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Golf

Arnold Palmer's Forgotten Golf Courses in Devon

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the warmer months arrive, families flock to the seaside resort of Goodrington in Devon, eager to enjoy the sun, sand, and entertainment. Among the attractions is the Lions Club's annual family fun day, which draws in crowds with a dog show, live music, and a variety of stalls and sideshows. However, few know that Goodrington's playground has a rich history, dating back to the days of Peter Pan and miniature trains. The area's transformation over the years is a testament to the evolution of seaside entertainment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Arnold Palmer, a four-time Masters winner, had a significant influence on golf courses in the United Kingdom, with dozens of courses bearing his name, including one at Exmouth, Devon.
  • Palmer's courses in the UK were not traditional golf courses but rather pre-fabricated concrete crazy golf layouts designed for summer fun.
  • The Goodrington park in Paignton, Devon, has undergone significant changes over the years, featuring a Peter Pan Playground with a miniature train and trampolines.
  • The park's evolution reflects the changing nature of seaside entertainment, from old-fashioned amusement parks to modern attractions.
  • The Lions Club's annual family fun day at Goodrington features a dog show, live music, and various stalls and sideshows, making it a popular event for families.
  • The local community's efforts to maintain the park's reputation as a affordable family destination are paying off, with many families enjoying a range of activities and attractions.

Statistics:

  • There were dozens of Arnold Palmer golf courses in the United Kingdom, most of which were located in seaside resorts.
  • The Goodrington park in Paignton, Devon, features a range of attractions, including a dog show, live music, and over 20 stalls and sideshows.
  • The park attracts a large number of visitors with its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular destination for summer fun.

Sources:

  • Local Democracy Reporter for Reach plc, "Who knows how many golfers were inspired by Arnold Palmer, a four-time winner of the Masters, double winner of the Open, six times a player in the Ryder Cup and the mastermind behind one of Devon's forgotten golf courses?" (No date provided)
  • Goodrington Lions Club, "Annual Family Fun Day" (No date provided)
  • Guy Henderson, Local Democracy Reporter for Reach plc, "Goodrington is still very much Paignton's playground, and showed itself off at its best last weekend when the local Lions Club moved in with a family fun day." (No date provided)

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