glendale unveils new richmond park clubhouse

UK golf course operator Glendale Golf continues an exciting start to the season as the doors open to a brand new clubhouse at London’s Richmond Park.

The original Prince’s Course was opened in 1923 by HRH Prince of Wales and was heralded as a place where ‘artisans and royalty are equally welcome’.  This statement reflected the modest £3 annual membership fee at the time.  The concept caught on and a further 18 holes were added in 1925 and named the Duke’s Course, after inauguration by the Duke of York.

Ninety years on and Richmond Park Golf Course is proving just as popular.  Glendale Golf has further enhanced the 36-hole venue with a brand new £2.5m clubhouse.  Located within the largest of London’s Royal Parks, the building was conceived by the architect as an elegant ‘Pavilion in the Park’ and designed to quite literally blend in with nature. 

A unique feature of the clubhouse is an eco-roof made entirely from acid grassland for which the Park is renowned making it quite possibly the largest continuous green roof in the capital.

Jon Dummett, Head of Golf for Glendale Managed Services explains: “The investment into the clubhouse is part of our long-term commitment to improving the facilities at Richmond Park Golf Course.”

The contemporary clubhouse also marks the launch of Glendale’s signature catering brand; Nineteen Bar & Kitchen.  

The clubhouse is open-plan with a coffee shop, golf shop, restaurant and bar under one roof.  Floor to ceiling glazing provides uninterrupted views of the two 18-hole golf courses, against a backdrop of 2500 acres of spectacular parkland and an abundance of native wildlife, including the Park’s resident herds of deer.

Meanwhile, the legendary Gary Player recently paid a visit to Richmond Park to film a promotional video for Callaway golf equipment.  

Jon Dummett commented: “We’re delighted that Callaway Golf chose our course to shoot their latest promotional video, starring its international brand ambassador Gary Player.  

“Much to the delight of unsuspecting members of the public, the nine-time Major Champion took time out from filming to mingle and joke with golfers back in the clubhouse.

Dummett continued:  “Being in the business of course design, Gary was very interested to find out more about our recent developments.  He was a true gentleman and even donated cash towards a charity golf day that happened to be taking place on the same day.  It was a real privilege to meet one of golf’s biggest stars.” 

This year, Richmond Park Golf Course is celebrating its 90th anniversary with an Open Weekend on over the weekend of 17th and 18th August.  For more information about Richmond Park Golf Course visit www.glendalegolf.co.uk