Old Course

Gog Magog is located three miles south of Cambridge, on the legendary Gog Magog Hills. East Anglia is one of the flattest areas in England, but the Old course at the “Gogs” is anything but flat. The opening par four starts the gradual journey uphill before we arrive at the memorable 2nd hole. This short par four has an intimidating uphill tee shot which must carry across the corner of a quarry which, to make matters worse, is out of bounds. The plateau green is cut into the edge of the hill so missing the green to the left with your approach shot is not recommended. We can relax after climbing the first two holes because we’re now on the top of a delightful chalk escarpment. Here, there is a distinct heathland feel, but instead of heather, the rough is liberally sprinkled with rare perennial flax – a glorious sea of blue during the summer. It’s not surprising that the Old course is set in an area designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. There are many memorable holes on the Old and the par threes are especially strong, but one in particular is simply terrific…the 13th. Measuring 208 yards with a depression between tee and green and a spinney waiting to catch anything hit left of the target line. It’s a great hole, but make sure to drink in the view across historic Cambridge before moving on to the 14th tee. At 6,398 yards from the back tees, the Old course is not about length it’s about accuracy and finding the right part of the tricky, sloping greens. It’s no surprise that the Old course is ranked as the No.1 course in Cambridgeshire.