The Cowdray Estate in Midhurst have cut the ribbon on their new par-three course, topping off a year of considerable investment into their golf offering.

Having undergone extensive planning, the reimagined short course is a creation of five new USGA specification greens and greenside bunkers, each reflecting a similar green complex on the main course at Cowdray. In addition, a new short-game area has been delivered complete with new practise green and bunker.

Cowdray have created a new academy membership category for the par-three course.

The par-three layout was inaugurated by the Cowdray greenkeeping team – led by course manager Jonathan Smith – who were the first to experience the course.

Cowdray director of golf Tim Allen said: “The new academy set-up has been in the planning for some time, so it’s a thrill to see it come to fruition and our members and guests enjoying the experience.

“Through this facility, Cowdray will continue its good work engaging with the local community and schools, becoming more inclusive and taking golf to a wider audience.

“Our members and guests – young and old – can look forward to an elevated playing experience here. We are excited for the future and Cowdray’s new-found status as a must-play venue in the south of England.”

The new par-three course and practise facilities are the icing on a significant golf investment and improvement plan at Cowdray, which has seen Swan Golf Designs – led by William Swan – oversee a transformation of the 18-hole downland course.

The most notable changes are to the bunkering, with all having been reconstructed, reshaped and integrated into the downland landscape through the use of native grass borders. A new ninth tee has been constructed and new sensitive EcoPath recycled rubber pathways have been installed throughout.

Elsewhere, Swan Golf Designs restored the double green for holes seven and 14, created a new seating area at the halfway hut and have overseen landscape management throughout the course.

Swan said: “It is rare to have the chance to work with a client that matches our ambition for a project, working on a layout that owes much to the original work of Tom Simpson and all set in one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. We have sought to modernise the course while restoring some of the strategy and flair that is synonymous with Simpson’s work.

“In collaboration with our friends at Cowdray and Simon Bolton of Profusion Environmental, we were able to reimagine the five-hole academy course that sits alongside the 18th, to create a unique and exciting new facility for members and visitors to enjoy.”

Cowdray have also announced a variety of stay-and-play options.

Allen said: “Following extensive investment into our golf facilities, there has never been a better time to visit Cowdray to play golf.

“Ideal for those looking for a fantastic spot to play golf alongside a classic English country retreat, our new stay and play packages at Cowdray provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and experience the wider estate.”