North West & Cumbria Golf Guide Issue 18

Complimentary

Issue 18 路 2014

How to find...

Your guide to courses in the North West, including directions for locating each one

Featured Course Royal Liverpool Golf Club, host to The Open Championship 2014

Plus Features, Latest news, Costa del Sol...

NORTH WEST & CUMBRIA

P A I R S

B E T T E R

B A L L

S T A B L E F O R D

C O M P E T I T I O N S

NORTH WEST & CUMBRIA REGION COMPETITIONS 22nd August @ Vale Royal Abbey 26th September @ Bolton Golf Club To enter any of the North West & Cumbria region competitions contact: Telephone 077865 48629 Email: competitions@golfguidepublications.com

YORKSHIRE & NORTH EAST REGION COMPETITIONS 8th August @ Wynyard 29th August @ Scarborough North Cliff 19th September @ Bradford GC To enter any of the Yorkshire & North East region competitions contact: Paul: Telephone 077865 48629 or email competitions@golfguidepublications.com Jim: Telephone 07946 369656 or email jima@golfguidepublications.com

Join us on The Golf Guide Tour for YOUR chance to win a golf trip to the Costa del Sol! Format is Pairs better ball stableford, and the winners from each event are invited to the final on the Costa del Sol in November 2014 or February 2015, including a 3 night stay at the 4 star Tamisa Hotel Mijas incl Breakfast, return flights, all transfers and 3 competitive rounds of golf at Calanova, El Chaparral, and Cerrado del Aguila.

Prizes at each event Winners: Trip to Spain • 2nd Place: Odyssey putter • 3rd Place: Callaway stand bags Optional competition only £5 entry Longest drive: A Druh belt or a Callaway gift pack Nearest the pin: 4 chances to win a Druh belt

ENTRY ONLY

£25 PER PLAYER, PER EVENT

The Golf Guide Tour Round up from Silloth on Solway GC Friday 6th June 2014

The latest tour event took us to the Cumbrian coast and to the wonderful Silloth on Solway GC. For once, the golfing gods were kind to us and we enjoyed a day of unbroken sunshine with very little wind. A total of 90 golfers attempted to tame the course, which has a reputation for being one of the toughest links in the UK. The course was presented in outstanding condition, with lightening fast greens and thick, deep rough. Seldom have I enjoyed a course so much whilst losing 11 golf balls at the same time. It is without doubt one of the best courses I have played in a very long time.

Scoring was very good, and the overall winners on the day made their local knowledge pay. Silloth members Paul Merone and Jonny Kennedy came in with a superb 45 points and booked their place for the Grand Finals in Spain in November.

Long time leaders Daniel Sanderson from Chester GC and Bradley Claxton from Eaton GC finished in second place having posted an excellent 44 points.

Completing the top three were Dave Mercer from Windermere GC and John Morris from Blackpool North Shore with a very good 43 points.

The events would not be the same without the valued support from our sponsors...

The winners of some great prizes for Nearest the pin Nearest the Pin 6th: Steve Waddicor - A Callaway prize pack.

Nearest the Pin 9th: Chris Attrill - A Callaway Stand bag.

Nearest the Pin 12th: Glen Didley - A Druh Belt.

Nearest the Pin 16th: Chris Wall - A Druh Belt.

The two longest drive awards, who win a Druh Belt Longest Drive on the 5th: David Morse.

Longest Drive on the 18th: Dave Shaw.

/golfguidehq

Shot of the day I’m sure many of you will have your own personal favourite shot or hole of the day - but whilst hitting a full blooded 5 iron for his 2nd at 18 - Russ Milburn from Preston GC managed to land just short of the clubhouse, bounce the ball through a small window into the clubhouse, and land it perfectly on a competitors chair narrowly missing the Silloth Secretary and Paul from The Golf Guide! Without doubt a shot in a million well done Russ!!!

Full list of Winners and Prizes 1st place: Paul Merone and Jonny Kennedy.

Winners of a trip to Spain for 3 nights and 3 rounds of golf including flights and transfers.

2nd place: Daniel Sanderson and Bradley Claxton.

Winners of a Callaway Odyssey putter each 3rd place: Dave Mercer and John Morris.

Winners of a Callaway Stand bag each.

A special word of thanks must go to the golf club, club secretary Alan Oliver and his amazing team. I’m sure you will agree the quality of the golf course, customer service and food was exceptional. Personally, I loved the fact we had a proper starter on the 1st tee - a great touch. We look forward to returning for another tour event very soon.

Action Shots You may have seen Stephen Rowell, the photographer walking around the course during the event taking some superb action shots of you all. They are now online at the link below. We hope you like them. www.onlinepictureproof.com/srowellphoto/albums The Golf Guide looks forward to seeing you all at our future events and thanks you for your continued support.

www.thegolfersguide.co.uk

@golfguidehq

Win a Land Rover discovery experience at Peckforton Castle for you and a friend

Simply answer the following question: Peckforton Castle is based in what county in England? a) Cumbria b) Cheshire c) Cambridgeshire Send your answers to: competitions@golfguidepublications Competition closes 30th September at midnight. Prize winners will be contacted within 7 days of the closing date.

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Welcome Issue 18 · 2014

014 Cover Feature 016 News & Features 052 Cheshire 078 Greater Manchester 090 Lancashire 106 Merseyside 126 Cumbria 132 Travel

Welcome to the North West & Cumbria Golf Guide Welcome to our latest edition of the North West and Cumbria Golf Guide; a must read for all golfers. The North West & Cumbria Golf Guide is brought to you by the Golf Guide limited, which has been producing high quality, Golf Guide magazines in Spain, the UK and Ireland for the past 8 years.

The Golf Guide is a leading Golf and lifestyle publication. We provide our readers with a unique combination of a complimentary top quality printed lifestyle magazine and leading edge digital media products.

In addition to the North West & Cumbria publication, further additions have been released in Yorkshire & the North East, the South Central Region and Ireland - with plans to extend into new areas over the next 12 months.

This magazine is split into 5 areas. Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Lancashire and Cumbria. At the start of each area, you will find a map highlighting where each course can be found. At the end of each section you will find a comprehensive list of all the golf courses in that region.

The Golf Guide magazine provides an opportunity for golf clubs and complimentary sponsors to showcase their course, products and services in a high quality lifestyle magazine. The magazine showcases the courses by using superb photography and providing enough information to whet the appetite of any golfer or party planning a visit to the area. Each Golf course page provides images and details about the course, full contact details and any special offers,

some of which are exclusive to the Golf Guide.

The Golf Guide is aimed at golfers of all levels ranging from Professionals to your casual society golfers. We hope you will find this free publication an enjoyable read and a valuable source of information when planning your golfing trips in the region. Our magazine’s aim is simple: “you’ll be lost without it.”

The Golf Guide tour season is well underway and we have held two very successful events over the past few months. The latest event, held at the superb Silloth on Solway GC attracted a field of nearly 100 golfers, all trying to booking their place at the season ending grand final in Spain. A full report from the day can be found inside the magazine.

The tour events are a stableford pairs competitions with each winning pair on the day receiving a 4 day trip to Spain in either November 2014 or February 2015 including flights, accommodation and 3 rounds of golf at top quality Spanish courses.

To ensure we continue to develop our high quality products and services, over the next few months we are re-designing our digital media products to provide a content rich, interactive web platform that will complement the magazine and allow readers to access our magazine and book their visits on-line via the Golf Guide.

All that remains is to thank you for your continued support and we hope to see you soon at one of our tour events.

Happy Summer Golfing!

The whole of the text and all of the photographs and illustrations in this publication are protected by copyright.

Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly forbidden. While every effort has been made to maintain integrity and check for accuracy, the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for any problems, inconvenience, loss, injury or legal proceedings of any kind arising from information, advice or advertisements contained herein. All rights reserved.

Cover Image & Above Royal Liverpool Golf Club Publisher The Golf Guide Ltd 6 Keats Lane, Wincham Cheshire, CW9 6PP info@golfguidepublications.com www.thegolfersguide.co.uk Paul Lambert Telephone: 07786 548629 paul@thegolfguide.co.uk Golf Guide Digital Media Ltd Andrew Noone Telephone: 0772 503 6744 andrew@thegolfguide.co.uk Printed by Stephens & George Limited Goat Mill Road, Dowlais Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 3TD Telephone: 01685 352021 www.stephensandgeorge.co.uk Designed by Nick Senior www.nicksenior.com

/golfguidehq @golfguidehq

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

COVER FEATURE

Hoylake Blown upon by mighty winds, breeder of mighty champions

By Bernard Darwin Royal Liverpool Golf Club Annual Magazine

The Hoylake links can be, by turns, beautiful, uplifting, awe inspiring and, on occasion, soul-destroying. They were created to be a demanding test of golf and remain so, and they lie at the very heart of the history and development of golf in Great Britain.

Built in 1869, on what was then the racecourse of the Liverpool Hunt Club, Hoylake is the oldest of all the English seaside courses with the exception of Westward Ho! in Devon, which was established just a few years earlier.

Robert Chambers and George Morris were commissioned to lay out the original Hoylake course, which was extended to 18 holes in 1871. This was also the year in which the Club was granted its Royal designation thanks to the patronage of His Royal Highness The Duke of Connaught.

The clubhouse in 1928 For the first seven years of its life the land still performed its original function, doubling as a golf course and a horse racing track - indeed, echoes of this heritage can be found today in the names of the first and eighteenth holes, Course and Stand, while the original saddling bell still hangs in the club house. Once the horses had

been dispatched to pastures new Hoylake began to take its place in the history of golf in general and of the amateur game in particular.

In 1885 the links hosted the first Amateur Championship; in 1902 the first international match between England and Scotland, later to become the Home Internationals; and, in 1921, the first international match between Great Britain and the United States of America, which we now know as The Walker Cup. In fact, it is Royal Liverpool Golf Club’s contribution to the amateur game that has set it apart from all other Clubs in England. Although, at the end of the nineteenth century, it was the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews that took on the role of the governing body in golf as the game developed, it was at Hoylake that the rules of amateur status were laid down, and

COVER FEATURE

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Hoylake, 2006

it was the links that honed the talents of two giants of the game, Harold Hilton and John Ball.

Ball’s career is notable for many things, not least his eight victories in the British Amateur, the most titles by any player in a single major championship.

Harold Hilton’s record was also impressive. He won the Open twice, in l892 (the first year the Open was played over 72 holes) and again five years later, making him the only amateur apart from John Ball and Bobby Jones to win the title.

Hilton also won the Amateur Championship four times, was runner-up on three occasions and won the US Amateur Championship in 1911, the year in which he also held the British title. The man was obviously no slacker - in the

same year he still found time to become the first editor of the new Golf Monthly magazine.

No history of Hoylake would be complete without mention of the legendary Bobby Jones. In 1930 the club was privileged to host his winning of the Open Championship, a victory that would become the second leg of his remarkable Grand Slam - the winning in the same year of the Amateur and Open Championships of both Great Britain and the United States.

Shortly afterwards, a mere twenty-eight years old, Bobby Jones found himself with no golfing peaks left to conquer and he retired from the game.

Much time has passed since then, but the Hoylake links, despite their at first glance flat

and benign appearance, are still very much among the toughest and most demanding tests of golf. It is a course where accuracy, imagination and shot selection pay dividends, as demonstrated by Tiger Woods in 2006.

It was in July of that year that another chapter of Hoylake history began as The Open returned for the first time since 1967. The fabled mighty winds did not blow, but there was no denying that another mighty champion was born... in the shape of one Eldrick “Tiger” Woods. He kept the driver in his bag and navigated his way to victory with an extraordinary display of ball striking.

Can Tiger return from injury and a long layoff and successfully defend his title?

We are about to find out.

Harold Hilton

Bobby Jones, 1930

Tiger Woods, 2006

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

THE OPEN HOSPITALITY

St Andrews to put hospitality to the ‘fore’ in 2015

The hosts of one of golf’s most famous Majors are putting hospitality to the ‘fore’ in 2015.

As The Open 2014 prepares to tee off at The Royal Liverpool, from 16 to 20 July, the catering team behind next year’s event has unveiled a raft of hospitality packages for fans keen to enjoy a slice of the action in 2015.

Next year’s The Open Championship, the highlight of the golfing calendar, will be held at the ‘home of the golf’; The Royal and Ancient Golf Club at St Andrews, Scotland.

And, along with watching some of the world’s top golfers compete for the title, lovers of the game will be able to enjoy some of the finest Scottish

hospitality in a range of spectacular settings.

All the packages, created by the event’s official caterer and hospitality provider, include an official admission ticket, parking pass, TV coverage of play, breakfast and complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks. All packages have additional unique features and benefits allowing guests to select their perfect day.

