Lady Golfer Courses: County Champions
Close House, Northumberland
Play-and-stay at this up-and-coming north-east venue
About
Located eight miles from Newcastle, Close House is a bright new club in the Northumberland countryside. It is also the perfect destination for corporate and society golfers thanks to its two courses, welcoming clubhouse and stunning 35- bedroom hotel.
The Course
Both courses at Close House have just been redesigned by Ryder Cup star Lee Westwood. Opened in 2011, the par-71 Westwood Colt Course measures just over 5,100 yards and features several design features borrowed from legendary architect Harry Colt. It has also already been voted as one of the top 100 courses in England.
The Filly Course boasts undulating, USGA specification greens and is perfect for those enjoying 36 holes.
Top Hole
Few forget the 18th on the Colt Course. The 323-yard par 4 features a fairway bunker as well as sand and water hazards beside the green.
Card Wrecker
The par-4 8th hole on the Colt layout has the power to ruin your round. Measuring 399 yards, it also boasts a downhill approach to a well-protected green.
Stapleford Park, Leics
Enjoy a break at this luxurious Midlands venue
About
Situated near Melton Mowbray and Rutland Water, Stapleford Park is the perfect sporting country estate.
As well as offering one of the region’s top courses, the club boasts a luxurious hotel in addition to a wide choice of sports, leisure and fine dining.
The Course
Designed by renowned architect Donald Steel, the 5,852-yard, par-73 layout features rolling greens, generous fairways and strategically-placed bunkers. The River Eye also comes into play on four holes and makes for some stern tests. This quality was rewarded in 2010 and 2011 when the course played host to the European Senior Tour.
Top Hole
There are several memorable holes but the risk-reward 4th stands out. Measuring 493 yards, the par 5 features a tree in the middle of the fairway and a tough drive to a dogleg fairway.
Card Wrecker
The Stroke Index one 11th is more than capable of denting your card. Watch out for out of- bounds down the left and bunkers to the right at this 472 yard par 5.
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