Midlands Golf Courses Comparison Guide | Grand Tour Golf
Golf Guide

Midlands Golf Courses: A Practical Comparison Guide

A clear, golfer-first reference guide to four standout Midlands courses—with the key differences that actually matter when you're choosing where to play.

If you're planning a UK golf break, the Midlands is one of the best-value regions for championship layouts, great hotels, and easy travel from pretty much anywhere in the country. Below is a clear, golfer-first reference guide to four standout options—Forest of Arden, Belton Woods, Woodhall Spa, and Hellidon Lakes—with the key differences that actually matter when you're choosing where to play.

Quick Comparison Table

Course Best For Vibe Difficulty Stay & Facilities Ideal Trip Type
Forest of Arden
(Warwickshire)
A polished "tour pro" feel without being stuffy Premium Resort Medium–High Strong hotel + spa + practice 1–3 night luxury break
Belton Woods
(Lincolnshire)
Great all-round value and easy group logistics Relaxed Resort Medium Very good hotel + leisure 1–3 night group break
Woodhall Spa
(Lincolnshire)
Pure golf quality and bragging rights Traditional / Elite High Limited on-site resort feel Golf-first weekend
Hellidon Lakes
(Northants)
A quieter, budget-friendly golf escape Laid-back Low–Medium Solid hotel + leisure Quick, simple getaway
Premium Resort

Forest of Arden

Warwickshire

Forest of Arden is the one you choose when you want the full experience: a strong course, a proper hotel, and a venue that feels like it hosts big events (because it has). It's a great option if your group wants golf and comfort—without having to travel far.

What Golfers Love

  • Resort polish: everything tends to run smoothly—check-in, tee times, practice, food.
  • A proper test: you'll need to think your way around it, not just swing hard.
  • Great for mixed groups: golfers get the course; non-golfers get the spa/leisure.

Watch-outs

  • It can feel "busy" at peak times—book tee times early if you want prime slots.

Best for: couples, mixed groups, or anyone wanting a premium UK golf break with minimal hassle.

Best All-Rounder

Belton Woods

Lincolnshire

Belton Woods is a reliable favourite for UK golf breaks because it's easy to organise and tends to deliver a strong overall package. It's not trying to be ultra-exclusive—it's trying to be a great weekend away with plenty of golf.

What Golfers Love

  • Great value for a resort stay: you usually get a lot for your money.
  • Group-friendly: ideal for 4–12 golfers—easy to keep everyone together.
  • Comfortable pace: it's enjoyable even if you're not playing your best.

Watch-outs

  • If you're chasing "bucket list" golf, this is more "brilliant weekend" than "once-in-a-lifetime."

Best for: mates' trips, society weekends, and golf breaks where value and logistics matter.

Golf Purist's Choice

Woodhall Spa

Lincolnshire

If your priority is pure golf quality, Woodhall Spa is hard to beat. It's the kind of place that feels special the moment you arrive—more traditional, more serious, and more about the course than the resort extras.

What Golfers Love

  • Top-tier course reputation: the golf is the headline.
  • A true test: you're rewarded for good decisions and punished for sloppy shots.
  • Memorable factor: this is the one people talk about afterwards.

Watch-outs

  • It's less of a "resort weekend" and more of a "golf mission," so plan your accommodation and meals with that in mind.

Best for: confident golfers, golf purists, and groups who want the best course experience above all else.

Simple Getaway

Hellidon Lakes

Northamptonshire

Hellidon Lakes is a strong option when you want a straightforward golf break without the premium price tag. It's ideal for a quick reset—golf, food, a drink, sleep, repeat.

What Golfers Love

  • Relaxed atmosphere: less pressure, more enjoyment.
  • Good value: especially for short stays.
  • Easy choice for a quick trip: it's the kind of place you can book and not overthink.

Watch-outs

  • If your group wants "wow factor" golf, you may prefer one of the other three.

Best for: budget-conscious golfers, last-minute trips, and low-fuss weekends.

How to Choose the Right One

Suggested 2-Night Itineraries

Option A: Resort Comfort

Forest of Arden / Belton Woods

1
Arrive, range + 18 holes, dinner
2
Breakfast, 18 holes, leisure/spa, dinner
3
Breakfast, 9–18 holes depending on travel

Option B: Golf-First

Woodhall Spa

1
Travel, warm-up, 18 holes
2
18 holes + short game practice, relaxed dinner
3
Optional 9 holes or a second course nearby
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