Sodexo Prestige has also created an official hospitality village, specifically for The Open 2015, next to the 16th hole, for fans who don’t want to miss any of the action.

The village will house a range of private chalets, designed for groups of 30 or more, which can

be customised with corporate branding and offer a complimentary bar throughout the day, along with a cooked Scottish breakfast and morning newspapers.

This will be followed by a Champagne reception and canapés, four course gourmet lunch, afternoon tea and refreshments and snacks to take on to the course.

The Hospitality Village will also house The Champions Club - purpose built for those who want to spend as much time as possible outside and offering informal, buffet style catering as well as a private garden and direct access to the course.

THE OPEN HOSPITALITY

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

All packages have additional unique features and benefits allowing guests to select their perfect day.

Away from the Village, guests at The Road Hole Restaurant, on the fourth floor of The Old Course Hotel and at the Rocca & R Bar, overlooking the 18th green and fairway, will be served a formal lunch and traditional Scottish afternoon tea and enjoy a full, complimentary bar throughout the day.

Alternatively, those looking for a more informal atmosphere can spend the day at The Jigger Inn - alongside the par four - or St Andrew’s first gastro pub, The One Under, while private suites, catering for between 20 and 50 guests and overlooking the Old Course’s 17th fairway, are also available.

Fans can also opt to enjoy the Championship from The Hall of Champions in the five red star Old Course Hotel, where a buffet lunch will be served.

Sales start this July with prices from £225 for The Champions Club. Enquire now to secure the best spaces at St Andrews 2015. If you have not already booked your space for 2014 hospitality the time is now with limited space available.

Contact T: +44 0844 371 0883 or email hospitality@TheOpen.com or Visit: TheOpen.com/Hospitality

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

SKY BET

SKY BET

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Stenson can become major man Dave Tindall is tipping Henrik Stenson to land his first major by winning the 2014 Open at Hoylake

When Tiger Woods won the 2006 Open Championship at Hoylake, he famously kept his driver under wraps.

With the Liverpool links playing firm and fast, Woods was able to remove the risk of hitting the longest club in the bag – never his strong suit – and put on a masterclass of long-iron play to win his third Claret Jug. It remains the last of his three Open victories.

Woods had already collected three trophies that season and went on to win nine times.

Contrast that with the 2014 Tiger, who has yet to post a top 20 and is feeling his way back after a three month lay-off though injury.

Without any major victory since 2008, Tiger makes little appeal this year even though Sky Bet make him 14/1 second favourite.

The same could be said for 12/1 favourite Rory McIlroy, who has a difficult relationship with the Open Championship. Back in the 2011 event at Royal St George’s, McIlroy said he wasn’t a fan of tournaments where the “outcome is predicted so much by the weather,” and added that “there’s no point in changing your game for one week a year.”

A far more appealing bet is 16/1 Henrik Stenson.

The Swede had an incredible second half of the season in 2013 which culminated in in him

winning the European Tour’s Race To Dubai and the PGA Tour’s FedEx Cup. He also finished second in the Open Championship at Muirfield and third in the US PGA Championship at Oak Hill. For six months he was the hottest player on the planet.

Understandably he came down from those great highs in the early months of 2014 but heading to Hoylake his form is peaking again following a seventh at Wentworth, a fourth in the US Open and a play-off loss in the BMW International Open.

Stenson, now the world number two, is an excellent links player, as his Open CV shows.

Second place at Muirfield twelve months ago, and third place at St Andrews in 2010 and Royal Birkdale in 2008. All the evidence suggests 2014 will be his year.

Two outsiders worth an each-way interest are the evergreen Miguel Angel Jimenez at 100/1 and Finland’s Mikko Ilonen at 66/1.

The hugely popular Jimenez held a three-shot lead at one point on day two at Hoylake in 2006 before fading and has made the top 15 in four of the last seven Opens.

Ilonen, a superb winner at the Irish Open last month, won the British Amateur at Hoylake in 2000 and was 16th there in the 2006 Open.

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

THE OPEN

Royal Birkdale & Carnoustie to host The Open in 2017 and 2018

Photograph by Alan C. Birch

The R&A announced today that Royal Birkdale will host The Open Championship in 2017 and Carnoustie will host the Championship in 2018.

Five-time Open Champion Tom Watson, who won The Open at Royal Birkdale in 1983 and at Carnoustie in 1975, joined The R&A to make the announcement at the Greenbrier.

“I am delighted to see The Open returning to two great venues in Royal Birkdale and Carnoustie,” he said. “I know both courses are held in high regard by the players and I certainly consider them to be wonderful tests of golf.

“When I first played in The Open at Carnoustie I still had a lot to learn about links golf but I quickly adapted to the challenge of playing in the wind and keeping the ball low. I played well that week and was thrilled to win the play-off.

“Royal Birkdale is also a fine links course and I have always thoroughly enjoyed playing there.

I think the players and the fans will be excited to see the top players playing these courses once again.”

Royal Birkdale will host The Open for the tenth time in 2017. Ireland’s Padraig Harrington won by four shots from Ian Poulter the last

time the Championship was played there in 2008. Mark O’ Meara emerged victorious from a play-off with Brian Watts in 1998 and Ian Baker-Finch enjoyed a two-shot victory over his fellow Australian Mike Harwood in 1991.

Another Australian, Peter Thomson, won The Open when it was first staged at Royal Birkdale in 1954, and again in 1965, and he was joined

by Arnold Palmer (1961), Lee Trevino (1971) and Johnny Miller (1976) as winners in the North West.

Richard Hunt, the Captain of Royal Birkdale, said, “We will be delighted to welcome The Open Championship back to Royal Birkdale in 2017. The club has a long and proud history of hosting The Open and some of the game’s greatest players have won here. We regard it as a privilege to host the Championship and look forward to seeing the world’s top players facing the challenges of Royal Birkdale once again.”

2018 will be the eighth occasion on which Carnoustie has hosted The Open Championship and the first since Harrington lifted the Claret Jug there in 2007 after defeating Sergio Garcia in a play-off. In 1999, Scotland’s Paul Lawrie

triumphed after a play-off with Justin Leonard and Jean Van de Velde. Ben Hogan famously won The Open at Carnoustie in 1953 on the only occasion he played in the Championship and the other winners at the Angus links are Tommy Armour (1931), Henry Cotton (1937) and Gary Player (1968).

Pat Sawers, Chairman Carnoustie Golf Links, said, “We are very much looking forward to welcoming The Open Championship back for an eighth time to the historic links at Carnoustie in 2018 and feel sure the Championship will generate just as much interest and excitement as in previous years. We believe the fact The R&A has invited us to stage the 2018 Championship will provide a big boost to golf in the local area and will have a beneficial effect on our on-going efforts to attract more local youngsters into the game.”

The Open Championship will be played at Royal Birkdale from 20-23 July 2017 and at Carnoustie from 19-22 July 2018.

For more information visit TheOpen.com

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Skywheels Racing Team Report Sponsored by The Golf Guide

“Happy to report his only injury was whiplash, though his car was a write off.�

We released the first of our articles on The Golf Guide supported Skywheels Racing Team in our last edition, following their exploits at Brands Hatch. Since then the team have been very busy, blowing things up, crashing things and finding some pace as they head to the midway point of their racing season. More coverage was received on Motors TV, and they are due a feature in a retro car magazine later this year.

Lookout for The Golf Guide logo!

Snetterton followed Brands Hatch. All three drivers were present for the Friday test day at the former RAF base to make the most of the practice before the raceday. The rain came - the sort of rain that shuts a golf course for two weeks. Chris Jones made great progress in tricky conditions, as did Ryan Lowry in the afternoon as the rain eased. Gavin Johnson had drama in the second test session as his engine blew up, meaning he was out of the weekends racing. Chris Jones finished 22nd out of 34 starters in race 1 and 20th from 34 in race 2 another solid peformance in his novice season.

The experienced Ryan Lowry brought some well needed points in with two consistent drives finishing 11th and 13th.

Another dramatic weekend came in the South West at Castle Combe... a great drive from Jones to finish 13th in race one - his best ever finish - with Lowry unable to finish due to a racing incident. Race 2 saw a good 10th from Lowry, with Jones taken out whilst going well in 12th - up onto two wheels and head on into the barrier! Happy to report his only injury was whiplash, though his car was a write off.

The team head to Rockingham followed by Silverstone with the aim of having all three cars competing for a top ten position. The progress continues. Check back next issue when we will have details of a competition and information on the teams plans to compete globally!

The team can be followed on Twitter @skywheelsracing and via Facebook, www.facebook.com/skywheelsracing

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

Formby Golf Club to host 2016 Palmer Cup

REGIONAL NEWS

Formby Golf Club will host the 2016 Palmer Cup, announced Palmer Cup Chairman Jim Awtrey at the opening ceremony of the 2014 Palmer Cup at Walton Heath Golf Club.

“I’m pleased a membership the caliber of Formby Golf Club has agreed to the host the 2016 Palmer Cup,” said Mr. Palmer. “Formby has a history of enthusiastically supporting both the amateur game and international play. The links should provide a rewarding challenge to the young men competing in our matches and produce a worthy champion.”

Formby Golf Club is a true championship links course. Running through mature sand dunes and pinewoods, the combination of well protected greens, undulating fairways and challenging tee shots signifies a course of magnificent contrasts.

Formby’s links are set amongst coastal sand dunes and towering pines. The undulating fairways are planted with traditional rye grasses and flat lies are rare. Add strategically placed pot bunkers and frequent changes of wind strength and direction to the mix and the new visitor will quickly discover why Formby is so popular with discerning golfers.

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

“All at Formby Golf Club are delighted, honoured and excited to be hosting the Palmer Cup in 2016,” said Club Captain Bernard Billington. “We have a very unique links course, which is recognised as one of the world’s best, and we can guarantee that it will provide a fair, yet extremely challenging test for the players.

Many of the world’s top golfers from America and Europe have graced our fairways over the years and are all in agreement that Formby is indeed somewhere special to play.”

The Links at Formby Golf Club were founded in 1884 and have been sensitively modernised over the years, to ensure it remains a challenging but enjoyable test of golf. The original 18-hole course was redesigned by the famous Willie Park.

Over recent years a few changes have been made but most are of a “tweaking” nature; trees were planted in the early 70’s to the right of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd holes, thus screening the railway. New bunkers have been created at the 4th, 6th and 11th and others redesigned.

In 1997, fairway watering was introduced onto five holes and now extends to 18 holes. In 1998,

new back Tees were built to provide a “Blue” course which has extended the length to 7028 yards, but more importantly has brought back into play, for the scratch golfer, most of the original drive-length bunkers.

More recently in 2005 a new, larger, practice ground was constructed on the site of the whole area of the 14th hole. This has been a significant improvement in terms of Members’ and visitors’ amenity. The new 14th lies immediately to the south of the earlier one and makes for a different but considerable challenge.

The course has been the venue for a number of tournaments and competitions over the years, including the Curtis Cup in 2004 and The Amateur Championship in 1957, 1967, 1984 and 2009. It has also been used as a qualifying course for The Open Championship in 1924, 1971 and 1996.

Formby Golf Club Golf Road, Freshfield, Liverpool, L37 1LQ Telephone: 01704 872164 teetimes@formbygolfclub.co.uk www.formbygolfclub.co.uk

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

CASSELL MOORE

A dynamic new law firm is shaking up the legal services sector Founded in the summer of 2013 Cassell Moore is a modern new law firm that reflects the entrepreneurial businesses it represents.

Headquartered in the iconic grade 1 listed Edward Pavilion building, at Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock, the firm is breaking the mould by offering an innovative and flexible approach to legal services.

Headed up by Stephen Morris, Cassell Moore managing partner and an FA and FIFA registered sports lawyer, the firm is already making waves in the legal sector.

During the past twelve months it has recruited experienced legal heavyweights in key practice areas including: Pauline McNamara, family; Peter Allen, corporate & commercial; Dominic McGinn, litigation; Peter Barlow, real estate; Liz Cotton, employment; Louise Berry, wills, trusts and probate and Paul Breen, serious injuries.

As a result of the relationship-driven and entrepreneurial approach that Cassell Moore adopts, the firm has already secured a number of exclusive partnerships ahead of competition from major rivals. Cassell Moore beat City of London opposition to secure a partnership as the exclusive legal provider to London based

investment hub, True Start, who decided that an entrepreneurial hub required an entrepreneurial law firm as its legal partner.

As impressively, the firm has been selected to be the exclusive legal partner to Tech Hub Manchester. Again, Cassell Moore was chosen ahead of a number of multi-national law firms to win this contract. Tech Hub and its companies are entrepreneurial, forward thinking and have designs on doing things differently and in Cassell Moore Tech Hub saw that same disruptive approach.

