GOOD READ Woodhall Spa: The Definitive Course Guide
Richard Latham is director of golf at Woodhall Spa and, as such, is well placed to dissect the architecture and history of the famous Lincolnshire course.
His book, with fabulous photography by Eric Hepworth, offers a detailed analysis of each hole on the Hotchkin course, a comprehensive history of the club, and also includes such details as a precise geological map of the site. Latham has uncovered a fair degree of detail concerning the course's early history and the degree to which it has been tweaked over the years, and his book is a fascinating read for anyone who has been to Woodhall or intends to do so. As well as Hepworth's new photographs, the book includes a number of archive shots that show the course in its early years.
Having read Latham's book, especially chapter five on playing the course, the first time visitor can make no excuses about a lack of local knowledge. Views from tees show the location of hidden hazards, and detailed images of green complexes gives a clear view of how the holes should be played. Appendices include profiles of Woodhall's architects, Vardon, Colt and Hotchkin, and a close look at the course's flora and fauna.
£35. Available from the club
This article first appeared in issue 3 of Golf Course Architecture, published in January 2006.