Darlington Golf Course

The course sits on the outskirts of Shildon, a proper test of golf that's been around since the late 1800s. Eighteen holes wind through tree-lined fairways with enough elevation change to keep you thinking about club selection all day. It's not a links course - more parkland in feel - but the layout has character. Greens are well-maintained and the rough can punish you if you're not straight off the tee.

Golfers will get the most from this one. Handicap players especially appreciate a course that rewards accuracy over pure power. If you're bringing non-golfers, there isn't much to occupy them for four hours while you're out there. The clubhouse exists but it's functional rather than a destination in itself.

You'll need to check current membership and visitor policies directly with the club - courses in County Durham vary on what they'll allow day visitors. Ideally, bring a handicap certificate or get introduced by a member. Allow a full morning or afternoon depending on how slow the group ahead moves.

Stay at Eden Grange Glamping six miles away if you're basing yourself in the area for a few rounds. It's close enough for a morning round without a trek, and Shildon's got enough about it for an evening out. The Northeast has solid golfing country if you fancy adding Richmond (further north) or Barnard Castle into a longer trip.