Old Orchard Golf Club Richmond, Texas
One of the most famous quarter-horse ranches has been developed into a golf community. Formerly the Lazy C Ranch, the Old Orchard Golf Club wanted to retain the feel of the rancher’s life while golfing, participating in activities, and living in and around the community. Rather than tearing down the original structures including the Stables and the Ranch House, everything has been preserved and renovated.
Players at Old Orchard pay a daily fee as opposed to purchasing memberships. This allows for more players to get the chance to experience the course. From 1997-1998 the Old Orchard Golf Course was named in the top 10 for daily fee golf courses in Texas. This is just one of the many titles Old Orchard has been given since it is a favorite amongst Houston residents as well as all Texans.
Golfers can experience a 17-hole course designed by Carlton Gipson. The course is less than 30 minutes from downtown Houston in the tranquil community of Richmond, Texas. The first-rate, championship course offers plenty of challenge for avid golfers thanks to the natural terrain which includes thick pecan trees, elevation changes over the rolling slopes of the home front, and eight different lakes to present water hazards throughout the course.
For players looking to purchase new equipment or sports clothing, they can head to the old ranch foreman’s house which had been converted into the Old Orchard Pro Shop. The driving range offers multiple targets for improving every level of a player’s game. For additional assistance there is a PGA-professional staff to assist with private instruction, group lessons, and there are two putting and chipping greens.
The beautiful, two-story main ranch house had been converted into a full service restaurant. The outdoor barbecue pit provides down home cooking on Friday through Sunday. During the rest of the week, the kitchen staff provides everything from southern cooking to casual dining. Full country breakfasts, lunches, and dinners as well as a quick sandwich can be made to each person’s specifications.
The hay barn of the Lazy C Ranch has a new purpose as a banquet hall. Parties of 150 can be seated indoors while there is an additional spot for 100 more outdoors on the deck. Catering is provided for special events such as business parties, charity events, and small wedding parties.
Finally, the stables, once home to some of the finest horses in Texas stores over 100 golf carts. Those looking for a technologically enhanced game can purchase a computer generated scorecard or look to the digital scoreboard. Everything is digital now ensuring less chance for mixing up cart assignments and game standings.
The community surrounding the Lazy C Ranch is one of tranquility. With the hustle and bustle of nearby Houston less than a half-hour away the area seems as if residents are in a world of their own. There are a variety of floor plans available in one and two stories with varying amenities to accommodate varying budgets. Of course, the best gift of all is the lovely view that is received thanks to the nearby Golf Course and Ranch Homestead.