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The Belfry Golf Course Review | Warwickshire

The Belfry

One of the most recognisable names in British golf, The Belfry is undoubtedly one of the finest tracks the country has to offer.

Boasting three memorable golf courses, a world-class hotel and a luxury spa, it is no surprise that The Belfry sits high on the list of ideal golf break destinations.

The Belfry Golf Course Review:

Surrounded by 500 acres of glorious countryside in the heart of the Midlands near Sutton Coldfield, you can take your pick from the tests offered by the signature Brabazon, the PGA National or The Derby.

The Brabazon, host to the Ryder Cup on no fewer occasions than a record four times, is the championship course at The Belfry.

A 7,160-yard par-72 at its longest, The Brabazon was first created in 1977 and is renowned for tight fairways, perilous bunkers, lakes and fast undulating greens and offers the chance to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Ryder Cup heroes Seve Ballesteros and Sam Torrance.

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Two highlights of a memorable parkland test are the 301-yard par-4 10th which will tempt the bigger hitters to have a crack at the green, and the closing 441-yard par-3 18th, the scene of Paul McGinley’s Ryder Cup clinching putt.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that PGA National, the only course in England to carry PGA status, is an easier proposition – some even regard it as the best layout The Belfry has to offer.

It may only have been around since 1997, but it has been the scene of much frustration (and a bit of joy) for golfers – including as a two-time European Tour host venue.

The PGA National is an inland links, and therefore a much different test to the Brabazon. A par-72 measuring 7,053 yards at its longest, it has hard and fast running fairways, bunkers galore and some seriously undulating greens and provides an opportunity to play links golf for those not closer enough to the coastal courses.

The par-5 12th provides the signature hole on the course, but the par-4 14th, a true risk and reward hole, is another highlight.

The Derby, also first played in 1977, is an easier test that its sister courses. It may be shorter at 6,325 yards (par 70), but the parkland course requires accuracy from the tee. A more strategic approach is needed when playing the Derby.

THE BELFRY

Par: Brabazon – 72, PGA National – 72, Derby – 70

Yards: 7,160 yards (Brabazon), 7,053 yards (PGA National), 6,325 yards (Derby)

STAY: AT THE BEST WESTERN MOOR HOTEL AND SPA, SUTTON COLDFIELD, THE MARRIOTT FOREST OF ARDEN or THE MACDONALD BURLINGTON HOTEL, BIRMINGHAM, FOR THE BELFRY.

Picture Credit: The Belfry