In a year of ‘firsts’ for Cassell Moore Stephen and the firm’s sports team completed its first premier league transfer on 2014 deadline day by brokering and delivering the transfer of Scott Dann from Blackburn Rovers to Crystal Palace. Keeping with the sporting theme, Cassell Moore has also secured an exclusive legal partnership with multinational sports management agency BOSS. The firm proudly works with Edge Hill University and their Centre for Sports Law Research to

deliver a unique programme focusing on the education and development of sports law students. It has also partnered with the charity X Pro, which allows Cassell Moore to assist ex professional footballers with a multitude of legal issues. Again, this is a relationship that Cassell Moore has fought off extensive competition in the legal industry to secure.

Whilst other law firms continue to adopt the same hourly rates and clock watching approach year on year Cassell Moore offers a fixed price on all transactional matters. It believes that traditional law firm pricing models work contrary to the clients’ interests, since the lawyer is paid more the slower the service and the less efficiently the outcome is delivered.

Committed to doing things differently Cassell Moore’s pricing model has already proved to be very popular with clients seeking an efficient, professional legal service.

That is why at Cassell Moore we’re already developing an enviable reputation for delivering Excellence. Always.

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

COURSE FEATURE

The famous Donald Steel designed the course and time and again Hurlston has proven his work to be both stunning, challenging and a gem of sheer golfing pleasure.

COURSE FEATURE

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Hurlston Hall Celebrate 20th Year Anniversary Hurlston Hall is in the ideal location near the market town of Ormskirk only minutes from England’s Golf Coast. The area is known for its rolling green countryside and the Hurlston course exudes a friendly rustic charm. This year Hurlston sees its 20th year which is young in golf course terms, but it seems far more mature due to both its great design and well established trees and lakes. The famous Donald Steel designed the course and time and again Hurlston has proven his work to be both stunning, challenging and a gem of sheer golfing pleasure. Every bit as enjoyable to play as it is to look at the course has an immediate welcoming atmosphere that sets the tone for the round ahead.

The ‘balance’ at Hurlston is superb; the need to weigh up the odds between the hazards and the safer routes is ever present. Great gains will be achieved by taking the chances yet a steady calculated approach may still see

a close match at the end of the round. Over the years the course design has been tweaked to maximise enjoyment. Additional bunkers were placed perfectly by championship course designers MacKenzie & Ebert ensuring a rewarding challenge for both the experienced golfer as well as the amateur for the entire 18 holes. Between the various lakes, ponds and streams, there is plenty of water to catch any wayward shots. Treating the hazards and the varied fairways of Hurlston with respect will see you well on your way to a personal best. The greens, true and fast will prove a touch test to avoid that dreaded 3 putt!

There are exciting plans for the future of the clubhouse and some high hopes for the next year or two. The clubhouse as it is now is relaxing and is perfectly placed to reward the tired golfer with some of the most spectacular sunsets you are likely to see. Watching the shadows grow longer over this stunning course

is the perfect end to a great day’s golf.

2014 is a milestone year for Hurlston with its 20th anniversary celebrations. In recent years the enthusiastic team have placed so much attention to detail and design touches with constant improvements in all areas. Our 20th birthday year comes with some special green fee offers. Summer green fees start from £42, with 2-fore-1 and four ball offers also available. Green fees are available on weekdays and weekends, and there are various society packages. For further information please contact the General Office on 01704 840400 or info@hurlstonhall.co.uk Contact Details: Hurlston Hall Golf Club Hurlston Lane, Scarisbrick, Lancashire, L40 8HB Telephone: 01704 840400 info@hurlstonhall.co.uk www.hurlstonhall.co.uk

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REGIONAL NEWS

Open Corporate Hospitality Tickets Winner Congratulations to Hurlston Hall GC member Barry Larkin who has won two hospitality tickets for the Open at Hoylake on Saturday 19th July. Barry intends to take his father in law Bob Walker who plays out at the Denbigh GC in Wales.

Ormskirk resident Barry has been at Hurlston Hall for a number of years and has fought hard to protect his current 25 Handicap in between teaching at the local Primary school.

From all at the Golf Guide we hope you have a great day out and see some great golf from the comfort of your hospitality suite.

Barry is pictured left receiving his tickets from Paul Lambert, CEO of the Golf Guide and Mike Richardson, Director of Golf at Hurlston Hall GC. Left to Right: Mike Richardson, Barry Larkin, Paul Lambert

Brookfield Golf Club Junior member impresses in the USA Charlie Ashbrook, aged 10 and active member of the Junior Golf Academy at Brookfield Golf Club, has arrived back from Illinois, USA after achieving a great result of 18th place in his age group. Over 276 Junior members took part.

He also achieved a 1st in the International Team Event, which brought him home a trophy.

America was a tremendous experience for him, having to compete against Juniors that although in his age group were twice his size, the heat and the humidity was something he wasn’t used too. Charlie met some lovely people, and his trip to the USA has given him such a boost to keep improving his game so that he can qualify for Las Vegas next July.

He is presently leading the order of merit in his age group on the European Junior Tour and has the summer now to keep that lead. He is sponsored by Fat Controller Management Ltd a media company in London who have been incredibly supportive.

Brookfield Golf Club and its Members are very proud of his achievements and follow and support his progress all the way.

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COURSE FEATURE

Heswall Golf Club Breathtaking views across the Dee Estuary to the Welsh Hills provide an unrivalled and peaceful environment for golfers and visitors to enjoy the tranquil setting for Heswall Golf Club. A mature 18 hole 6872 yard Par 72 Golf Course, set in the most beautiful location on the Wirral Peninsula.

Established in 1902, Heswall Golf Club has seen many improvements over the years - the latest following the purchase of 27 additional acres incorporated into the course design and opened on 7th July 2007. Maintaining the course in pristine condition is a major priority.

Master Greenkeeper Gordon Irvine and consultant agronomist Alistair Beggs have been commissioned to advise the resident green staff on upkeep and general maintenance.

Environmentally friendly practices are adopted throughout the course and clubhouse, including waste minimization and recycling, energy efficiency, minimal use of chemicals, water resource management and nature and landscape conservation.

Extensive new practice facilities consisting of a ten bay driving range, with two additional teaching bays, pitching short game area, putting green and bunker area have all recently opened, thus completing the all round

comprehensive golf experience.

Heswall Golf Club is a thriving private members’ club that welcomes visitors and societies.

A very strong Ladies section enjoys equal playing rights, participates in regular competitions, inter club matches, and social events which add to the membership experience. Junior golfers are encouraged to join from a very young age. Boys and girls are invited to participate in group lessons with our resident professional, meeting children with similar interests whilst developing competitive sporting disciplines.

PGA Professional Tom Atkinson was appointed Club Professional in October 2012 following a number of years as Assistant Professional to Alan Thompson, who on semi-retirement is concentrating on teaching a number of European Tour Players. Tom has refurbished the Pro-Shop and introduced an exciting new range of equipment and fashion golf clothing. Lessons

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

maximum sunshine throughout the day, there is no better place to relax and enjoy a drink, snack, or meal following a round of golf.

Spike bar facilities are available for the casual golfer or a more formal lounge setting for entertaining, guests and visitors.

This amazing venue is open to the general public (with restrictions) for private functions, weddings, birthday parties, social events with full catering facilities and ample free parking, visit www.heswallgolfclub.co.uk It’s not just about Golf! Regular social events, casual dining, live music, bridge, snooker, book club and an active choir all add to the membership experience.

This year The Royal Liverpool Golf Club, Hoylake

can be booked to develop all abilities from beginners to single handicap golfers.

New membership applications are open to anyone interested in developing their golfing skills taking advantage of our first class facilities.

The Club operates an internal Direct Debit scheme to spread the cost of annual subscription fees.

Beginners can participate in a golf awareness workshop by application to the Club Professional, visit www.heswallgolfclub.co.uk for details.

Once again, Heswall Golf Club will host the Under 16 North of England Amateur Stroke Play Championship on 20, 21 and 22 August 2014.

This will attract talented young players from all over Europe. Spectators are welcome to attend free of charge.

The Club House occupies a prominent position taking full advantage of the vista from the terrace and dining room. South facing, with

will be hosting the 2014 Open. Situated only a few miles from Hoylake, Heswall Golf Club offers Open 2014 visitors the opportunity to enjoy all that the club has to offer, from Golf to social. Visit the home page of our website www.heswallgolfclub.com for the latest offers during Open week.

You’re guaranteed a warm welcome at Heswall Golf Club. If you are a beginner, casual golfer, experienced player or just fancy getting fit, meeting like-minded people out in the fresh air, playing in an amazing environment, then contact: Graham Capewell General Manager Tel: 0151 342 1237, email admin@heswallgolfclub.com or visit www.heswallgolfclub.co.uk

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REGIONAL NEWS

Fri 25 Jul 2014 Mere Golf Resort Cheshire, England

£34

Team of 4 Stableford

par69.com is growing nicely We’re 4 months into the first season of our par69 amateur tour and already have over 300 registered golfers, many of them having joined us at several of our events across Cheshire and the Northwest. Although we’re seeing increasing attendance at each event we’re keen to grow the numbers so we can improve the level of competition, value of the prize table as well as (and most importantly) the social and overall enjoyment of the day. Whilst protecting the integrity of our 50+ competition we are inviting golfers of any age to join us at any of our events. Although they will sit outside our 50+ competition on the day, we hope that this open invitation and offer to shoulder the hassle of organising their social or business golf will attract, amongst others, friends, colleagues, customers, guests, golf societies or club outings. Having developed relationships with over 200 golf clubs we’re keen to use that access to provide/organise both social and corporate golf on request.

Sponsors On the sponsorship front, and following on from our request for sponsors in the last edition of The Golf Guide, par69 have now secured sponsorship support from 2 companies. The first of which is Cherry Kitchen Makeovers, a quality kitchen refurbishment company based in the midlands that are now extending their operation to the Northwest. The other is HousX Ltd, a bespoke building company based in Didsbury offering, in addition to extension and house building services, their MePad garden rooms, details of which can be found at www.themepad.co.uk Charity We’re proud to support St Ann’s Hospice this year, with one of the fund raising events being the Captain’s Charity Team of 4 competition at Bramhall Golf Club on Sunday 31st August.

To enter a team or donate a prize please email info@par69.com and for more information go to www.bramhallgolfclub.co.uk

Our new online shop should be open for business by the end of July. We will be offering par69 logo merchandise, various personalised gifts for ladies and gents as well as limited numbers of special buys (when they’re gone they’re gone).

As a result of receiving several enquiries for golf trips abroad, mainly Turkey, our organised golf travel section has taken off rather sooner than we had planned. There are various options available to our customers, depending on party size, accompanied or unaccompanied, flights included and not.

We hope as many more golfers can join us on our journey as we visit quality golf courses across the region. Enjoy your golf and if you have any feedback or ideas you’d like to share with us please email info@par69.com Thanks for playing golf John Sullivan & David Woods

Member of

White Rose Golf Breaks

AMATEUR GOLF CHESHIRE - THE NORTHWEST - NORTH WALES

par69golfevents invite you to join us at any of our upcoming stableford events and enjoy the friendliest men’s amateur golf tour in the Northwest.

The venues for our next 6 events are Thu 17 Jul 2014 Prestbury GC

Fri 25 Jul 2014 Mere Golf Resort

£35

£34

Cheshire, England

Pairs Stableford

Fri 15 Aug 2014 Conwy GC Conwy, North Wales

Golf breaks in Yorkshire from as little as £135 Great courses Warm hospitality Superb value

Tel: 01943 609 888 www.whiterosegolfbreaks.co.uk

Cheshire, England

Team of 4 Stableford

Fri 22 Aug 2014 Bramall Park GC Cheshire, England

Executive Lunch Included

£35

Pairs Stableford

£32

Team of 4 Stableford

Fri 29 Aug 2014 Northenden GC

Fri 29 Aug 2014 Vale of Llangollen

£27

£32

Manchester, England

Pairs Stableford

Denbighshire, North Wales

Pairs Stableford

Bring your Friends, Colleagues, Customers, Guests, Golf Societies or Club Outings.

For more information and details of all our upcoming events visit us at

www.par69.com

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

COURSE FEATURE

Pryors Hayes Boasts massive improvements to its greens, bringing it in line with its sister course, Hartford Golf Club Since taking over Pryors Hayes, owners Tim and Richard Barnes have focused all their efforts on improving the course enormously in order to give their members and visitors the best experience possible.

Andy Whyman, Head Greenkeeper at the two clubs, brings his wealth of experience to the course and has worked diligently with brothers Tim and Richard to build upon the improvements already being made week by week. Andy and Pryors Hayes’ resident Greenkeeper Hamish McConachie are working closely together to achieve the required enhancements. Andy prides himself on his achievements and since training at Cannington College, has spent the years since cultivating his expertise and has developed a strong

background gained from working at Carden Park and St Anne’s Old Links Golf Club. Andy has continued to use his knowledge and experience to great advantage for the clubs he has worked for, and is now applying the same to Hartford and Pryors Hayes.

