Golf

Local Golf Legends

Lee Westwood OBE

Born in Worksop in 1973, Westwood turned professional in 1993. He made his name in America by winning the Freeport McDermott Classic in 1998 and was voted 1999 European Golfer of the Year. Amongst his other achievements he can boast six European Tour victories; European Golfer of the Year (1998); third place in European Order of Merit (1997-1998); and being a member of the 1997 Ryder Cup winning team. He has finished fifth on the PGA Tour twice in 2006 and ranks 43rd in Money Leaders on the PGA Tour. Westwood was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2011 Birthday Honours.

Greg Owen

Like Lee Westwood, Mansfield's Greg Owen is fast becoming a major name in the golfing world. Indeed, the sportsman, who plays out of the Coxmoor golf club, used to compete regularly against Westwood on the county circuit. Now the two seem destined to meet frequently on professional terms. His best finish on the PGA Tour in 2006 was second at the Bay Hill Invitational Presented by MasterCard. He ranks 22nd in Money Leaders on the PGA Tour. A little known fact is that Greg was ranked No.1 tennis player in Nottinghamshire at age 13!

---

Nottinghamshire is home to a host of fantastic golf courses and miniature golf facilities.

With the likes of golf heroes Lee Westwood and Greg Owen calling Nottinghamshire their home, it would only be right for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire to house a host of fantastic golf courses and miniature golf facilities.

If you’re an avid golfer, be sure to check out Southwell Golf Club – founded in 1993 on the estate of the one and only Southwell Racecourse. The club is renowned for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, making it the perfect place for both experienced golfers as well as newbies trying out the sport. The Par 70 and 18-hole course stretches 5773 yards wide, and not unimportantly, after a good game you can relax and indulge on their excellent food and drink offer.

Venture into the county and discover Beeston Fields, which is one of Nottingham's oldest golf courses, designed in 1923 by Tom Williamson. This superb Par 71 parkland course is a challenging test for golfers on all levels. The course is always kept in superb condition and has received many plaudits. The greens are a delight to putt on but will fool many with their subtle borrows.

Another gem nestled in the beautiful surrounding of Wollaton Hall and Park is the Wollaton Park Golf Club. It provides an opportunity for golfers of all playing standards to enjoy a challenging course with a stunning backdrop of Wollaton Hall. The club is fortunate not only to play in the middle of a glorious 500-acre deer park but to be close the city centre with all its rich heritage.

If you'd prefer a more light-hearted game of golf, or perhaps you are looking to get the kids interested in the game, head to the Lost City Adventure Golf in The Cornerhouse. With a choice of two 18-hole courses or the option to play both, you will enjoy the interactive features and obstacles, tropical surroundings and in-house Tiki bar. You can also enjoy a round of minigolf at Highfields Park, right beside Lakeside Arts and Rufford Abbey Country Park. Both of these venues also have boating lakes for you to also enjoy during your visit!

Can’t make your mind up on what to do? Head to Holme Pierrepont Country Park and have a go at their 9-hole mini golf course or try one of their other adventure activities. On the edge of the city you’ll find Woodthorpe Grange Park, an impressive large green space, built in 1874 and complete with an 18-hole pitch and putt course for all the family to enjoy. Or if you want to try something new, check out the brand-new Disc Golf at Sherwood Pines - a unique take on traditional golf where players throw frisbee style discs at fixed targets!