philips and of course, we can’t wait for you to see our stunning lodges in Ayrshire, where you can base yourself and explore the beautiful west coast of Scotland. Located only 40 minutes away from Glasgow, you can enjoy city centre shopping and an evening stroll along the sandy Irvine Bay, all on the same day!
Discover centuries of hidden histories and fascinating stories around the local area when you book your holiday lodge in Ayrshire.
Watch our video below for the wonderful and fascinating history of a beautiful Scottish resort.
Darwin Escapes are proud to welcome Irish professional golfer David Carey as a brand ambassador.
David, from Dublin, had a successful amateur career that included representing Ireland at international level as well as securing the winning point at the Boys Home International in 2013, which was Ireland’s first win for many years.
His first professional win came in 2019 at the Cervino Open in Italy, where he also shot an incredible 57 (-11) in the opening round. This is the lowest round ever recorded in a World Ranking professional event.
He continued this form to win again at stage one of European Tour Q School at Bognogo, and another at a Team Ireland event at the K Club, making it three wins in under 12 months. 2020 was a tough year with many events cancelled due to Covid-19 but in his first event of 2021, at a three round charity pro-am at Quinta Do Lago, David also finished tied 1st after shooting 69-69-64.
Ashley Pheasant, Head of Golf at Darwin Escapes said “We are very excited to welcome David, aka ‘Mr 57’ to Darwin Escapes and support him on his professional golf journey. He is incredibly ambitious, very driven to succeed and a true golfing talent. We are very much looking forward to watching his progress in the coming months”.
In 2021, David hopes to be competing on the Alps Tour and Challenge Tour, as well as aiming to secure a European Tour card for the 2022/23 season. “It’s fantastic to be working with Darwin Escapes. Having the backing of such a supportive company going into the 2021 season is a massive boost. As well as being great people, the direction and ambition they have is hugely impressive and resonates with my own. I’m looking forward to working with the Darwin Escapes team for many years to come.” David commented.
adidas Golf have revealed their new ZG21 golf shoe, created after nearly two years, multiple prototypes, configurations, and infusing their latest technologies to make sure they got everything right.
The latest offering that gives golfers of all skill levels a high-performance spiked shoe that’s lightweight with zero compromises. The ZG21 is the lightest spiked golf shoe adidas have created that features BOOST cushioning. It’s up to 20 percent lighter than comparable spiked models previously in their range.
“ZG21 is truly a breakthrough feat in spiked performance,” said Masun Denison, global footwear director, adidas Golf. “We were able to combine the latest and greatest materials, innovations, and manufacturing processes without sacrificing anything. It changes the game for those who love spiked footwear.”
As well as the fantastic clean, modern design, the ZG21 is packed with the following new technologies:
LIGHTSTRIKE
- A first in golf, this cushioning is 40 percent lighter than any EVA foam in the market while also providing shock absorption and quick recovery, perfect for golf where stability through the swing is critical. It’s been used in other categories like basketball and tennis, and when coupled with our BOOST cushioning, gives players lightweight comfort and stability with every swing and step.
SPRINTSKIN
- A lightweight and waterproof (one-year warranty) four-layer upper that combines innovative textiles and polyurethane films for breakthrough performance.
ULTRA-LIGHT STABILITY FIN
- A new lightweight and durable TPU insert we created in the lateral sidewall that offers increased lateral stability and a locked-in feel throughout the swing.
SWINGPLANE TRACTION
- Inspired by heat-map studies and running from heel to toe, we target the areas and place the maximum amount of traction where it’s needed most.
The new ZG21 outsole features an ultra-thin TPU construction, six strategically placed cleats, and a new crescent moon-shaped secondary lug to optimize grip, support and performance while ultimately reducing weight.
ZG21 will come in four models: men’s laced, men’s and women’s BOA®, and a simplified laced offering for junior golfers. The two BOA models feature the new BOA Fit System, a ‘Y’-strap design that’s a first in the sport and provides an even higher level of performance. The configuration wraps around the foot, creating a secure fit over the instep and provides flexibility and freedom in the toe box. The men’s ZG21 BOA is also the first golf shoe on the market to feature Li2 – a sleek, low-profile dial platform that modulates tension when and where needed with enhanced speed and effortless execution.
All ZG21 models will be available in our pro shops from mid February. If you would like to pre order a pair, please contact the team at The Springs GC or Kilnwick Percy. GC.
TaylorMade Golf have today unveiled their new SIM2 family range of clubs, including Drivers, Fairways, Rescues and Irons.
Building on the success from last yeas SIM range, the SIM2 delivers a new level of forgiveness, speed and distance.
