TRAVEL: Play and stay

THE Midlands is a golfing hotspot, brimming with classy courses and tenacious tracks, and NCG was there to review some of their most valuable assets, beginning with the infamous Belfry.

The Belfry

SET in 550 acres of finest countryside in the West Midlands, the De Vere Belfry is known the world over for its serial hosting of the Ryder Cup. Away from the famous Brabazon course, it is an ideal place to escape for business or pleasure and where you can be assured of a warm welcome.

The unique four-star complex is home to three top-class courses, flexible conference spaces, and extensive leisure and spa facilities. A team of friendly, dedicated staff will ensure your visit is every bit as good as it should be.

Patshull Park

LOCATED near Shifnal, just outside Wolverhampton, Patshull Park benefits from the beautifully lush surroundings of the Shropshire countryside. Designed by the legendary John Jacobs this 18-hole championship-standard parkland course offers a stern test to all abilities of golfer.

Water features provide great character but also double up as dangerous hazards so course management is a priority in order to keep a clean card. This is a really top-quality track. The on-site hotel, voted ‘small hotel of the year’ by Black Country Tourism, provides a perfect location for your golf break.

Horsley Lodge

SITUATED amid 170 acres of beautiful, undulating Derbyshire countryside, Horsley Lodge offers accommodation and golf of the highest standard. Redesigned in 1999 by former Walker Cup captain Peter McEvoy to USGA standards, this spectacular 18-hole course offers a terrific challenge.

Subtle undulations and trees make this a thinking man’s course where a variety of shot-making skills will be required to earn a good score. Ten individually designed bedroom suites, all reflecting different periods in the area’s history, offer accommodation of the highest standard.

Norwood Park

OFTEN described as one of England’s finest examples of Georgian country-house venues Norwood Park is definitely a ‘must visit’ for your golfing break. Accommodation here is second to none, combining elegance and class among its 10 bedroom suites, all of which still incorporate the original features of the house.

The course, designed by Clyde B Johnston, is a magnificent layout, which blends perfectly with the historic parkland setting. Built to USGA standards, at 6,805 yards the course will appeal to all standards of golfer. In summary, a first-class venue.

Bidford Grange

FOUND in the heart of Shakespeare country Bidford Grange has, for the last 10 years, been an exceptionally popular choice for golfers seeking a quality venue offering great value for money. Styled to create a relaxed and comfortable stay, the on-site Metropolitan Hotel with its 54 rooms provides a great base for your golfing trip.

The course, a venue for the 2004 EuroPro Tour, is a challenging 18-hole parkland setting which has matured into one of the Midlands’ premier destinations. At 7,233 yards from the back tees it is one of England’s longest and renowned as one of the most difficult courses to manage.

Telford Golf and Spa Hotel

THIS picturesque, 6741-yard championship course was built by renowned architects John Harris and Brian Griffiths. The attractive 170-acre parkland course features strategically-placed  water hazards and tree-lined fairways destined to ruin your card with a misplaced shot.

The undulating greens are laid on a suspended water table system, the same as is used at Augusta National, home of the US Masters. Whether you are a group of friends, a society or a couple looking for a golfing break, Telford Golf and Spa Hotel is a great location.

The Abbey Hotel

SET in 175 acres of peace and tranquility The Abbey has established itself as being one of the leading four-star venues throughout the Midlands. Very few other hotels can summon an atmosphere of total relaxation.

Boasting an impressive 100 en-suite rooms, first-class restaurant and excellent facilities it is the ideal venue for your golfing retreat. If that wasn’t enough the championship-standard course based here, regularly hosting county matches, is the perfect place to unwind.

The Abbey Hotel is typical of the play and stay experience you receive in the Midlands. It makes it a ‘must consider’ area when searching for your golfing  break.

CONTACT DETAILS:

Abbey Hotel and Golf Club
01527 406600

Telford Golf and Spa Hotel
01952 429977

Bidford Grange
01789 490319

Norwood Park
01636 816626

Horsley Lodge
01332 780838

Patshull Park
01902 700100