36-hole golf resorts

These five excellent and varied golfing hotels each boast two fine courses and are perfect for a short break

East Sussex National

Opening to great acclaim just over 30 years ago, it wasn’t long before the East course was hosting back-to-back European Opens. Both layouts were designed by Bob Cupp, a long-time design collaborator with Jack Nicklaus, and there is a

The view from behind the East course’s par-5 10th – a real risk-reward hole with water and trees protecting the green.

distinctly American feel at these two challenging parkland courses. Each runs through magnificent specimen trees, and there are plenty of streams and ponds to contemplate and admire. The West course may be the slightly tougher, but it’s hard to choose between these two fine layouts.

GF: 18 holes: £60wd, £75we

Breadsall Priory

The two courses at this lovely hotel in Derbyshire are also delightfully varied in character. The original Priory course dates back to the late ’70s and runs over very attractive, undulating parkland. It’s not long, but the greens are small and put a premium on approach play. The more recent Moorland course is a Donald Steel design from the early ’90s, and its elevated position means the wind is more of a factor. There are also superb views of the countryside.

GF: 18 holes: £35-£60

Hill Valley

Not far from the Welsh border on the western side of Shropshire, Hill Valley enjoys an idyllic and peaceful setting. Both of these attractive, tree-lined courses were designed in the mid-70s by Peter Alliss and Dave Thomas. The Emerald is the more demanding and stretches to over 6,700 yards with a par of 73. Of similar nature but refreshingly shorter, the Sapphire has a solitary par 5 but seven short holes and several drive-and-pitch par 4s.

GF: 18 holes: £30-£35 (Emerald), £15 (Sapphire)

St Mellion

One of the most impressive aspects of the two excellent courses at St Mellion is how different they are from one another. The Kernow was completely revised a decade or so ago, and although it is slightly more forgiving, it is still very enjoyable. The Nicklaus course, on the other hand, is one of the best-looking and most challenging tests of golf in the area. Dense woodland, some wow-factor bunkering and various water features make both length and accuracy vital. GF: 18 holes: £80-£100 (Nicklaus), £40-£50 (Kernow)

Powerscourt

Just a short drive south of lovely Dublin, Powerscourt is an excellent golf resort with two strong courses, a five-star hotel and spa and award-winning gardens. The original East course is one of two very attractive parkland designs and opened for play 25 years ago. It is the slightly tougher test and has hosted important championships, including the 1998 Irish PGA won by Padraig Harrington. The newer West course, opened in 2003, is equally as beautiful and just as enjoyable. GF: 18 holes: €90 any day