Course Overview
Shaftesbury Glen Golf and Fish Club is a remarkable golf facility located in Conway, just a few miles northwest from the heart of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The course is part of the prominent Glens Golf Group and offers a unique Scottish-inspired design that captures the essence of traditional golfing values.
Design and Layout
Presenting an excellent mix of traditional English and Scottish features, the course was designed by golf architect Clyde Johnston and reflects the classic influence of distinguished courses like Winged Foot and Augusta National. Fundamental to its design, Shaftesbury Glen Golf and Fish Club puts a strong emphasis on strategy, with exceedingly wide fairways, which inspires golfers to use their intellect, ingenuity, and accuracy to navigate the course successfully.
The course spans over 6,935 yards from the championship tees, has a par of 72, and features Bermuda grass greens and fairways. The layout is known for its spacious, Bentgrass greens that allow for an array of hole locations and its substantial, immaculately manicured fairways. The water hazards, well-positioned bunkers, rare elevation changes, and the demanding rough add up to making this course a challenging yet playable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Characteristics and Highlights
What sets Shaftesbury Glen Golf and Fish Club apart is its tribute to the ‘returning nines’ layout. The front and back nine holes both loop back to the clubhouse, so golfers can stop by for a mid-round snack or to top up on refreshments. The course is split up by the Waccamaw River, which runs parallel alongside the 10th hole; creating a serene, picturesque atmosphere throughout.
The signature hole at the course is hole number 5, a challenging par-5 stretching at 567 yards from the black tees. This hole is noted for its elevated green protected by two front-side bunkers and a pond lurking on the left, demanding a perfect mix of power and precision.
Improvements and Renovations
The Shaftesbury Glen course underwent significant improvements and renovations in 2016. The most surprising change was in the incorporation of waste bunkers, adding a true Pinehurst feel to the course. The redesign of the fairway on holes 1, 9, 10, and 18 allows for a waste bunker to run the entire length of these holes, creating visually attractive and strategic challenge.
Clubhouse and Amenities
The impressive English-style clubhouse overlooks the Waccamaw River, offering stunning panoramic views. It hosts a fully-equipped pro shop, stocked with the latest golf gear, apparel, and accessories. In addition, it also boasts an excellent restaurant offering a variety of meals and refreshments perfect for a post-round gathering.
The club also offers a top-class practice facility, complete with a driving range, chipping area, practice bunker, and a large putting green for golfers looking to refine their game.
Environmental Commitment
Shaftesbury Glen showcases a strong commitment to the environment. The course is certified Sanctuary by Audubon International, reflecting its dedication to maintaining a high degree of environmental quality.
Final Thoughts
Shaftesbury Glen Golf and Fish Club combines a compelling mix of beautiful landscapes, challenging play, and top-tier facilities. With its focus on catering to the golf purist by adhering to the traditions of the timeless game, it’s a must-play course for anyone visiting Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand area. It provides an unrivaled golfing experience that leaves a long-lasting impression.
The redesigned fairway with the waste bunker spanning the entire length of holes 1, 9, 10, and 18 is visually striking. Not only does it test the skill level of a golfer but it’s also a unique feature in today’s golf scene. Thanks for the detailed review.
Great write-up! Played Shaftesbury Glen last summer and it was a unique experience, to say the least. Those extra-wide fairways really added an unexpected but welcomed strategic element. But, I must say, I could’ve done without that pond on the 5th hole. Half my balls ended up sleeping with the fishes!
Stopped by Shaftesbury Glen last month and was highly impressed by their commitment to the environment. It’s really encouraging to see clubs taking such steps. By the way, can anyone recommend similar environmentally conscious courses in the area? Always trying to add more to my must-visit list.
Wow, great review! I’ve been to Myrtle beach a couple of times but never played at Shaftesbury Glen. I’m just wondering, how does the course fare after a heavy downpour? Is drainage good? Planning to visit next month, but heard there may be quite a bit of rain.
Great post! Having played Shaftesbury Glen often, I couldn’t agree more with your review. Those wide fairways definitely call for some strategy (and don’t even get me started on that fifth hole). Has anyone else found this too?
Had a couple of rounds at the Shaftesbury Glen recently. The waste bunkers got me more than once, guess I just added to the ‘true Pinehurst feel’! On a side note, the view from the clubhouse is a sight for sore eyes. Good write-up, by the way.
I found your analysis of the course spot on. The combination of English and Scottish features makes for a very interesting round of golf. I’m booked in for a round next month, and your post has made it all the more exciting. Can’t work on my bunker play enough before i hit those sand wastes!
Being part Scottish, I’ve always noted the ‘returning nines’ design. That ol’ fifth hole though always makes me feel like I’m on a mini version of the Old Course at St. Andrews. Hoping to finally land on that elevated green without losing a ball to the pond!
Great post! I’ve had the chance to play at Shaftesbury Glen on a couple of occasions. The layout is indeed challenging and argues for a good balance between power and precision, and the classic design is something you don’t see every day. Also, the ‘returning nines’ layout is a real plus, especially after those challenging front nines. A hearty snack at the club can do wonders!
I’d pay the green fee just for the par 5s! Seriously though, Shaftesbury Glen is one of the best-manicured courses I’ve seen. Love the strategic challenge with the bunker placement. And let’s not forget the appealing values, making it a timeless golfing experience.
I had the privilege of playing at Shaftesbury Glen a few days back. The course’s mix of English and Scottish features is distinct and a pure joy to play on. The wide fairways certainly promote strategic play and the premium on accuracy is spot on. Highly recommend this gem to other golfers!