Golf Club Talk UK

In the final episode of our mini-series featuring General Managers from clubs across the UK, we sit down with our fourth guest, Rob Climas, GM of North Hants Golf Club in Hampshire. Famous as the home club of Justin Rose – and with this conversation recorded in the Justin Rose Room itself – North Hants offers members a truly complete package: a superb golf course, a welcoming clubhouse, and first-class supporting facilities. Leighton and Rob discuss the advantages of bringing experience from a commercial background into the private members’ world, and why long-term planning – sometimes looking as far ahead as 30 to 40 years – is critical to the continued success of a modern golf club. They also touch on some of the recent course improvements overseen by architect Tom McKenzie, most notably a major bunker reconstruction project. Rob is a deep thinker and an experienced GM who, alongside his Board and excellent team, is steering North Hants in an exciting direction. This episode provides valuable insight into what it takes to balance tradition with progress and ensure a club thrives for generations to come. https://www.northhantsgolf.co.uk/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!  

In this episode of our Global Edition, we’re joined by Renate Roeleveld, CEO of the Golf Course Association of Europe (GCAE). Renate brings deep industry experience from her years as a Multi-Course Manager in the Netherlands, a background that now shapes her leadership as she guides the association through an exciting period of growth. Looking ahead, the GCAE Annual Conference will take place in Madeira, 10th–12th November. Our conversation covers a wide range of topics, including: The diverse golf business models across Europe – from tourism-led operations to traditional member clubs and hybrid approaches. How regional dynamics differ between Northern Europe & Scandinavia, Central Europe, and Southern Europe (particularly the Iberian Peninsula). The importance of adapting and evolving the game – the central theme of this year’s conference. Renate’s passion for supporting women in golf, and how the industry can create the right environments for women to thrive. An insightful discussion with a respected leader, offering valuable perspectives for anyone involved in the global golf industry. https://gcae.eu/ https://www.gcaeconference.eu/gcae-conference/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Every 2–3 months we're teaming up with Golf Course Architecture magazine to bring you the latest from around the world of Golf Courses  — from redevelopments and restorations to exciting new builds In this episode, Toby Ingleton from GCA magazine joins us to cover happenings from courses in Scotland, USA, Australia, England and Spain!  There's new openings, classic restorations and even a Ryder Cup venue!   https://www.golfcoursearchitecture.net/   A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro Check them out here!   https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk   Sign up to our Newsletter here  

In the second episode of our mini-series on UK Golf Club Managers, Leighton is on-site at Stratford Oaks Golf Club near Stratford-upon-Avon to chat with James Howard, General Manager. Formerly a proprietary club, Stratford Oaks is now proudly member-owned. James is leading the way in shaping the club’s future with a strategic plan focused on water security, including the ambitious construction of a reservoir. This major project is being supported by a number of smaller initiatives designed to grow revenue and strengthen the club, such as the Trackman Driving Range, clubhouse improvements, golf operations, and the pro shop. With a strong background in golf but in his first GM role, James shares some great insights into what makes a modern golf club thrive. More importantly, he’s not just talking the talk—he’s walking the walk at Stratford Oaks. https://www.stratfordoaks.co.uk/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In the first episode of our three-part GCTUK series, we feature two Managers from opposite ends of the UK. After Leighton & Eddie catch up, our first guest is Victoria (Viki) Hart, the ambitious General Manager of Monifieth Golf Links in Scotland. The historic Links is home to three golf clubs, and Viki is leading an exciting period of growth while also overseeing a major course improvement project with renowned shaper Conor Walsh. Viki also shares fresh insights on how golf can better attract and develop junior and women golfers—two groups that remain underrepresented in the game. We’re also delighted to welcome Bob Marchbanks, General Manager at Bramley Golf Club and current Captain of the GCMA London & Home Counties region. Bob brings a grounded perspective on the challenges facing the golf industry today. He also reflects on Bramley’s recent transformation, driven by a major investment in interior design and member-focused improvements—creating a more seamless and thoughtful experience for both members and guests. https://monifiethgolf.co.uk/ https://www.bramleygolfclub.co.uk/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In this episode, Leighton is joined by Lee Strutt, a Master Greenkeeper with a career spanning some of the world’s most prestigious golf courses. From his early work at Richmond Golf Club to grow-ins at elite venues like G-West and Les Bordes New Course as well as the Superintendent role at Cabot Cape Breton, Lee shares his journey through the turf industry, culminating in his current role at the iconic Loch Lomond Golf Club. This conversation offers deep insight into the dedication, cultural differences and unique challenges of overseeing these courses in different parts of the world. Topics Covered: Lee’s early days at Richmond Golf Club Experience at G-West, a unique venue in Scotland which has never opened! The RAC Golf Club Les Bordes, including the grow-in of the Gil Hanse designed New Course  The unique challenges of working at Cabot Cape Breton His current role at Loch Lomond The benefit of travel and pushing your boundaries About the Guest: Lee Strutt is a certified Master Greenkeeper and one of the most respected professionals in the turf industry. His career includes leadership roles at Richmond GC, G-West, Les Bordes (New Course grow-in), Cabot Cape Breton, and now Loch Lomond. Known for his technical expertise, leadership, and commitment to excellence, Lee offers a masterclass in career longevity and innovation in golf course management all while traversing countries and cultures.   https://therichmondgolfclub.com/ https://www.gwest.co.uk/ https://www.royalautomobileclub.co.uk/woodcote-park/golf/ https://www.lesbordesgolfclub.com/golf/new-course/ https://cabotcapebreton.com/ https://www.lochlomond.com/   A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro Check them out here!   https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk   Sign up to our Newsletter here