SIM2 DRIVER
With the original SIM Driver, TaylorMade focused on reshaping the driver to deliver speed and aerodynamics at the most critical stage of the swing – those milliseconds right before impact. Embracing the evolution of design, now TaylorMade has reinvented the way drivers are constructed with an increased focus on enhanced forgiveness while maintaining speed and optimal launch conditions.
Tomo Bystedt, TaylorMade’s Senior Director of Product Creation said “Forgiveness equals confidence. In 2020, we built a driver that was aerodynamic, promoted favourable launch properties and had one of the hottest faces in golf. By increasing forgiveness with SIM2, SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max•D, we have truly engineered a driver that has no trade-offs. Golfers can step to the tee box and have the freedom to swing with confidence every time. Knowing they have a driver that checks all the boxes: Forgiveness, speed and distance with a beautifully crafted aesthetic.”
Forged Ring Construction
The SIM2 Drivers feature a new design called Forged Ring Construction. Utilising a lightweight and high strength aluminium that’s precision milled, the adjoining feature unites the critical components of the driver head into a singular force.
Full Carbon Crown and Sole
A new high-strength carbon was developed precisely for the sole and designed for enhanced durability in protection against damage from turf interaction and contact at high speeds. The expanded use of carbon saves a considerable amount of weight that has been redeployed onto the Inertia Generator in the form of a heavy rear weight (16g SIM2, 24g SIM2 Max and 22g SIM2 Max•D). Placing this substantial weight low and back in the club moves the CG projection to centre face, optimises launch conditions and maximises MOI.
Milled Back Face Cup with An Intelligently Optimised Sweet Spot
The milled back face cup is a strong and resilient material to encourage faster ball speeds. Behind the face, internal CNC milling varies face thickness and pinpoints performance where golfers need it the most.
Relying on the data used to develop Twist Face®, the company mapped the most common impact locations among golfers of all skill levels – which revealed a mis-hit pattern that extends from low heel to high toe. The milling process allows the company to precisely tune the thickness of the face to promote peak speed in those areas. This intelligently engineered sweet spot has an oval shape and stretches diagonally from the high toe toward the low heel. Ultimately, it results in a sweet spot that is designed to capture more shots where golfers are more likely to hit it on the face.
Speed Injected Twist Face & Speed Pocket
Speed Injected Twist Face continues with SIM2, SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max•D, and each driver head is inspected, measured and tuned for maximum speed and to ensure conformity. The patented Thru-Slot Speed Pocket rests on the sole of the driver, maintaining the marquee purpose of protecting ball speed and performance on shots struck low on the face.
There are three new models available.
SIM2
The reconstructed SIM2 delivers high MOI properties with a heavy 16g steel weight positioned on the Inertia Generator. The TPS Front Weight is strategically located behind the face to encourage optimal launch with low spin characteristics, delivering complete performance that is low on spin and high on forgiveness.
SIM2 Max
With an intense focus on speed and forgiveness, the SIM2 Max delivers high MOI properties with a heavy 24g tungsten weight positioned on the Inertia Generator. The TPS Front Weight is strategically located on the sole of the club to encourage the optimal mid-to-high launch with mid-to-low spin properties, delivering complete performance and max forgiveness.
SIM2 Max•D
Traditional draw-bias drivers come with a trade-off, sacrificing forgiveness for a right-to-left ball flight. The all-new SIM2 Max•D features a repositioned Inertia Generator that’s closer to the heel, encouraging a heel CG that’s low and back for more forgiveness – designed to deliver a higher launch with the largest, most forgiving face in the SIM2 line-up. The end result, a draw-biased driver without compromise.
SIM2 Titanium, SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max•D Fairways
SIM2 Titanium, SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max•D Fairways
The resurgent momentum of V Steel™ propelled the original SIM fairways to reset industry standards. For 2021, TaylorMade focused on refining that breakthrough technology to drive centre of gravity lower to promote enhanced forgiveness and optimal launch conditions.
Powered by the iconic V Steel design that promotes enhanced turf interaction and playability from various lies, improved weight distribution delivers pinpoint CG projection for optimal MOI and launch properties.
The more compact SIM2 Titanium fairway features a 170cc pear shaped head for a Tour-inspired look at address while still maintain a generous face size – combining properties of playability and forgiveness. It features a lightweight carbon construction with the revolutionary ZATECH Titanium Face and a heavy 80g steel sole weight. The strategically positioned weight creates an ultra-low CG that creates 5% greater MOI than its predecessor.
With progressive face sizes for strategic forgiveness, the SIM2 Max fairway has a larger 190cc footprint and with a face constructed from strong C300 steel. Also featuring the reinvented V Steel for exceptional versatility from all lies, the SIM2 Max has refined weighting designed for forgiveness, higher launch, and peak trajectories.
