Opened by the club’s attached touring professional Lee Westwood in May 2011, the championship Lee Westwood Colt course at Close House is a typical, thoughtfully-designed English parkland lay-out offering a rich variety of outstanding holes through the estate of an 18th century mansion, now a splendid hotel. Individual features of the area, including a forest, Roman fort and an historic wall, have been skilfully incorporated with panoramic views over the Tyne Valley, yet just ten miles from Newcastle. Each hole follows a different direction and the undulating terrain provides contrast and interest throughout its 6,850-yard (par 71) length. The quality of the four par threes is a strong feature while the 418-yard par-four 18th, with a bunker, wall and lake to avoid, provides a strong finish. The original Lee Westwood Filly course, (6,000 yards, par 70), complements the main course perfectly.