We drove through the village and past the towering and amazing Castle perched on high along the most majestic Northumbria coastline, the vista and surroundings were never going to be in question, turn down a narrow road, that eventually leads into a narrower lane that leads you to the top of the cliff and the Golf Club, the mystique heightens.

On arrival despite the panorama being full of heat haze was out of this world, and as we made our way to the first tee, almost on cue the haze started to lift like the curtain of a fine theatre to reveal the crystal blue waters, golden sands and littoral.

The course is really good, fabulous fun, challenging, quirky in places and a great venue to enjoy the company of good friends.

Starting with 2 consecutive Par 3s (2 of a total of 6 littered throughout the course) you most certainly are not eased into the place. However there are certainly opportunities to pick up a few shots along the way. Conditions for us could not have been much more perfect warm, clear skies and only a modicum of breeze, but I would expect things could become quite treacherous on less kind days.

The closing 3 holes are good opportunities to score, but throw too much caution to the wind and the course will snap a good card clean out of your hands, at a moments blink and lack of concentration.

A place and course that needs to be visited at least once to enjoy the beauty, challenge and hospitality.