There’s nothing quite like the moment when your son announces his engagement. The champagne flows, congratulations are exchanged, and inevitably, the wedding planning talk begins. During our recent family celebration dinner with my son and his lovely fiancée, I experienced one of those revelatory moments that only comes when you realise the apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree.
While his bride-to-be enthusiastically discussed menu options and picturesque photo locations (all undeniably important), my son leaned over and whispered what was really on his mind: “Dad, what about a venue with a quality golf course for the lads the day before?”
I nearly choked on my roast lamb. Not from shock, mind you, but from a surge of paternal pride. In that moment, I knew I had raised him correctly.
England’s Finest “I Do & Golf Too” Venues
For couples where one (or both) have a passion for golf, selecting a venue with exceptional golfing facilities creates a unique opportunity: the chance to combine pre-wedding relaxation and mingling with some healthy on course competition.
Fortunately, England boasts some truly magnificent boutique properties that offer both wedding elegance and golfing excellence. Here are some standouts that have caught my eye while I’ve been “helping” with the venue research (purely for parental support reasons, of course):
Matfen Hall, Northumberland
This grand country mansion doesn’t just offer stunning ceremony spaces—it also features a 27-hole golf course with majestic parkland views. When your future mother-in-law asks why you’ve chosen it, simply point to the ornate ceilings and sweeping staircase.
Matfen Hall
Matfen Village, Northumberland, NE20 0RH
2 Courses / 27 Holes
Rudding Park, Harrogate
With two golf courses (including the championship Hawtree course), this Yorkshire gem allows for a proper tournament before anyone says “I do.” Their spa and private cinema provides something for non-golfing guests, though we all know where the real fun happens.
Bovey Castle, Devon
Set within Dartmoor National Park, this 5-star venue offers an 18-hole championship course designed by J.F. Abercromby. When wedding guests ask about the property’s history, you can impress them with tales of its 1926 golfing heritage (while conveniently omitting that this fact influenced your decision more than the castle’s architectural splendour). Non golfing guests can experience falconry, bee-keeping, clay pigeon shooting and cider and sloe gin making.
The Manor House, Wiltshire
This 14th-century stunner near Bath pairs medieval charm with a championship golf course designed by Peter Alliss. Perfect for convincing yourself that you’re making venue choices based on “historical significance” rather than handicap opportunities. Non golfing guests can wander through the Italian Garden or enjoy the picturesque Cotswold village of Castle Coombe.
Brocket Hall, Hertfordshire
With not one but two championship courses, this aristocratic estate offers the Melbourne Course and the Palmerston Course. The stately rooms and magnificent ballroom provide excellent cover for what might be your primary interest.
Brocket Hall
Brocket Hall, Welwyn, Hertfordshire AL8 7XG
2 Courses / 36 Holes
Leeds Castle, Kent
Known as “the loveliest castle in the world,” it also features a challenging 9-hole course. When your fiancée questions your sudden interest in historic architecture, you can genuinely admire the moated castle while mentally calculating your club selection on the fairways that run alongside the moat.
A Word of Advice
For anyone now navigating these waters, might I offer some guidance to fellow golf enthusiasts planning their nuptials:
- Always frame your venue suggestions in terms of “stunning photography opportunities” rather than “proximity to the first tee.”
- When discussing the wedding budget, subtly include the phrase “package deal” whenever mentioning golf facilities.
- Present the “Golf Day” as a “Pre-Wedding Icebreaker” and a way of building camaraderie before the big event.
- Remember to actually attend the wedding after your round. This is apparently non-negotiable.
The Perfect Compromise
In all seriousness, what makes these venues special is their ability to create memorable experiences for everyone. While the golf enthusiasts enjoy a celebratory round, others can indulge in spa treatments, explore historic grounds, or relax in luxurious surroundings.
My son and his fiancée are discovering that wedding planning, like a good golf game, is all about strategic choices and knowing when to compromise. As they visit these magnificent venues, they’re finding the perfect balance between his love of golf and her vision for their special day.