The Belfry Hotel and Resort, in Sutton Coldfield, is arguably the home of golf in England, having hosted the Ryder Cup no less than four times. Katie Amps took her brood, Ella 11, Charlotte 11 and Ronnie 9 months, for a luxury weekend break
The Belfry Hotel and Resort is the perfect place to escape the madness of day to day life and enjoy some relaxing family time. Only 20 minutes from Birmingham, the resort is vast and luxurious, surrounded by 550 acres of stunning countryside.
My family’s mixed-age dynamic means I need ways to entertain pre-teens at the same time as a baby. I needed a family break which would allow the girls, 11, some freedom, whilst at the same time offering baby friendly facilities – not an easy feat.
When we arrived I was taken aback by the size of the resort. You can literally get lost! But the country-club feel, with doormen in the entrance lobby and helpful staff everywhere reassured me that the girls were fine to explore by themselves.
Ronnie (9 mths), Ella and Charlotte (both 11)
Ella and Charlotte explore the woods
Ella and Charlotte were happy making the most of the stunning grounds by exploring the interactive Woodland Walk and discovering the bug hotel, hedgehog house and spotting plenty of wildlife. We made the most of the wonderful weather with baby Ronnie at the well-equipped playground and indoor pool, with outdoor seating area. The Belfry also offers an Ofsted registered crèche offering arts and crafts and educational activities.
We had two adjoining rooms, which allowed the girls their own space and ensured they didn’t get woken in the night by Ronnie. Our room was baby ready, equipped with a cot-bed, changing mat, nappy bin, baby bath and a bottle warmer. It was reassuring knowing that all of the essentials were there waiting for us.
We enjoyed some special family moments at the Belfry; our own mini-golf tournament at Ryder Legends Mini Golf course, followed by letting off steam at the driving range, which the girls absolutely loved. Keeping them in check with golf etiquette was a little more testing – needless to say they were very excited when they actually hit the ball!
We tried both restaurants. The food at the informal Rocca’s Brasserie food was a hit with the kids. The Ryder Grill is a light, airy and attractive modern space, which is quite sophisticated but at the same time family-friendly with a good kids’ menu. Outside the hotel, the grounds are a breath of fresh air – literally. Fields and greenery stretch as far as the eye can see across the golf courses and grounds. It’s such a relaxing place, I’m thinking of taking up golf.
Ryder Legends Mini Golf course
Price:
During the summer holidays rooms start at £55 per adult, and kids can stay and eat for free.
What’s included:
Price includes an overnight stay in one of the spacious Signature Family Rooms, based in the Parkland Lodges, a full English breakfast, a complimentary round of Mini Golf. Kids eat free in Rocca’s Pizza Pasta Restaurant.
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