One of the oldest members-only golf courses in Elmsford, New York, Knollwood Country Club is a hidden gem in beautiful Westchester Country. Less than thirty minutes from midtown Manhattan, you will find much more than your standard golf course. A host of amenities like a golf course, tennis courts, pool, fitness center, and dining option keep you and your family and friends busy all day. Keep reading to learn more about this country club.
History
Knollwood found its roots in 1894 when it was designed by Lawrence Van Etten, covering 5,300 yards. In 1925 with the purchase of the neighboring property, the course was redesigned and expanded by A.W. Tillinghast, who was replaced by Seth Raynor the following year. However, with the untimely death of Raynor, the design of this golf course fell into the hands of his student, Charles Banks, who took up the helm in 1927. All three gentlemen are credited with the design of the stunning course.
As one of the first fifteen clubs to join the US Golf Association (USGA), Knollwood has seen many iconic golfers on its green, like Bobby Jones and Francis Ouimet. This country club has proved its resilience in surviving depressions, recessions, two world wars, and even a devastating fire.
Membership
Knollwood Country Club has a few membership options available depending on your interests and how you plan to utilize the club’s space. Categories include:
1. Full Privilege Golf
Here you have full unlimited access to the golf course, tennis and bocce courts, pool, social events, and clubhouse dining. This extends to your partner and any children under the age of 26.
2. Young Executive Full Golf
Like full privilege golf, this category is for those under 40. You, your partner, and children under the age of 26 get complete unlimited access to the golf course, tennis and bocce courts, pool, social events, and clubhouse dining
3. Weekday Golf
You have weekday (Monday – Friday) access to the golf course for this membership option. Unlimited access is available for the tennis and bocce courts and pool, which extends to your partner and children under the age of 26.
4. Social
This choice offers unlimited access to the tennis and bocce courts, pool, social events, and clubhouse dining for those not interested in golf. This extends to your partner and any children under the age of 26.
Golf at Knollwood Country Club
The jewel of the Knollwood Country Club is that the golf course currently stands at 6,532 yards after a restoration project in 2016. Changes included tree and bunker work, the extension of the 10th tee, and reconstruction of the 12th and 13th green. The course starts smoothly before reaching an exquisite par-four 18th hole and finally finishing at a short par-three 19th hole.
Knollwood is a popular choice not just for corporate golf outings but also for families. All golf players are welcome here, and there is even a junior golf program that routinely holds interclub matches. You can also take advantage of the practice facilities, including a driving range and a short game area with two greens and multiple bunkers. Sign up for semi-private or private lessons with Knollwood’s PGA-certified golf pro to make the most of the facilities and improve your game.
Many exciting social golf events like Play & Stays, Ladies 9 Hole Evening Scrambles, and Twilight Couples Golf will have you coming back for more. The onsite golf and gift shop provides all the latest shoes, club, and course fashion wear to keep you looking stylish and comfortable as you make your way around the course.
Tennis and Bocce
Members of the Knollwood Golf and Country Club have the option to play on two Har-Tru clay tennis courts that lie right next to the clubhouse. Various programs for all ages and skill levels include summer camps, leagues, and round robins. Sign up for private or semi-private lessons or participate in one of the many tennis social events hosted throughout the year. Adjacent to the tennis courts and the pool facility are the two Bocce courts open to members of every age.
Swimming
The newly renovated pool and cabana complex provide members with a huge area to swim and relax with their friends and family. The state-of-the-art facilities are kept clean and pristine throughout the year. You can sign up for classes or take private lessons for all ages and levels to improve your technique and participate in many exciting events hosted all summer round. The cabana menu has also been updated to offer a variety of snacks, grill items, cocktails, and soft drinks to fill you up after a workout in the pool.
The Clubhouse
The clubhouse at Knollwood just completed its multi-million dollar renovation and modernization design that has raised its profile into an all-inclusive recreational center. The upgrades are listed below.
Redesigned Outdoor Patio
Comfortable, casual seating now fills the patio space that overlooks the putting greens and the bocce courts. With sturdy, stylish umbrella coverings, the patio is the perfect place to relax after a game and enjoy the beautiful New York weather. Fireplace features dot the patio to help keep the deck cozy year-round.
Modernized Restaurant and Bar
The indoor and outdoor bar has been updated with plush seating and personal flat-screen TVs for your watching pleasure. A private wine room is also available for events like dinner parties or charity events. The updated restaurant menu presents delicious classics from the grill, all made from locally sourced ingredients.
Wedding Facilities
Knollwood provides couples a grand setting of the Main Dining Room with large windows overlooking the beautiful lush golf course and access to the outdoor terrace. Wedding guests have full access to the outdoor patio and can come and go as they please. The clubhouse will also offer catering and customize a menu for you.
Wrapping Up
If you are a Westchester County resident and looking for a place to spend with friends and family, then definitely check out the Knollwood Country Club. You will be happy you took the time to become a member and made Knollwood a part of the family.