WHERE AND WHY:
The Belfry will forever be known as the venue where in 1985 British golfers (as part of the new Team Europe) wrestled back the Ryder Cup from the United States after 26 years.
On the same course four years later Europe retained the cup by tying with the States. The Belfry also staged the competition twice more, with the hosts losing in 1993 but winning again in 2002.
There are reminders of the heroics of Olazabal, Ballesteros and Montgomery et al around every corner of the hotel as well as in its 319 stylish and recently refurbished rooms.
Keen golfers can follow in their footsteps on the famous Brabazon course with ‘stay and play’ packages that can also include rounds on the Belfry’s two other courses.
But you don’t need to own a polo shirt or know your birdies from your bogies to enjoy a stay at the resort, which is just five minutes from J9 of the M42.

ON THE MENU:
For dinner, we were tempted by the extensive buffet (£35.95 per person) at the 2AA Rosette Ryder Grill. Despite what appeared to be a full house during our August stay the service was spot on.
Examples from the a la carte menu include a starter of Togarashi Cured Salmon (£16), a main of Masala Marinated Corn-fed Chicken Breast (£27) and Lime Cheesecake (£8) for dessert.
Alternatively, guests can head to Rocca’s restaurant for pizza and pasta, or Sam’s Club House for burgers and platters on the terrace or in front of a TV. The stunning Brabazon Bar, meanwhile, is the place for afternoon tea, light bites and cocktails.
Despite joining a long queue for breakfast we were seated within five minutes and, again, filled our boots with the delicious – and endless – hot and cold options.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE:
The spa’s pool, sauna and steam room are free for guests to enjoy, while there’s also a range of treatments (a 50-minute Signature Massage is £94) and the Fire & Ice Experience to stimulate the senses.
The Belfry caters surprisingly well for families, with generous splash times, a games room, an adventure playground, movie room, foot golf, driving range fun and even a sweet cart.
The mini golf course features versions of 12 of the Brabazon’s iconic holes, and with its bunkers, water features and undulating fairways even Rory McIlroy would struggle to get round in par.
The Belfry is a good base for visiting Drayton Manor theme park, Sutton Park, Tamworth’s Snowdome and a couple of waterparks that are all within ten miles.

WAKE-UP CALL:
Prices at The Belfry, near Sutton Coldfield, start from £169 per night for a signature room including full English breakfast. For golf, spa and dining packages visit www.thebelfry.com or call 01675 238600.

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