The idea, design and implementation of a golf course at Ross Priory is attributable to George Campbell, formerly Maintenance Officer at the University, now retired. As a keen golfer and amateur student of course design, Campbell recognised the potential of a golf course to the Priory as an additional facility and that parts of the policies would lend themselves particularly well to the playing of golf.
Although little resource was made available and despite much resistance from some quarters, Campbell pressed ahead and in a remarkably short time six holes were formed and opened for play in 1977. Some time later an equally enthusiastic Peter Herbert, a past Director of Estates Management, took up the challenge of further developing the course and with similar problems to overcome but with further land becoming available in 1989, the original six holes were reduced to four, and five new holes were added in the field to the left of the approach road.
Since then, continuous development has taken place and today the course offers a fine mix of nine holes which when played twice measures 5,816 yards from the white tees. The Par is 70 for both men and women and the Standard Scratches are 68 and 69 respectively. There are 8 Par Fours and 1 Par Three and with a liberal scattering of large and ancient trees, difficult rough, smallish greens and some uphill fairways there is enough to present a stiff challenge to even the low handicapper. On the other hand, informality and breathtaking scenery combine to make it a pleasure for those of lesser skills!