Page 73 - Rooftops

Left: The par 3, 7th hole on
Majestic golf at Brancepeth Castle
the Prince Bishop course and above, Ramside’s version of ‘Amen Corner’ on the Cathedral Course. Right: A view of the hotel and spa, the 18th green on the Prince Bishop course is left of the pond
in the north John Seery tees up in County Durham
the 11th to the 14th ‘Ramside’s Amen Corner.’ The downhill par-three 12th bears an uncanny resemblance to its famous counterpart in Georgia but instead of Rae’s Creek, Sherburn Beck stands guard at the front of the green.
In between rounds we couldn’t fault the hotel - but I’m probably a little biased. At the risk of sounding like a condescending southerner (and perhaps because of regular visits to see relations in the North East) I’ve always found the locals ultra friendly. And I’ve got a soft spot for the accents too.
Our room for a two night stay was spacious and very comfortable. We ate splendidly in the AA award-winning Rib Room Steakhouse and Grill, (they serve the finest Durham beef, matured for up to 32 days, to produce a succulent and tender steak) and more leisurely for full cooked breakfasts (and fresh fruit, in case my wife reads this) in Pemberton’s Carvery.
There’s even an Asian food inspired Fusion restaurant near the state of the art spa and gym. We tried it on on our second evening and were very impressed.
While at Ramside it’s well worth sampling Brancepeth Castle Golf Club.
Planned by world famous architect Harry Colt in 1924, on what was a deer park, it’s a par 71 with a deep ravine cutting through the course. The latter comes into play on a string of holes making for testing tee shots and punishing anything off target.
We played it on a crisp, sunny day and loved the scenery (you get to glimpse the castle from time to time) and the challenge of a charming and tricky course. Afterwards you can enjoy a well
earned pint in a clubhouse that was once the park’s stables and coach house.
With other attractive courses in the area this part of the North East is well worth a golfing expedition - and Ramside Hall should be your base.
n Play and stay golf breaks are available from £109pp when you book direct with the hotel. Breaks include dinner, bed and breakfast, golf on two courses,10% discount on food in the clubhouse plus one in 12 play and stay free.
Visit www.ramsidehallhotel.co.uk or call 01913865282 (All offers subject to availability and prices can vary).
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