Matfen Village, Northumberland (20 minutes west of Newcastle-upon-Tyne)

A regular venue for professional and county amateur events, Matfen Hall's eighteen hole golf course is rated as one of the finest in Northumberland. Sympathetically laid out on a classic parkland landscape, the 6569 yard course incorporates challenging water features and unique obstacles such as the dry stone "ha ha" wall. It offers an enjoyable test for golfers of all abilities. The picturesque and fast flowing River Pont comes into play at several holes including the 14th, one of many strong par fours. The dog-legged 16th is the pick of the par fives, but Matfen's signature hole is surely the long par three 17th with its narrow green sited teasingly just over the river.

Matfen Hall also has a high quality nine hole par three course is ideal for the less experienced player. Other golfing facilities on site include a driving range, short game practice area and two practice putting greens. Although Matfen is an easy walking course, buggies are available for hire during the main season. The new purpose built clubhouse, "Keepers Lodge" makes an excellent and welcoming '19th Hole'.

Located close to Hadrian's Wall and only 25 minutes from Newcastle city centre and 15 minutes from Newcastle International Airport, Matfen Hall's charm and character are evident throughout the 53 luxurious bedrooms, award winning restaurant, dedicated conference suites and the acclaimed Spa & Leisure Club. Also, the English Tourism Council awarded Matfen Hall "Small Hotel of the Year 2002", so we can proudly claim to offer the finest accommodation and hotel facilities of any Country House Hotel in Northumberland, indeed the whole country.