10 Most Improved Golf Courses in The Midlands in 2020

By: Golfshake Editor | Wed 02 Dec 2020

The Midlands is a bustling hotbed for golfers and courses, packed with a wide variety of venues to choose from. Despite the lockdowns and restrictions we experienced throughout this season, many of these layouts were busier than ever, something recognised by the Golfshake Score Tracker AND Course Section which saw record levels of traffic.

But which Midlands courses did golfers enjoy the most? We have compared reviews submitted during 2020 with those from the previous year, discovering ten standout venues that saw a significant improvement in their rating, something that sets them up for a positive 2021, when everyone hopes that normality will return.

So, if you are a Midlands golfer, or just want to visit, get these on your list to play!

Horsley Lodge Golf Club

Location: Derbyshire

Average 2019 Rating: 4.13

Average 2020 Rating: 4.79

Difference: 0.66

Reviewer Comment: "Great layout and the greens are outstanding. Pro shop and staff very welcoming. Definitely one to play again in 2021."

Forest of Dean Golf Club

Location: Gloucester

Average 2019 Rating: 3.71

Average 2020 Rating: 4.21

Difference: 0.50

Reviewer Comment: "Chose this as it was only an hour and a half drive away. Glad we did the course was in great condition and the weather could not have been better. Hotel a bit dated but the staff were excellent. Recommended."

The Belfry

Location: Warwickshire

Average 2019 Rating: 4.00

Average 2020 Rating: 4.48

Difference: 0.48

Reviewer Comment: "Best course I've ever played so far. Challenging but fair. A dream to play on. For every avid golf fan out there you must play this course if you ever get the chance."

Sapey Golf and Country Club

Location: Worcestershire

Average 2019 Rating: 4.50

Average 2020 Rating: 4.88

Difference: 0.38

Reviewer Comment: "I absolutely love this course. Its design and layout offer something different on every hole. The fairways and greens are superbly looked after and the par 3s are some of the best I've ever played; the 8th is a particular favourite with its water features! The course provides a challenging but achievable game for players at all levels. The staff, whether in the clubhouse or out on the course are professional, friendly and welcoming. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Sapey and look forward to returning for another game."

College Pines Golf Club

Location: Nottinghamshire

Average 2019 Rating: 3.93

Average 2020 Rating: 4.31

Difference: 0.38

Reviewer Comment: "Nice course that is great to play all year round with a nice four finishing holes and some challenging holes on the front nine."

Hawkstone Park Golf Club

Location: Shropshire

Average 2019 Rating: 4.35

Average 2020 Rating: 4.67

Difference: 0.31

Reviewer Comment: "Both the Hawkstone and Championship courses are fantastic courses with some really good but difficult holes. I will certainly play the courses again. As a middle handicapper the courses are certainly very fair. A must visit. The hotel and Lyle bar are also excellent."

South Chesterfield Golf Club

Location: Derbyshire

Average 2019 Rating: 3.75

Average 2020 Rating: 4.05

Difference: 0.30

Reviewer Comment: "Good course, in good condition and good facilities. Good pace of play and value for money. Recommend."

Stratford Park Golf Club

Location: Warwickshire

Average 2019 Rating: 4.09

Average 2020 Rating: 4.39

Difference: 0.30

Reviewer Comment: "Excellent challenging course with great variety from hole to hole. Fairways and greens in very good condition."

Rufford Park Golf & Country Club

Location: Nottinghamshire

Average 2019 Rating: 4.35

Average 2020 Rating: 4.59

Difference: 0.24

Reviewer Comment: "One of the best courses in Nottinghamshire area. Lovely scenery and fir tree lined holes. Tees in excellent conditions, greens are true and fast. Highly recommend."