Address: 850 Sunninghill Ave, London, Ontario, Canada, N6H 3L9

Phone: +1 519 661 4450

Price Range: $$$$

Website: https://london.ca/living-london/parks-facilities/golf-course/thames-valley-golf-course

Thames Valley Golf Course

Thames Valley Golf Course, located just 10 minutes from downtown London, Ontario, is one of the city's oldest public courses, having been established in 1924. The course comprises an 18-hole Classic Course and a 9-hole Hickory Course, each offering a unique golfing experience well-suited to players of different skill levels.

The Classic Course, a par 70 spanning 6175 yards, is characterized by its parkland setting, featuring large mature trees, picturesque elevation changes, and the serene Thames River running alongside certain fairways. While it's not the longest course, its narrow fairways, undulating greens, and trickier-than-they-look bunkers provide a challenging yet enjoyable round for seasoned golfers. Signature holes with river vistas and significant elevation changes add to the charm, imbuing the course with a touch of natural beauty that makes each round memorable.

On the other hand, the Hickory Course, a par 64 stretching 4440 yards, is a bit more forgiving, designed with wider fairways and shorter holes. This makes it ideal for beginners, seniors, or anyone looking for a more leisurely game. It boasts a mix of par fours and threes, offering a pleasant walk and a less intimidating introduction to the sport.

Amenities at Thames Valley are nothing to scoff at. The clubhouse, recently updated with new patio furniture and vibrant flower arrangements, provides a perfect spot to relax after a round. The menu ranges from full breakfasts to giant chicken Caesar wraps that are as delicious as they are filling. The pro shop is well-stocked with the latest gear, and the PGA of Canada professionals are available for lessons and repairs.

However, securing a tee time might be a bit of a challenge here. Due to the course’s popularity and excellent value, it's wise to book at least a week in advance. Accessing tee times can be particularly competitive, especially if you are a member who expects more flexible scheduling options for your $1800 season pass.

The course, overall, is very well-maintained with reasonably priced green fees ranging between $40 to $45. The combination of historical significance, beautiful landscapes, and affordable golfing make Thames Valley a pivotal part of London's municipal golf system, which notably does not rely on taxpayer funding. This independence showcases the club's ability to sustain quality while remaining accessible to the public.

One major drawback, according to some players, is the condition of the greens, which sometimes reflects the heavy use the course gets. Additionally, slow play can occur on busier days, detracting slightly from the overall experience.