Planning a trip? Here’s a selection of our favourite places to stay and play
Matfen Hall
Since it opened for play in 1995, the golf course at Matfen Hall has undergone great transformation – not least in recent years following the resort being purchased by the Walwick Estate Group in 2020.
A programme of investment across the business has followed – including a multi-million-pound renovation to create Northumberland’s first and only five-star hotel; the creation of the spectacular Keepers clubhouse with fantastic views of the course, state-of-the-art simulators, and great food; and major investments on the golf course across its agronomy, machinery and staffing.
Further work in the last 12 months has seen the golf course undergo a major redesign, while work is underway on a new, world-leading spa offering.
There are 27 holes at Matfen Hall, with each presenting challenges and unique features which only Matfen has to offer. There’s also a brilliant par three course to keep you busy between rounds. Add in several fantastic dining options, and there’s little more you could want on or off the course.
Aldwark Manor Estate
For those looking to slow the pace and enjoy golf in a scenic setting, Aldwark Manor Estate offers a compelling stay and play option in the heart of North Yorkshire.
The 5,922-yard, par 70 course follows the River Ure and is framed by mature woodland and open countryside, creating a layout which is peaceful and quietly challenging. With a mix of water hazards and natural features, it rewards thoughtful play and remains enjoyable in all conditions.
An overnight stay allows time to make the most of the facilities beyond the fairways. Guests can unwind in the new Salus Spa, settle into one of the hotel’s comfortable bedrooms, and enjoy a full Yorkshire breakfast the following morning. Packages can also include a dinner allowance of £25 per person and 36 holes of golf to create a well-rounded break combining luxury and beautiful countryside.
Alnmouth Golf Club
England’s fourth oldest golf club, Alnmouth is home to one of the great experiences for travelling golfers.
Overlooking Foxton Bay, the course – which was designed by Harry Colt – has benefitted from continued investment and development in recent years as it enhances the challenge and aesthetics of its many bunkers.
For those travelling to the Northumberland coast, the 31-bed Dormy House within the clubhouse offers a unique stay and play experience with twin and single occupancy rooms and en-suite facilities. The bedrooms have been renovated over the last few years, as has a great deal of the clubhouse, and the chance to play, dine and sleep here – and wake up to views of the course and spectacular coastline – is not to be missed.
The club is also home to first-class practice facilities and a driving range – and is just 40 minutes’ drive from Newcastle and close to the A1.
Bellingham Golf Club & Riverdale Hall Hotel
Laid out over a spectacular piece of the North Tyne Valley in the Northumberland National Park, the golf course at Bellingham offers some of the best golfing views in the region. The layout is fun, and challenging, with the many rises and falls with the landscape testing players throughout the round.
Founded in 1893, the par 70 course at Bellingham will test and delight golfers in equal measure with plenty of traditional design elements and unique quirks. The signature par four 12th, Dormouse, is one of the best short par fours in the North East.
Bellingham Golf Club partners with the Riverdale Hall Country House Hotel to offer packages for societies and travelling golfers. The relaxed feel and hearty food here are perfect for those setting out for a day on the course or returning and looking to unwind.
www.bellinghamgolfclub.com & www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk
George Washington Hotel, Golf and Spa
From the moment you step into the clubhouse at George Washington Hotel, Golf and Spa you know you’re in for a fantastic experience.
The modern clubhouse sits beside the 16-bay driving range, complete with heated bays and six power tees, while the bar and pro shop are staffed by a welcoming and friendly team.
The luxury continues in the hotel – which is home to the Carter & Fitch restaurant, the Montana Spa, and leisure facilities.
At the heart of the resort is the par 73 golf course, which can be stretched to 6,625 yards from the back tees. Opened in 1979, the tree-lined fairways are generous – though venturing too far off-line and into the woods can lead to disaster – while the modern greensites are excellent challenges for players of all abilities.
Seascale Golf Club & Calder House Hotel
Designed by Willie Campbell and George Lowe more than 100 years ago, Seascale is a fantastic example of links golf on the west coast of England – with spectacular views of the Isle of Man and Scotland to the west, and the mountains of the Lake District to the east.
Set five miles south of Whitehaven on the Cumbrian coast, this is a delightful place to play in calm conditions and an exacting test when the wind blows in from the Irish Sea. A regular in top 100 lists, it is a must-visit.
Just a few paces from the course at Seascale, the Calder House Hotel offers a warm Cumbrian welcome, stunning views from several of the bedrooms as well as the bar and restaurant, and a top-quality breakfast. There’s also a beer garden, free parking, and wifi. A range of en-suite rooms are available, and golfers are made very welcome.
www.seascalegolfclub.co.uk & www.calderhouse.co.uk
Slaley Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
The Slaley Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort in Northumberland has a longstanding reputation for hosting some of the region’s biggest golf events, as well as visiting golfers from around the world.
Its two golf courses – the Priestman and the Hunting – are ranked among the very best in the North East and a string of European, Senior Tour, and PGA events have been staged here over the years. In 2025, the European Girls’ Team Championship took place on the Hunting Course, while in 2022 Scott Vincent won on the Asian Tour here.
Designed by Dave Thomas, the lush sweeping fairways, rolling moorland, streams and lakes, towering trees and banks of rhododendrons combine to provide an air of peace and tranquillity to a fun and challenging golf experience.
Set in more than 1,000 acres of Northumberland moorland and forest, the championship golf courses sit alongside the 141-bedroom hotel and spa – with various packages available combining golf, leisure and relaxation, and dining with your stay.
