Close House Golf Club is proud to announce it has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Members Club of the Year 2025 category at The Golf Course Awards. This recognition follows the club’s success as winners of Junior Golf Programme of the Year 2024, further underlining its commitment to members, innovation, and the next generation of golfers
With more than 800 members, Close House has become a thriving hub for golf in the North East, delivering over 50 exclusive members’ events annually and investing heavily in facilities. Recent developments include a £500,000 driving range extension and a forthcoming bunker refurbishment programme, both shaped directly by feedback from the club’s annual membership survey.
Close House conducts a comprehensive annual membership survey featuring 60 detailed questions, covering everything from course conditions and dining to communications and overall satisfaction. Insights from this survey form the foundation of development planning each year, ensuring the club stays aligned with members’ evolving needs and expectations.
“When I purchased the Close House Estate in 2004, I hoped to create the best members’ golf experience in the region,” commented Sir Graham Wylie, Owner of Close House. “Each year, we have invested in developing the facilities available at the club. I am extremely proud when receiving positive feedback from our members, many of whom are now close friends.”
The club also places a strong emphasis on inclusivity and pathways into golf. Its Academy, supported by its PGA professional team, provides opportunities for juniors, beginners, and women. Alongside this, Close House’s schools coaching programme – supported by PING – offers free tuition to over 2,000 children each year, opening a key pathway into the game and into club membership.
Beyond golf, Close House delivers a vibrant social calendar designed to involve the whole family. Events such as the annual Family Fun Day in August and spectacular November fireworks bring members together, reinforcing Close House as a true community club.
“We are extremely proud of what has been created at Close House,” said Jonathan Lupton, Managing Director of Close House. “The team at the club have created a truly special venue for our members and guests to enjoy. Over recent years, we have focused on involving the whole family in the Close House experience, and members’ feedback has been fantastic.”
Close House is also home to some of the game’s most recognisable names. Attached Tour Professional and former World No.1 Lee Westwood has proudly represented the club since 2012, using its facilities to prepare for tournaments and regularly inspiring members with his presence around the course.
“I have been the Attached Tour Professional at Close House since 2012. In that time, it is fantastic to see the development of the club and estate. During my time at Close House, I have also made many lifelong friends,” commented Lee Westwood, official Attached Tour Professional at Close House.
Other high-profile members include Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer, who said
“I have been a member of the club since 2011, and Close House has become the home club for myself and my friends. I play in club knockouts and trophy events. Last year, I was proud to win the Founder Members Trophy. We are so lucky to have a golf club like Close House in Newcastle.”
The award celebrates excellence across Great Britain and Ireland, recognising clubs that go above and beyond in delivering an exceptional membership experience. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on the 4th December 2025.