The Balmoral Club sitting graciously on the high point of Prospect Ridge and nestled in the midst of 43 acres of land, forms its own oasis.

This mansion has been home to two fascinating families, one English and one Canadian. In 1948 Sir Oliver Simmonds became the first owner, designer and builder of the original ‘High Tor’ mansion and in 1963 Joseph and Elodie Tomlinson purchased the estate for their large family and retinue of staff.

The former ‘High Tor’ with its 18 foot gracious high ceiling rooms was designed with care and with an eye to detail still apparent to this day. Sir Oliver imported English oak panels for doors and an 18th century carved wooden fireplace as well as many other decorative items. He was an inventor and engineer, there are still features existing today that were considered innovative when he designed them such as the floating spiral staircase and the enormous windows that slide down to disappear completely into the floor.

Sir Oliver Simmonds, an Englishman, noted for his professional and business achievements in his own country, came to The Bahamas in 1948 making an impact with his business ventures and his involvement with social issues.

He was a qualified Engineer, an Inventor and a Social Reformer.