Cold Ashby Golf Club

Rolling across the Leicestershire countryside between Cold Ashby village and Northampton, this 18-hole course offers proper parkland golf without the pretension of some clubs. The fairways weave through mature trees and gentle slopes, giving you decent views across the East Midlands while you're trying not to slice into the rough.

Golfers of all abilities will find something here, though it's not going to challenge scratch players in the way a championship course might. The layout feels natural rather than forced, working with the landscape instead of fighting it. Families staying at nearby parks like Bunkers Hill Farm or Brook Meadow will appreciate that it's the sort of place where a mixed-ability group can enjoy a round together without anyone feeling completely out of their depth.

What makes Cold Ashby work is its straightforward approach - this is golf as it should be, without bells and whistles. The clubhouse keeps things simple too, which suits the rural setting perfectly. Allow four hours for a full round, longer if you're still working on your short game. It's well worth checking their website before travelling as opening times can vary, particularly in winter months. The course sits conveniently close to several holiday parks, making it an easy addition to a Leicestershire break.