The Belfry has three 18-hole courses: the Brabazon, the PGA National and the Derby. The Brabazon is the Ryder Cup course and the hardest test. The PGA National is a varied championship-style round. The Derby is the shortest and easiest, so it suits mid handicappers and works as a gentler warm-up.

Most golfers book the famous one and treat the others as filler. That is a mistake. Here is what each course asks of you, and which order gets the best golf out of a break.

The Brabazon: Ryder Cup Fame and a Real Test

The Brabazon is a par 72 of about 7,255 yards from the back tees, with a course rating of 72.0 from the standard tees listed by the resort. The Belfry has hosted the Ryder Cup four times, and this is the course that staged them. It is not the only course worth your time, but it is the one with the history.

The 10th hole

The par 4 10th is the one everyone talks about. Seve Ballesteros drove the green here in the 1985 Ryder Cup. From the whites it plays about 301 yards, with water guarding the front. Lay up for safety or have a go like Seve. I’d lay up unless the wind is behind you.

When not to play the Brabazon

If you play off 24 or higher, think twice. The greens are fast and undulating, and the lakes come into play on several holes. A 7,000-yard-plus layout also punishes weak tee shots. Play the yellow tees (about 6,449 yards) at the very least, and do not make it your first round of the trip.

The PGA National: The Best All-Round Round

Designed by Dave Thomas and opened in 1997, the PGA National is a par 72 of about 7,053 yards from the back. It was the first course in Europe to carry the PGA name. Reports from visitors say the back tees are tricky, but the forward tees are fair.

It rewards good course management more than raw length. Water and well-placed bunkers decide scores. For most 10 to 20 handicappers, this is the course that gives the most enjoyable round for the money.

The Derby: Shorter, Not a Pitch-and-Putt

The Derby is a full 18-hole course. It is shorter and easier than the other two, and it drains quickly, so it stays playable when the others are soft. Don’t dismiss it.

For high handicappers, it is the best choice at The Belfry: you can score, enjoy the round and still use every club. For everyone else, it is the right warm-up round before the Brabazon.

Side by Side: Which Course Suits Which Golfer?

Choosing the right course matters more than picking the famous one. If you are unsure which suits your handicap, you can ask the Golf Yet team and we will point you the right way.

The Best Order for a Multi-Round Break

Resort packages typically offer a 1-night, 2-round stay (Brabazon and Derby) or a 2-night, 3-round stay covering all three courses. Book 6 months ahead for summer and autumn weekends.

For three rounds, I’d follow this order:

1. Derby first. Shake off the travel and find your swing on the easiest layout.
2. PGA National second. Build up with a proper test while your game is warm.
3. Brabazon last. Play the big one when you know the greens’ pace and your tempo is settled.

Check-in is from 3pm and check-out by 11am, so plan your first tee time around it. Buggies are available on all three courses, but reserve one in advance and pay on the day. The resort also has England’s only PGA-branded Golf Academy if you want a quick range session beforehand.

Allow about 4 to 4.5 hours a round, so three rounds fit comfortably across two days with a long evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three golf courses at The Belfry?

They are the Brabazon, the PGA National and the Derby, all 18 holes. The Brabazon is the Ryder Cup course and the hardest, the PGA National is a varied championship test, and the Derby is the shortest and easiest.

Can non-residents play the courses at The Belfry?

Yes, visitors can book a round without staying overnight, though hotel packages are common. Green fees vary by season and course, so confirm the current rate directly with the resort before you book.

Is the Derby course worth playing?

Yes. It is a full 18-hole course, shorter and kinder than the other two, and it drains quickly. It suits high handicappers and makes an ideal warm-up. For more visitor guides, or if you have a question about a course, get in touch with Golf Yet.

References

[1] The Belfry Image Guide – Golf, Food & a Whole Lot of Luxury!

[2] The Belfry Golf Resort • 2027 Golf Breaks

[3]

[4] The Belfry

[5] The Belfry Club

[6] The Belfry

[7] The Belfry – Course Map, Green Maps & Golf GPS – GolfCore

[8] The Belfry Hotel and Resort – Brabazon Course Tee Times

[9] Belfry Golf Club – The Brabazon Course tees.

[10] The Belfry’s sustainable irrigation system set to shine at .