Maintaining a golf course is the biggest, most challenging role within any club and is a year round, daily feat of love and toil. Technology has helped to advance the quality of ground care enormously and expensive equipment provides the physical contribution to achieve better standards of greens. A considerable financial investment has already been made into drainage and excavation equipment this year and continues to be made in the effort to maintain and continue with the improvements.

6th green before

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Ever wondered why “they” are doing maintenance again??? Get fed up with it?

Read on…

It takes work and lots of it, to create a course that players can appreciate and enjoy and we make a conscious effort to minimise disruptions to play whilst improvements are being made.

Specialist ground care has to be applied to a course to encourage rapid, healthy grass growth and because of this work many more lush fairways and greens are now obvious to every golfer who visits this very pretty club in the heart of the Cheshire countryside.

Drainage has been increased on all the greens and as a result they are holding less water which in turn reduces the risk of disease, meaning they will be open for more months of the year.

Aeration is crucial to the maintenance of the greens and this has to take place at the correct times of the year in order to work efficiently and provide the best benefits – during spring and late summer is the best time to do this.

Nutrients and special feeds are also being applied to encourage healthy grass growth and fight disease, thus ensuring healthy grass on which to play.

Great greens are also in need of light, so in the 6th green after

coming months this too will be addressed and areas of shade eliminated. Special seeds to suit the needs of the course are also being used throughout the course… did you know that there is even an industry league table for grass seeds!?

Finally, all the bunkers have received attention and have been renovated, weeded, drained and re-filled with the required amount of sand.

All in all, huge advancements have already been made in the few short months since the brothers took over the club. Everyone at Pryors Hayes is on board to support and continue improvements in the coming months, and are looking forward to seeing the course in peak condition through the summer, so come along and play the course and let us know what you think!

Check out our Special OPEN offer on page 70.

Contact Details Pryors Hayes Golf Club Willington Road, Oscroft, Tarvin Chester, CH3 8NL Telephone: 01829 741250 / 740140 info@pryors-hayes.co.uk www.pryorshayes.co.uk

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REGIONAL NEWS

Peover Golf Club Society Open AM-AM, Wednesday 17th September 4 Person Team (Any combination) Stableford (Best 2 scores) Handicaps: Gents 28, Ladies 36 (3/4 Allowance) Entry Fee: £15pp + Organiser Plays Free (£45 per team) Bacon sandwiches/coffee on arrival followed by 18-holes of competition golf Prize: Winning team will win a free golf society day in 2015 (golf only, upto 16 players, dates subject to availability).

Bookings can be made by calling Peover Golf Club on 01565 723337 or via email: mail@peovergolfclub.co.uk

Wirral Golf Classic Filling Up Fast Places are still available for the Wirral Golf Classic, in its 5th year, is proving very popular with entries well ahead of previous years although places in this handicap stableford competition for men and women, are filling up fast.

Two thirds of places have already been taken by golfers from all over the UK, with many having played before and several returning for a fifth time. Offering great value and the chance to play great links courses, including the 2014 Open Championship venue Hoylake, the event is set for a record entry. Word has now spread throughout Europe with golfers coming from France, Holland and Croatia.

The tournament, a 72 hole stableford event, is open to adult male & female golfers and offers over £4000 worth of prizes from Titleist, Focal Golf and barbeques from Budget Gas.. All play four games over five days on 15-19 September, on the four magnificent links courses in Wirral.

Royal Liverpool, or Hoylake as it is known by golfers throughout the world, has staged the 1st Amateur Championship,1st Walker Cup, 1st International Golf Match and 11 Open

Championships is preparing for the return of The Open Championship this July. Caldy, former venue of the Seniors’ Championship, boasts stunning views from its cliffs across the River Dee to Wales; slightly further down the river, Heswall was the venue for The R&A’s Junior Championships in 2006, Wallasey, home of Stableford, and a former Open Qualifying venue enjoys beautiful views across the River Mersey to Liverpool, and With an entry fee of just £249, just over half the standard green fees, the event offers great value. Up to 2 friends can play in each four ball and couples have the option of mixed foursomes for one or more games. Two social events are included in the price – a Welcome Drinks Reception at the Holiday Inn Express and the Prize-giving is held in the magnificent clubhouse of Royal Liverpool.

Further information can be found on the web site www.wirralgolfclassic.co.uk The event is now supported by Thornton Hall Hotel, Holiday Inn Express, National Club Golfer, Titleist, Budget Gas and Focal Golf.

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Vicars Cross Golf Club Our 75th Anniversary Year Vicars Cross Golf Club was officially opened on 20th May 1939, just a few months before the start of World War II. The club rose from the ashes of Blacon Point Golf Club, a parkland course, requisitioned by the War Office in 1938 after 3 years of golfing.

The concept of Vicars Cross Golf Club was born in 1938 when Blacon Point Member William Ellison Richardson asked for members support to establish a completely new club in the Chester area.

Such was the response he eventually purchased Parkers Farm with some 91 acres of pasture land close to Chester on the A51. By 1939 the Professional, Eric Parr, started to lay out the first eleven holes and this task was completed in two weeks, his only help being a bulldozer and his uncle, Cyril Hughes, the Professional at Royal Liverpool Golf Club. The course opened officially just three months later.

Building work started on the clubhouse in 1940, which was planned to include two further

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COURSE FEATURE

storeys, hence the robust roof supports in the main lounge area. Unfortunately the war halted any further work and the clubhouse still remains a single storey building. During the war the course was used for agricultural purposes and when peace was finally declared the task of turning pasture back into a golf course was started, commencing with the greens. The course was eventually reopened in March 1947 and has been developed and improved extensively since then resulting in the tremendous challenge it is today.

Some famous golfers played Vicars Cross in 1952, when a Grand Exhibition Match was hosted by the club, raising funds for ‘The Forces Aid Society’ and ‘Lord Roberts Workshops’. In

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

a fourball match 1936 Open Champion, Alf Padgham and Harry Weetman (Matchplay Champion 1951) played three times Open Champion, Bobby Lock, and the new Vicars Cross Professional, Alf Lovelady. Lovelady and his illustrious partner narrowly lost the match before a gallery of 1,500 visitors paying 2/6 entrance free.

Vicars Cross today has grown out of the hard work of others in the past and is now a mature course renowned for its fast and undulating greens. The course is challenging and sets a premium on accuracy and shot control. Out of bounds is a danger on the perimeter holes and there are numerous other hazards to negotiate.

Vicars Cross is an 18 hole course measuring

6,446 yards with a par of 72. With trees lining the parkland course, the key to keeping a good score is to ensure careful positioning of tee shots. Ponds, ditches and brooks come into play on several holes and with more than adequate bunkering there is plenty to stimulate and challenge golfers of all abilities.

Don’t just take our word for it, come and enjoy what Vicars Cross has to offer.

Contact Details Vicars Cross Golf Club Tarvin Road, Great Barrow, Chester, CH3 7HN Tel: 01244 335174 manager@vicarscrossgolf.co.uk www.vicarscrossgolf.co.uk

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REGIONAL NEWS

Charlotte Wild Tour Blog Charlotte is currently playing on the LET Access Tour. You can follow her progress throughout the year and read her monthly blog to get an insight into life on tour! Here’s to a successful 2014!

It’s been a busy start to the season! I have been to Switzerland, Sweden, Spain and France.

My first event of the season was Switzerland and it was great to visit a country I had never been to before, it was also fun to catch up with other players I had not seen since last season.

Switzerland was my first tournament since last November so I was expecting some areas of my game to be a little rusty! I made the cut on the number, birdieing the last two holes. I finished T40 I was pleased to have made the first cut and get some competitive play under my belt.

Next was two weeks in Sweden, I had played both courses before so was looking forward to getting back. I also stayed with host families for the two weeks which was great fun and the families made me so welcome. Two cuts made in Sweden including a Top 10 and I was starting to feel more comfortable on the course and my

game was sharpening up.

During my stay in Sweden we got to spend the day with Fanny Sunesson. She had very kindly organised a day trip to some local sights, she also did a Q&A and told stories from her caddying days. It was great to get her advice on the game.

Next stop Spain. A course I felt would suit my game as it was tight of the tee and not too long.

I was in 6th position going into the last day and really hoping for a big finish. Unfortunately I didn’t play anywhere near my best and finished 16th I was really disappointed as my game had felt really solid but I just didn’t hit enough fairways on the last day!

I’ve just returned from Dinard in France which didn’t go to plan, first missed cut of the season.

I actually hit the ball much better than I scored but some bad course management and club

choices meant I missed by two. Even though the week on course didn’t go to plan, I had a great week off course. I took my mum to caddie and we fell in love with Dinard. The weather was beautiful every day and we stayed right near the beach. So even though the week wasn’t a success sometimes you need to look at the bigger picture and realise how lucky I am to play and travel Europe seeing new places!

I am now at home for two weeks preparing for the The British Masters on The LET as I have an invite. I’m really looking forward to testing myself against the main tour and The Buckinghamshire is a great course.

Until next time!

Charlotte Follow Charlotte on Twitter @Charlsophiewild

A GOLFING JEWEL IN THE CROWN OF UPTON Join the other 96 new members who GOT INTO GOLF during the last year using our unique Staircase Membership System.

WHAT STEPS WILL YOU TAKE THIS SPRING TO ‘Get into Golf’?

Step 1 - TRIAL MEMBERSHIP ONLY £150.00 for a 3 month period (social golf) • The ideal way for those new to golf or returning to the game wishing to get a feel for our friendly Club • Loyalty Card

Charity Golf Day at

The Royal Birkdale Golf Club on

Thursday 25 September 2014 This will be a team of four Stableford competition starting from two tees at 12.00 noon

Step 2 - INTERMEDIATE MEMBERSHIP PACKAGE UNDER £550 for a 12 month period • Gain an official CONGU Handicap and play competition golf!

• HALF PRICE ROOM HIRE & Loyalty Card

Two scores to count for each team on each hole.

Full handicap with a maximum allowance of 18 for men and 30 for ladies.

Handicap Certificates will be required

Step 3 - FULL MEMBERSHIP £865.00 • 1st April 30th June £203.00 • Full 7 Day Unlimited play Social and ANY competition • FREE ROOM HIRE & Loyalty Card

Flex 100 @upton The flexible way to play golf £250.00 no hidden extras

Veranda @ 19 Bar & Restaurant caterer@uptongolf.co.uk • Ideal venue for All Occasions • Quiz Night every Thursday Nick Sargent PGA Golf Professional professional@uptongolf.co.uk • For Lessons • Repairs • Fully Stocked Professional Shop For further information call Anne Jennings on 01244 381183 or annejennings@uptongolf.co.uk

VISIT WWW.UPTONGOLF.CO.UK

Entry fee: £950 per team 18-hole golf competition Individual gift packs Light lunch Dinner Prize Presentation Prizes will be awarded for: The three best teams The Longest Drive The Nearest the Pin The Individual Putting Competition To enter contact Mike Gilyeat, Secretary The Royal Birkdale Golf Club Telephone: 01704 552020 Email: manager@royalbirkdale.com (There will be maximum of 25 teams which will be allocated on a first come first served basis)

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

Hesketh GC Festival Week Hesketh Golf Club, as the oldest club in Southport (founded in 1885), has a fine tradition of hosting professional and senior amateur tournaments most recently in 2011 when it co-hosted the Amateur Championship with near-by Hillside Golf Club.

Southport, and its surrounding area, is blessed with some of the finest links courses in the world with three Open Championship venues within less than an hour’s car journey of each other. Royal Birkdale is in the town with Royal Lytham to the north and Royal Liverpool, host of the 2014 Open, to the south.

Visitors are extremely welcome at Hesketh where they are sure of receiving a very warm reception from everyone at the Club. The Club is renowned for its friendliness towards visitors from the moment they enter the clubhouse or the well stocked Pro Shop, until they leave, having enjoyed their round of golf and the Club’s hospitality.

Individuals, groups or societies are all guaranteed a challenging but extremely enjoyable golfing experience. The bar and

catering facilities are fully up to date but set in a very traditional context as would be expected of a club with such a long and proud history.

Many local clubs stage open competitions throughout the year but Hesketh, as well as holding a Seniors’ Open in June (entries for which are already over two-thirds subscribed), also organizes a week-long Festival week every year in August. The Festival, which has been running since 1991, provides an opportunity for juniors’, men’s, ladies’ seniors and mixed golf throughout the week but crucially, unlike many other clubs, the Hesketh Festival runs competitions on both Saturday and Sunday, thereby allowing access to competitive golf at the weekend.

