Adverse Weather Policy

Policy’s are in place to protect Alnwick Castle Golf Club and its staff, the members and their guest, visitor and other customers.

The Safety of all persons at Alnwick Castle Golf Club is at the forefront of our policy creation.

Lightning

In the event of lightning, golfers are advised to stop playing and seek shelter or return to the clubhouse until it's safe to resume. Refunds are not given if you choose to abandon your round. However, if lightning is detected nearby and play continues, staff may ask you to stop, and a refund or voucher might be offered on a case-by-case basis.

Golfers on the first tee will be informed of any nearby lightning, but the decision to play is theirs. If your tee-time is missed due to lightning, we'll do our best to reschedule. For competitions, the decision to suspend play rests with the event organiser, with guidance from management.

Fog or Sea Fret

In the event of fog or sea fret, the decision to continue playing is up to the golfers, as conditions can change quickly. Golfers will be informed of the weather before starting, and if you choose not to play, we'll try to reschedule your round based on availability. If you start but don't complete 18 holes, refunds are not provided. In extreme cases where the course closes, rescheduling or vouchers may be offered. For competitions, the decision to suspend play rests with the event organiser, with guidance from management.

Heavy Rain

When heavy rain is expected, holes are moved to higher ground where possible. If putting becomes impossible, the course may be temporarily closed, and play suspended. Updates will be provided every half hour. Golfers should take shelter or return to the clubhouse, but your position on the course is not guaranteed if you leave.

Once play can resume, you'll be notified and should continue from your place on the course unless advised otherwise. Refunds are not provided if you choose to abandon your game due to rain. Golfers on the first tee will be informed if the course is closed, and we will try to reschedule your tee time. If rescheduling isn't possible, visiting golfers may receive a voucher or refund.

Frost

During the winter, increased play and traffic on frosty greens can cause significant damage, making the grass more susceptible to disease. Therefore, the following is recommended:

Heavy white frost: Pins will be placed on winter greens until the frost lifts.
Hard frost: Pins will remain on winter greens until the day after the frost has fully thawed.

If you choose to start or restart your round under these conditions, refunds will not apply.

Course Policy Document

Our course policy document which can be found here gives further information on how we manage adverse weather.

Decisions on the above will be at the discretion of Greenkeeper or a Senior Golf Team member of staff.