The Welcombe Golf Club

Eighteen holes of rolling countryside await at this proper golf course just outside Stratford-upon-Avon. The Welcombe stretches across some lovely Warwickshire farmland, with fairways that rise and fall through mature woodland and open pasture. It's the sort of course where you'll spend as much time admiring the views as you will cursing your swing.

Golfers who appreciate a traditional parkland layout will find plenty to enjoy here. The course demands accuracy rather than brute force - several holes thread between ancient oak trees, and there are enough water hazards to keep things interesting without being unfair. Decent players should manage it comfortably, while beginners might find it a bit challenging but never impossible.

Location-wise, it's brilliantly placed for anyone staying at nearby holiday parks like Rayford Caravan Park or Stratford Parks. You're close enough to Shakespeare's birthplace for the cultural stuff, but far enough out to enjoy proper countryside golf. The clubhouse does a decent breakfast too, which always helps when you're teeing off early.

Allow four hours for a full round, longer if you're playing behind Sunday hackers. Best avoided on competition days unless you fancy waiting around. Ring ahead to check tee times - this isn't the sort of place you can just rock up to on a whim.