Some of the finest golfing opportunities in the world are found on our shores. And where there are great courses, you can be sure there are great hotels too. Here are some of the beautiful upscale properties to book for a sporting break.
Rudding Park, Yorkshire
This privately-owned hotel in Harrogate has 90 rooms, a spa, two gourmet restaurants, a cinema and its own kitchen garden. Set over 300 acres, it has a driving range and two courses that suit beginners and experienced golfers alike. Visit just for the day, stay for longer or sign up for a membership and take some lessons. Jason Norwood resident apprentice greenkeeper at Rudding Park, received the accolade of ‘Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2019’ – so you can expect perfectly manicured grounds. Accommodation options here include 6-person cottages, lodges, suites, spa rooms and family rooms.
Rockliffe Hall, County Durham
Nestled in the sleepy village of Hurworth near Darlington, is Rockliffe Hall. With an idyllic setting, five-star facilities, its own golf academy and an 18-hole championship course this is a wonderful choice for a ‘play and dine’ break – and non-golfing partners can enjoy the spa facilities while you’re on the green. Sleep in the Tiplady Lodge or a classic bedroom with views of the Old Hall. One of the longest and prettiest courses in the UK, the grounds include three lakes, eight reed beds, 25,000 new and mature trees and A4 creeping bentgrass greens.
Close House, Northumberland
Venue for the British Masters 2017, the competition is returning to Close House for the second time in 2020. It also boasts the only Lee Westwood golf courses (two) in the world and has the only PGA Academy in the North East. The British golfing legend and OBE often visits here – Westwood maintains a close relationship with the resort and has created courses to challenge all levels of player. The 16 room boutique hotel has a grand lodge and huge cottage for larger groups or those wanting privacy and extra space outwith the main building.
Old Course Hotel, St Andrews
One of the most famous Scottish golf hotels, the Old Course is a 144 roomed AA Five Red-Star resort, frequently holding society and corporate golf events. The Duke’s is a stunning course with sea views and if the weather’s inclement, players can head indoors to The Swing Studio to play a round on one of 60 virtual courses, with optional tuition. There’s also a renowned Pro Shop here, and Golfino stocking designer golf clothing. In the hotel, you’ll find a Kohler Waters Spa, a range of refined eateries, bars and upscale rooms with traditional Scottish decor.
The Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire
Home of three championship courses (as well as a fourth) and The PGA National Golf Academy for Scotland, Gleneagles hosted The Ryder Cup in 2014 and the 2019 Solheim Cup – making it the only venue to have held both tournaments. There’s a total of 63 holes to be played here, including two 19th holes. The historic hotel established in 1924 and flanked by the epic Perthshire hills was also the venue for the G8 summit of world leaders in 2005. Lodges, luxury rooms, a concierge and plethora of high-end restaurants and bars ensure you never need to leave its prestigious grounds during your break away.
Greywalls, East Lothian
A renowned golfing region, East Lothian’s rolling Scottish countryside is the setting for Greywalls Hotel. This elegant, Edwardian building designed by celebrated architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, sits on the edge of the championship Muirfield course and is a short drive to those at Gullane, Luffness, North Berwick, Renaissance and Archerfield. It has 23 bedrooms, a walled garden, tennis court, croquet lawn, putting green and fine dining at Chez Roux. Specialising in golfing groups, parties of up to 40 are catered for in the main house, while smaller ones can enjoy the Colonel’s House.
The Grove, Hertfordshire
The former home of the Earls of Clarendon is a convenient spot to combine a London city break, or for a weekend escape from the capital. Designed by renowned course architect Kyle Philips, the course played host to the British Masters in 2016 and runs regular tournaments. 215 stylish soothingly decorated rooms in pale palettes, an award-winning spa and two chic restaurants are found within the 18th-century manor house and its connected modern wing.
Bovey Castle, Dartmoor
Devon’s wild moors are home to this 90-year-old course designed by J F Abercromby and the adjacent traditional baronial hotel. Meandering through the grounds, there’s plenty of challenge to be found on this course, as well as a short game practice facility and a putting green. Guests can take advantage of lessons, caddy/buggy/trolley hire and a driving range. The main house has a spa, pool, two restaurants, an oak-panelled bar, 60 rooms – and there are 22 three-storey country lodges with kitchens for those who prefer to self-cater. A nearby helipad means you – and your clubs – can arrive in ultimate style.
Resort Hotel Celtic Manor, Wales
In the Usk Valley is Celtic Manor, a championship, three-course resort, host to the Ryder Cup in 2010 and the 2014 NATO summit. Play here and you’ll be following in the footsteps of Tyger Woods, Rory McIlroy and more. Facilities are five-star and abundant, providing guests with ample choice – there are six restaurants, multiple bars, two spas, a golf academy, floodlit driving range, two fancy clubhouses and over 1000 staff members to take care of you. Stay in a plush contemporary secluded lodge, or in one of its 400 country club style rooms.
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