Using data collected during the development of Twist Face, which shows the correlation between handicap, mis-hit dispersion and the need for draw-bias equipment, the 195cc SIM2 Max•D has been optimised for forgiveness with the largest head and face area in the current family of fairways.
Matching the aesthetics of the SIM2 driver family, the carbon crown and contrasting chalk colour help frame the ball at address and improve alignment.
SIM2 & SIM2 Max Rescues
The impact of the original SIM Max Rescue was felt at every level of the game, from the amateur ranks to the world’s best. Week in and week out, SIM Max Rescue was played on Tour with approximately a dozen of the breakthrough hybrids in play any given Sunday. It even accounted for wins with current World No. 1 Dustin Johnson winning the 2020 Travelers Championship in record-setting fashion with two SIM Max Rescues in his bag.
Building on that success, TaylorMade has expanded its hybrid offerings in 2021 to include the SIM2 Rescue and SIM2 Max Rescue. Fueled by the Tour pedigree of its predecessor, the SIM2 Rescue was designed with insights from Johnson, Rory McIlroy and more.
It offers a fast and sleek appearance that seamlessly transitions any golf bag from iron to metalwood. A compact players shape provides added versatility for the golfer who wants an iron-like ball flight and workability. A new leading edge design, sole geometry and optimised CG placement maintain the forgiveness of the original SIM Max Rescue – ultimately delivering the distance of a game improvement hybrid without sacrificing precision and control. It features a +/- 1.5° loft sleeve to further dial in performance.
Relying on the V Steel technology that revolutionised hybrid performance, the SIM2 Max Rescue brings Tour-validated results to golfers at every level. A more refined sole geometry redistributes weight for increased forgiveness while maintaining low CG properties.
The ultra-strong C300 Steel face delivers a powerful ball flight and when paired with Twist Face, the corrective face curvature that’s designed to give everyone straighter shots on mis-hits, golfers can expect better distance and accuracy more often.
SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max OS Irons
In developing this new iron construction, the company charted thousands of shots from players of every skill level – in the process identifying the most tightly clustered impact areas among solid strikes. Leveraging that data, engineers set out to expand the sweet spot to capture more of those shots, effectively pinpointing performance where golfers need it the most.
The strong, lightweight polymer material spanning the entire cavity helps to secure the topline and provides additional rigidity in the upper part of the face. It works in unison with the flexible Thru-Slot Speed Pocket™ to create a larger unsupported area of the face, which translates to improved flexibility engineered for increased ball speeds and distance. That added flexibility made it possible to deliver the larger, more intelligent sweet spot.
Beyond added distance and speed, Cap Back Design helped produce a higher MOI with increased clubhead stability at impact to discourage twisting, which allows the golfer to enjoy solid strikes more often. When paired with the ECHO® Damping System, the multi-faceted design helps to minimise unwanted vibrations that create the harsh feel associated with traditional distance irons. Producing the signature forged-like feel and sound of SIM irons.
Eclipsing the performance of conventional cavity backs, SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max OS provide a pathway to better forgiveness, distance and feel.
Enhancing the ECHO® Damping System – Elevated Feel, Powerful Distance
Implementing Cap Back Design allowed TaylorMade engineers to redesign the ECHO® Damping System – which features a more concentrated HYBRAR material in SIM2 Max and Max OS irons. This super flexible insert stretches from heel to toe and is completely encapsulated. The softer polymer blend utilises multiple contact points across the face to channel away vibrations, further contributing to the forged-like feel while still promoting maximum face flex.
Every Iron Engineered for Accuracy & Forgiveness
The new intelligently designed sweet spot is strategically positioned to capture the most common impact points, delivering explosive ball speeds and consistency where golfers need it the most. While that added forgiveness is fuelled by Cap Back Design, the proven performance of Progressive ICT continues to enhance accuracy throughout the set.
Most game improvement irons have an inherent right-bias, which is why many equipment makers resort to heavy offset to counterbalance the effect. With SIM2 Max and Max OS, however, Progressive ICT gradually shifts the sweet spot toe-ward in long irons to promote a neutral ball flight while also delivering corrective performance on the common right miss.
An array of technologies, such as a fluted hosel, 360° undercut and an ultra-thin face, work in harmony to deliver a low CG that is engineered to produce a high penetrating ball flight.
SIM2 Max OS – Oversized for More Stability
Equipped with the same technologies that power SIM2 Max but bundled into a low CG oversized package, SIM2 Max OS is the longest and most stable iron in the current TaylorMade family. It features a wider sole, stronger lofts and accentuated draw-bias in comparison to SIM2 Max.
