Sharpley Golf Course: A Timeless North East Gem for Every Golfer

There’s nothing quite like a round of golf on a summer’s evening — the sun dipping low, wildlife abundant, and panoramic views stretching across the rolling countryside all the way toward the North Sea. The course I find myself returning to most often is Sharpley Golf Course in Seaham, County Durham.

Sharpley holds a special place in my heart as the very first course I ever played, and it’s where I truly fell in love with the game. I vividly recall standing on the third tee, gazing across the course and out to sea — the views were nothing short of phenomenal. The fairways and greens are impeccably maintained, boasting subtle contours and tiered greens reminiscent of classic links-style design. Meanwhile, the rough is surprisingly forgiving in many areas, making it welcoming for new golfers but still challenging for the more experienced.

The layout itself strikes an excellent balance, catering to all skill levels. One hole that perfectly exemplifies this is the 11th, a par 3 that tempts you with two distinct options: take the safe route and aim for the fairway to secure a par, or gamble with a daring shot over the water for a chance at a birdie or hole-in-one. Though I can’t honestly say how many balls have met a watery grave there — my partner Nicky would not be pleased!

The course’s clubhouse is a charming, log cabin-style retreat with balconies overlooking the 9th and 18th greens. It’s the ideal spot to unwind with a post-round pint or some refreshments after finishing the front nine, especially since you can easily pop in before heading past the range and out onto the 10th hole. Speaking of which, the 10th comes with a bit of a warning: the driving range recently extended, and errant range shots often land both on the fairway and in the rough, turning the hole into something of a hazard itself. It’s not uncommon to see 10–20 stray balls scattered across that stretch during a round.

Sharpley is well equipped with facilities to help players hone their skills. The TrackMan driving range offers state-of-the-art technology for precise practice, complemented by extensive short-game practice areas and an indoor simulator that ensures year-round play regardless of the weather. The driving range also recently underwent a thoughtful upgrade — now you can enjoy a drink without having to trek back to the clubhouse, which makes for a more relaxed practice session.

Opened in 2009, Sharpley is built to USGA standards, with tri-layer greens planted with fescue seaside grass, ensuring excellent drainage and consistent playability even in the wetter months. The course is beautifully maintained with an extensive drainage system that keeps conditions firm and fast year-round.

One of the standout features of Sharpley is its setting — with panoramic sea views from multiple holes, ancient drumlins framing the fairways, and water hazards thoughtfully integrated into the design, it’s a course that’s as aesthetically pleasing as it is challenging. The finishing holes are particularly memorable; the 17th, known as "The Drumlins," offers a strategic par 5 framed by historic landforms and bunkers, while the 18th, "Saint Cuthbert’s Way," is an elevated par 5 crossing Sharpley Burn — a nod to the ancient path taken by monks carrying the coffin of Saint Cuthbert in 995 AD.

All told, Sharpley Golf Course has always been and will remain my go-to destination for a post-work round or a weekend with the lads. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable course that tests your abilities without feeling punishing, wrapped in a stunning natural environment with excellent facilities. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned player, Sharpley offers a well-rounded golfing experience that’s hard to beat in the North East.