Rochford Hall Golf Course

Rochford Hall is a proper 18-hole golf course just outside Benfleet, set across grounds that feel surprisingly spacious for Essex. The course itself winds through mature trees and open fairways - nothing too dramatic in terms of elevation, but the layout keeps you thinking about your shots rather than just bashing away. You're looking at a challenging but fair test of golf, the kind where a decent handicap player will feel pleased with themselves if they walk off with something respectable.

It's obviously for golfers. Non-golfers won't find much here beyond a clubhouse and the contemplation of watching other people play, which loses its charm after about five minutes. If you're a keen player staying at one of the nearby caravan parks - Riverside Village or Silver Road are both within reasonable driving distance - this makes a proper morning or afternoon activity. Green fees and membership details aren't publicly listed, so ringing ahead is essential before you make the trip.

The land around Benfleet is fairly flat, so don't expect drama, but that also means the course is accessible to all abilities. Winter play is possible but can get boggy; summer's your best bet. Allow four hours for a round, maybe five if you're slow or learning. The real value here is having something to do beyond the park - a break in routine rather than a world-class golfing destination. For committed golfers with a week to spare near the coast, it's worth a go.