Northumberland Golf Club

Northumberland Golf Club sits next to the Newcastle Marriott Hotel in Gosforth Park, just north of Newcastle city centre, so it's a handy pick if you want a quality round without faffing about with travel. Better still, you can be back in town quickly for dinner, drinks and a proper night out in the Toon.

The club is rightly well regarded, with a classic parkland layout shaped by two of the game's big names, Harry Colt and James Braid. If you're the sort of golfer who enjoys plotting your way round rather than simply bashing driver, you'll like it here. In my opinion, it's at its best when you commit to position off the tee and trust your irons into well-defended greens.

Expect mature, tree-lined fairways, gentle elevation changes and bunkering that's placed to catch the slightly lazy shot. It's not unfair, but it will nudge you into thinking about angles, especially on the more exposed holes when the breeze gets up. The course rewards accuracy and course management over raw power, which makes it a proper test for mid to low handicappers without being punishing for those still finding their game.

For golf breaks, the location does a lot of the heavy lifting. Stay at the Marriott, play a strong course in the morning and you're only minutes from the heart of Newcastle afterwards. Ideal for a weekend with mates, a society day or a short UK golf break built around golf plus nightlife.

Who is this for?
Golfers and groups who want a respected parkland course close to Newcastle, with easy access to hotels, dining and nightlife.

Who is it best for?
Mid to low handicappers and societies who enjoy classic design, sensible strategy and a convenient base.