Ramside Hall has underlined its ambition to be recognised as the number-one golf resort in the North East with the announcement of a new short-game practice area as part of a multi-million-pound investment programme at the County Durham venue.
The new facility is scheduled to open in June and is designed to further elevate the overall golfing experience at the resort. Fully floodlit and purpose-built, it will provide a high-quality practice and teaching environment for golfers of all abilities, from newcomers to the game through to elite amateurs and professionals.
Kevin Jackson, one of the PGA professionals teaching at the venue, said:
“This is a fantastic multifunctional facility that is unique to the area. There is simply nothing else like it in the North East of England.
“As well as giving golfers the opportunity to practise all the shots they will face on each course, it will allow members and visitors to work on their short games at their leisure.”
Multi-million-pound investment targets North East golf market
The expansive practice area will feature two large greens alongside multiple hitting zones, allowing it to double as a short course where golfers can play a variety of holes. At the same time, the layout offers ample space for structured coaching sessions and group lessons, ensuring the facility can be used in a variety of ways throughout the year.
PGA professionals highlight benefits for all ability levels
Jackson elaborated:
“It will also be the perfect base for elite players from the region to come and work on their scoring shots. It will be a short-game area for all players and will enhance the teaching experience at Ramside.”
Designed by leading golf course architect Jonathan Gaunt, the short-game area adds another standout feature to Ramside Hall’s 36-hole offering. Created with coaching at its core, the facility will support the work of Jackson alongside fellow PGA professional Phil Redpath, providing an advanced environment focused on the scoring areas of the game.
Gaunt, who designed both the Prince Bishop’s and Cathedral courses, which opened in 1996 and 2014 respectively, said:
“It was a pleasure to come back to a place I first visited in the early nineties. The work that has gone on here is incredible, and this short-game area represents another big step forward. It is a game-changer for the resort and the overall golf experience.”
Golf course upgrades strengthen Ramside Hall offering
Cathedral Course improvements and modernisation works
The short-game area forms part of a broader investment across the golf operation. Both courses have undergone further work over the past 18 months to meet modern standards, with the Cathedral Course benefitting from extensive changes including the construction of two new holes.
A comprehensive drainage programme is also planned, with completion expected in 2026. This work is set to play a key role in extending the playing season on both courses and improving year-round playing conditions.
Wider leisure investment supports resort growth
New entertainment facilities broaden visitor appeal
Beyond golf, Ramside Hall continues to invest heavily in its wider leisure offering. Last October saw the opening of The Pin, a new entertainment hub featuring a six-lane bowling alley, a sports bar and a 43-bay Toptracer driving range, further enhancing the resort’s appeal to a broader audience.
Continued investment drives ambition to be number one
John Adamson, Managing Director of Ramside Estates, the family-owned hospitality business that owns Ramside Hall, said:
“I am very grateful to Jonathan and his team for their expertise, for this really is a wonderful addition to the resort.
“As part of our multi-million pound investment, this short-game area will cater for golfers of all abilities. It is an exciting time for Ramside Hall as we continue to evolve and meet the demands of both members and visitors.”
With sustained investment, upgraded facilities and a clear goal of being the benchmark for golf in the region, Ramside Hall is continuing to build towards its aim of firmly establishing itself as the North East’s number-one golf destination. For golfers planning where to play next, this latest development could add Ramside Hall to the list of top UK courses worth visiting.
Key details at a glance
- New floodlit short-game practice area opening at Ramside Hall in June as part of a multi-million-pound investment programme.
- Purpose-built coaching and practice facility designed to support golfers of all abilities, from beginners to elite players.
- Development strengthens Ramside Hall’s ambition to establish itself as the North East’s number-one golf resort.
