Ganton Golf Club

Gary Player once claimed that Ganton is the only inland course worthy of staging an Open Championship and the legendary, opionated South African was making a valid point. Ganton, the course, has everything – it’s a serious test of golf as many of the game’s leading players have already discovered to their cost down the years, The only thing that lets it down – well in terms of putting on an Open anyway – is its remoteness (it’s in the middle of nowhere about ten miles from Scarborough) and lack of infrastructure. That hasn’t prevented it from successfully staging the 1949 Ryder Cup, the 2000 Curtis Cup and 2003 Walker Cup though clearly a modern-day Open and all it entails is a completely different ball game.

This outstanding heathland layout is more of an inland links and if you struggle to find the firm, crisp, fast-running fairways you’re likely to find the lethal combination of about 100 deep, punishing bunkers or, if not, dense rough or gorse. Ganton is right up there with the Woodhall Spas and Sunningdales and although the majority of holes are special in their own right, you’ll never forget the par-4 4th (after driving over a valley, you’re firing into a raised well guarded green) and the stirring climax which includes a long, intimidating par-3 (17th).

Yes, it’s a bit off the beaten golf track and requires something of a golfing pilgrimage, but Ganton Golf Club’s one that you won’t regret. This Yorkshire beauty offers a rare mix of sandy, heathland bliss with a hint of links appeal. It’s littered with punishing bunkers and wrapped in impenetrable gorse and heather. Take your ‘A’ game. 

Like Ganton fruit cake served with Stilton, this course, with its fast-running fairways and deep bunkers, is a fine mix of sweet and savoury. 

The Top 100 Golf Courses in Britain and Ireland

Click here to find out where Ganton Golf Club ranks in Golf World's Top 100 Courses England

Golf was first played at Ganton Golf Club in 1891 on a golf course laid out by Tom Chisholm of St Andrews, supported by Robert Bird, the club’s first pro and head greenkeeper. Over the years a whole string of golfing legends, including Braid, Colt and Alister Mackenzie have chipped in to turn Ganton into arguably the country’s premier inland golf course. Ganton has staged some of golf’s biggest events including the 1949 Ryder Cup, 2000 Curtis Cup and 2003 Walker Cup.

Accommodation: Check out the club website:  www.gantongolfclub.com

• Course has: Bar
• Course does not have: Buggy Hire
• Course has: Driving Range
• Course does not have: Practice Green
• Course has: Pro Shop
• Course has: Restaurant
• Course has: Trolley Hire
• Course does not have: Dress Code
• Course has: Club Hire
• Course does not have: Handicap