Despite watching on with interest at the redevelopment of the City of Newcastle clubhouse, I must admit that it has taken me a while to witness the transformation first-hand.
In a Summer-long project, the team have succeeded in creating a new look: a stylish space complete with oak panelled furnishings, exposed brickwork and Chesterfield sofas. Whilst the clubhouse has always offered golfers a spot for relaxation and refreshment, it now also has a burgeoning standalone following with a bar, lounge, patio and bistro area.
The course itself offers a hugely enjoyable test for golfers of all abilities. After my round, I repaired indoors and rendezvoused with my old friend and mentor, Chris – himself a social member – for a bite to eat and a look at what’s new. After a warm welcome, we took our seats in the conservatory dining area overlooking the 18th green.
For a Tuesday lunchtime – following a period of indifferent weather – the place was absolutely bustling and clearly something of a new social hub with a very convivial atmosphere. In addition to the new fixtures and fittings, there’s also Flat Screen TVs dotted around the bar which offers a portal into the world of golf and how the game should be played!
The City’s all-new menu offers everything from all day breakfasts and hot sandwiches to burgers, jacket potatoes and substantial main plates. For those more health-conscious folk, there’s also a great selection of salads and healthy alternatives. I was definitely eyeing up the “post-round stodge” section of the menu and decided on the homemade chicken tikka masala. This was deep and aromatic and a lovely version of Britain’s most favourite dish – especially when served with steamed rice, poppadum’s & mango chutney.
Chris chose that old favourite mince & dumplings. Plump, fluffy dumplings swam in a moat of mince and gravy all atop a bed of creamy mash potato and garden peas. A lovely, warming dish I’m sure will be ever popular in the months ahead. To wash all of this down, The City have a cracking selection of the “good stuff” on keg and cask, not to mention an inviting selection of wines and spirits. On this occasion though, we both settled for soft drinks of our choosing.
It’s clear from this visit that the City of Newcastle GC has a new lease of life. Whether you’re golfers gathering to discuss the putts that were (and the putts that might have been) or non-golfers looking for a change of scene, The City offers much choice and quality with its adjoining bistro also serving an extensive a la carte menu.
Undoubtedly, a “Fore”-midable addition to the region’s golfing circuit
For more information, visit www.cityofnewcastlegolfclub.com