Most golf clubs in the North East are friendly places. But "friendly" and "feels like it's for you" aren't always the same thing. If you've ever stood on a first tee and quietly wondered whether to mention your partner in the small talk, you already know the gap this group is trying to fill.
Out on the Fairway started as a simple idea: a private Facebook group where gay, lesbian and bisexual people in the North East could talk about golf without doing the usual mental maths first. Where you played at the weekend. Which course is worth the green fee. Who fancies nine holes at Eden after work. Nothing dramatic — just the same chat anyone else has about golf, in a space where you don't have to translate yourself.
What we actually do
At its heart, it's a private group chat. People post rounds they're playing and invite others along. There are absolute beginners who've never held a club and people who play off single figures. There are couples and singles. Trans members and supportive straight friends are welcome too — this is a golf group, not a closed shop.
The public Facebook Page is the front door. It's how new people find us. But the private group is where the actual community lives.
Where we play
Across the North East — from Newcastle and Gateshead down through Durham and the Tees Valley, up the coast through Northumberland to Berwick. Anywhere with a clubhouse, a kettle and a starter sheet.
What this isn't
It isn't a dating group. It isn't a campaign or a political project. It isn't trying to convince anyone of anything. It's just golf — played by people who happen to be gay, lesbian or bisexual, in a corner of the world we already love.
Founder
The group was started by James, a North East golfer who got tired of playing alone and figured he probably wasn't the only one. Read more on the homepage or come and say hello in the group.
Get in touch
Curious but not ready to join the group? Email hello@outonthefairway.co.uk — we're an open, welcoming bunch and there's no such thing as a silly question. Beginners, returners, friends and allies all welcome.