The Braid Hills Driving Range came recommended so I thought I try it out. It is quite a big place with a massive American Golf Shop annexed, as well as more than 30 bays for practicing your SWING!
The personnel seems very friendly for what I have seen so far.They make newcomers feel very welcome and explain the rules as soon as you are ready to make your first step towards a successful golfing relationship. There are a few Golf Pros available to get lessons from. You are able to go for % discounts when going for a Limited Golf ball "Membership" card: Pay £15 for a pre-loaded card and get 10% off the individual prices for the amount of golf balls you choose from. I think I pay around £3.20 for about 50 balls. You can choose from 20/50/70 balls.
The socializing facilities like their coffee shop and sitting area are very standard. I guess it is mostly used for wives waiting for their husbands to be finished with their "free time" :-)
I also saw the younger generation getting their training to become a Tiger Woods one day!
The bays are pretty standard. You still need to put the balls on the tee yourself. I know this sounds lame, but having been used to a mechanical operating system where the balls just appear.....then, yes, you can get spoilt. However, on a positive note, the bays are large and give you enough space to maneuver around. There is a hook for your jackets etc.
Sadly you are not allowed to take your golf bag onto the Range - ONLY your clubs! All types of golf shoes are allowed.
The balls are dispensed from a very modern machine that is explained to you when you get your introduction.
There is also a "pay as you go" golf course and a putting green and you can turn up and play without making an appointment. Just arrive and see if you can get a slot for the tee-off! Enjoy! read more