Whether you’re a local looking to sharpen your swing or a visitor seeking a world-class stay-and-play experience, the golfing scene in Coventry and Warwickshire is tough to beat. From championship fairways that have hosted the European Tour to tech-infused driving ranges, the region is a true "sweet spot" for golfers.
Here is a look at the top destinations for your next round, including some hidden gems and legendary layouts.
1. Draycote Hotel & Whitefields Golf Club
If you’re looking for a venue that combines a challenging 18-hole course with some of the best practice facilities in the Midlands, Draycote Hotel (and its partner, Whitefields Golf Club) should be at the top of your list.
- The Course: A par-71 parkland course known for its excellent drainage, making it a reliable choice for year-round play.
- The Signature Hole: Keep an eye out for "Curlie’s Corner," a nerve-wracking par-3 where Draycote Water comes into play.
- The Driving Range: The Draycote Hotel driving range is a standout feature for those looking to improve. Equipped with Toptracer technology, it allows you to track your ball flight and play virtual courses, turning a standard practice session into a high-tech experience.
- Fairways Bar: After your session on the range or a round on the greens, the Fairways Bar is the perfect place to unwind. It offers a relaxed atmosphere to grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink while you go over your scorecard.
2. Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel & Country Club
For those who want a taste of professional-grade golf, the Forest of Arden is Warwickshire's flagship destination.
Set within acres of ancient woodland (complete with roaming deer), it offers two distinct experiences:
- The Arden Course: Designed by Donald Steel, this championship layout has hosted the British Masters and the English Open. It’s a long, demanding test of golf that finishes with a spectacular par-3 over a ravine.
- The Aylesford Course: A shorter, more forgiving alternative that is perfect for a second round or a more relaxed afternoon on the greens.
- Stay & Play Offer: If you’re planning a visit this spring, keep an eye out for their overnight packages. You can stay for 1 night and play 2 rounds on selected dates throughout April and May, an ideal setup for a quick escape with friends or a midweek treat on the course.
3. The Windmill Village Hotel, Golf Club & Spa
Perfectly positioned on the outskirts of Coventry, the Windmill Village Hotel offers a fantastic balance of sport and relaxation.
- Strategic Play: While shorter than some neighbouring courses, this 18-hole parkland course is all about strategy. Water hazards and well-placed bunkers require precision over power.
- Scott’s Bar & The Motor City: Coventry is world-famous as the UK’s "Motor City," the historic heart of the British automotive industry. You’ll find nods to this heritage at the hotel’s Scott’s Bar, a stylish spot that celebrates the city’s engineering soul. It’s the perfect place for a post-round pint or a casual dinner.
- Off the Course: One of the main draws here is the "19th hole" experience. With an on-site spa, 20-metre pool, and the Loft18 restaurant overlooking the fairways, it’s arguably the best spot in Coventry for a golf society away-day.
4. The Belfry Hotel & Resort
No guide to golfing in the region would be complete without mentioning the "spiritual home" of the Ryder Cup. Located just on the Warwickshire border, The Belfry offers a bucket-list experience for any serious golfer.
- The Brabazon: This is the iconic championship course where every golfer wants to recreate Seve Ballesteros' famous drive on the 10th. It is a world-renowned test of risk and reward.
- The PGA National: As the only PGA-branded course in England, it offers a distinct "links-style" feel in the heart of the Midlands, featuring fast-running fairways and deep bunkers.
- Adventure Awaits: It’s not all about the fairways here; The Belfry is a fantastic choice for families. Over the summer months, Adventure Golf and a range of family activities on-site ensure that even the non-golfers have a world-class experience while you're out on the course.
Beyond the Fairways: Why Stay in Coventry?
While the golf is enough to draw you in, Coventry and Warwickshire offer a rich blend of culture, history, and modern energy. If you’re visiting for a few days, here’s why you should explore:
- You’re minutes away from Warwick Castle and the ruins of Kenilworth Castle. Within the city, the Coventry Cathedral, where the medieval ruins sit side-by-side with the modernist masterpiece. It’s a must-see symbol of resilience.
- Explore the Coventry Transport Museum (home to the world's fastest cars) or wander through FarGo Village, an independent creative hub filled with street food, craft beer, and vintage markets.
- Step back in time on Spon Street, lined with original timber-framed buildings, or visit St Mary’s Guildhall to see where kings and queens once feasted.
- With Stratford-upon-Avon just a short drive away, you can easily pair a morning round of golf with an evening at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
The Perfect Midlands Base
Whether you’re looking to crush drives at the Draycote Hotel driving range, test your mettle at the Forest of Arden, or enjoy a spa weekend at the Windmill Village, this region offers more than just a great scorecard. It’s a place where high-tech practice facilities meet 1,000 years of history. For any golfer, these venues are the benchmark for quality, but the vibrant city and rolling Warwickshire countryside are what will make your trip truly unforgettable.