Northumberland Golf Tourism: Pre-Convention Experience in England’s Historic Northern County
A GTE Pre-Convention Journey, July 25-27, 2025
The countdown has begun! In just a few months, a select group of industry professionals will embark on a remarkable journey through England’s northernmost county before arriving at the 2025 GTE Convention. This exclusive pre-convention experience has generated unprecedented interest, with all available places secured within weeks of announcement.
Three-Day Luxury Golf Tour Through Historic Northumberland
Unlike traditional familiarisation trips, the Northumberland adventure has been crafted as a comprehensive three-day expedition that traverses the county from south to north and back again, showcasing the remarkable diversity of golfing experiences available within a compact geographical area.
Day 1: Parkland Perfection at Northumberland Golf Club
The Northumberland Golf Club opens our journey with its impeccably maintained fairways set against the backdrop of Newcastle’s historic landscape. Established in 1898, this prestigious parkland course offers a gentle introduction to the region, with afternoon tee times allowing participants to ease into their Northumberland experience. The manicured greens and strategic bunkering provide a pleasant contrast to the wilder courses that await in the coming days.
Day 2: Links Legacy at Goswick Golf Club
Venturing northward, Goswick Golf Club presents players with classic links challenges amidst spectacular coastal scenery. The morning round at this hidden gem offers the quintessential links experience—rippling fairways, pot bunkers, and the ever-present North Sea winds that demand thoughtful shot-making and creative course management. Golf World recently ranked Goswick among England’s top 100 courses, yet it remains refreshingly uncrowded even during peak season.
Day 3: Coastal Conclusion at Dunstanburgh Golf Club
Our golfing odyssey culminates at Dunstanburgh Golf Club, where the dramatic ruins of a 14th-century castle watch over players as they navigate this scenic coastal layout. The morning tee times ensure optimal playing conditions, with the early light casting magical shadows across the undulating terrain. This course epitomises Northumberland’s allure—combining sporting excellence with historical grandeur in a singularly breathtaking setting.
Premium Accommodations in Northumberland’s Finest Hotels
The expedition includes overnight stays at two of Northumberland’s most distinguished properties:
Marshall Meadows Hotel welcomes our group on the first evening. Positioned as England’s northernmost hotel, this Georgian country house sits just yards from the Scottish border. Recently refurbished rooms blend period elegance with contemporary comfort, while the restaurant’s menu highlights the finest Border region produce.
The Tempus Hotel, our second night’s accommodation, presents a striking contrast with its elegant design and contemporary luxury and is Northumberland’s most stylish boutique hotel, bar and restaurant, in a great location with easy access to the coast and famous castles.
Beyond Golf: Cultural Experiences in Northumberland
What truly distinguishes this fam trip is its immersive cultural programme:
Castle Country: The afternoon of day two features an exclusive tour of Northumberland’s iconic castles—more than any other English county. These ancient fortifications tell the story of the Anglo-Scottish border conflicts that shaped the region’s distinctive character.
Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum & Whisky Distillery: The evening of day two presents a once-in-a-lifetime experience at this groundbreaking new attraction. Participants will enjoy a twilight dinner within the museum’s immersive recreation of a 7th-century royal court, paired with a tasting of Northumbria’s first whisky in over 600 years. This innovative venue connects ancient heritage with contemporary craftsmanship in a uniquely memorable setting.
Alnwick Castle: Our final lunch showcases Northumberland’s rich heritage at the magnificent Alnwick Castle, one of Britain’s most iconic medieval fortresses. Known for its appearances in films and television, including Harry Potter, this historic venue is truly spectacular.
GTE Convention Connection: From Northumberland to Industry Networking
The fam trip concludes with arrival at Matfen Hall for the official start of the GTE Convention. Participants bring with them fresh insights and firsthand experience of Northumberland’s tourism potential, enriching the convention discussions and fostering new business connections.
Future Northumberland Golf Tourism Opportunities
While this year’s pre-convention expedition is fully subscribed, the overwhelming interest has prompted plans for expanded regional familiarisation opportunities in 2026.
