English Golf Courses

Golf Breaks in Northumberland

LIST five regions in the United Kingdom that have ‘flourished’ in recent years and the chances are that Northumberland is on it.

This northern region of England has, perhaps, produced more quality golf courses in the last ten years than any other part of the UK. For travelling golfers, it is without doubt one of the best places in the UK to play golf.

The locals famously prefer to call the area their own ‘great discovery’ and you can see why. Northumbria is alive with  a sense of tradition, prestige and history – but the best part  is that, while it is riding on the crest of a wave, prices for golfers have stayed at a realistic level.

The golf courses are known for their scenic beauty and this is no more prevalent than   when enjoying a few holes at Bedlington, which provides  sensational views across the south of the region. The Frank Pennink-designed course is the ideal starter for your trip south of the border.

Bellingham, situated in the picturesque North Tyne Valley, is also worth a look. The undulating parkland venue is characterised by its selection of natural hazards and superb par-threes.

Just off the A1 is Burgham Park, a joint design by Andrew Mair and former Ryder Cup captain Mark James. The  testing course has since been joined by an impressive modern clubhouse.

Southwards you will find Morpeth, one of the most popular venues in Northum-berland for obvious reasons. The parkland course boasts superb views across the Cheviot Hills and is always kept in outstanding condition, so be sure to add it to your list.

One of the best nine-holers  in the north of England is Rothbury, although the club has plans to increase the course to the full complement of 18 by  the end of the year. The current nine boasts a number of exciting holes, not to mention some of the best greens for miles.

Slaley Hall, of course, needs little introduction thanks to its presence on the European Tour in recent years. It has two championship courses, the Priestman and the Hunting, both of which are set in stunning locations and provide an astute test of golf.

Equally as inviting is Matfen Hall, a classic parkland that’s just six miles north of Hexham. Pay particular attention to the long sixth, which can be one of the toughest holes in the north if the wind is blowing.
Longhirst Hall is an enticing prospect for any golfer and the course, which has its fair share of water hazards, continues to garner rave reviews, much in the same vein as Northumbria itself. No wonder they call it the ‘great discovery’.

Local golf trivia
Alnmouth Golf Club was formed in 1869 and is the fourth oldest golf club in England.

During the inaugural match in 1908 at City of Newcastle, club secretary James Potts hit a crow on the first hole and killed it. The crow was stuffed and currently sits in a glass case in the clubhouse.

Bamburgh Castle, visible from the course of the same name, has been used for many big-budget Hollywood films, including Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.