It was at Panmure Golf Club in 1953 that Ben Hogan set up camp for the Open at Carnoustie, his only appearance in the Championship. He spent a fortnight getting to grips with the local turf and the demands of proper links golf, then went on to win by four shots, signing off with a course-record 68 in the final round.
And yes, Panmure leans into the story. Rumour has it Hogan even had the 17th green cut to his own liking, then returned the mower to the head greenkeeper, spotless. Whether every detail is true or not, you can see why the tale has stuck. This is classic Angus links ground, firm underfoot and asking you to think your way round rather than simply lash driver.
If you're touring the big names on this stretch of coast, Panmure is an easy add-on. It's only a few miles south of Carnoustie and it has that championship feel without trying too hard. The routing is traditional, the bunkering is there for a reason and when the wind gets up, you quickly learn where the sensible side of the fairway is.
Right, the key point is this: Panmure is the sort of place serious golfers have always rated, long before it needed to market itself. If Carnoustie is on your itinerary, I'd seriously consider slotting Panmure in alongside it.
Who is this for?
Golfers building an Angus itinerary around Carnoustie who want another authentic links day with proper heritage and a straightforward run from town.
Who is it best for?
Players who enjoy strategy off the tee and controlling flight in the wind. Mid to low handicaps will get the most out of it, but any golfer who loves old-school links terrain will appreciate Panmure.
