Temple Golf Course

Temple Golf Course sits just outside Hillsborough, a proper 18-hole layout that's been going for donkey's years. It's the sort of course that feels like it belongs to the countryside rather than been plonked into it - mature trees, rolling fairways, a few testing holes that'll humble you if you're not careful.

The course suits mid-to-high handicappers best. It's got character without being brutally difficult, and the greens are generally receptive if you've played decent shots. A round takes the standard four-and-a-half hours or so, which means you're not there all day.

Golfers staying at Lakeside View Caravan Park - only five miles away - will find this a useful spot to get out for a game without driving miles. The park itself is well-rated locally, so if you're basing yourself there for a week, Temple gives you a proper golfing break without the faff of hunting down distant courses.

Weather-wise, spring and early autumn are when it plays best; winter can get boggy in patches. I'd ring ahead to check availability and green fees before heading over - it's not one of those big resort courses where you can just turn up and expect walk-on play.

If you're after links golf with drama, you'll want somewhere else. But if you want a straightforward, well-maintained round with friendly staff and no pretension, Temple delivers exactly what it promises.