Review: The Belfry isn't standing still and that's why it keeps drawing crowds

Few venues are as woven into the fabric of British golf as The Belfry. Even before you've checked in, reminders of its Ryder Cup and tournament history are everywhere, creating the sort of anticipation that makes golfers feel like kids on Christmas morning.

But the facilities at this expansive property in Sutton Coldfield, Warwickshire, widen its appeal way beyond the fairways. Although the spirit of golf is dominant, award-winning dining, a huge choice of accommodation and a luxury spa and leisure centre have transformed it into one of the UK's most popular all-round resorts.

Driving through the gates, it quickly becomes clear that this is no ordinary hotel. Fairways stretch into the distance, golfers criss-cross the estate in buggies and the scale of the place is genuinely impressive. It's actually set on 550 acres and the low-level buildings and skilful landscaping make it a joy to explore.

The Belfry has hosted the Ryder Cup four times and will stage the British Masters for a ninth time this August. And as a golfer walking past photographs of the sport's legends, it's impossible not to feel excited by the golfing history that has made this such an iconic destination.

Brilliantly, despite its status, there's no hint of stuffiness. The Belfry steers clear of pretension and remains down to earth and family friendly.

What struck us immediately was the buzz. Golfers returning from rounds, families heading toward the pool and groups of friends enjoying drinks on the terrace. It felt lively without ever feeling crowded.

The first thing you spot as you pull into the estate is Brabazon House, an imposing new building constructed recently as part of an £85 million transformation that has almost doubled The Belfry's accommodation capacity.

The addition of 149 new bedrooms, a flagship leisure club and major events facilities has significantly broadened the resort's appeal.

Our room - a Signature Superior King - had its own huge shared balcony looking onto the PGA course but you can also choose from spacious family accommodation and indulgent suites. And with Brabazon House came the resort's first-ever two-bedroom suite.

With its fabulous view, Espa products, a seriously comfy bed, widescreen TV and great shower we couldn't have asked for a better room for our 24-hour stay. Despite visiting on Father's Day, when the resort was exceptionally busy, service remained impressively efficient.

But as much as we loved our room, we were keen to get our clubs out. We've previously played all three courses here and were invited to take on the newly reimagined Derby course.

The redesign has introduced new white tees alongside the existing yellow, red and junior options making it suitable for everyone from complete beginners to seasoned golfers.

Raised tee positions improve sightlines and open up some superb views across the course, while more than 60 renovated bunkers filled with bright white sand provide a striking contrast against the fairways. They reminded us of one of our favourite courses in Florida and the whole course felt more visually dramatic than our first round here a couple of years ago.

The fairways have also been reshaped and approaches widened. The par 4 13th hole was among my favourites, offering one of the best views on the estate, with golfers playing downhill from an elevated tee towards a sea of gleaming bunkers. Efforts have been made to give the course a heathland feel although summer planting and warm weather seem to be challenging the heather.

Four hours spent looking for lost golf balls is surprisingly hungry work. Fortunately there are plenty of options at The Belfry. The signature restaurant, The Ryder, is an absolute must visit. Named after Ryder Cup founder Samuel Ryder, it's a lively space where buffet dining is elevated well beyond the norm. The danger with buffet dining is that quantity wins over quality. Thankfully that's not the case here. From freshly carved meats to desserts such as banana bread with toffee sauce, the standard was consistently high.

Despite the busyness, staff were attentive and genuinely warm and friendly. And they're also around at breakfast which, too, is served in the Ryder Restaurant. Again, it's self-service with a wide range of well-cooked favourites.

One of the most popular spots at the resort is The Brabazon Bar and our server, Tejas, was great company while he served our pre-dinner drinks.

The Club is the resort’s new home for all things fitness, complete with a vast gym with the latest Technogym equipment, dedicated yoga, reformer Pilates and spin studios, multiple swimming pools and a multipurpose sports hall. You'll also find thermal experiences, including a sauna, steam room and outdoor bubble pool, plus a lively café. We loved the bright airiness of this new building which feels more like a premium health club than a hotel leisure centre.

The Belfry Spa's famous Fire & Ice Experience remains one of its standout attractions, taking guests through a series of contrasting heat and cooling experiences.

Families can also entertain themselves in the Toptracer driving range and woodland adventure playground. Unsurprisingly, The Belfry is a popular wedding venue and the 20 meetings and events spaces give another indication of its size.

What makes The Belfry special is that it celebrates its history without feeling trapped by it. The Ryder Cup legacy may be what first puts it on people's radar, but the modern accommodation, excellent leisure facilities and welcoming atmosphere mean it's evolved into something much bigger than a golf resort. We're lucky enough to live just 30 minutes away, but after our stay it was easy to understand why so many people travel from across the UK to experience it for themselves.

• Prices at The Belfry Hotel & Resort start from £179 for a signature room including full English breakfast.