About Us

Golf started in Observatory over a 9-hole course in 1912 and Observatory Golf Club was officially established in 1914, with the course extended to 18 holes in 1922. Observatory Golf Club is the oldest golf club in Johannesburg still operating from its original grounds, celebrating their 100th anniversary in 2014.

The layout of the course has changed somewhat in this time. The course is not that long, but with narrow fairways & smaller greens, is a true test of intellectual golf. The current Committee has been working over the past years to improve the course, with a bunker renovation plan, additional irrigation on the fairways & small cosmetic projects on the course itself. The Clubhouse has seen many changes in the past two years, with a newly renovated Halfway House, function room extension & renovation of the bar.

Observatory Golf Club boasts a history rich in character:

Bobby Locke, one of South Africa’s greatest golfers, won the Open Championship four times playing out of Observatory as his home club & the “Bobby Locke Corner” in the bar shows a picture history of this. Further, the Henning brothers learnt to play their golf at Observatory.

The course has two signature holes:

The Par-5 7th Hole is a picturesque hole with a view of Johannesburg City Centre from the raised tee-box with a blind fall to a smallish green guarded in front by a pond. The par-4 10th Hole is stroke 1 for a reason. The out of bounds boundary fence running along the right hand side of the narrow fairway, with a tree line along the left hand side, is intimidating enough to make many a golfer leave the driver in the bag & rather use a safe iron shot off the tee. Bunkers guard the long, narrow green left and right with a steep slope off to the left if you miss the green. This hole has proven many a golfer’s nemesis.

Golf Cart Hire
While many golfers choose to walk our scenic course and take in the full OGC experience, we have a full complement of golf carts to accommodate our usually busy fields. Golfers are advised to request carts when they call in to our green fees office or when doing any of the online bookings.

Golf Practice
The practice facilities on offer can match those of any club in the surrounding area and it is one of the only driving ranges where members and guests have the use of grass tee off areas. Practice chipping and putting areas are of top quality. More information can be found at www.observatorydrivingrange.co.za

Bar and Grill
After a testing 18 Hole experience at OGC, nothing quite refreshes like an ice cold beverage from upstairs bar. We have an extensive menu which caters for snacks or full meals freshly prepared by our head chef. A good recommendation to our valued guests and members are the mouth-watering burgers!