The former arable farmland was converted into a much needed golf centre, work commencing in 2002. Three architects were involved, latterly the owner himself in the final design and shaping of the greens. The contours of the land were becoming less adaptable to modern agricultural systems. The Weightman family sought to improve all aspects of this parcel of land which has now enhanced the Sunderland and Durham Green Belt. Sharpley Springs Golf Course opened in 2009 immediately taking on a form of maturity due to its undulating land form; every hole has a distinct definition and character.
Carefully shaped mounding is often
like those of sand dunes that help frame the all important, well drained
greens. Bunkers are natural as if sheep huddled in them out of the wind.
Grasses are predominately fescue ‘seaside ‘type that are non-aggressive but
support the ball allowing good iron contact. The course has been laid out in a
more traditional style like that of Alastair McKenzie (World renowned
architect) using subtle contours that blend in to the existing landscape and
well shaped tiered greens. Once you get into the course, every hole unfolds a
new and different experience. Soon you realize the quality of the good
drainage, and views across its numerous water features and beyond to 50 miles
of the North Sea coastline. This is not
another new long Championship course but one that all abilities will enjoy.
Yellow and white tees to choose from, blue tees from 2012 to test the best.
