Staff WriterClose House Golf Club — the beating heart of golf in the North East — has once again found itself in the national spotlight, shortlisted as a finalist for Members Club of the Year 2025 at The Golf Course Awards.
It’s another feather in the cap for the Northumberland estate, which only last year scooped Junior Golf Programme of the Year 2024 — proof that this is no ordinary members’ club, but a thriving community where golf, friendship, and ambition go hand in hand.
With more than 800 members and a calendar boasting over 50 exclusive events each year, Close House Golf Club has become a model for what a modern, member-driven club can be.
It’s not just about fine fairways and a strong pint in the clubhouse — though it does both rather well — it’s about continuous investment and genuine listening. A £500,000 driving range extension and an upcoming bunker refurbishment project were both born from its annual membership survey, a deep dive of 60 questions covering everything from course conditioning to cuisine.
“When I purchased the Close House Estate in 2004, I hoped to create the best members’ golf experience in the region,” said 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.”
Wylie’s vision has paid off handsomely. The club’s PGA Academy has opened the game to juniors, beginners, and women alike, while its partnership with PING has brought free golf tuition to more than 2,000 local schoolchildren every year. That’s not just growing the game — that’s planting seeds for its future.
But Close House Golf Club isn’t content to rest on its laurels or its immaculate greens. It’s a place that thrives on energy, connection, and good old-fashioned community spirit.
From the annual Family Fun Day in August to the November fireworks display that lights up the Tyne Valley, Close House has become more than a golf club — it’s a social anchor for members and their families.
“We are extremely proud of what has been created at Close House,” said Jonathan Lupton, Managing Director. “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.”
Of course, this wouldn’t be Close House without a touch of star power. Since 2012, none other than Lee Westwood, the former World No.1 and Ryder Cup legend, has flown the Close House flag as its Attached Tour Professional.
“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,” said Westwood, who remains a regular presence around the course, often trading stories and shots with fellow members.
And then there’s Alan Shearer, Newcastle United’s all-time top scorer, who’s as competitive off the tee as he ever was in front of goal.
“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,” said Shearer.
The Members Club of the Year award recognises excellence across Great Britain and Ireland — celebrating those rare clubs that go beyond tee times and trophies to deliver something truly special. For Close House Golf Club, it’s a nod to two decades of hard work, investment, and genuine passion for the game.
Winners will be revealed at a ceremony in London on 4th December 2025, but whatever the result, Close House has already proven it’s playing in a league of its own.
