Need Golf visit

Left to right, the image shows:

• Mark Bayley-Smith (Circle Leadership)
• James Need (Need Golf Founder and Director)
• Sophie Need (Need Golf Co-founder and Director)
• Cllr Nick Mannion
• Cllr Michael Gorman

Nestled in the Cheshire countryside near Nantwich, Need Golf Centre has rapidly established itself as one of the UK's leading golf facilities. What began as a vision by husband-and-wife team James and Sophie Need has grown into an award-winning destination that attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year and is helping redefine how people experience golf.

Founded in 2019, the business was created with a clear mission: to make golf more accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. Built on what was once an agricultural field, the facility has evolved into a modern golf destination that combines coaching, technology, family entertainment and hospitality, attracting both experienced golfers and complete beginners.

A family business with a vision

At the heart of Need Golf Centre is a family-run business built on passion, innovation and community values. James, a PGA professional, and Sophie, whose background includes architecture and property development, combined their expertise to create a facility that challenges traditional perceptions of the sport.

From operating as a husband-and-wife team in the early days to becoming a nationally recognised business, the Need family have remained committed to creating a welcoming environment where people of all ages and abilities can participate in golf.

Nationally recognised excellence

Need Golf Centre's innovative approach has attracted significant industry recognition. In 2026, the facility was named England Golf Facility of the Year, one of the highest accolades in the sport, recognising its commitment to inclusivity, community engagement and innovation.

The business also received international recognition after being awarded Toptracer Range of the Year across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, highlighting its excellence in customer experience and use of technology.

These achievements place Cheshire East firmly on the map as home to one of the most innovative golf facilities in the country.

Supporting the local economy and tourism

Need Golf Centre has become an important visitor attraction within Cheshire East, welcoming more than 50,000 visitors annually. The attraction draws customers from across the region and beyond, generating spending that benefits local hospitality, accommodation, retail and tourism businesses.

Its growing profile as an award-winning destination also helps strengthen Cheshire East's reputation as a location for high-quality leisure experiences and sporting activities. The facility's success demonstrates how rural business innovation can contribute to economic growth, visitor spending and local employment opportunities.

In addition to attracting visitors, the business has built a significant online audience, generating millions of social media impressions each month and showcasing Cheshire East to audiences across the UK and internationally.

Growing participation in sport

Need Golf Centre is playing a key role in introducing new people to golf and supporting wider health and wellbeing objectives. The facility has removed many of the traditional barriers associated with the sport, creating an environment where visitors can participate without membership requirements, dress codes or previous experience.

The centre actively supports junior participation, family engagement and inclusive access to sport, including SEND-friendly facilities and community events designed to encourage wider involvement. These initiatives help develop future generations of golfers while promoting active lifestyles across the community.

Through coaching programmes, events and partnerships with the wider golfing community, Need Golf Centre is helping strengthen Cheshire East's connection to one of the UK's most popular participation sports.

Community and sustainability

Community engagement is central to the business model. Events such as the Need Feed Festival have brought hundreds of families together, creating opportunities for residents to engage with the facility and each other. The centre has developed into far more than a golf range, becoming a community hub that supports social connection, wellbeing and local engagement.

The business has also embraced a sustainable approach to development by transforming previously underutilised land into a thriving leisure destination while continuing to invest in modern technology and efficient operations that support long-term growth.

Future growth plans

Looking ahead, the Need family remain focused on expanding the facility and continuing their mission to make golf more accessible. Future ambitions include additional visitor experiences, expanded facilities and further investment in off-course golf activities that introduce new audiences to the sport.

By continuing to innovate and invest, the business aims to build on its success while strengthening its contribution to the local economy, tourism sector and sporting landscape of Cheshire East.

A proud part of Cheshire East

Our visit to Need Golf Centre highlighted the ambition, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit that exists across Cheshire East's business community. From a family-led start-up to England's number one golf facility, the business demonstrates how vision, determination and innovation can create opportunities for economic growth, tourism development and increased participation in sport.

Need Golf Centre is a fantastic example of a Cheshire East business achieving national and international success while remaining rooted in its local community.

To learn more about Need Golf, please visit: Need Golf Centre, England's #1 Golf Facility