Ramside Hall is a hidden gem in the UK's golf scene, offering a unique blend of luxury and sports entertainment that's just a three-hour train ride from London. This comprehensive review delves into what makes Ramside Hall stand out, from its world-class golf courses to its innovative sports bar, The Pin. Personally, I think Ramside Hall is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts and families alike, offering a well-rounded experience that combines the best of both worlds.
A Golfing Paradise
The Prince Bishop's Course and the Cathedral Course are the crown jewels of Ramside Hall's golf offerings. The Prince Bishop's Course, a par 72 beauty, starts with a challenging dogleg right par four, tempting golfers to slice their drives. The course is meticulously maintained, with true greens and immaculate fairways. Water comes into play on the middle holes, adding an extra layer of strategy. The 18th hole, a 302-yard par four, is a fine finish, flanked by opulent treehouses and the resort's spa. The course is entertaining, with a mix of drivable par fours and challenging water holes, although it lacks a truly signature hole.
The Cathedral Course, while not yet fully finished, shows immense potential. It offers gorgeous views of the northeast countryside, complementing the more tree-surrounded Prince Bishop's Course. The course features three downhill par threes and a steep, uphill par four, adding variety and challenge. The course is in the early stages of renovation, with the 17th and 18th holes being worked on, but it already has a championship feel.
The Pin: A Sports Bar Like No Other
What sets Ramside Hall apart is The Pin, a sports bar that opened in October 2025. It's perhaps the best sports bar I've seen in the UK, with big screens adorned with sports memorabilia. The menu offers a tonally accurate selection of wings, burgers, pizzas, and hot dogs, with gourmet restaurants for those seeking steaks or foreign dishes. The main bar, with two stories, is flanked by a bowling alley and a two-tier, 43-bay driving range with TopTracer technology.
The VIP service at the driving range is a unique feature, offering unlimited golf balls, a private lounge area, and a dedicated host for two hours. This facility is a sweet spot between attracting young people and the golf club's 300-plus members. The warm North-East welcome is evident throughout the resort, with excellent service from Colin at the golf club, Louis in The Pin, and Sebastian in The Rib Room.
A Well-Rounded Package
What sets Ramside Hall apart from other golf courses is its well-rounded package. The resort offers a classy hotel with luxurious rooms and excellent TV offerings, a spa and swimming pool, and a variety of dining options. The buffet-style breakfast at Charcoa and the meat-focused The Rib Room, as well as the Asian-inspired Fusion, cater to a range of tastes. The rooms feel like a treat, with especially impressive bathrooms and beds.
A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering
Ramside Hall is a hidden gem in the UK's golf scene, offering a unique blend of luxury and sports entertainment. The resort's golf courses, sports bar, and dining options make it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts and families alike. While it may not be as well-known as some of its neighbors, Ramside Hall is a short train ride from London, making it easily accessible. If this course was down towards London, everyone would know about it. In my opinion, Ramside Hall is a hidden gem worth discovering, offering a well-rounded experience that combines the best of both worlds.