Entry fees are very competitively priced for a championship course and the club offers an extremely generous prize fund.

Details of this year’s Festival are as follows: Date 10 Aug 11 Aug 11 Aug 12 Aug 13 Aug 14 Aug 15 Aug 16 Aug

Competition Entry fee Mixed 4BBB £50 Junior Open £12 Ladies’ Team of 4 (Stableford) £80 Men’s Team of 4 (Stableford) £100 Men’s Senior 4BBB (Stableford) £40 Men’s Team of 4 (Stableford) £100 Men’s Team of 4 (medal) £100 Men’s 4BBB (Stableford) £60

Anyone interested should contact the Secretary Manager, Paul Corker, on 01704 536897 or secretary@heskethgolfclub.co.uk

TRAVEL

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Sychnant Pass Country House Sychnant Pass Country House has some of the most dramatic landscape in Wales right on its doorstep and is situated within easy reach of town and country, mountain top and seaside, moorland and estuary.

Set in three acres of landscaped gardens on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park. Framed by some of the most beautiful and dramatic scenery Wales has to offer, our privately owned country house has the feel of a remote rural hideaway and yet is just a short drive from the main A55 making it easily accessible all year round.

Rooms Our 12 double bedrooms are named after traditional Welsh hymn tunes. All have ensuite bathing facilities and come equipped with combinations of roll-top baths, whirlpool baths, corner baths, single and double showers to suit all tastes. One of our rooms has its own private hot tub.

Four rooms can be configured to twin beds, two are four-posters and our superior suite, Cwm Rhondda, has an enormous Emperor bed.

All the rooms have tea and coffee making facilities along with flatscreen digital television, hairdryer, iron and ironing board.

Restaurant Sychnant Pass Country House restaurant offers fine dining to both residents and non-residents 7 days a week. The five course menu changes daily with food of the highest quality, locally sourced wherever possible and prepared by our award winning chef. Fully licensed, Sychnant Pass Country House boasts an impressive wine list.

Advance booking is essential.

Swimming Pool and Spa Sychnant Pass Country House has its own spa facilities, including indoor heated swimming pool with adjoining sauna, a gym equipped with cardiovascular equipment and a large outdoor hot tub which takes up to 8 people.

Dressing gowns and slippers are provided for use in the pool area, and male and female changing rooms with showers are also available, along with a wet room well-equipped for the less physically able. There are towels available for use in the spa area, hairdryers, lotions and potions for your use.

Golf We are just a short drive from several fine golf courses: 10 Minutes > Conwy Golf Club 10 minutes > Penmaenmawr Golf Club 15 minutes > North Wales Golf Club 20 minutes > Rhos-on-Sea Golf Club 40 Minutes > Holywell Golf Club Conwy Golf Club Rated by www.top100golfcourses.co.uk as the 6th best golf course in Wales, Conwy Golf Club has played host to a number of major tournaments and is the must play golf course on the North Wales coast. www.conwygolfclub.com Contact: Hugh Rees Phillips & Janet McLarty Sychnant Pass Country House Sychnant Pass Road Conwy, Gwynedd, Wales, LL32 8BJ Telephone: 01492 596868 info@sychnantpasscountryhouse.co.uk www. sychnantpasscountryhouse.co.uk

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COURSE FEATURE

The Wilmslow Golf Club Celebrates 125th anniversary Milestone year for club that was formed in a hurry The Wilmslow Golf Club has never been located in the town that it is named after. The Club was founded 5 years before the town of Wilmslow.

Founder members of The Wilmslow Golf Club, which this year is celebrating its 125th anniversary, were in a hurry to join the golf boom that swept the country in 1889.

Less than six weeks after the club’s inaugural meeting they had created a rudimentary ninehole course and organised their first medal competition.

The minutes of the inaugural meeting record that two of those present “had secured a suitable ground for golf and were satisfied that with the help of a professional, a fair 9-hole links could be made.”

Wilmslow was one of 31 new clubs established in the British Isles in 1889 and one of three formed in Cheshire that year. Until then, Royal

Liverpool and Cheadle were the county’s only golf courses.

Several of Wilmslow’s founder members were local men who played most of their golf some 50 miles away at the Lytham and St. Anne’s club, as it was then known.

That probably explains why, according to the minutes, “it was decided to engage Lowe, the professional at St. Anne’s, at once to lay out the links.”

Within a couple of weeks Lowe had worked out where to locate nine holes on pasture land rented from local farmers and was paid £2.7.4 for his services A month later the inaugural winter medal was held, with 14 competitors playing two rounds of nine holes. The winner returned 117 off scratch and the back marker carded net 222 off 30 handicap - but there were no nil returns!

The club grew rapidly over the next 14 years - initially with an annual subscription of one guinea – and in 1903 moved about two miles to its present location at Great Warford. Its original home is now part of the Alderley Edge golf course.

In those days golfers often had to share their fairways and greens with livestock. Wilmslow’s suggestion book contains a proposal made in June 1908 “that a boy is sent round the greens on Sunday mornings to remove sheep droppings. This would occupy very little time and save much time for players on the greens.”

During the ensuing years many lay-out changes and improvements were made, most notably after a visit in 1924 by the great James Braid, five times winner of The Open between 1901 and 1910. Braid, who designed or redesigned some 400 courses in Britain, proposed a

COURSE FEATURE

number of major changes to the greens, tees and bunkers which were implemented over the next two years.

These and other developments helped to establish Wilmslow as one of the leading championship courses in the North West, a course that would test the finest players in Europe.

One of them was the revered Dai Rees, who played an exhibition match at Wilmslow in 1947. Rees was a stalwart of nine Ryder Cup teams, most famously in 1957 when he captained Great Britain and Ireland to victory for the first time since 1933.

In later years Wilmslow welcomed seven more Ryder Cup captains-to-be (Tony Jacklin, Bernard Gallacher, Bernard Langer, Sam Torrance, Ian Woosnam, Mark James and Nick Faldo), not to mention eight past or future winners of The Open and the US Masters (Bob Charles, Roberto de Vicenzo, Sandy Lyle, Greg Norman and Jacklin, Langer. Woosnam and Faldo).

They all competed in one or more of the Greater Manchester Opens staged at Wilmslow from 1975 to l981, or the Martini International in 1983. Wilmslow was the only course in Cheshire, apart from Royal Liverpool, where order of merit points for the Ryder Cup could be earned.

The Martini was the last PGA event staged at Wilmslow, but the R & A invited the club

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

to hold pre-qualifying rounds of The Open on six occasions in the 1990s, and over the years the par-72 6635-yard course has been used for many county and national amateur championships.

Much of the credit for Wilmslow’s current eminence can be shared by its award-winning front-line team: head professional Matthew Gillingham, course manager Steve Oultram, and Stewards Simon and Karen Ward.

Matthew, PGA Professional of the Year in 2011, and his assistants have established a superb Player Performance Studio, fitted with state-ofthe-art Trackman technology, whilst devoting many hours to coaching and encouraging newcomers to golf, particularly juniors.

Steve, a past winner of the North of England Golf Environment Award, is a drainage wizard whose skills have created a course in excellent condition throughout the year. Despite the wettest winter on record, Wilmslow was closed for only one day in January and half a day in February. It very rarely uses winter greens even in the depths of winter.

Last but not least, and with perfect timing for the club’s 125th anniversary, Stewards Simon and Karen Ward are the current holders of the London Pride EGU Steward of the Year award – the first time it has been held in a joint capacity.

Their motto could be “Anything’s possible”, as

they demonstrated last September when, for six days, Wilmslow hosted the English Ladies County Championship Finals.

It took them less than ten minutes to set up an impromptu disco in the lounge when the highspirited young ladies of Hertfordshire politely requested some light entertainment at the end of the day – a service that was repeated twice more during the week.

Instant, no-messing action like that would surely have had the approval of the founder members that had Wilmslow up and running within six weeks of its inaugural meeting.

Captain - Philip Barber describes the ethos of the club as ‘progressively traditionalist’ - “We are very proud and protective of our long heritage but there is no room for complacency.

We are continuing to invest in our future by enhancing facilities for our members, visitors and guests whilst ensuring the golf course remains a real test of golf for golfers of all levels, all year round.

Contact Details The Wilmslow Golf Club Great Warford, Mobberley Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 7AY Telephone: 01565 872148 admin@wilmslowgolfclub.co.uk www.wilmslowgolfclub.co.uk

47

48

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

Crewe Golf Club Lee’s Longest Day Golf Challenge 2014 On the 21st June Lee Meakin, in his usual persuasive manner, convinced 3 friends, Stewart Elder, Jason Stubbs and Kevin Worsley to play 4 consecutive rounds of golf at Crewe Golf Club to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The four teed off at 4:30am on what, fortunately, was a dry bright summers day.

Saturday 21st June was also Lady Captain’s Day at Crewe so Lady Captain Barbara Morrey and Lee had talked tactics on how to get all the ladies out and not prevent the lads from completing their challenge. They completed 3 rounds, calling for refreshments at our half way house, before calling into the clubhouse for a late lunch and beer or two prior to following the ladies out to do the final round.

Dressed in Macmillan colours the group were

easily recognisable out on the course and were well supported all day, not least by Jacqui, Lee’s wife who generously (or foolishly!) caddied for all four rounds.

It was around 6:30pm when, after 72 holes, the team finally appeared down the 18th. They were greeted by applause from the crowd sitting on the patio as the final player holed out. Not surprisingly several cool beers were consumed that evening to numb the aching legs and blistered feet.

Having received donations via the Just Giving website they also had donations made in the clubhouse in the weeks running up to the event and on the day itself. They are still receiving donations but to date have raise a magnificent £1300 for what is a very worthy cause.

Introductory Offer

South Lakes Furness Peninsula Ticket PLAY TWO HIDDEN GEMS IN THE NORTHWEST The best of both worlds

Play Furness, the 6th oldest golf club in England, founded in 1872. Accept the challenge and enjoy a true links experience.

...and just 15 minutes drive away is the Harry Colt designed hidden gem that is Ulverston Golf Club.

A parkland experience not to be missed.

Two Superb courses.

Fantastic views. Great Value A WARM WELCOME AWAITS YOU WHICH INCLUDES A BACON ROLL AND COFFEE Available Sun – Fri Jan-Mar : £36.00pp Apr-May : £45.00pp Jun-Sep : £55.00pp Play two in one day – or split the experience.

The choice is yours.

For Tee Time availability Contact: Furness Golf Club. Telephone: 01229 471232 furnessgolfclub@btconnect.com - www.furnessgolfclub.co.uk Ulverston Golf Club. Telephone: 01229 582824 enquiries@ulverstongolf.co.uk - www.ulverstongolf.co.uk Quote: South Lakes Furness Peninsula Ticket

50

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

COURSE FEATURE

Worsley Park A Marriott Hotel & Country Club Tucked away in over 200 acres of parkland, Worsley Park, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club is still only minutes away from the motorway network and just 7 miles from the heart of Manchester City Centre.

Built around traditional Victorian architecture, once inside the hotel you will discover a host of thoroughly modern facilities. But the true feather in its cap is the classic championship Worsley Park Course, widely acclaimed as one of the finest inland courses in the North of England. Designed using the full potential of the natural terrain, the course includes seven water hazards and has played host to a variety of highprofile events including European Challenge Tour, the Manchester Open and the Trilby Tour.

Suitable for everyone from the seasoned professional to aspiring young players, the course offers a truly enjoyable challenge.

But whatever your level, you’ll need to keep your wits about you – the course’s numerous obstacles and water features demand an accurate game. Designed by European Golf Design in association with Michael King, the course meets the highest standards with greens & tees laid out to USGA specifications. After your round you can always polish your swing in

COURSE FEATURE

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

The true feather in its cap is the classic championship Worsley Park Course the short and long game practice areas or refine your drive in the 250m practice range.

At Worsley Park great pride is taken in delivering a high class service alongside a first class product - acutely aware of the need to

continually invest in the facilities in order to maintain the exceptionally high standards. In the previous 18 months alone investment of over ÂŁ300,000 aimed at improving both the on and off course facilities has been undertaken with more investment due in 2014.

Worsley Park also boasts a wide variety of membership packages including 5 and 7 day individual, intermediate and corporate categories. All of the individual memberships are able to access the broad range of golfing facilities as well as make full use of the extensive leisure club. Other added benefits include discounted food and beverage and reciprocal use of other Marriott Country Clubs.

Whether looking to organise a large Corporate Golf Day or just play a social game of golf, Worsley Park, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club has something to offer you.

For more details please contact us on 0161 975 2000 or visit WorsleyParkGolf.co.uk Alternatively you can check availability and book a round at any of Marriott’s 11 UK Country Clubs online at marriottgolf.co.uk We hope to see you all soon!

