Knotty Hill Golf Centre

The driving range here is genuinely decent - eighteen bays with quality turf, proper floodlighting for evening sessions, and equipment that doesn't feel like it's been through the wars. It's the kind of place where you can actually work on your swing without feeling rushed or judged by blokes hitting balls next to you.

Knotty Hill is a no-frills operation near Stockton-on-Tees, which means you're not paying premium prices for a fancy clubhouse you'll never use. The range itself is well-maintained and busy enough to feel alive but not so rammed that you're queuing for a bay. Golfers will spend a solid hour here, maybe two if you're serious about practice. Beginners and families dabbling in golf get space to learn without the formality of a full course.

It's worth a visit if you're staying nearby - Donnewell Farm Caravan and Motorhome Club is barely a ten-minute drive away, making this a convenient escape for a couple of hours. The range works best on weekday afternoons when it's quieter; weekends attract the committed types working on handicaps.

Not a destination in itself, but a solid add-on if you're holidaying in the area. Bring cash - they may not take cards everywhere. Check their website before you visit as opening hours aren't always reliable information.