Royal Manchester Golf Links

Royal Manchester was a very different/interesting course, which I sought-out because I wanted to see something new/different. Definitely not a tree-lined traditional course. Only blemishes in the "look" were the smoke-spewing industrial towers (not presented in any on-line pictures) in the background, including a view of Three Mile Island. I wish I had played better -- I struggled with my own game rather than the course -- because I think the course could have been "had" with a good round. Followed the advice to play "up" a set of tees since it was my first time. Good sight lines off the tees marked by "barber poles" even on "blind holes". Greens were the course's main defense; freshly cut AND rolled. Fairways felt "hard" and seem still to be growing in. Bunkers ... eh, still need some work as they're light on sand and have "wrapping" peeking through at points. The course had not been watered the night before so the irrigation was on during a number of holes I played -- but that was because the friendly staff had asked me if I'd mind (which I did not). Staff was friendly and wanted to know what I thought of the course. I'd definitely return, and hope that I have my game in order to take advantage of a fun layout. I did not use either the driving range or short game area, but both looked up to Raspberry Trail standards. I did not use the food/beverage service inside.

As a beginner, this course is a little challenging but definitely worth it. Bring many balls because the fescue is getting thick!

This course costs a bit more than its competition, but worth the extra cost. Course conditions, especially the greens, are comparable to private club courses.

I was very impressed. Conditions, the staff and the overall experience was a great day!

Course was in great shape and pace of play was pretty smooth. Second time playing this course in two months because we liked it so much the first time.

Course in great shape. Greens are huge and well maintained. Pace of play a little slow.

This was an amazing course. Top notch practice facility and just plan gorgeous. The only complaint that I have is the staff was kind of cold and unfriendly. Other than that it was worth the money.

Played on 6/14 at 7:20 a.m. Course was in the best shape I have ever seen! It has fully matured now, and is as good as any course around. Maybe the nicest greens I have putted on all year. Rough was tough, but considering all the rain that fell the previous few days, wasn't awful. They have cut back a lot of the really high heather grasses. This has really sped up play. We were paired up with 2 guys and played in less than 4 hours, and it was cart path only. it was cool and windy when we played, and the course already plays fairly long as it is, so this added another challenge. Although there is quite a bit of the high grass, generally the fairways are wide and forgiving, and generally the greens are accessible and receptive. The tee shot on #12 is as intimidating as you will find!

Great shape took some of the high grass down...not a good course to walk

Great shape, fantastic views. The greens are very difficult, but I enjoyed the challenge.

This course is absolutely beautiful. The course is tough but fair. Almost all of the holes are unique. Lots of different shots are required. Over 6900 from the back tees combined with high fescue grass lining every hole makes driving the ball accurately a must. We played the course after a lot of rain, and it funneled the water very well. When the greens are dry, the run pretty fast. Only negative is the amount of ballmarks on the greens.

From the moment you pull in the parking lot, Royal Manchester is Top Shelf ! Public course that operates like a Country Club! The entire staff were very courteous and friendly ! Enjoyed the round and the Royal experience !

Royal Manchester is one par with any of the top courses in the area. It was in excellend shape except for a few too many ball marks on the greens (why can't players fix their ball marks?). The rough was thick and about 4" deep and a true penalty if you found yourself in it. The staff was very friendly and the food is excellent. Recommend playing this course any time you get the chance.

Very nice, challenging course. Less challenging when the fescue is mowed (no complaint here). Pace of play could be improved. Looking forward to playing it again.

Exceeded expectations. True Links experience. The practice facilities (putting green, driving range, separate chipping greens and bunker practice area) are bar-none. Course was in great condition. The tall grasses have not grown up yet, but when they do, this course will be a beast. Quick greens, but not too fast. We decided to play another 18, but there was a foursome about 5 groups ahead of us that had the course backed up (all 5 groups on 2 holes). Went into the clubhouse to see if they could refund the price difference between the 18-hole and 9-hole rate and we were able to get a course credit.

For travelers: It is exactly 15 miles south of the PA turnpike exit for Rt 83.

The best conditions I've seen anywhere in the South Central region. Greens were impeccable. Day after heavy rain still rolling at about an 11. The staff was also friendly, in particular the starter. The starter made our experience from the staff end of things. Beautifully shaped links course with interesting layout. Once again, spectacular greens. Also a nice array of practice facilities.

This course has great character and was in excellent shape. The greens were absolutely perfect, true and fast. The course offers great mix of challenge tee to green. Especially 9 and 18. My friend played this course a few times and recommended we play it. It was well worth the travel and a super value through golf now.com. A true hidden gem in the mid Atlantic area.

played 5/17/14 11:30 tee time

The greens were the best shape I've seen! Thankfully the rough was still down to a playable length. Some of the pins were in very challenging spots. I plan to play here again very soon.

Keep the ball out of the rough and you will score.

If you play on Sun the lounge and kitchen close at 4:00.