Royal Niagara Golf Club: Old Canal Course
The Old Canal Course is one of three 9-hole courses at Royal Niagara Golf Club, characterized by sculpted fairways, undulating greens, and large bunkers.
About the Old Canal Course
The Old Canal Course is one of three 9-hole layouts that together form Royal Niagara Golf Club's 27-hole facility in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Designed by Ted Baker and opened in 1999, this par-36 course stretches 3,553 yards through classic parkland terrain along the edge of the historic Welland Canal — one of the more distinctive natural boundaries in the region.
The layout is defined by sculpted fairways, undulating greens, and large bunkers that demand accurate approach play. Water hazards appear throughout the routing, adding further strategic weight to club selection and course management. The proximity of the Welland Canal gives several holes a sense of open exposure and visual scale that sets the Old Canal Course apart from its two companion nines.
At just over 3,500 yards, the course is accessible enough for mid- and high-handicappers, yet the combination of rolling greens and well-placed bunkers gives stronger players plenty to think about. Golfers visiting Royal Niagara can mix and match any two of the three 9-hole courses for a full 18-hole round, making the Old Canal a natural pairing target.
Niagara-on-the-Lake itself adds considerable appeal to any golf trip in this area. Known for its theatre scene, wine country, and well-preserved 19th-century streetscape, the town sits at the confluence of the Niagara River and Lake Ontario and draws visitors well beyond the golf season — making it a logical anchor for a multi-day Ontario road trip.
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Is Royal Niagara Golf Club's Old Canal Course open to the public?
Yes, the Old Canal Course at Royal Niagara Golf Club is open to the public in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario.
Can I book a tee time online at the Old Canal Course?
Yes, tee times at the Old Canal Course can be booked online.
How many holes does the Old Canal Course have, and what is the par?
The Old Canal Course is a 9-hole course playing to a par of 36, stretching 3,553 yards.
What type of course is the Old Canal Course?
It is a parkland-style course featuring sculpted fairways, undulating greens, large bunkers, and numerous water hazards.
Who designed the Old Canal Course and when did it open?
The Old Canal Course was designed by Ted Baker and opened in 1999.
What is the signature feature of the Old Canal Course?
Several holes run alongside the historic Welland Canal, making it a distinctive scenic element throughout the round.
Is the Old Canal Course a standalone course or part of a larger facility?
The Old Canal Course is one of three 9-hole courses at Royal Niagara Golf Club, which operates as a 27-hole facility in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Ted Baker
parkland
1999
43.256, -79.072
Amenities
Stay & Play at Royal Niagara Golf Club: Old Canal Course
Pick your date and party — we’ll line up a tee time here plus a nearby stay, ready to book together.
You’ll choose your exact tee time and room on the next step. Some courses open tee times closer to the play date.