Adam Moule-Director of Golf

51

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cheshire Introduction

Photos courtesy VisitBritain

©Britainonview / Adrian Houston

52

Cheshire Cheshire is a diverse county, marked by its canal networks and its industrial history notably silk in Macclesfield and of course the salt in Northwich. Perhaps the jewel in Cheshire’s crown, however, is the city of Chester. Nicknamed ‘Capital of Style’.

through Chester gives it extra character. Many festivals are held in Chester throughout the year including folk & fringe festivals, literature and racing at the ancient Chester Races. But don’t miss out some of the other market towns like Macclesfield, Congleton and Knutsford, which all have their own unique charm.

radio telescope and Science Centre to the awe inspiring Blue Planet Aquarium.

Chester was originally settled by the Romans in the First century AD and is surrounded by Roman Walls (all walkable) and features a vast Roman Amphitheatre in the centre. Chester’s history is long and rich. The fact that the River Dee runs

Contemporary Cheshire has much to offer the visitor, with designer shopping outlets at Cheshire Oaks, to Chester Zoo, to the famous Jodrell Bank 76m Lovell

Rural Cheshire is today a pleasant and sought after location to live but it offers more than that to the millions of visitors who come every year to appreciate one of the most diverse counties in the United Kingdom where it is h ome to more millionaires than anywhere else in the country. From a golfing perspective, with over 100 courses to choose from, you are spoilt for choice in Cheshire.

©Britainonview / Rod Edwards

©Britainonview / Rod Edwards

©Britainonview / Adrian Houston

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cheshire Introduction

M-6 M-62 02

14

M-56

Warrington

M-53

Lymm

09 10

Runcorn

11

01

Knutsford

Frodsham

Ellesmere Port

Wimslow

20

16

12

08

Macclesfield

Northwich M-56

18 06

17 19 Chester

15

07

Winsford 13

Congleton

Tarporley

04

Sandbach

Crewe

05

Nantwich 03

Malpas

M-6 Whitchurch

01. Antrobus 02. Birchwood 03. Brookfield 04. Carden Park 05. Crewe 06. Delamere Forest 07. Eaton Golf Club 08. Hartford 09. Hazel Grove 10. High Legh

11. The Mere 12. Peover 13. Portal 14. Poulton Park 15. Pryors Hayes 16. The Tytherington 17. Upton by Chester 18. Vale Royal 19. Vicars Cross 20. Wilmslow

53

Contact Details

54

Antrobus Golf Club Foggs Lane, Antrobus Cheshire, CW9 6JQ Telephone: 01925 730890/730900 antrobusgolfclub@gmail.com www.antrobusgolfclub.co.uk

01. How to Find Easily accessible from Manchester, Liverpool, Chester, Birmingham and of course Northwich and Warrington.

ANTROBUS

The club is located only 2 miles from Junction 10 of the M56, and near to the M6 motorway.

Follow A559 towards Northwich.

Turn left 500 yds after the ‘Birch and Bottle’ Pub. 100 yds on take first immediate left (Foggs Lane), the club is signposted.

Antrobus Golf Club opened in 1992 and is set in over 100 acres of beautiful North Cheshire countryside.

The recently refurbished driving range and clubhouse facilities beautifully complement this most relaxing and enjoyable golfers paradise.

After 20 years of maturing and the addition of 1000’s more trees plus lakes and other water hazards, the result is a versatile and challenging Par 71 Course of 6220 yards from the back tees, which enjoys maturity beyond its years.

Many visitors have commented on the superb quality of the course and that it is one of the friendliest of clubs, offering a warm welcome to new members and visitors alike.

Located in the heart of the Cheshire between Northwich and Warrington with easy access from the M56 at junction 10, this superbly laid out 18 hole course is suitable for visiting golfers and societies of all standards.

Signature Hole: 8th Par 3 124 yards.

A superb par 3 with water between the tee and a very narrow green. As the saying goes “there is nothing for being short” on this fantastic hole.

Facilities Driving range, Putting green, Golf Lessons, Buggies, Clubhouse, Restaurant

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6120 • 5854 • 5225 (72) H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

5 478

10

4

370

2

3 166

11

3

166

3

4 362

12

4

357

4

3 207

13

4

420

5

5 510

14

3

195

6

4 401

15

5

466

7

4 388

16

5

482

8

3 124

17

4

374

9

4 319

18

4

335

Contact Robin Carroll PGA Professional on 01925 730900 for further details.

Contact Details

55

Birchwood Golf Club Ltd Kelvin Close, Birchwood Warrington, WA3 7PB Telephone: 01925 818819 Professional: 01925 825216 enquiries@birchwoodgolfclub.co.uk www.birchwoodgolfclub.co.uk

02. How to Find

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Practice Ground, Chipping Green, Golf Simulator Studio, Electric Trolleys, Pull Trolleys, Lessons, Pro Shop, Buggies available March- October Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6596 • 6242 • 5682 (74) H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 353

10

3

179

2

5 557

11

5

521

3

4 461

12

3

163

4

3 191

13

4

293

5

4 378

14

4

415

6

4 355

15

4

461

7

3 141

16

4

457

8

5 532

17

3

211

9

4 433

18

5

495

REDUCED MEMBERSHIP RATES FOR 2014

BIRCHWOOD

Birchwood Golf Club is ideally located less than a mile from Junction 11 of the M62. Leaving the M62 at Junction 11 proceed to the first roundabout and take a right.

You will then come to a series of roundabouts, go straight over the next 3 roundabouts, passing Birchwood Business Park on your left hand side.

At the next roundabout the Golf Club is signposted taking a Right turn.

Birchwood Golf Club is located next door to Carphone Warehouse.

Welcome to Birchwood Golf Club, Warrington one of the finest and friendliest golf clubs in the county of Cheshire. Our very picturesque 18 hole championship standard course was designed and built in the 1970’s on 240 acres of rolling parkland. It has an abundance of unique features, the various lakes, water hazards, bunkers and tree lined fairways adding to the golfing challenge. The fantastic undulating greens that have a reputation for being the best in the area adding further to a very pleasurable golfing experience.

Birchwood offers a challenge to all levels of golfer with a par of 71 and a standard

Birchwood Golf Club

The club is forward thinking with a terrific atmosphere in the clubhouse on competition days, yet also respecting the traditions of the game of golf. It is also an excellent venue for weddings, parties and conferences whatever your need, please dont hesitate to contact the club to see what we can do for you.

GOLF SOCIETIES 2014 SUMMER GREEN FEES FROM £15pp

FULL MEMBERSHIP NOW ONLY £695

SUMMER SOCIETIES AVAILABLE MON-SAT

5 DAY MEMBERSHIP ONLY £595 NEW 30-39 YEAR OLD RATE ONLY £595

scratch of 72 off the white tees the 6596 yards course provides the player with a variety of shot making opportunities which will test the use of all fourteen clubs in the bag. Our course provides a fair test of golf where course management and not just shot making ability is the secret to a good round.

www.birchwoodgolfclub.co.uk

For further details contact our Pro, Carl Edwards on 01925 825216.

Email: carledwardsgolf@hotmail.co.uk

Contact Details

56

Brookfield Golf Club Hankelow, Audlem, Nr Nantwich Cheshire, CW3 0JE Telephone: 01270 812991 info@brookfieldgolfclub.co.uk www.brookfieldgolfclub.co.uk

03. How to Find

BROOKFIELD

From M6, exit at Junction 16: At the roundabout, take the exit onto A500 heading to Crewe/A5020/Nantwich/ Chester/A51/Weston. At A525, take the 1st exit onto A531. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit. Turn left onto Cobb’s Ln. Turn right onto Wrinehill Rd. Turn left onto Main Rd/B5071. Continue to follow B5071.Slight right onto Wybunbury Ln/B5071. Turn right onto London Rd/ A51. Take the 1st left onto Crewe Rd/ B5071. Turn left to stay on Crewe Rd/ B5071. Slight left onto Audlem Rd/ A529. Turn right onto The Nook.

The 18 hole 6,128 yard par 70 course first opened in 2002. Built in one hundred and twenty seven acres of Cheshires Finest countryside, the course is fast maturing to become one of Cheshire’s premier golf venues and features all the elements needed for a player’s maximum enjoyment.

The course with tees and greens of USGA standard offers a real challenge to golfers of all levels. Brookfield has been honored by hosting a number of Cheshire County events and in 2004 was the venue for the Tamsel Professional Tour.

The Clubhouse has a function room which can seat 120 guests, in addition there is also a spacious lounge, and the premises is licensed to perform civil marriage ceremonies.

Catering is of the highest standard with our resident chef available to satisfy all culinary tastes and requirements.

Signature Hole The Ninth hole at Brookfield Golf Club is regarded by many as our feature hole. It is one of six challenging par 3s, measuring 195 yards off the yellow tees and 205 yards from the competition tees, all of which is carry over a large lake.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, 16 Bay Floodlit Range, Golf Academy, Club Hire, Trolley Hire, Lessons, Pro Shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6128 • 5825 • 5154 H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 366

10

5

474

2

5 450

11

4

434

3

4 392

12

3

161

4

3 192

13

4

374

5

4 329

14

3

174

6

3 205

15

4

366

7

4 330

16

3

168

8

5 594

17

4

431

9

3 206

18

5

482

Contact Details

57

Crewe Golf Club Fields Road, Haslington, Crewe Cheshire CW1 5TB Telephone: 01270 584099 secretary@crewegolfclub.co.uk www.crewegolfclub.co.uk

05. How to Find

One of the most attractive elements of the Golf Course is that, although Haslington is close by and Crewe itself only some two miles distant, there are open vistas in every direction, with scarcely a building to be seen.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Extensive Practice Ground, Putting Green, Chipping Green, Trolley Hire, Buggy Hire, Lessons, Pro shop

The course is 18 holes occupying some 150 acres of rolling Cheshire countryside. From the men’s white tees it measures 6469 yards with a par and standard scratch of 71, consisting of 2 par 5s, 3 par 3s and 13 par 4s.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6469 • 6220 • 5513 (72) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 4 3 4 4 3 4

CREWE

From North, M6 Junction 17 Turn right onto the A534 over the motorway bridge, follow this road through traffic lights and turn left at roundabout. Follow A534 to the next roundabout and turn left for Haslington. In 1.5 miles at the centre of the village left turn into Waterloo Road opposite the Broughton Arms, follow this road straight through into the visitors car park.

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

305 422 421 329 148 363 317 145 371

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 4 5 4 4

410 382 284 483 174 322 540 393 414

Each hole has its individual characteristics. The fairways are for the most part generous, but in some instances tight and tree-lined with

tall oaks often providing a difficult obstacle for the wayward drive. A number of holes are strategically designed to provide a testing second shot over or round a pond. The greens are well bunkered, some are particularly narrow and should not be missed on the wrong side.

A “halfway house” by the 11th tee is used to provide light refreshments on selected competition days and weekends.

Hole 8, Par 3, 159 yards. Great short hole!

Nothing but accurate medium/short iron does on this tricky par three with bunkers right and significant drop on other three sides of green.

Contact Details

58

Carden Park Hotel Golf Resort & Spa Nr Chester, Cheshire CH3 9DQ Telephone: 01829 731 000 reservations.carden@devere-hotels.com www.cardenpark.co.uk

Facilities

CARDEN PARK

Jacks Bar serving a variety of snacks and hearty meals; Golf Shop, Saunas in the golf changing rooms, Clubs & trolley hire; Secure bag storage, Halfway houses on both courses, 13 bay covered driving range, Fleet of 60 GPS buggies, Golf lessons, Ropes course, Outdoor activities, 196 bedrooms, Choice of Restaurants including Private dining, 13 spa treatment rooms, Free Car Parking

Set in 1000 acres of stunning Cheshire Countryside, Carden Park is the ideal location to enjoy a round of golf. The two Championship Courses offer two very different but equally challenging experiences.

The Cheshire Course is reminiscent of the finest British parkland courses; set to the rear of the Carden Park Estate it offers stunning panoramic views across the Cheshire countryside to the mountains of Wales.

A wealth of natural hazards makes this a highly technical course and will test your skills throughout. Building to a dramatic and

scenic finish, with tough 16th and 17th holes followed by the 18th tee atop sandstone cliffs overlooking the resort and Welsh hills. It certainly ensures a round of golf to remember. An average fourball can expect to complete the Cheshire Course in 4 hours.

Signature Hole: The testing 351 yard par 4, 18th may only have a stroke index of 14 but don’t let this fool you. The elevated tee will take your breath away with the spectacular scenery across the Welsh Hills. Driver could get you in trouble.

The perfect tee shot would be a 3 wood or long iron to land short left which in return would leave an approach shot into a generous green.

