Harrogate Business Golf Day

• Trick shot golf show
• Welcome gift
• Bacon rolls and coffee
• 18 holes of golf
• 3 course dinner
• Guest speaker

Pannal Golf Club, situated south of Harrogate, is set amidst breathtaking countryside, offering panoramic views that stretch west to Wharfedale and, on a clear day, as far east as York Minster. 

Originally designed by Sandy Herd in 1906, the course was later refined by Dr. Alister MacKenzie before the First World War. Further enhancements were introduced in 1933 by Sir Guy Campbell and Major Charles MacKenzie, Alister’s brother. A quintessential Yorkshire moorland course, Pannal is exposed to the elements but benefits from an abundance of trees providing shelter from the wind.

Pannal has a proud history of hosting prestigious tournaments, including the English Women’s Championship as early as 1927. It also staged the inaugural PGA Matchplay Championship in 1955, the PGA Seniors Championship in 1985, and the Ladies British Amateur Championship in 1991.

The course opens with a strong challenge, beginning with a 438-yard par four, followed by another lengthy par four before transitioning into a par three and a shift in direction. The 5th hole, running parallel to the 4th, continues a gradual ascent leading to the 6th, which features a blind tee shot. Here, the course transforms from a woodland setting into an open moorland landscape, rich with heather, pines, and deciduous trees, offering spectacular views.

Precision takes precedence over power at the midpoint, as the tree-lined 7th leads to the turn. The 10th, a deceptive 142-yard par three, often plays longer than expected. The 11th, a short par five, demands careful positioning, followed by the demanding 459-yard par four 12th, where a long second shot is required after a straight drive. This theme of strategic positioning continues until the 17th, a striking 198-yard par three played across a valley. The 18th descends back to clubhouse level, beginning with a tee shot from an elevated position and a short approach to a green below.

Pannal is undoubtedly a testing course, particularly when the wind is up, yet it remains fair and enjoyable. The layout provides an engaging challenge across undulating but manageable terrain, rewarding those who drive accurately and approach each hole with strategic foresight.