Synonymous with one of the most iconic holes in golf, the Road Hole Bar has a delicious history, having fed and watered some of the biggest names in the sport. It’s become a place to celebrate, to raise a glass and enjoy the moment — and suddenly it feels more glamorous than ever.

“Guests like a totally different place,” says the bar’s manager, Matthew Wislicki, of the recent refurbishments there. “There’s a whole new atmosphere, and one that really lends itself to evening entertainment.”

With that in mind, every day at 6pm, the Road Hole Bar assumes a spirited new character. On the terrace down, the bartenders roll up their sleeves and the evening ritual begins. To set the tempo for the next few hours, one of the team performs a theatrical cocktail demonstration. “Some days there’s fire, some days there’s flair,” grins Matthew, “but either way, we’re showcasing some seriously impressive cocktails.”

The newly unveiled Old Fashioned, smoked in situ by burning oak woodchips and infusing Scotch whisky and bitters under a cloche. Or the French Martini, beloved of the team here. “They always go down a storm,” says Matthew, who taught himself the art of mixology while managing the bars at Ham Hame and Swilcan Loft. “It involves what we call in bartending the ‘throwing technique’, which sees the liquid literally thrown between two shakers. It’s a really tricky skill to master.”

Everybody is welcome, of course, and the same goes for Friday evenings, when we invite a local pianist to perform on the Road Hole Bar’s baby grand. That piano has been with the hotel for more than 25 years and was French-polished back to its original rosewood glory as part of the refurbishment. “The space is now perfect for some laid-back jazz,” says Matthew. “We’ve booked a mix of local musicians and a few bigger names.”

Music-wise, there’s something for everyone: expect a heady mix of nostalgic standards and contemporary re-workings. Singing along is optional, but very much encouraged!

It’s the perfect way to ease into the weekend, surrounded by golfers celebrating a round to remember, couples relaxing by the fire and old friends catching up with tales of golf. Let’s not forget the enormous views of the Old Course and beyond. Our pianists are booked to play until midnight, but, given the Road Hole Bar’s relaxed approach to last orders, there could always be a bit of wiggle room.