A parkland layout is one that features a golf course with a more conventional architecture, tree-lined fairways, and undulating greens. Parkland courses are renowned for their old trees and landscaping and are often found in more inland regions.
An example of this kind of golf course is a parkland course, which has fairways lined with trees and a number of water hazards. A parkland course’s layout frequently places a higher priority on aesthetics and the use of landscaping than a links course.
The inclusion of trees in the design is one of a parkland course’s distinguishing features. The fairways are frequently bordered by trees, which can act as a visual obstruction and add a strategic component to the game. The greens are frequently surrounded by trees, which can contribute to the course’s atmosphere by fostering a sense of solitude.
Parkland courses sometimes have a variety of water hazards, such as ponds and streams, in addition to trees, which can make the game more difficult. These water hazards are frequently employed to provide drama and enhance the course’s overall aesthetics.
A parkland course’s layout is frequently more difficult than a links course because it has more undulating fairways and greens and a wider range of hazards. The beginning and last holes are frequently situated close to the clubhouse, and the courses are generally set out in a circle. Depending on the weather, this enables golfers to play the course in either way.
In conclusion, a parkland golf course’s design is characterized by its tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and well-kept greens. The use of landscaping and the difficult, uneven terrain are other distinguishing features of this kind of course.
Advantages of links golf course layout
- Aesthetics: Parkland courses often have a more natural, park-like appearance, which can be visually appealing.
- Playability: Given that they frequently feature more slick, well-kept fairways and greens than links courses, parkland courses are typically thought of as being more forgiving than links courses. This might increase their appeal to all types of gamers..
- Flexibility: Parkland courses can be designed to incorporate a variety of hole types and lengths, which can make them more challenging and interesting for players.
- Year-round playability: Parkland courses can be more playable all year round since they are often more resistant to bad weather, such as heavy rain or frost.
- Accessibility: Parkland courses are generally easier to access and can be located closer to urban areas, which can make them more convenient for players.
Disadvantages of links golf course layout:
- Cost: Due to the necessity for land clearing and leveling as well as irrigation to preserve the health of the grass and other plants, parkland courses can be more expensive to construct and maintain.
- Time: A parkland course can take a long time to construct since it requires extensive design and preparation before construction can begin.
- Environmental impact: Clearing land and building a course can have an impact on the local ecosystem, and care must be taken to minimize this impact.
- Limited design options: Parkland courses are often restricted by the existing terrain and vegetation, which can limit the design options available to course architects.
- Maintenance: Parkland courses require regular maintenance to keep the grass and other vegetation healthy, which can be labor-intensive and costly.
Check-out the full list of the types of golf course layout here
