The Brabazon
Overview
The Brabazon at The Belfry Hotel & Resort is one of the most famous golf courses in Europe. This championship course offers an excellent golfing experience on hallowed ground that has hosted more Ryder Cups than any other course worldwide.
Designed by Dave Thomas and Peter Alliss and opened in 1977, The Brabazon combines strategic parkland architecture with hard challenges that reward precision, strategy, and composure.
The Brabazon Layout and Design
The Brabazon is a Par 72 course that is 7,255 yards from the championship tees. Its precision-cut fairways span 550 acres of Warwickshire countryside, with strategically placed bunkers, lakes, and fast, undulating greens. This setup creates a challenging yet fair test that highlights accurate shot-making and smart play.
Recent enhancements, particularly to the 6th hole, have updated specific elements while preserving the course’s historic character. The Brabazon remains a contemporary and evolving championship challenge.
Signature Holes and Challenges
The course presents several memorable holes that define its reputation.
The iconic 10th hole is a risk-and-reward par-4, where Seve Ballesteros famously drove onto the green in a Ryder Cup match. Players must carefully weigh options around water hazards and tight landing areas.
The closing holes, particularly the 18th, deliver finishes with water hazards and precise demands that test nerve under pressure. Throughout the round, golfers encounter tight fairways, artfully placed bunkers, and lakes that demand consistent accuracy and thoughtful decision-making.
Facilities at The Belfry
Guests at The Belfry Hotel & Resort enjoy a wide range of high-quality amenities, including The Brabazon course. The resort has modern rooms and suites, a spa for relaxation, and a leisure centre with a swimming pool, gym, and fitness classes.
Multiple dining options provide excellent cuisine, while practice facilities, including a driving range and golf academy, support players of all abilities. The resort also includes two additional courses—the PGA National and The Derby—enabling multi-round golf breaks in a single destination.
Hosted Tournaments
The Brabazon has hosted the Ryder Cup four times—in 1985, 1989, 1993, and 2002—creating some of golf’s most memorable moments. Highlights include Europe’s first victory in 1985, sealed by Sam Torrance’s legendary putt, and Paul McGinley’s winning putt in 2002.
The course has also welcomed the British Masters and other professional events, establishing its status as the spiritual home of the Ryder Cup in Europe.
Book Now
The Brabazon at The Belfry Hotel & Resort offers much more than just a game of golf. You can play on the same course as famous players like Seve Ballesteros, Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods.
Whether planning a luxury golf break, corporate event, or personal challenge on a Ryder Cup course, this iconic venue delivers a memorable experience.
Book your stay and tee time today to create lasting memories at one of the UK’s finest golf destinations.
