The traditional Jack Nicklaus designed Springfield Royal Country Club located off the Hua Hin bypass road is one of the best Hua Hin golf courses, and as good as they come.

The course at Springfield has been designed to meet the high demands of a recognized championship golf course, and yet it remains an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all standards. Each hole has a minimum of five tees to play from, but only the brave, and those regularly rub shoulders with the world’s best will venture from the black tee. Water hazards periodically come into play, and each hole presents its challenge and character requiring finesse or unrestraint. Accuracy is needed at all times as the rough comprises of a series of hillocks and holes lined by a forest of mature trees.

Nicklaus designs love to catch the player out who hits a poor weak fade, and the back nine when tiredness begins to creep in can punish with either a massive waste bunker or water down the right-hand side of the fairways. On the other hand, keep it straight, and this course will reward as it is not exceptionally long.

The first hole is a gentle 389-yard par 4. The first appearance looks quite simple. Hopes can quickly fade, as the well-protected green can prove difficult & requires accuracy. The finishing the par-5 18th and Springfield’s signature hole needs one last perfect shot to a problematic island green. The green is reachable in two by longer hitters and those with an ego. Hit a good drive over the trees of the dogleg left, and then the green will be in sight for the second shot. Have to have a go, but use caution; this shot is longer than it looks!

Springfield opened an additional nine holes (Course C) for play in 2005 which was designed by the award-winning golf course architects Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley. These nine contrast the Nicklaus 18 (Course A & B) and are even more challenging than the original 18.

Springfield Royal offers other facilities apart from the course. The clubhouse in its day was top class. Now its due for a makeover, but what’s there is still of good quality. Located in an elevated position the vies from the top floor leave a lasting impression. The interior is mostly finished in polished marble & granite and portrays a feeling of opulence associated with grand palaces. Changing rooms even feature a bar inside the locker rooms. The experienced caddies who are also well trained also add to the enjoyment of playing at Springfield.