Time travel The Belfry, Warwickshire
The Belfry has seen its fair share of memorable moments in golfing history.
Home to three golf courses – the Brabazon, the PGA National and the Derby – it has hosted the Ryder Cup four times, more than any other world venue, along with 17 European Tour events.
It was on the Brabazon’s 10th tee that swashbuckling Spaniard Seve
Ballesteros famously drove the green in a high profile match against Nick Faldo at the Hennessey Cup in 1978.
In 1985, the course provided the ultimate test as Tony Jacklin led Europe to their first Ryder Cup victory over the United States since 1957.
But the Belfry hasn’t always been about greens, fairways and the 19th hole.
Originating in the 13th century when it was known as Moxhull Hall, it had been a manor for the Knights Templar until they were expelled from England in 1277.
Fast-forward to 1959, it was sold to Jimmy Burns for £18,000, who extended what had been a family house into a hotel with 59 rooms.
It also became a live venue attracting the likes of The Moody Blues, Led Zeppelin and Status Quo.
In 1974 it was in the hands of shipping company Ellerman Lines and permission was granted for two golf courses.
Peter Alliss and Dave Thomas set to work on the surrounding potato fields designing the Brabazon and Derby courses, naming them after Lord Brabazon of Tara and the Earl of Derby, both previous captains on the PGA.
The Betfred British Masters 2021 is set to take place at the Belfry in May.
thebelfry.com