This month we’re diving into the topic of Finance at Golf Clubs – with a particular focus on capital projects and asset finance. We’re joined by Malcolm Pennycott of Golf Finance, who brings his expertise to help demystify a subject that many clubs find challenging. Finance can be a tricky area, especially for member-based clubs, where there is often hesitation or even fear around taking on debt. In this episode, we explore: The types of projects and assets that can be financed. Why irrigation and water storage have become such a hot topic in recent years. How clubs can approach funding projects that may not be achievable without debt. The importance of good governance in making sound financial decisions. How to present a strong case to your Board and members when seeking approval. This is an important conversation around an area that isn’t talked about nearly enough in our industry. https://www.golffinance.co.uk/ https://www.gcma.org.uk/conference-2025/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk

In this episode, we’re joined by Claire Hodgson, Head of iGolf, and Matt Draper, Development and Membership Director, to dive into the world of iGolf. iGolf is an easy-to-use platform for non-club golfers in England, designed to help players track their performance, view their playing record, and obtain or maintain a Handicap Index. Members also enjoy extra perks such as liability insurance — making it a fantastic option for golfers looking to play with more confidence and keep improving their game. We discuss: What iGolf is, and the ethos and concept behind it How long iGolf has been running and how it’s grown iGolf’s relationship to traditional club membership — including positive and negative perceptions, plus opportunities for clubs Insights on members moving from iGolf into club membership How iGolf is administered, marketed, and continually improved Whether you’re a non-club golfer curious about getting a Handicap Index, or a golf club looking to understand the opportunities iGolf presents, this episode is packed with valuable insights. https://englandigolf.co.uk/ https://www.englandgolf.org/ www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

We’re excited to bring back our popular Panel Discussion episodes — and this time, it’s a conversation on AI in Golf Clubs. This Episode’s Panelists: Alastair Siclair - PlayMore Golf Eddie Bullock – Eddie Bullock Golf Consultancy James Wilkinson – Albatross Digital Nick Eden – The Revenue Club Matt Roberts – 59 Club In this forward-thinking episode, Alastair, James, Nick, Matt and Eddie dive into the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in golf — both on and off the course. From smarter operations to a more personalized member experience, the conversation explores how AI is already transforming the way we work and what lies ahead. Key Topics Covered: AI in Golf operations Boosting efficiency & profitability Revenue optimization & tools that can assist Enhancing the Member Experience Dynamic pricing Impact on the Golf Labour Market Tune in to hear how AI is changing the game — and how your club can stay ahead of the curve. https://www.playmore.golf/ https://eddiebullockgolf.com/ https://www.albatross.digital/ https://www.therevenueclub.co.uk/ https://www.59club.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Tony Adams, consultant and founder of Hospitality In Golf, dives into enhancing food and beverage operations in golf clubs. He shares insights on modernizing menus, using local ingredients, and the importance of continuous staff training. Adams emphasizes the need to create inviting atmospheres and cater to diverse dietary needs while maintaining compliance with regulations. He also highlights what top golf clubs do right, showcasing how attention to detail and a strong hospitality culture can dramatically elevate the overall member experience.