The new Taylormade SIM2 range of products will be available at retail from February 19th 2021. To book your custom fitting (dependant on Covid restrictions), please contact the team at The Springs GC or Kilnwick Percy GC.
Callaway Golf have today announced its new family of Epic Drivers and Fairway Woods.
The Epic product line is ‘framing the future of speed’, with some new technologies that are designed to deliver fast ball speeds for every type of player.
Three new driver models are available – Epic Speed, Epic MAX, and Epic MAX LS. At the heart of the new innovation, is Callaway’s new A.I.-designed Jailbreak Speed Frame. Previous Jailbreak architectures stiffened the body in the vertical direction. By applying Artificial Intelligence, this new structure improves stability in the horizontal and torsional direction as well. The result is exceptional ball speeds across the face.
The A.I.-designed Flash Face is specifically engineered to optimise the Jailbreak Speed Frame, promoting fast speeds across a more expansive area. Each face and each head geometry are uniquely enhanced in Epic Speed, and the super strength titanium promotes maximum speed, forgiveness and spin robustness.
Callaway Epic Speed Driver
Epic Speed is the fastest Epic driver ever, and it appeals to a wide range of golfers. The advanced aerodynamic head construction promotes lower drag for higher head speed. The taller ribbon and flatter crown are engineered for a precise and more aerodynamic shape that can help golfers generate more speed from their swing.
Increased forgiveness in Epic Speed comes from an advanced composite design. The proprietary Triaxial carbon covers a larger portion of the crown and toe, leading to weight savings of over 16 grams vs. a titanium crown. Their engineers have redistributed that saved weight to enhance forgiveness versus previous Callaway MAVRIK designs.
Callaway Epic Max Driver
Epic MAX is the most forgiving Epic ever, and it’s a remarkable engineering feat for golfers who want to hit the ball longer and straighter. It’s built on a simple equation: max ball speed (with the new Jailbreak A.I Speed Frame) + maximum forgiveness (with high MOI and adjustable weighting) = the ultimate max driver.
It features a lighter, stronger Triaxial Carbon material that saves over 19 grams of weight vs. titanium. Callaway redistributed that saved weight to promote high launch and more forgiveness. This driver delivers an exceptional combination of a deep CG, draw bias and higher MOI to promote a tighter downrange dispersion that leads to straighter drives. To promote more control, a 17g sliding rear weight provides extensive adjustability to promote the ball flight that golfers want to play. Combined with the OptiFit hosel, the Epic MAX provides up to 20 yards of shot shape correction.
Callaway Epic Max LS Driver
Epic MAX LS is designed for mid-to-low handicap players who want more speed, neutral ball flight and forgiveness in a lower spin, high MOI package. The proprietary Triaxial carbon covers a larger portion of the crown and toe, and this driver delivers an exceptional combination of a deep CG and higher MOI to promote a tighter downrange dispersion. It’s also the most fade capable driver in the Epic family, and Adjustable Perimeter Weighting provides up to 13 yards of shot shape correction to fine tune ball flight.
The Epic Speed and Epic MAX Drivers are available in 9*, 10.5* and 12* lofts, and Epic MAX LS is available in 9* and 10.5* loft options.
Epic Speed and Epic MAX Fairway Woods
Two new fairway wood models are available – Epic Speed and Epic MAX, and their exceptional ball speeds start with the new Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades. Callaway used A.I. to design a completely new Jailbreak system which spreads and angles the Jailbreak blades. Along with stiffening the body, the new design allows the forged face cup to flex efficiently.
Every model and every face in our new fairway woods are uniquely designed using advanced A.I. It’s a proven design that puts an even greater emphasis on centre and off-centre ball speeds.
In Epic Speed, high ball speeds and forgiveness come from the high strength C300 Maraging Steel. It provides outstanding strength and flexibility while the Face Cup provides speed and spin consistency across the face. The forward Centre of Gravity (CG) is combined with a new leading-edge to promote a strong ball flight, outstanding spin robustness and consistent shot shape dispersion.
Epic MAX delivers enhanced forgiveness from an oversized Max shape. The oversized head combines with a shallow face to make these fairways extremely easy to launch. The launch and spin are tunable using 2 & 14g weights. Golfers can use the heavy weight in the rear for more forgiveness or use the heavy weight in the front for lower launch and spin.
The new Callaway Epic Drivers and Fairway Woods will be available at retail from February 18th 2021. To book your fitting (dependant on Covid restrictions), please contact the team at The Springs GC or Kilnwick Percy GC.
WATCH THE VIDEO – We spoke to Callaway Europe Custom Fit Expert Matt Judd to find out more about the new Callaway Epic Driver family.