Cheshire Course 18 holes, Par 72 • 6824 • 6653 • 6348 • 5646 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

3 5 4 4 4 5 4 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

155 542 365 338 389 524 374 206 432

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 4 4 5 3 4 3 4

340 555 359 342 425 126 381 181 314

04. How to Find

59

Carden Park is easy to find from the M6. From the South, join the M54 at Junction 10A, then onto the A41 towards Chester. From the North, leave the M6 at Junction 20A and follow the M56 and M53 to the A41 for Whitchurch. At Broxton turn towards Wrexham on the A534 - the hotel is 1.5 miles along on the left.

CARDEN PARK

Sat Nav Coordinates Lat: 53.074. Long: -2.8076 or enter the village name “Broxton”

The Nicklaus Course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and his son Steve, it is a rewarding challenge, with several ‘double option’ holes such as the 7th and 15th which offer a choice of dual option fairways from which to approach the green. The Nicklaus course offers a scenic yet strategic test of golf where position more then length is crucial.

Nicklaus Course 18 holes, Par 72 • 7045 • 6628 • 6302 • 5906 • 5211 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 3 5 4 4 4 3 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

383 285 138 479 373 305 358 120 515

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 5 4 4 3 4 5

369 387 177 501 287 341 115 317 456

As Jack said it certainly is “a thinking man’s golf course”. The half way house on the Nicklaus is passed twice so you will never be short of a snack or drink. An average fourball can expect to complete the Nicklaus Course in around 4 hours.

The testing 378 yard par 4 dog-leg on the 17th demands the utmost accuracy. This hole was chosen as the Nicklaus Signature hole for the challenge and the views it provides from the drive through the estate and from the hotel.

Signature Hole: When major championships are played on the Nicklaus course the 17th hole provides the back drop for a fantastic grand stand finish. The back tee demands a great drive, you need to stay high to the right hand side of the fairway which would reward you with an approach shot over the lake to the elongated green. Be careful not to be short or this could cost you dearly.

Contact Details

60

Delamere Forest Golf Club Ltd Station Road Delamere, CW8 2JE Telephone: 01606 883800 sec@delameregolf.co.uk www.delameregolf.co.uk

DELAMERE FOREST

06. How to Find From M6 Junction 19 take the A556 and head in the direction of Chester and after approximately 15 miles look for J & S Accessories. Take the next right turn at the Abbey Arms Public House. DFGC is about a mile on the right hand side of the road (opposite the entrance to Delamere Forest and the Station).

Facilities

Founded in 1910, Delamere Forest was the fifth golf course designed by the distinguished architect Herbert Fowler. It is widely regarded as one of the finest traditional heathland golf courses in England. The club’s current rating as the best inland course in Cheshire and 56th in England by Top 100 Golf Courses is well deserved.

Situated in the heart of rural Cheshire but with easy access, Delamere features rolling fairways interspersed with heather and gorse, crowned by fast, subtle greens which are typical of Fowler’s early designs. As a result the course offers a fair but tough challenge to visitors and members alike.

In 2012 the club took the momentous decision to strengthen the course and reinstate its original heathland character. The renowned golf architects Mackenzie and Ebert who had recently completed the remodelling of Royal Lytham and St Anne’s for the Open Championship were commissioned to carry out the task. Every bunker has been returned to the original Fowler design and all greens have been increased in size to provide additional options and run-off areas. As a result the century-old character of Delamere has been reinstated and a new Blue Course of over 6600 yards including 8 new tees is available for County and National events.

Casual Golfers, Societies & Groups - All Welcome.

Sample our excellent course and facilities.

Driving range, Putting green, Golf Lessons, Buggies, Restaurant The original clubhouse built over 100 years ago to the Cheshire ‘black and white’ design has been substantially improved in recent years providing excellent facilities for members and visitors.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6580 • 6326 • 6101 • 5588 H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 420

10

4

323

2

5 428

11

5

492

3

4 399

12

3

145

4

3 206

13

4

302

5

4 424

14

4

364

6

3 131

15

4

295

7

5 438

16

3

188

8

4 411

17

4

356

9

4 321

18

5

458

Please book with the Professional, Martin Brown on 01606 883800.

Email: delamerepro@btconnect.com

Contact Details

61

Eaton Golf Club Guy Lane, Waverton, Chester Cheshire, CH3 7PH Tel.: 01244 335885 Fax: 01244 335782 info@eatongolfclub.co.uk www.eatongolfclub.co.uk

EATON GOLF CLUB

07. How to Find Golf course is three miles south east of Chester off A41, from Chester, take the A51/The Bars, turn right at A51/ Challinor Street, turn left at A5115/ Christleton Road. At roundabout take 2nd exit onto A41/Whitchurch Road, turn left at Eggbridge Lane, continue onto Guy Lane, course on the right.

Easy access from M56 & M53.

Designed by Donald Steele, the celebrated golf architect, as an enjoyable challenge for players of all abilities. Located some 4 miles from the historic city of Chester with views of Cheshire and North Wales, Eaton Golf Club offers a wide range of high quality facilities for members and the many visitors who take part in open tournaments, society events and charity days.

Facilities Driving Range, Putting Green, Golf Lessons, Buggies, Clubhouse, Restaurant

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6714 • 6580 • 6414 • 5642 (73) H OLE

PAR

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

1

4 357

10

4

386

2

4 370

11

3

170

3

4 414

12

4

340

4

3 166

13

4

342

5

5 488

14

5

518

6

3 178

15

4

379

7

4 322

16

5

503

8

5 476

17

3

145

9

4 429

18

4

431

At Eaton we are very proud of our golf course which is often praised for its immaculate presentation and the challenge of its contoured greens built to USGA standards, which are fast, firm, and true. Beautifully situated beside the Shropshire Union Canal, it features a

wealth of mature oaks, a picturesque brook and several ponds and copses, all of which add to the golfing challenge and provide rich habitats for wildlife in abundance.

12th. This hole is a gem. Played properly it is relatively easy, make the slightest mistake and you may wreck your card. Longer hitters may take a fairway wood or even a long iron for the tee shot. Hit it as close to the right hand bunker as you dare, to leave a simple pitch across a large ditch to the steeply sloping green facing you.

The green is protected on each side by mature Oaks, so drive on the left and you will face a tough decision - take on the trees, or lay up?

COME AND TRY EATON you won’t be disappointed.

Junior Membership starting from 1st August for just £60 until the end of the year Apply in August to join from 1st September as an Early Bird. £200 until the end of the year, and if you wish to join us in 2015, the £200 will be deducted from the 2015 subscription.

Contact Details

62

Hartford Golf Club Burrows Hill, Hartford, Northwich Cheshire, CW8 3AP Telephone: 01606 871162 info@hartfordgolf.co.uk www.hartfordgolf.co.uk

08. How to Find

HARTFORD

Easily accessible from Manchester, Liverpool, Chester, Birmingham and of course Northwich and Warrington.

M56 take Jnc 10 A49 Whitchurch, for approx 4 miles, turn right on to A533 for 5 miles over Winnington Bridge, turn right at Golf Club sign by garden center. Approx one mile on the left.

Hartford Golf Club offers an inviting layout for all levels of golfers. You will find plush flat tee boxes and smooth quick greens. Tight lush fairways lined with ponds and trees challenge the low handicapper but at the same time play fairly for the high handicapper. Hartford is a golf course where you are treated like an old friend, it is a golf course where we have not forgotten that golf is a game that should be played for fun and enjoyment.

Hartford also boasts a 26 bay floodlit Driving Range, a teaching facility, a large Pro-Shop staffed by PGA Professionals offering a wide variety of top golf apparel and equipment.

The amenities along with the full service clubhouse add up to a first class experience at Hartford for golfers of all levels of play.

Signature Holes: Many people ask what the signature hole is at Hartford – the answer is all nine, but perhaps the favourite for many is the 187 yard 7th hole. It has been written about the 7th as “this hole would not look out of place on any championship golf course”.

It has also been likened to Augusta’s sixth hole, there is a 50 metre elevation drop from tee to green through woodland down to a green guarded by bunkers and water left and right; it is a pleasure to play this hole.

Facilities Teaching and Training Studio, Fitting Suite, Trackman Launch Monitor, Foresight GC2 Launch Monitor Driving Range, Clubhouse, Putting Green, Bar, Catering, Function rooms Course Information 9 holes, Par 35 • 2770 • 2602 • 2309 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

5 3 5 4 3 4 3 4 4

YARDS

466 158 488 246 125 247 172 340 353

FREE 9 HOLES - During The Open Championship -

PAY FOR 9 HOLES - GET BACK 9 FOR FREE Offer Valid 14th-20th July 2014

PRYORS HAYES AND HARTFORD GOLF CLUB DUAL MEMBERSHIP PACKAGES AVAILABLE FROM JUST £600 PA See our website for details under GOLF – Membership www.hartfordgolf.co.uk or call 01606 871162 or mail us info@hartfordgolf.co.uk

Contact Details

63

Hazel Grove Golf Club The Club House, Hazel Grove Stockport, SK7 6LU Telephone: 0161 483 7272 professional@hazelgrovegolfclub.com www.hazelgrovegolfclub.com

09. How to Find

Facilities Lounge Bar, Spikes Bar, Restaurant, Snooker Table, Practice Area and Putting Green, Trolleys, Buggies, Lessons, Video Analysis, Pro-shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6234 • 5933 • 5249 H OLE

PAR

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

1

4 351

10

5

514

2

3 164

11

3

162

3

5 524

12

5

481

4

4 376

13

3

203

5

3 161

14

4

371

6

4 377

15

4

262

7

5 480

16

4

324

8

4 332

17

4

309

9

3 176

18

4

366

HAZEL GROVE

From the M60, Stockport Junction 27 follow signs for A6 Buxton, 5 miles south of Stockport town centre, on the A6 is Hazel Grove. Where the road splits at the famous Rising Sun Pub, keep left towards Buxton and 300 yards on the left hand side you will see the entrance for HGGC.

With the 2013 Centenary course and clubhouse enhancements completed, the beautiful and well-appointed Alister MacKenzie parkland course at Hazel Grove Golf Club in Cheshire, is characterised by several natural water hazards. Add to these the planting of a further 6,500 trees to supplement the existing ones and you can understand why careful course management is required by golfers of all levels.

both for its degree of difficulty and picturesque layout. With so many outstanding holes, it’s hard to highlight any one as a ‘signature’ hole. However, the fifteenth, dominated by a large sweeping lake, which runs along the left hand edge of the fairway, and across the front and down the left of the green, must take the honour. At 285 yards, this par 4 represents the ultimate risk or reward hole.

The course has a number of feature holes each presenting its own individual MacKenzie challenge. The par 5 third is as testing as any and ranks amongst the best in Cheshire, while the best of the par 3’s is arguably the eleventh,

Golfers who enjoy and appreciate the challenge of MacKenzie Courses will love the welcome they get at Hazel Grove and we trust they will leave saying “Golf in Cheshire just doesn’t get any better than this!”

4ball for £100 Monday to Friday Contact the pro shop on 0161 483 7272 to book

Contact Details

64

High Legh Park Golf Club Mere & High Legh Warrington Road, Knutsford Cheshire, WA16 0WAP Telephone: 01565 830 888 info@highleghpark.com www.highleghpark.com

HIGH LEGH PARK

10. How to Find From the North: Leave M56 at junction 7, onto A556 Chester Road. At roundabout take 2nd exit onto A56/Lymm Road, turn left at B5159/High Legh Road, turn left onto A50/Warrington Road. Course is on your left after ½ mile.

From the South: Exit M6 at junction 19, at the roundabout take the 3rd exit onto A556/Chester Road. Slight left at A50 towards Lymm/Warrington, course is 2 miles on your right.

There are few more glorious natural settings in Cheshire than this stretch of parkland surrounded by woodland of pine, oak and birch; the vibrant rhododendrons adding a splash of colour. The great architects Mark James and Steve Marnoch took full advantage of these many attributes when they created High Legh Park. Fairways turn both ways and there is a wonderful flow and variety to the course, with different length par-3s, par-4s and par-5s. It is a design that will stand the test of time.

The greens have been constructed to the highest standard using USGA Green Specifications. The layered construction of each green ensures

optimum drainage and minimises damage to the greens. This helps High Legh to keep the course open all year round without the need for temporary greens. The greenkeeping staff take great pride in ensuring that the greens are kept up to their high standards all year round.

3rd. “The Belfry” is a challenging par 4 with water hazards comprising of two ponds between the tee and the green. The green can be approached either over the ponds for the big hitters or using the dog leg fairway. 16th. “Marl Pit’s”. A long par 4 with a difficult right turn half way down the fairway. The biggest of hitters may be able to cut the corner and clear the lake.

