Ramside Hall: UK's Top Golf Getaway Revealed

Ramside Hall: A Premier UK Resort for Every Occasion

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of County Durham, Ramside Hall stands as a testament to luxurious escapism, truly living up to its moniker as a ‘resort for every occasion’. This expansive venue offers a compelling blend of relaxation, gourmet dining, and world-class golfing, making it a standout destination in the United Kingdom. Beyond its championship fairways, Ramside Hall presents a diverse array of attractions, ensuring a memorable experience for all, whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply seeking a rejuvenating getaway.

The accessibility of Ramside Hall is a significant drawcard. Located a mere 10 minutes from Durham train station, it’s conveniently reachable for those travelling from afar. A three-hour train journey from London’s King’s Cross Station deposits you directly into Durham, with additional direct services connecting to major cities like Manchester and Liverpool. This ease of access makes it remarkably simple to pack your clubs, hop on a train, and escape the urban hustle for a revitalising weekend break.

The Pin: An Entertainment Epicentre

The latest and arguably most electrifying addition to Ramside Hall is ‘The Pin’. This dynamic entertainment centre, designed with an American sports bar aesthetic, is a multifaceted hub catering to a wide range of interests. It boasts a sophisticated bowling alley, a cutting-edge driving range, and electronic dart boards, all meticulously crafted by the dedicated hotel staff to create a modern and engaging atmosphere.

The driving range at The Pin is among the nation’s finest, featuring an impressive 43 bays spread across two levels. Each bay is equipped with a new mat and multiple television screens, perfect for catching up on Saturday afternoon matches while you hone your swing.

Toptracer Technology: Every bay is fitted with a Toptracer system, allowing players to refine their skills or even virtually play renowned championship courses. This makes it an ideal spot for dedicated practice sessions or a fun-filled afternoon of hitting golf balls with friends.
The thoughtful design extends to the spacious bays, accommodating groups for friendly competition across a variety of Toptracer games. Furthermore, individual heating systems ensure year-round comfort, no matter the weather.
Convenience and Comfort: A particularly appreciated feature is the ability to order food and drinks directly to your bay from the downstairs bar. Relax in the plush sofas and enjoy a refreshing beverage while observing your companions’ drives.
Exclusive Swing Studio: For a more private experience, The Pin offers a secluded swing studio, complete with its own fully stocked bar and draft beer tap.
Affordable Play: The pricing structure is refreshingly flexible. Instead of purchasing balls, players pay for a chosen time slot, with 30-minute sessions costing a reasonable £7.50.

After a satisfying session on the range, the main bar area at The Pin was buzzing with activity on a Saturday afternoon. The venue has clearly struck a chord with the local community, drawing in a steady stream of patrons. The bar’s focal point is undoubtedly its four colossal, curved screens, ingeniously designed to wrap around the wall, ensuring an optimal viewing experience for every guest.

The culinary offerings at The Pin are equally impressive, with a menu designed for social dining. From hearty burgers to generous platters of wings, the dishes are packed with flavour. The salt and pepper chicken-loaded tots were a standout, a highly recommended treat.

Adjacent to the bar lies the bowling alley, featuring six lanes, shuffleboard tables, and foosball. Towards the rear, guests can engage in friendly competition on the electronic dart boards, which are proving immensely popular for group battles. The Pin offers an excellent way to spend an afternoon, regardless of your golfing prowess.

The Spa: A Sanctuary of Serenity

In stark contrast to the vibrant energy of The Pin, The Spa at Ramside Hall provides an oasis of calm and rejuvenation. This exceptional facility is equipped with everything needed to help guests disconnect and unwind. Upon arrival, a warm greeting from the exceptionally friendly and helpful reception staff sets the tone for a truly relaxing experience.

The spa boasts a comprehensive range of thermal suites and five pools:

25m Pool: Ideal for traditional swimming laps.
Hydrotherapy Pool: A personal favourite, this pool features integrated jacuzzi functions, perfect for soothing tired muscles after a day on the golf course.
Cold Plunge Pool: For a bracing and invigorating dip.
Outdoor Vitality Pool: Offering a relaxing soak with an outdoor perspective.

