The Belfry Hotel & Resort (Brabazon course)

The Belfry (Brabazon course): Hosting four Ryder Cup matches between 1985 and 2002 put The Belfry's Brabazon Course fairly and squarely on the world golfing map. The course had suffered from rather mediocre reviews, but from its Ryder Cup heydays steadily rose in stature and in the rankings. The natural parkland layout now commands a reputation that matches the quality of the top-level events played here.

Predominantly tree-lined, although a little more open in places, this excellently presented layout has matured over the years into a very pleasant and absorbing test of golf. Although not overly undulating, the excellent bunkering, frequent water hazards and woodland stretches provide each hole with excellent definition, and in most cases plenty of challenge.

Thanks in large part to the Ryder Cup coverage, several of the Brabazon's holes have now become part of golfing folklore. Two holes standout. The drivable but water protected green at the short gently downhill par-4 10th, presents a huge risk-reward opportunity for those prepared to have a tilt at the green from the tee. Closing out the back-nine loop is the always testing long par-4 18th. With water lurking from the tee and needing to be cleared in front of the large final green, this hole has been the demise of many a world-class player, especially when the weight of Ryder Cup honours is bearing down.

It's not just Ryder Cup fame that draws golfers to The Brabazon. The quality and inherent challenge of the course makes it one of England's top-rated modern parkland courses.

Stay&Play at The Belfry: onsite accommodation available, see Where2Stay section below.