Close House has been shortlisted in the Members Club of the Year category at The Golf Course Awards 2025.
The Northumberland club, which won Junior Golf Programme of the Year at last year’s awards, has more than 800 members and delivers more than 50 members’ events annually while continuing to invest heavily in facilities. Recent developments include a £500,000 driving range extension and a forthcoming bunker refurbishment programme, both shaped directly by feedback from the club’s annual membership survey.
The club conducts a comprehensive annual membership survey featuring 60 detailed questions, covering everything from course conditions and dining to communications and overall satisfaction. Insights from this survey form the foundation of development planning each year, ensuring the club stays aligned with members’ evolving needs and expectations.
“When I purchased the Close House estate in 2004, I hoped to create the best members’ golf experience in the region,” said Close House owner Sir Graham Wylie. “Each year, we have invested in developing the facilities available at the club. I am extremely proud when receiving positive feedback from our members, many of whom are now close friends.”
The club also prioritises inclusivity and pathways into golf. Its Academy, supported by its PGA professional team, provides opportunities for juniors, beginners and women. Alongside this, Close House’s schools coaching programme – supported by PING – offers free tuition to more than 2,000 children each year.
Beyond golf, Close House delivers a social calendar designed to involve the whole family with events such as an annual family fun day in August and November fireworks.
“We are extremely proud of what has been created at Close House,” said Jonathan Lupton, managing director of Close House. “The team at the club has created a truly special venue for our members and guests to enjoy. Over recent years, we have focused on involving the whole family in the Close House experience, and members’ feedback has been fantastic.”
Close House attached tour professional and former world number one Lee Westwood said: “I have been the attached tour professional at Close House since 2012. In that time, it is fantastic to see the development of the club and estate. During my time at Close House, I have also made many lifelong friends.”
Other high-profile members include Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer, who said: “I have been a member of the club since 2011, and Close House has become the home club for myself and my friends. I play in club knockouts and trophy events. Last year, I was proud to win the Founder Members Trophy. We are so lucky to have a golf club like Close House in Newcastle.”
The winners of this year’s Golf Course Awards will be announced at a ceremony in London on December 4.
