Northumberland Golf Links

Berwick-upon-Tweed Golf Club, known as Goswick, designed by James Braid in 1890 and later modified by Frank Pennink, is the most northerly course in England. It is a classic links stretching to 6,800 yards and is relatively flat with areas of dunes created by the tides and the wind over the centuries but is a formidable test in the wind. The land drains well and tends to be firm and fast-running, making the typical seaside links, where few trees are able to survive. Unlike many links the two nines return to the clubhouse. Holes 13 and 14 come closest to the sea. The club logo is a goose in flight, and the name ‘Goswick’ means the village, or area, where geese were to be found.

Bamburgh Golf Club’s superb coastal location makes it a hit with golfers looking to sample a true links-style experience with fine views of the sea. Indeed, those in search of these things will not be disappointed by this course as it has some marvellous scenic views over the Farne Islands, the Holy Isle, Bamburgh Castle and the Cheviot Hills.

There is a vast selection of natural hazards here also, with heather and whin bushes bordering the fairways and providing an ominous threat to anything other than an accurate shot. It is worth noting that the greens are fast and true so beware when putting as it is easy to be caught out. It is also easy on the legs, measuring 5,621 yards in total.

Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club

Golf has been played on the links at Embleton Bay since 1900, and in 1920 James Braid was brought in to reshape and extend the course, which remains largely as he left it. The ruins of 14th-century Dunstanburgh Castle overlook almost every hole, and the fairways run out beside the beach, guarded by gorse, sand and an ever-changing wind.

The 13th, with the North Sea on one side and the castle behind the green, is the hole everyone remembers. Free-draining links land keeps the course open all year.

Alnmouth Village and Alnmouth (Foxton)

Founded in 1869 and laid out by Mungo Park, the 1874 Open champion, Alnmouth Village is the oldest nine-hole links in England. It runs along the sandy ground between Alnmouth beach and the cliffs, with the opening holes beside the shore and a testing run home, usually into the prevailing wind. The view from the elevated 7th tee, across the beach to Coquet Island, is one of the best on the Northumberland coast.

A short drive away, Alnmouth Golf Club, known locally as Foxton, is a clifftop course overlooking Alnmouth Bay, combining nine holes by Willie Park Jr with nine by Harry Colt. It plays on parkland turf, is known for superb greens and presentation, and its 26-bed Dormy House makes an easy base for groups.