Bamburgh Castle Golf Club

Bamburgh Castle Golf Club (Bamburgh, Northumberland, England)

Perched on the dramatic clifftops of Northumberland’s coast, Bamburgh Castle Golf Club is a hidden gem that blends exhilarating golf with some of the most breathtaking scenery in England. As you stand on the first tee, the silhouette of the 11th-century Bamburgh Castle looms nearby, while the distant outlines of Lindisfarne, the Farne Islands, and the Cheviot Hills frame the horizon. Established in 1904, this course has enchanted golfers for over a century with its unique layout and natural beauty.

Whether you’re navigating the wind-swept fairways or soaking in the coastal vistas, every moment at Bamburgh Castle Golf Club feels like a journey through golfing history and nature’s grandeur.

Key Details

• Location: Bamburgh, Northumberland, England
• Length: 5,604 yards
• Par: 68
• Designer: George Rochester
• Established: 1904

History and Significance

Bamburgh Castle Golf Club was born from the vision of Lord Armstrong of Bamburgh and Cragside, who sought to transform Bamburgh into a premier holiday destination. In 1904, he enlisted George Rochester, the professional at nearby Alnmouth, to design a course that would complement the area’s natural beauty and existing amenities like tennis courts and rail links. The course opened on August 18, 1904, with Lord Armstrong’s 10-year-old daughter, Winifreda, striking the inaugural tee shot, followed by a week of competitions that the Newcastle Daily Journal hailed as a “brilliant success” (Bamburgh Castle Golf Club History). Notably, the club was progressive for its time, establishing a Ladies Club at its inception, which fostered a strong tradition of female membership.

In 1907, the course was extended by leasing additional fields, a change that has largely defined its layout ever since. While it hasn’t hosted major professional tournaments like The Open Championship, Bamburgh Castle Golf Club has been a cherished venue for local and regional competitions, drawing players with its challenging design and scenic allure. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to attract both local golfers and visitors from afar, particularly from Newcastle and beyond, cementing its role as a social and sporting hub.

The club’s cultural significance is underscored by its inclusion in Scotland’s Golf Coast and Northumberland’s Golf Coast initiatives, which highlight the region’s rich golfing heritage. Renowned publications have showered praise on the course, with Golf World Magazine declaring it “quite possibly the most beautiful and beautifully situated golf course in all England” and Golf Monthly noting its “fantastic views, a sporting layout and a friendly welcome”. These accolades reflect its status as a must-visit destination for golfers seeking beauty and challenge.

Course Features

Bamburgh Castle Golf Club is a quintessential links course, technically classified as a clifftop course, stretching across 5,604 yards with a par of 68. Its layout is both unconventional and engaging, beginning with two consecutive par 3s followed by two par 5s—a sequence that immediately captures the golfer’s attention. The course is set against a rugged coastal landscape, with undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and fast, true greens that demand precision and adaptability.

The course’s challenges are amplified by the ever-present coastal winds, which can turn even straightforward shots into tests of skill. Gorse, heather, whinstone, and rare fauna line the fairways, adding both aesthetic appeal and strategic complexity. The six par 3s are a defining feature, each presenting unique challenges, from blind shots to elevated greens nestled in ravines. The final three holes are particularly memorable, offering birdie opportunities for bold players but punishing errant shots with bunkers and steep drops.

The scenic elements are unparalleled, with nearly every hole offering views of Bamburgh Castle, the North Sea, or the distant Lindisfarne and Farne Islands. As golfing legend Bernard Darwin once noted, “the view is so compellingly beautiful that we really have to look at it, no matter how critical the shot”. This blend of natural beauty and strategic design creates a golfing experience that is as visually stunning as it is intellectually stimulating.

Signature Holes

1st Hole: Par 3, 180 yards

The opening hole is a breathtaking par 3 that sets the stage for the round. Golfers tee off from a cliff edge, facing a shot over a ravine with the North Sea’s winds swirling. The green is well-guarded, demanding accuracy, while the panoramic views up the coastline to Lindisfarne distract and inspire. It’s a bold introduction to the course’s blend of challenge and beauty.

8th Hole: Par 3, Unknown Length

This short par 3 is a visual and strategic gem, featuring a raised tee box and a small green carved into the cliff face. A lone bunker guards the front, and a false front can repel poorly judged shots. The hole’s dramatic setting makes it a favorite for photographs, capturing the essence of Bamburgh’s coastal allure.

16th Hole: Par 4, Unknown Length

The 16th is a thrilling par 4 that requires a precise tee shot over a ravine to a fairway that funnels toward an infinity-like green, seemingly merging with the horizon. The backdrop of Bamburgh Castle adds drama to the approach, rewarding well-placed shots with a chance for birdie but punishing errors with steep penalties.

17th Hole: Par 4, 257 yards

A classic risk-and-reward par 4, the 17th tempts golfers to drive the green, but a steep drop and lurking bunkers make it a high-stakes decision. At just 257 yards, it’s a hole where bravery can yield rewards, but caution is often the wiser choice.

18th Hole: Par 4, Unknown Length

The closing hole sweeps downhill toward the clubhouse, with the North Sea as a stunning backdrop. The fairway leads to a generous green, offering a fitting finale that balances challenge with the opportunity to end on a high note, all while soaking in the coastal vistas.

