Pin High Virtual Golf in Dallington, Northampton

Pin High Virtual Golf is a small, private simulator room in a business centre in Dallington, on the west side of Northampton, and it is a real gem for anyone who wants plenty of golf without spending a fortune. You book online, receive a PIN, and have the room to yourself, from as early as 6am until 11pm, with overnight slots available if you give a day's notice.

The set-up is carefully put together. A FlightScope Mevo+ launch monitor, complete with its Pro Package and face impact readings, tracks every shot, while E6 Golf software puts famous courses such as Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, Royal Troon and St Andrews on a large screen through a 4K projector. You hit Titleist Pro V1 balls, and if you have not brought your own clubs, a basic set is provided free of charge.

The prices are among the friendliest you will find. Through the winter, a solo player pays £10 an hour off-peak or £15 at peak times, with £5 for each extra person, and a group of up to four can hire the room for £20 or £25 an hour. From April to September, the off-peak rates apply all week. Practice passes bring the cost down further for regulars.

If you want to improve, a local coach offers one-to-one lessons in the bay, working on swing, shot shape and gapping, and helping beginners build confidence.

This is a quiet, unstaffed space with no bar, though there is a fridge of soft drinks and snacks and you are welcome to bring your own. Parking is free, but do remember to register your car when you arrive.