Infinity Pool: The jewel in the crown is the private, secluded infinity pool situated on the spa’s roof. It offers breathtaking views over the 18th green of the Prince Bishops’ Course. Available for private hire for groups of up to 10, it’s the ultimate spot for exclusive relaxation, with the option to order tapas from Fusion, Ramside’s Asian restaurant.

Downstairs, a selection of thermal suites awaits, including two saunas, a steam room, a Himalayan salt room, and a mud rasul. The spa also houses a state-of-the-art fitness suite. For ultimate pampering, a team of specialists is on hand to provide massages, facials, and revitalising rituals. A few hours spent in this tranquil environment left me feeling completely renewed and revitalised.

The Hotel: Elegance and Comfort

Ramside Hall’s hotel has undergone significant transformation and expansion over the years, evolving from its humble beginnings as a nine-bedroom establishment into the sophisticated, state-of-the-art retreat it is today. It now offers over 120 rooms, including unique treehouse cottages.

The lobby welcomes guests with a warm and friendly atmosphere, complemented by the attentive service of the staff throughout the stay. The hotel’s design masterfully blends modern aesthetics with classic touches, featuring an impressive collection of antique paintings and furnishings.

Ramside Hall provides a range of accommodation options, each exuding a stylish yet cosy ambiance:

Deluxe and Classic Rooms: These rooms are both stylish and homely, featuring large, comfortable beds.
Luxurious Suites: For those seeking an extra special occasion, three opulent suites are available. The Celebration Suite, in particular, offers the finest views over the golf course and grounds, along with a 90-inch television and a freestanding copper bath.

Treehouse Cottages: A more recent and charming addition, these delightful log cabins were a personal highlight. Each comes with its own private jacuzzi and sauna, offering an incredibly snug and cosy experience. Constructed from reclaimed timber, they feature a rustic-modern interior with oak beams and stone fireplaces, creating an atmosphere of secluded charm.

Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Journey

Ramside Hall is a haven for food lovers, boasting five distinct restaurants to satisfy every palate.

Fusion: Located within the spa, this Asian restaurant draws inspiration from Thai, Japanese, and Indian cuisines. Its menu features beloved classics like Pad Thai and Japanese Ramen. Fusion also offers a unique take on afternoon tea, incorporating spring rolls, satay chicken, and Thai fishcakes alongside traditional sandwiches and cakes.
The Rib Room: Situated in the main hotel, The Rib Room evokes the ambience of a classic French bistro with its elegant decor, featuring striking artwork and tables adorned with vintage wine bottles. The staff are knowledgeable and eager to guide diners through the menu, which specialises in perfectly cooked steaks. Other notable dishes include slow-cooked confit pork belly, native lobster, and North Sea Halibut.

Charcoa: This relaxed dining space serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering an excellent selection of dishes ranging from hot sandwiches to lamb kebabs.
The Hotel Bar: Adjacent to Charcoa, the bar provides a soothing and relaxed environment, with dark wood panelling and plush sofas creating an inviting atmosphere for enjoying a drink.
The Clubhouse: Located at the golf club, this recently refurbished bar offers classic British light bites, including toasties, paninis, and fish and chips. It provides excellent views of the 18th green on the Cathedral Course, which is currently undergoing renovations and is expected to reopen in the summer. The balcony is an ideal spot to enjoy a beverage and watch golfers conclude their rounds during warmer months.

The Final Word

Ramside Hall truly excels in offering a comprehensive resort experience, with its exceptional golf courses, rejuvenating spa, and vibrant entertainment options at The Pin. Its remarkable accessibility, particularly for those travelling from London, makes it an easy and attractive destination. Its strategic location also positions it as an ideal base for exploring other top golf courses in the North East and even Scotland, including esteemed venues like Seaton Carew and Rockliffe Hall.

A visit of at least three days is highly recommended to fully immerse yourself in all that Ramside Hall has to offer, allowing ample time to play both courses, indulge in the spa’s facilities, and enjoy the diverse activities at The Pin.