If you’re seeking a golf course that offers a refined, traditional layout with a touch of European flair, Shaftesbury Glen Golf & Fish Club is a must-play on the Myrtle Beach Golf Trail. Located just outside Conway, South Carolina, this club delivers a distinctive golf experience, blending Scottish-style architecture with classic Southern hospitality.
Known for its wide fairways, immaculate bentgrass greens, and stately clubhouse, Shaftesbury Glen offers a calm but strategic round for players of all skill levels.
Course Overview
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Designer: Clyde Johnston
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Par: 72
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Yardage: ~6,935 yards from the tips
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Course Rating: 73.2
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Slope: 135
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Greens: A1/A4 Bentgrass
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Opened: 2001
Shaftesbury Glen was inspired by the great inland courses of the British Isles, with an open layout, well-placed bunkering, and large greens that roll fast and true. Unlike some of the more modern, hazard-heavy layouts on the Grand Strand, this course emphasizes shotmaking and green reading over forced carries and water intimidation.
What Makes Shaftesbury Glen Unique?
The course offers a clean, elegant layout that rewards smart decisions and proper angles. Its most defining features include:
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Large, elevated greens with gentle but deceptive slopes
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Wide fairways that encourage confident tee shots
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Strategic bunkering around landing areas and greens
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Minimal water hazards, allowing players to focus on their game
This is a layout where golfers can swing freely from the tee, but where precision on approach shots and putting separates a good round from a great one.
Signature Holes
While Shaftesbury Glen is consistent from start to finish, a few holes stand out:
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Hole 4 (Par 5): A true three-shot hole with fairway bunkers and a well-guarded green that slopes back to front.
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Hole 9 (Par 4): A demanding par 4 into a prevailing wind with bunkers protecting both sides of the fairway and green.
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Hole 15 (Par 3): A long iron or hybrid shot to an elevated green with bunkers short and left — a test of accuracy and distance control.
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Hole 18 (Par 4): A strong finishing hole that rewards a well-placed drive and a high approach to a deep, narrow green.
Course Conditions and Experience
Shaftesbury Glen is known for its consistently excellent conditioning, particularly:
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True, smooth bentgrass greens
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Firm, fair fairways
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Clean bunkers and minimal rough
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Quick pace of play and friendly service
The course is playable year-round and is often less crowded than more centrally located courses, making it a favorite for those seeking a quiet, quality round.
Facilities and Amenities
Shaftesbury Glen offers:
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Grass driving range and short game area
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Large putting green
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A welcoming pro shop with essentials and apparel
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On-site grill and clubhouse patio for food and drinks post-round
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Locker room facilities and support for golf outings or group play
There’s also a fishing dock on the Waccamaw River for those who want to extend their day outdoors.
Who Should Play Shaftesbury Glen?
This course is a great fit for:
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Mid- to low-handicap players who enjoy strategic layouts
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Senior golfers and couples looking for a fair, relaxing round
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Groups and golf buddies wanting consistent conditions and smooth play
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Locals and return visitors who appreciate fast greens and generous landing areas
It’s one of those courses that grows on you — the more you play it, the more you enjoy its subtleties.
Location and Nearby Courses
Shaftesbury Glen is located in Conway, SC, about:
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25 minutes from central Myrtle Beach
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Near other Trail courses such as Crown Park, Wild Wing, and Long Bay Club
Its inland location offers peace and natural beauty while still being convenient to lodging and restaurants.
Booking a Round at Shaftesbury Glen
You can book your tee time through the Myrtle Beach Golf Trail:
Book your round at Shaftesbury Glen Golf & Fish Club
Click HERE to see the Shaftesbury Glen location map, score card, and more.
Tee times are available year-round, and group packages are welcome.
Final Thoughts
Shaftesbury Glen Golf & Fish Club offers a refreshing break from the typical Myrtle Beach layout. With its clean lines, traditional feel, and fast greens, it provides a satisfying round for purists and casual players alike. Add Shaftesbury to your Myrtle Beach Golf Trail itinerary, and enjoy a course that proves challenge doesn’t require gimmicks — just great design.
