Nestled in the heartland of England’s northeast, the Macdonald Linden Hall Golf & Country Club is set on 450 private acres of idyllic countryside.
Built in 1812, the magnificent Linden Hall is a former manor house which has been transformed into a stylish hotel. Within the resort’s grounds lies a superb golf course that caters to players of all abilities.
If you’re looking for a relaxing golf break in the most serene of locations, with all the trimmings you’d expect from a Macdonald hotel, then look no further…
On the tee … The championship course at Linden Hall is delicately laid out across the resort’s large private estate. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as you’ll encounter several stunning views over the Cheviot Hills and Northumberland coastline as you plot your way around this Jonathan Gaunt-designed gem. The course itself offers a terrific mix of par 4s and 5s, but the real showpiece are the four par 3s which will long remain in the memory. Each is spectacularly framed by mature trees and typically features a nerve-wracking carry over water. The H2O is a common enemy throughout, combining with strategically placed bunkers and natural undulations to form a test of golf fit for higher-calibre players without being overly demanding on the higher handicappers.
You’ll encounter plenty of the wet stuff on a round at Linden Hall … it features on nine of the 18 holes!
Signature hole … The signature hole of the course has got to be the 4th – aptly named “The Pond” – a tricky par 3 which requires brave golfers to carry the ball over water to a putting surface which is heavily protected by trees. Choose your club wisely, and pray that you strike it clean!
Do or die … don’t be short on the signature 4th hole.
Food and drink … Guests at Linden Hall have two options for meals, not to mention a cocktail bar (perfect for forgetting an ordinary round). The first is the AA Rosette-awarded Dobson Restaurant, which serves succulent fare including Scottish beef, lamb and wild white fish; all in an elegant dining setting. The second is the less formal of the pair; the Linden Tree Bar & Grill. In this cosy gastro pub you’ll find light meals and cool beverages, forming a popular spot for groups of golfers to whittle the night away.
Take advantage of the summer sunshine by choosing a table on the patio at The Linden Tree to enjoy lunch.
What else to do … Should the weather turn sour, or if you’re simply looking for some R&R after a long day on the course, then head to Linden Hall’s brilliant spa. Try a hot stone or aromatic massage (and say goodbye to post-round back stiffness) or refresh and rejuvenate with a facial treatment or spell in the spa bath. The spa facilities also include the state-of-the-art fitness centre and pool at the Vital Health & Wellbeing Club. Personal trainers are on hand to offer advice on lifestyle and nutrition (although this writer would much rather do bicep curls with a pint at the Linden Tree).
Who to take … With great food and facilities (not to mention a brilliant championship layout), why not grab your ‘significant other’ for a relaxing weekend away? The resort is set on 450 acres of stunning Northumberland countryside, with plenty of walking paths to explore while taking in the scenery. Furthermore, you’re just a short drive from Newcastle and its wealth of dining, shopping and entertainment options.
The lodgings at Linden Hall are extremely warm and comfortable, providing the ideal accommodation for a short golf break in the northeast.
Getting there … The drive to Linden Hall (situated about a half-hour north of Newcastle) is all part of the experience, with the resort’s secluded location giving you the feel of being a million miles away from anywhere. Turn that pesky mobile phone off, kick back and relax!
