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Pannanich Wells Hotel Golf Course, Ballater. (1908 - 1920s)
First appeared in 1908.
A nine-hole course attached to the hotel.
Extract from a report that appeared in the Aberdeen Press & Journal on Monday 8th June 1908.
“Opening of a New Course at Ballater – The new golf course in connection with the Pannanich Wells Hotel was formally opened on Saturday afternoon.
On the invitation of Mr & Mrs Middleton about 40 friends and visitors arrived by the 2.45 train. When they arrived at the hotel they were hospitably entertained to dinner. Robert Watt, agent, North of Scotland and Town and County Bank, Aberdeen, presided, and Mr Aitken, shipowner, was croupier. Mr & Mrs Hamilton were complimented on their excellent management of the hotel, prophesying that the new golf course would greatly add to its attractions.
The party then adjourned to the new golf course, which is beautifully situated on the banks of the Dee. The course is still at some points rather overloaded with natural hazards, but it will undoubtebly improve as time goes on. The lengths of the various holes are; First, 165 yards; Second, 185 yards; Third, 156 yards; Fourth, 150 yards; Fifth, 165 yards; Sixth, 140 yards; Seventh, 145 yards; Eighth, 172 yards; Ninth, 180 yards. The various greens are getting into very good condition, but the tees, as a rule, are rather soft.
The first ball was driven by John Smart mated with David T Lamont, Bieldside, and the round of nine-holes was done in an average of 4. The weather was lovely and all returned to the hotel delighted with the course and its surroundings.
After tea, the party returned to Ballater and left by the 8.15 train.”
As can be seen below golf was still being advertised at hotel in the late 1920s.
From the Dundee Courier Monday 26th September 1927. Image © Illustrated London News Group. Image created courtesy of THE BRITISH LIBRARY BOARD.