It’s been almost eight years since the original 12-hole course was built at Peterborough and what a gem. The course requires a degree of skill, a creative mind and a steady hand to conquer, as well as fitting right into the layout of Dobbies Garden Centre. All in all, you can pick up a plant, drink some coffee and play minigolf all in the same plot while parking for free.
In more recent times, I was delighted to hear that the minigolf was extending into the grounds next door and when I first saw that the space had been cleared, you could only marvel at its size. Over the past three or four months, I’ve seen the design on paper and watched it grow, hoping that it could match up to the visuals.
Now, it has arrived, the vision of UrbanCrazy to create a truly unique course and theme matching the ambitions of the owners has been achieved. The first impression I had of seeing the finished Roman Empire-themed course is that I just wanted to look at it and then just keep looking at it. Is that a Coliseum? Is that a chariot? Is that an eight foot volcano? Yes, yes it is. Wow!
Nothing really prepares you for the level of detail that has gone into this course. Much like a great film, there are details you may have missed on your first visit that you’ll only notice when you next play – making you want to go back again and again. The brickwork on the viaduct is breathtaking.
The all important question is just how playable is it? It may look good but there is nothing worse than playing somewhere new and figuring it out first time. The Roman Empire provides something aesthetic, brilliant and combines it with a thoughtful course with a number of viable options to tackle each hole. Will I lose sleep thinking about a new way to play the baths and pillars at the 15th? Absolutely 100% I will. This haven of minigolf gives everyone from 8 to 80 something to take away from it and keep in their memories. You won’t just want to play here once. You will keep coming back.
The Roman Empire Golf at Dobbies in Peterborough has the potential to be one of the best courses created in this country. It stands out from the regular themes, providing an educational look at Roman history in a fun way for everyone to enjoy. In conclusion, congratulations to UrbanCrazy and Peterborough Minigolf for the creation of the Roman Empire and all of its jaw dropping mastery.
I can’t wait to get back there!
