The Shire London

The Masters course at The Shire London represents Seve Ballesteros's first and only design work in the United Kingdom. Opened in the late 1990s in Barnet, north of London, the course reflects Ballesteros's playing philosophy: strategic shot-making, creative angles, and a premium on course management over pure length. The layout occupies gently rolling Hertfordshire countryside, with mature trees framing many holes and water features coming into play on several key moments throughout the round. The routing takes advantage of natural elevation changes to create variety in both stance and approach angles. Ballesteros incorporated wide fairways that encourage driver off the tee, but positioned bunkers and hazards to reward precise placement over distance. The greens feature subtle borrows and false fronts characteristic of European design sensibilities, demanding careful attention to pin position and approach trajectory. Several holes require shaped shots around or over water, echoing the creative shotmaking that defined Ballesteros's own career. The Shire London operates as a members' club with visitor access, serving the north London and Hertfordshire golfing community. The facility includes extensive practice areas and clubhouse amenities typical of modern English golf clubs. The course has hosted regional amateur competitions and corporate events, though it has not been a venue for professional tour stops. For golfers interested in experiencing design work by one of Europe's most celebrated players, the Masters course offers a playable test that emphasizes strategy and shot variety over penal difficulty.