Simulation golf bundled with free-flow drinks is useful when you want the bill kept simple, at an after-party or a gathering with friends.
What the headline price actually covers, and how long you get, vary from venue to venue. Here is what to compare before you book.
Check what the set price includes
Start by checking whether the booth charge, the playing charge, rental, drinks and the service charge are all in there. Watch for prices quoted before tax as well.
Free-flow drinks can look cheap while the simulator is charged separately, which changes the total. Compare on the final figure per person.
Look at the drinking time and the ordering rules
Even with a two-hour session, last orders on the drinks may fall at 90 minutes. Check the start and end times, and any rules such as exchanging an empty glass.
Seeing whether beer, wine, cocktails and soft drinks are all covered, and matching that to what your group actually drinks, makes a real difference to how it lands.
Pick the booth that fits your numbers
For a few people, an open booth; for a gathering built around conversation, semi-private; for business entertaining or an anniversary, a fully private room.
Look past the booth's maximum capacity to how many can play at once and how many seats there are. Choose a space where everyone can sit comfortably.
Check that non-drinkers are catered for
A group often includes someone driving, or simply not drinking. The range of alcohol-free cocktails and soft drinks matters as much as the rest.
Where there are darts, karaoke or something else besides golf, the time spent not playing passes at everyone's own pace.
Golf and free-flow drinks in Gion
Gion Country Club offers plans combining simulation golf with free-flow drinks, which suit anything from colleagues to a girls' night to an after-party.
Choose between open, semi-private and fully private. Settle your numbers and the time you want, then check the plans page for what each one includes.
Frequently asked questions
Are soft drinks part of the free-flow?
That varies by venue and plan. Check which menu items are covered before you book.
Do guests who do not play pay the same?
Pricing conditions differ by plan, so tell the venue your numbers and that some guests will not be playing.
Can a free-flow plan be booked on the day?
Sometimes, if there is space, but booking ahead is advisable for a group.
