The taller roof and chimney behind the clubhouse belong to the Greenkeeper's Cottage which was built at a later date. The nine-hole course was built on an area known as Standing Stanes Park and was designed by five-times British Open Champion James Braid. I recently read an article about Braid's theories of golf course design. Here are a few of his basic principles:
- All holes should reward good positional play.
- Holes should present a variety of length and make various demands of the player.
- Bunkers should be fairly large and have every chance of attracting an errant shot.
- Putting greens should be well-guarded.
- The size of the green is governed by the length of approach (the shorter the approach the smaller the green).
- Alternative routes should be provided to each hole.
- Alternative tees should be provided to enable playing conditions to be adapted to prevailing or contrary winds, wet or dry weather.
Of course, both the course and the club house have been altered a bit over the last century but, were it possible for those involved in the Ladies Club's move to Standing Stanes Park to return and visit it now, I'm certain that they would recognise their Club and feel very much at home.