The Belfry is renowned as one of the world’s most prestigious golfing resorts, having hosted the Ryder Cup four times. But there is more on offer than just the famed Brabazon course, as Group Sports Editor MIKE REES discovered

Resting on their justified reputation as one of the world’s most famous golf venues has never been considered at The Belfry.

Billionaire businessman Sean Quinn’s ambitious plans to redevelop The Belfry, a four-time Ryder Cup venue, into Britain’s biggest five-star golf and hotel complex have been approved.

The Irishman bought the resort, set on 550 acres outside Birmingham, from leisure group De Vere and under his plans, Quinn will increase the number of bedrooms from 324 to 500.

The Belfry is the only venue to have hosted the Ryder Cup four times – on the Dave Thomas and Peter Alliss-designed Brabazon Course in 1985, 1989, 1993 and 2002 – and Quinn is keen for the Ryder Cup to return after its contract deals with other venues expire in 2020.

The Belfry offers the ultimate golfing experience. A walk through the hotel will evoke memories of past matches as you pass the European and American Team Rooms. The hotel also boasts two other courses – The Derby – a shorter, more relaxed course for players of all levels and the more challenging PGA National.

You are constantly reminded of past tournaments and great Belfry moments, such as Paul McGinley securing a European victory in the 2002 Ryder Cup on the 18th green and taking a dip in the adjoining lake.

Make sure you escape to an oasis of relaxation, health and therapy in The Leisure Club and Spa complex. The on-site Bel Air nightclub offers a livelier way to relax.

After turning into the resort’s gates, you’re met by the PGA National Golf Academy, which offers custom-fitting across an array of brands, swing analysis technology and superb practice facilities.

On an average day 20-30,000 balls are sent fizzing out from the 34 floodlit bays.

There’s an American feel to the pro shop but when that means a wealth of choice and the chance to pick up a bargain, you won’t find anyone complaining.

Arguably the Brabazon’s most memorable hole is the par-4 10th (pictured top), where Seve Ballesteros famously drove the green during the 1978 Hennessy Cup. If you can hit a 300-yard fade over water then it’s worth a go! Your round ends in dramatic fashion, with a dogleg par-4 that asks you to carry water twice on your way up to a devilish three-tiered green.

The galleries might not be there to see it but that won’t stop your imagination running wild with fantasies of Ryder Cup heroics.

But don’t take my word for it, give it a try yourself.

The Belfry, Wishaw, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands www.thebelfry.co.uk