Make New Friends, Play More Golf
We are always on the lookout for new courses to play, and this new website – dedicated to golf in the North East, on Northumberland’s Golf Coast – is a hive of information and a valuable resource for the travelling golfer.
So, we asked Darren Redwood, the founder of the www.northumberlandgolfcoast.com website, to share his recent experience of visiting the courses in the region.
If you’re craving coastal golf, stunning scenery, and a proper break, look no further than Northumberland’s Golf Coast.
My recent trip to this underrated gem, in the North East of England, delivered everything we could’ve hoped for.
Unforgettable golf, delicious food, and warm hospitality, all wrapped up in a backdrop of castles, coastline, and charm.
I travelled by train from London King’s Cross to Berwick-upon-Tweed, a direct service that took just over three hours.
On arrival, I was greeted by a local taxi company, which took us to our base for the trip.
The cosy and well-located Sunningdale Lounge in Seahouses. With welcoming staff and comfortable rooms, it was the perfect place to rest and refuel between rounds.
I started my trip on Thursday evening at Goswick Links, just south of Berwick and right on the North Sea.
Originally laid out in 1890 and later refined by James Braid, Goswick is a true championship links course, and it shows.
It hosts Open Championship Regional Qualifying events and delivers everything you’d expect from a traditional links course.
Rolling fairways, thick rough, and sea breezes that make club selection a proper test. As I played the back nine with the sun dipping towards the sea, I couldn’t help but stop to take in the views.
It’s hard to believe a round here can cost under £70. For quality, setting, and design, it’s one of the best-value links in the UK.
After a traditional golfer’s breakfast (coffee and bacon roll), Friday morning took us to Bamburgh Castle Golf Club, perched high on the cliffs above the village.
Few courses can match this one for drama. Dating back to 1904 and shaped by George Rochester, the course weaves across the hillside.
Taking in the panoramic views of Holy Island, the Farne Islands, and the iconic Bamburgh Castle itself.
Don’t be fooled by its shorter yardage – Bamburgh is far from a pushover. Its quirky layout, elevation changes, and exposed location mean you’ll need every shot in the bag.
I found myself distracted more than once by the views!
Our final stop on Friday afternoon was Alnmouth Village Golf Club. Proudly recognised as England’s oldest 9-hole links, dating back to 1869.
Sitting right by the beach, this course is brimming with charm and character. With its historic clubhouse, firm fairways, and welcoming locals, it felt like stepping back to a simpler time in golf – in the best way possible.
Despite being only nine holes, it’s as testing as it is scenic, especially when the wind picks up.
We had the option for a second loop of 9, but 45 holes in 36 hours was more than enough.
The trip wasn’t just about fairways and greens.
After 18 holes at Goswick Links, we treated ourselves to dinner at the Indian Brasserie in Seahouses.
The food was outstanding. Full of flavour and exactly what we needed after a day of travel and 18 holes.
It’s just another example of the quality you’ll find across Northumberland’s Golf Coast.
Not just the golf, but also in the food, hospitality and scenery.
What stood out more than anything was how affordable the entire trip was.
Great golf for a fraction of what you’d pay in more crowded regions, friendly locals and travel that’s surprisingly easy.
All make Northumberland’s Golf Coast a no-brainer for your next trip.
If you’re based in London or the South East, the direct train to Berwick and short transfers to the courses make it entirely doable for a long weekend or midweek break.
Add in the quality of the golf, the coastal landscapes, and the unspoilt atmosphere, and you’ll wonder why it took you so long to visit.
Planning a golf trip soon? Make it the North East. Make it Northumberland.
Discover the variety, value, and views waiting for you on Northumberland’s Golf Coast – and start planning your escape from the ordinary.
