I haven't really played any of the other "big name" courses in the north east yet apart from seaton carew but I can't really fault Rockliffe. Maybe needs a few years to mature but I really like it........ Could have something to do with the lack of trees for me to hit my ball into!
I've never paid full price yet, they have a twighlight deal in summer where it's £50 with a sandwich and coffee or a winter deal where it's £45, so it's not too bad.