Why Visit

Bamburgh Castle Golf Club is a destination that tests your golfing skills while immersing you in a landscape of unparalleled beauty. The course’s quirky layout, with its six par 3s and strategic challenges, ensures that every round is both fun and thought-provoking. Coastal winds and natural hazards demand adaptability, making it a rewarding experience for golfers of all levels.

The emotional resonance of playing here is profound—walking fairways with views of a medieval castle and the vast sea connects you to centuries of history and nature’s majesty. As one TripAdvisor reviewer noted, “The views are terrific and include Holy Island, Lindisfarne Castle, Bamburgh Castle, beaches and the Farne Islands”. The club’s warm hospitality enhances the experience, with staff and members creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Practical benefits include affordable green fees, a cozy clubhouse with dining, and proximity to Northumberland’s attractions, making it ideal for a golfing getaway. Golf Monthly sums it up perfectly: “Fantastic views, a sporting layout and a friendly welcome”.

Facilities

The clubhouse at Bamburgh Castle Golf Club is a charming, compact building that exudes warmth and tradition. It houses a bar and dining area where golfers can enjoy local cuisine, from hearty breakfasts to warming soups, all served with a view of the coastline. The pro shop, integrated into the clubhouse, offers golf accessories, clothing, and course guides, with binoculars available to enhance the coastal experience.

Practice facilities are modest but functional, including a putting green that wraps around the clubhouse, a chipping green, and practice nets for warming up. Equipment hire is available, with clubs (£25), electric trolleys (£9.50), and buggies (£34) bookable in advance to ensure availability.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: The Wynding, Bamburgh, Northumberland, NE69 7DE
• Phone: 01668 214321
• Email: office@bamburghcastlegolfclub.co.uk
• Directions: The club is approximately 50 miles north of Newcastle upon Tyne, a 1-hour drive via the A1 and B1341. From Edinburgh, it’s about 1 hour 45 minutes south via the A1.
• Public Transport: The nearest train station is Chathill, 4.4 miles away, with limited services. Buses from Newcastle or Berwick-upon-Tweed (Arriva X18) take about 3 hours with transfers.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking is available.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at Bamburgh Castle Golf Club are structured to accommodate various budgets and times of day, with pricing for 2025 as follows:

Additional options include a day ticket (£100), a 5-day ticket (£200, Monday-Friday), and the Coastal Classic package (£190), which includes rounds at Alnmouth and Goswick (Bamburgh Castle Golf Club Fees). Tee times can be booked online via the club’s website or by calling 01668 214321. The dress code is casual/smart casual, encouraging respect for fellow golfers without rigid rules. Saturdays are often reserved for competitions, so tee times may be limited.

Nearby Attractions

Northumberland’s coastline is a treasure trove of history and natural wonders, making Bamburgh Castle Golf Club an ideal base for a golfing holiday. The region blends rugged beauty with cultural landmarks, perfect for golfers and their companions.

• Bamburgh Castle: A Grade I listed fortress dating back to 547, offering tours of its grand interiors and panoramic coastal views, just a short walk from the golf club.
• Farne Islands: A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, these islands host the UK’s largest puffin colony in summer. Boat trips depart from Seahouses, a lively coastal town 3 miles away.
• Holy Island (Lindisfarne): Accessible by causeway at low tide, this spiritual site features Lindisfarne Priory and a 16th-century castle, about 10 miles from Bamburgh.
• Craster: Famous for its kippers, this quaint village offers scenic walks to the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, approximately 10 miles south.
• Alnwick Castle & Gardens: A medieval castle featured in Harry Potter films, paired with stunning gardens including the Poison Garden, located 15 miles south.
• Seahouses: A bustling fishing town with shops, restaurants, and boat trip departures, just 3 miles from the club.
• The Alnwick Garden: A modern horticultural marvel with water features and Europe’s largest wooden treehouse, also 15 miles away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I book a tee time at Bamburgh Castle Golf Club?

Tee times can be booked online through the club’s website or by calling 01668 214321.

What are the green fees for visitors?

Green fees range from £75 before 2pm in summer to £35 in winter, with discounts for afternoon play.

Is the course suitable for beginners?

The course is challenging but fair, with multiple tee options making it accessible for beginners and experienced players alike.

What is the best time to play?

Mornings offer calmer winds, while afternoons may be quieter. Summer provides longer days and vibrant scenery.

What is the dress code?

The dress code is casual/smart casual, emphasizing respect for fellow golfers.

Are there practice facilities?

Yes, the club offers a putting green, chipping green, and practice nets.

How do I get to the golf club?

Drive 50 miles from Newcastle via the A1 and B1341 (1 hour). Public transport is limited, with buses taking about 3 hours.

Are there nearby golf courses?

Alnmouth and Goswick are nearby, included in the Coastal Classic package.

Has the course hosted any tournaments?

It hosts local and regional competitions but is not known for major professional events.

What makes Bamburgh Castle Golf Club unique?

Its coastal clifftop setting, views of Bamburgh Castle, and quirky layout with six par 3s.

Is accommodation available nearby?

Options include The Victoria Hotel, offering stay-and-play packages, and various cottages in Bamburgh.

Can I hire golf equipment?

Clubs (£25), trolleys (£9.50), and buggies (£34) are available for hire.

What is the weather like?

Northumberland’s climate is temperate, but coastal winds can be strong. Check forecasts before playing.

Is there a restaurant or bar?

The clubhouse offers dining with local cuisine and a bar.

Are there membership options?

The club offers various membership categories with limited vacancies. Contact the office for details.