Tree-lined course is one of finest in the district

Situated on land that was originally owned by the Earl of Cardigan, Howley Hall has developed into a fine course with some stunning views over the Calder Valley.

A nine-hole course was built in 1900 on treeless meadowland parcelled off by stone walls, some of which still form part of the course.

A few years later, those early members moved into an estate house for a clubhouse, which is the central part of the modern refurbished building.

The course was expanded to 18 holes in 1909 and alterations were made by the famous Alister McKenzie – architect of Augusta National, home of the Masters – with his famous split-level greens incorporated into the design of the new-look course.

Ilkley Gazette: Howley Hall GC

The club has been member-owned since 1924, and in the last 30 years more than 35,000 trees have been planted, transforming the course from open heathland to parkland.

That has secured its reputation as one of the finest in the district, and in 2000 the clubhouse, pictured, was extensively refurbished in a project costing £600,000, with picture windows looking on to the course, air-conditioning, spike bar and new changing facilities.

Of course, good as a clubhouse is, a golf club will ultimately be judged on its course, and Howley Hall’s parkland format will not disappoint.

There is usually something lurking to catch the poor shot, but generous fairways are often tree-lined and large greens with a superb putting surface give Howley a growing reputation in the golfing world.

FACT FILE

Name: Howley Hall Golf Club

Address: Scotchman Lane, Leeds, LS27 0NX

Website: howleyhall.co.uk

Telephone: (01924) 350100

President: Steve Bestwick

Club pro: Gary Watkinson

Annual fee: £810

Visitor fee: £40 Mon-Fri, £50 weekend

Course length: 6,346 yards

Par: 71

Signature hole: 18th – downhill par 3 with clubhouse close to green, pictured

Shop: Yes

Ilkley Gazette: Howley Hall Golf Club
Ilkley Gazette: Howley Hall Golf Club