Golf Course Update

We want to provide all golfers with a transparent update regarding course conditions and the recent closures.

A Wet Start To The Year

Since January 12th, we have recorded 167mm of rainfall, with a further 57mm falling in February to date. This prolonged and sustained rainfall has placed significant pressure on ground conditions and the drainage capacity across the course. As a result, the course has unfortunately been closed for 26 days during this period.

A Brief Break In The Weather

We were pleased to reopen on Bank Holiday Monday (February 1st), which gave golfers a chance to return and enjoy the course.

Prioritising Course Protection

While there has been some recent improvement in the weather, ground conditions remain saturated. Our priority continues to be protecting the course and ensuring the safety of all members. Opening the course when surfaces are overly wet would risk long-term damage, including:

• Surface wear and scarring
• Compaction to fairways and greens
• Extended recovery time heading into peak season
• Increased safety risks underfoot
• These decisions are never taken lightly.

Protecting the integrity of the course now will ensure stronger playing conditions in the months ahead.

Proactive Greenkeeping

During the closure period, the Greenkeeping Team have been proactive in carrying out several key improvement works during suitable weather windows:

• Pencil-tinning and aeration of the greens, allowing essential oxygen into the root system
• Construction of new pathways from the Castle through to the wooded area
• Crown lifting to the rear of the 3rd green to improve airflow and light penetration
• All course furniture brought in, sanded and repainted, along with a fresh coat of paint applied to out-of-bounds posts

The crown lifting work will significantly enhance light and air movement around the surrounding greens and fairways, supporting turf health as we move into the growing season.

Due to the saturated ground conditions and the requirement for heavy machinery, we have had to cancel our planned Spring aeration programme. Operating large equipment at this time would pose a serious risk of structural damage and long-term compaction.

Celebrating 50 Years of Deer Park Ladies Golf

On a positive note, we were delighted to host the Lady Captain’s Drive-In. Despite earlier rain, the weather eased for the event, and there was a fantastic turnout to mark 50 years. 

The greens staff would like to wish our Lady Captain and all the ladies every success and the very best of luck in their Jubilee year. We continue to assess course conditions daily and will communicate updates regularly.

Thank you sincerely for your patience, understanding, and continued support during what has been an exceptionally challenging spell of weather.

Neil Cullen
Course Superintendent

Posted on 20 Feb 2026.