The Belfry (Brabazon)

Few courses in Britain carry the tournament pedigree of the Brabazon. Designed by Dave Thomas and Peter Alliss and opened in 1977, it became the spiritual home of the Ryder Cup, hosting the biennial clash between Europe and the United States 4 times — 1985, 1989, 1993, and 2002. The 1985 edition was the one that changed everything: Europe's first victory over the Americans in 28 years, a moment that transformed the contest into the global spectacle it is today.

The Brabazon is an unapologetically dramatic design built on what was largely flat Warwickshire farmland — a fact that makes its manufactured elevation changes and water features all the more impressive. The 10th and 18th holes, both featuring carries over or along the River Blythe, are among the most recognisable finishing stretches in European golf. Seve Ballesteros diving into the lake at 10 and emerging to make birdie is the stuff of Ryder Cup legend.

Located near Sutton Coldfield, the course sits at the heart of England's Midlands, a region better known for industry than links turf. But The Belfry turned that geography into an asset, building a resort destination that has drawn the world's best players and proved that great theatre doesn't require a seaside setting.