Set in the rolling Cheshire countryside near Tarporley, Portal Golf Club forms the golfing centrepiece of Macdonald Portal Golf & Spa Resort. With two 18-hole courses and a nine-hole academy layout, the resort offers plenty of variety for visiting golfers, from a long championship test to a more relaxed introduction to the game.

The Championship Course is the headline layout. Opened in 1990 and designed by Donald Steel, it measures 7,041 yards and plays to a par of 73. The course moves through undulating parkland, where mature trees, large water features and tournament-style USGA greens place an emphasis on both accuracy and thoughtful course management. Portal’s Championship Course was named Golf Course of the Year in 1995, underlining its reputation as the resort’s principal golfing challenge.

One of its most memorable tests comes early in the round. The par-five 3rd stretches to more than 600 yards from the back tees, with a lake guarding the green and forcing golfers to think carefully about their approach. Water is a recurring feature across the layout, while the changing elevation and expansive Cheshire views give the course plenty of visual character as well as strategic interest.

The Premier Course offers a contrasting round. Also opened in 1990, it measures 6,538 yards and plays to a par of 71. The layout follows the natural contours of the Cheshire sandstone ridge, creating a collection of individual holes with rolling, tree-lined fairways and frequent changes in elevation. Highlights include the par-three 15th, played downhill through the trees, and the finishing par-five 18th, which doglegs towards a large, well-protected green in front of the clubhouse.

Portal’s third option is the nine-hole Arderne Course. Measuring 1,724 yards with a par of 30, it has holes ranging from approximately 100 to 310 yards. Water features and contoured greens mean there is enough interest for experienced players, but its shorter length and relaxed atmosphere also make it a useful option for beginners, families or golfers looking to sharpen their short game.

Away from the courses, golfers have access to a fully stocked professional shop, while the Premier Clubhouse and hotel bars provide convenient places to meet before or after a round.

With three distinct layouts in one location, Portal Golf Club is particularly well suited to a Cheshire golf break. The Championship Course delivers the main challenge, the Premier offers a more traditional tree-lined experience, and the Arderne provides an enjoyable shorter alternative, giving groups the flexibility to mix different styles of golf during the same stay.