Tee off with us for a great family golfing adventure at Wenningdale Escapes.
Wenningdale Escapes is a haven tucked away in the Yorkshire Dales. There is no doubt that it’s picturesque location has massive appeal, however as someone who had never set foot on a golf course before, I was curious – perhaps even a bit sceptical – about heading away for the weekend with my family to stay in a lodge that is situated directly within an active golf course.
My husband James, on the other hand, was very excited; a former avid golfer, he was eager to dust off his clubs and show our two boys, Isaac (9) and Elijah (7), the ropes. Little did I know, this weekend would delight us all, albeit for very different reasons! Herein lies the beauty of staying at Wenningdales Escapes; there’s something for the whole family; golf and non-golf enthusiasts alike. I would challenge anyone not to develop even a passing enthusiasm for the game during their stay!
Arrival at Lunesdale Lodge
Our home for the weekend was Lunesdale Lodge, a luxurious, spacious lodge that instantly felt like a retreat within a retreat. Set in a small area directly within the golf course, alongside (but not too close) to two other lodges, our lodge was immaculately fitted out – with every detail carefully considered to ensure our stay was as comfortable as possible. There was a surprisingly large open-plan living/kitchen/dining area with ample space for our family of four to unwind, complete with modern furnishings. The kitchen was fully fitted with appliances and all the usual crockery and utensils.
The real star however, was the wrap around balcony. Accessed by large patio style doors across the back of the living space, they opened to reveal a large decked area overlooking immaculate fairways directly in front of us, leading the eye into the beautiful vistas of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. It’s a glorious setting!
Lunesdale Lodge also featured a double bedroom with en-suite, and the boys shared a twin room with adjoining Jack-and-Jill bathroom. Both rooms were large, well decorated and with comfy beds and good appliances. There was some building work (which looked like new lodges being built) within sight, but this was off to the side and in no way marred the rest of the extraordinary view.
The Golfing Experience
Wenningdales boasts an 18-hole course with breathtaking views of Ingleborough, Pen-y-Ghent, and Whernside. Even as a novice golfer, the beauty of the course made me eager to get out and appreciate the beauty and tranquillity of the setting for myself!
The course is very well-maintained, offering a challenge for seasoned golfers like James, while still being accessible for beginners, like me and our boys. Our golfing adventure began on the driving range, where the boys and I had our first taste of the sport. The driving range is perfect for those looking to practice their swing or, like us, try golf for the first time. The cost is modest – just £3 for 50 balls – making it an affordable way to ease into the game.
It was surprising how many hours we wiled away on the driving range! With various targets laid out, friendly staff on hand to help and beautiful surroundings it was a fun, enjoyable way to spend time as a family.
Next, we took a tour of the course in a golf buggy. This was a highlight for the boys, who loved zipping around the greens and taking in the views. James provided us with a mini-lesson on the basics of golf, and while my swing is still a work in progress, I found myself genuinely enjoying the experience.
Relaxation and Leisure
After our time on the course, we retreated to the clubhouse; The 1922 Bar & Kitchen. Here, we enjoyed a well-deserved rest, sipping on drinks while taking in the stunning views of golfers enjoying their games, and the surrounding countryside from the elevated terrace. This is a cosy spot, perfect for unwinding after a day on the course. Open daily, it offers a selection of coffee, cakes, and both alcoholic and soft drinks, providing the perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon. I even picked up a copy of Yorkshire Golfer – who knew I’d be reading about golf?
Exploring the Local Area
While golf is certainly the main attraction at Wenningdale Escapes, it’s far from the only one!
The surrounding landscape is a visual feast for nature lovers, with numerous walking trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting. And whilst Wenningdale Escapes is a destination in its own right, the surrounding area offers lots for families like ours who enjoy mixing a bit of nature with their leisure. The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is just a 10-minute drive from the lodge and came highly recommended – this scenic walk takes you through stunning woodlands and past a series of beautiful waterfalls. However we opted to visit Ingleborough cave instead, boys being boys, which we accessed via a lovely nature walk. This is a manageable walk for children and accessible for wheelchairs and prams; albeit you’d want a decent amount of fitness to walk the full trail as there are some hilly parts.
Discovered in 1837 by Victorian explorers, the cave offers an awe-inspiring voyage of discovery that journeys 500 meters beneath the imposing Ingleborough mountain. The cave is well-lit with a defined path and no actual climbing is needed. The guides were helpful and knowledgeable and boys were fascinated by the stalactites and stalagmites, whilst the Ingleborough Nature Trail we followed to reach the cave, added an extra layer of adventure to the day.
For those who enjoy a bit of local culture, a visit to the nearby market town of Bentham is a must. As the most westerly town in North Yorkshire, Bentham serves as a gateway to both the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Forest of Bowland. The town’s charming streets are lined with independent shops and traditional markets, offering a taste of Yorkshire life that complements the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Planning Your Stay
For those considering a golfing retreat, Wenningdale Escapes offers a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. A typical weekend stay in one of the luxury lodges starts at around £300, depending on the time of year and the size of the lodge. This price includes access to the golf course and clubhouse facilities, making it excellent value for a family getaway.
To book your stay at Wenningdale Escapes, visit their website at [www.wenningdale.co.uk](https://www.wenningdale.co.uk/).
Verdict
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a complete novice like me, you’ll find something to love about this unique retreat in the heart of Yorkshire.
The team at Wenningdale Escapes go above and beyond to ensure every guest has a bespoke experience. Their hospitality added an extra layer of warmth to our stay, making it fun and memorable.
It turns out, a golfing retreat really does offer something for everyone.
OFFER
Use discount code HN20 for 20% off. Valid for stays from 1st September 2024 until 31st March 2025. Minimum of 2 night stays Excludes Christmas and new year week (but includes half term).
Review and images by Victoria Reddington @vic_reddington
