Kibworth Golf Club

Just south of Leicester, Kibworth Golf Club sits on proper rolling Northamptonshire countryside - the kind of landscape that makes you understand why the East Midlands has so many courses dotted about. It's an 18-hole members' club, so you'll need to either belong or have a mate who does, though visitors can often play if they're accompanied by a member or contact ahead. The course itself winds through mature parkland with enough trees to keep things interesting without feeling claustrophobic. Expect tree-lined fairways, a few water hazards to keep you honest, and greens that demand decent shot-making rather than just bashing it about. Golfers will appreciate the traditional feel - no gimmicks, just decent golf. Non-members should ring ahead to check visitor rates and availability; it's worth asking about temporary membership if you're staying nearby for a week. The walk takes a proper four to four-and-a-half hours for most groups, so factor in time at the clubhouse afterwards if you fancy it. If you're based at one of the nearby parks - Valley View Escapes is barely three miles away, or Fox's Furrow if you want somewhere a bit further out - this makes an obvious half-day outing for the keen golfer in the group. Less useful if nobody in your party plays, mind. Best avoided peak weekends unless you've booked in advance.