Linden Hall

You’ll find Linden Hall Golf & Country Club just outside the village of Longhorsley, less than half an hour from Newcastle, the heartland of England’s northeast. Built in 1812, the elegant Linden Hall is a beautiful former manor house, which has been transformed into a tasteful hotel. There’s also a traditional onsite pub, called the Linden Tree. Be careful not to have one drink too many before your game.

The course is set in the most serene surroundings with panoramic views of the rugged Cheviot Hills, the steely North Sea and Coquet Island with its bird sanctuary and famous Victorian lighthouse. The layout is a unique and undulating mixture of 19th century parkland, mature woodland and open countryside. Linden Hall opened for play to a standing ovation in 1997. Designed by Jonathan Gaunt in four loops, with each loop finishing close to the hotel. Perfect for a few holes after dinner.

It’s a course to be enjoyed by golfers of all handicaps. Numerous teeing positions cater for all levels. But a word of warning, Linden Hall stretches out to 6,846 yards from the back tees. So, if you’re seeking enjoyment, be careful with your choice of tee. Key to scoring well is to be in the right position off the tee; a number of the holes are huge sweeping doglegs. There’s even a challenging double dogleg… the par five 13th, with its green surrounded by water.

But it’s the one shot holes at Linden Hall that will remain lodged in the mind for a very long time. Each of the four par threes are quite stunning, framed by mature trees and featuring plenty of do-or-die carries across water. It’s hard to pick a favourite, but the 7th is a gem. The tee is elevated, providing a clear view of the surrounding trees and the task in hand. The green is protected by a lake on the left and, to make matters worse, the green slopes towards the water.

If you are seeking amusement and pleasant surprises then look no further than Linden Hall. This is a course to put a smile on your face.