Ganton Golf Club hosted the 1949 Ryder Cup matches between the USA and Great Britain. Team Captains were Ben Hogan (US) and Charles Whitcombe (GB). Despite concerns about the grooves on British clubs, resolved by R&A Rules Official Bernard Darwin, the USA claimed victory, 7-5, after dominating the singles.
Located in the rural Vale of Pickering, Ganton is often classified as a heathland course, though it possesses characteristics of an inland links. Originally called Scarborough Golf Club, it opened in 1891, laid out by Tom Chisholm. Extensive alterations were made by Tom Dunn, and Harry Vardon, the club’s pro in 1896, helped put Ganton on the map. Over the years, the course has seen input from golfing greats like Harry Colt and Alister Mackenzie.
Ganton is one of the few inland courses in the British Isles considered good enough to host an Open Championship. It has held significant competitions, including the 2000 Curtis Cup and the 2003 Walker Cup. The course’s bunkering is extraordinary, featuring over 100 cleverly placed bunkers.
Ganton’s layout offers a challenging test of golf with fast greens and firm fairways. Three short par fours present risk-and-reward opportunities for big hitters, while the course’s three par threes are complemented by strong par fours. Notably, the 4th hole, a 406-yard par four, and the 5th hole, a short 157-yard par three, are standout challenges.
