Swindon’s Coate Water is swinging back into action! The much-loved crazy golf and pitch and putt courses are set to open their doors for the first time since the pandemic. Starting from Thursday, July 25, golf enthusiasts can once again enjoy the 18-hole facilities at this beautiful country park.
The reopening of these golf courses is part of Swindon Borough Council’s long-term vision for Coate Water. This vision includes the construction of a café and the already completed play area, aiming to transform the park into a thriving hub of activity for families and individuals alike.
In May, it was confirmed that work would commence to bring the two golf courses back into use. A council spokesperson shared, “Over the last few weeks, the fairways have been mown and the greens prepared, while repairs have also been made to the irrigation system.”
For those itching to practice their swing, the golf facility will be open from 11 am to 6 pm, Thursday to Tuesday each week. It will be closed on Wednesdays for regular maintenance. A round of pitch and putt will cost £5.80, while crazy golf will be priced at £4.60.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, the cabinet member for planning and placemaking, expressed her delight at the reopening. She said, “I’m pleased the pitch and putt is back open at Coate Water and that families will be able to enjoy it over the summer holidays.”
In addition to the golf courses, work is currently underway on a new splash park, which is part of the overall programme of works for Coate Water. Despite delays in securing the flooring, the council confirmed it would be opening “in the coming weeks”.
The new play park, which is fully accessible, cost the council £500,000 in funding secured from Section 106 developer contributions. It opened in March 2023 after work started in January of that year.
In September last year, Swindon Borough Council unveiled plans to build an art-deco themed café in Coate Water ready for this summer. However, construction on this has not yet started.
As Swindon’s Coate Water continues to evolve and improve, it’s clear that this beloved country park is set to become an even more vibrant and enjoyable space for the local community. So, grab your golf clubs and get ready to tee off at Coate Water!
Image: Dave Cox