Facilities 2 Practice Putting Greens, Approach Play Green with 40yd fairway, Short game green with bunkers, 300yds x 200yds practice ground, Members practice area Irons only 200yds x 200yds, Complementary ball facility for members, Buggies, trolleys, pro shop, Restaurant, Conference rooms

Course Information 18 holes · Par 70 • 6406 • 5785 • 5557 • 5321

MEMBERSHIP OFFER This month we are offering a special deal to anyone wanting to take out any of our fantastic memberships. If you join High Legh Park in July you will receive six golf lessons from our resident PGA Professional free of charge and will be able to practice for free during the month of August.

Whether you’re looking to obtain, maintain or improve your handicap, High Legh Park have the staff, facilities and members to make sure you play the best golf of your life.

Contact Details

65

The Mere Golf Resort and Spa Chester Road, Mere, Knutsford Cheshire, WA16 6LJ Telephone: 01565 830 155 golfshop@themereresort.co.uk www.themereresort.co.uk

11. How to Find

THE MERE

From the South M6 – junction 19. Take the A556 (right) towards Altrincham and Manchester Airport. Less than one mile on the right hand side is the entrance to club.

From Manchester (M62/M56) M56 – Junction 7. Take the A556 filter lane following Tatton Park signs.

After approx. 1 mile, at the first set of traffic lights continue across. At the next set of lights after approx. ¾ mile, turn sharp left into club entrance.

Facilities Floating ball driving range, two tier putting green, chipping green, short game and bunker practice area, on course 11th green bar, golf academy, buggys, three restaurants, award winning health club & spa, 81 bedrooms

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6882 • 6330 • 5680

The Open Championship Regional Qualifying Course 2009 - 2013

Designed by James Braid, Mere is as famous for its beauty as it is for the challenges it presents. It would be hard to find a more picturesque course than Mere, with its parkland setting alongside the beautiful lake which gives the course its name.

Mere offers cleverly sited hazards and some of the best greens in Britain. The 6,887 yard, par 71 course was created out of 150 acres of Cheshire parkland in 1934. Mature trees, rhododendron bushes and the lake add considerable charm to a day’s golf but they are also there to test you! Water, ravines and thick vegetation have been incorporated

into the layout so that care and accuracy are demanded on many holes. Sky Sports commentator Steve Beddoes has described Mere as ‘The Wentworth of the North’.

The last four holes are particularly memorable.

The 15th is a tough par 4 from the first stroke - a dogleg left from a raised tee with a carry of more than 215 yards over a stream. Three times open winner Henry Cotton named the par 4 16th hole as one of his favourites. The short par 4 17th has been described as a card-wrecker. The par 5 18th requires a straight tee shot from a raised tee to the top of a hill. A particular favourite with Colin Montgomerie on his recent visit.

Contact Details

66

Peover Golf Club Plumley Moor Road Lower Peover, Near Knutsford Cheshire, WA16 9SE Telephone: 01565 723337 mail@peovergolfclub.co.uk www.peovergolfclub.co.uk

12. How to Find

PEOVER

From M6 junction 19, exit onto the A556/Chester Road towards Northwich/Chester. At The Smoker traffic lights turn left onto Plumley Moor Road. Golf course is after 2 miles on the right.

Peover Golf Club is a challenging parkland course, covering 165 acres of varied terrain, and is considered one of the country’s sternest tests for any golfer. The course is situated in picturesque surroundings where the course and its fairways make the most of their natural features without exploiting them.

The ponds and the Peover Eye River that runs through the course are havens for wildlife, but attractive as they are, they have no respect for the wayward drive or that misplaced approach shot.

There is an excellent mix of holes varying in design and character with many doglegs

and water hazards including the Peover Eye River which three of the fairways cross. The undulating landscape has been enhanced with thousands of new trees which, with the existing mature trees and woodland, give aesthetic appeal as well as privacy, safety and space between holes.

Signature Holes: Hole 10, Par 4. The feature hole. A drive between 2 sycamores will run down an undulating fairway. Although the river protects the left hand side, the green is generally unprotected. Hole 14, Par 5.

Only the brave will take on the Peover Eye, leaving the green reachable in two.

Facilities Putting green, Golf Lessons, Buggies, Clubhouse, Restaurant

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6702 • 6339 • 5640 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

FREE OF CHARGE

LADIES INTRODUCTION TO GOLF SESSIONS Everyone Welcome!

WEDNESDAY 23RD JULY 6:00pm - 7:00pm & SATURDAY 26TH JULY 4:00pm - 5:00pm Contact Edward Parker on 01565 723337 or mail@peovergolfclub.co.uk for more details and to sign-up

PAR

4 4 4 3 5 5 4 4 3

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

375 289 348 230 506 558 362 320 176

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 5 5 3 4 4 4

420 423 168 491 497 144 381 381 270

Twilight Golf Offers Monday-Thursday 18-holes 1pm-4pm - £18pp 18-holes after 4pm - £12pp Friday-Sunday 18-holes after 3pm - £18pp

SPECIAL OFFER: 7 Day Membership for ages 23-30 reduced from £399 to only £299 until 31st March 2015

Contact Details

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Poulton Park Golf Club Crab Lane, Cinnamon Brow Warrington, Cheshire, WA2 0SH Tel : 01925 822802 E-mail: online form www.poultonparkgolfclub.co.uk

14. How to Find

We are a hidden gem, tucked away on the outskirts of Warrington. The nine holes of narrow tree lined fairways offer a great test to any standard of golfer. Our members have learned to be arrow straight as a well placed tee shot can offer great rewards.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Chip & Pin Short Game Centre, Club Hire, Trolley Hire, Lessons, Pro Shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 68 • 5650 • 5399 • 5188 (70) H OLE

PAR

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 4 4 4 3 4 5 3

POULTON PARK

From M6 At junction 21, take the A57 exit to Warrington (Ctr & East)/Irlam.

At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Woolston Grange Ave/ B5210 heading to Warrington (East)/Birchwood/Leigh/A574.

Go through 4 roundabouts. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Crab Ln. Turn right onto Locking Stumps Ln. Take the 1st left onto Dig Ln. Course will be on the right

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

250 190 429 340 313 193 417 515 177

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 5 4 4 3 4 4 3

314 144 520 386 289 182 348 440 203

We can also provide a golfer with the best short game practice facilities around. Back in 2008 the club was awarded a grant from Sport England which was used to construct the Chip & Pin Short Game Centre. This consists of two large greens, one that is a synthetic pitching green and the other which can be used to improve your chipping and bunker play.

You will always be well looked after when you visit Poulton Park from when you first arrive at the club to when you travel home, our aim is to make you smile!

Signature Hole: Hole 7, Par 4, 417 yards.

This is our signature hole and what a hole it is, destroying many a good scorecard.

Hitting the fairway is essential if you are to hit the green in regulation. Many play this as a par 5 laying up in to leaving a short pitch over the hidden front ditch onto a green that’s slopes from back to front.

‘The best value 9 hole course in the North West!’

What can you do with two hours of your day?

From as little as just £7 you can play one of the prettiest but challenging courses Whether it be an early morning dart, a lunchtime visit or a beautiful evening stroll, we are minutes off the M6 or M62 and very accessible.

£15 for 18 holes TWILIGHT DEAL: £12 for 18 holes

£9 for 9 holes any day of the week £7 for 9 holes any day after 6.00pm

SPECIAL MEMBERSHIP OFFERS FOR UNDER 30’S - LADIES FULL MEMBERSHIP FROM JUST £250

Contact Details

68

Macdonald Portal Hotel, Golf & Spa Cobblers Cross Lane, Tarporley Cheshire, CW6 0DJ Telephone: 01829 734 160 golf.portal@macdonald-hotels.co.uk www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

Facilities Championship Golf Course Hotel, Spa, Largest indoor golf academy in Europe, Lounge Bar, Restaurants, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Pro shop

PORTAL

Premier Course Spike Bar, Putting Green, Practice nets, Buggies, Trolleys, Pro shop Arderne Course 9-holes

With 210 acres of idyllic parkland and water features, the 18-hole Portal Championship Golf Course offers a rewarding game to golfers at every level.

Three holes which particularly encapsulate The Portal Championship Course are the Par 5 3rd hole with its elevated tee, 602 yards challenge and lake fronted green; the picturesque Par 3 14th surrounded by landscaped water features and the dramatic 18th with its cascading waterfall backdrop.

Take a well-earned comfort break at the Halfway House, stop for on-course refreshments at weekends and relive

your game on the balcony of the Private Members’ Lounge which has a bar, TV and stunning views across the course.

Golf Academy: If you’re new to the game, or want to improve, our PGA Professionals are available for individual or group tuition. Using their expertise and the advanced technology of our indoor golf academy, they will enhance your long and short game techniques, concentrating on pitching, chipping, putting and bunker play. The Academy features leading ‘A Star’ Swing Analysis Software, a Smart Golf simulator with over 20 courses, a 6-hole putting green and bunker.

Championship Course 18 holes, Par 73 • 7058 • 6577 • 5928 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 5 5 3 4 4 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

275 321 557 524 197 344 383 387 340

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 5 4 3 4 3 4 4

425 411 507 382 125 379 176 379 392

13. How to Find

69

From the M6: Leave the M6 at Junction 18. Take the A54 towards Middlewich/ Winsford. Turn Left onto the A49 and travel through Cotebrook. Signposts for the Macdonald Portal Hotel, Golf and Spa appear on the left hand side approx. one mile after Cotebrook.

PORTAL

From the North: Take the A49, cross the junction with the A54, travel through the village of Cotebrook.

Signposts for the Macdonald Portal Hotel, Golf and Spa appear on the left hand side approx. one mile after Cotebrook.

Just 2 minutes from the hotel, the scenic 18-hole parkland Premier Course provides a feast for the eye as well as a challenge to golfers of all levels. With the panoramic views of the 15th overlooking the Cheshire plains and the beautiful water feature on the 17th, the course builds up to a spectacular finish with the par 5 18th hole. At 493 yards the 18th is designed for the long hitters, and you can be sure of a warm welcome at the award-winning clubhouse, where wholesome bar meals, drinks and snacks are served from 11am until closing.

Premier Course 18 holes, Par 71 • 6582 • 6293 • 5688 HOLE PAR

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 4 4 3 4 3 4 4

YARDS

306 591 292 336 152 340 152 367 387

HOLE PAR

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 4 4 3 5 3 5

YARDS

414 421 335 404 408 157 519 160 476

Our 9-hole Arderne Course presents a superb challenge for golfers of all levels.

15th Hole, Par 3, “Platt’s Wood” At only 157 yards off the yellow tee this isn’t the longest or most difficult of holes, but it is the sheer height of the tee above the green, possibly 50 feet, that makes it stand out. Club selection is tricky as the ball can be greatly affected by the wind.

18th Hole, Par 5, “Your Round” A great par 5 to finish. A tough drive to a fairway that slopes right to left. Then either a solid lay up or big second can get you close enough for a birdie chance. However, the huge green in front of the impressive clubhouse will always give you pause for thought.

Contact Details

70

Pryors Hayes Golf Club Willington Road, Oscroft, Tarvin Chester, CH3 8NL Tel : 01829 741250 / 740140 Fax: 01829 749077 info@pryors-hayes.co.uk www.pryorshayes.co.uk 15. How to Find

PRYORS HAYES

Pryors Hayes Golf Club is situated 6 miles east of Historic Chester, just off the A54 on the main road between Chester and the M6 junction 19. Turn off the A54 at Shay Lane, this turns into Willington Road and the course is after a mile.

Facilities Pro Shop, Marquee, Celebration Garden, Covered Video Teaching Bay, Short Game Area Situated in the heart of rural Cheshire, this flat parkland golf course offers far more than meets the eye. Although short in length Pryors Hayes’ small greens and well designed layout provides a fair test for all levels of golfer. Well renowned for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming nature.

alike. Pryors Hayes is a golf club with a modern outlook on how golfers should be looked after.

With the addition of a state of the art teaching facility, marquee & celebration garden makes it one of the most complete facilities in Cheshire.

Membership: The ladies section have two formal and one friendly competition a week, meeting on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday. Up to one hundred seniors play every Tuesday, along with home and away team matches.

Male members and juniors play Wednesday and Saturday competitions with the freedom to play at their preferred tee times.

With a recent refurbishment the overall look of the club is warm and homely with very welcoming staff to both members and visitors

Membership is open all year round with no joining fees or waiting lists and with various different offers available throughout the season.

WINNER OF GOLF CLUB OF THE YEAR 2010.

WINNER OF BEST CLUB FOR SOCIETIES 2009.

WINNER OF BEST CLUB IN THE NORTH 2009.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 69 • 5961 • 5524 • 4996 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 3

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

445 478 223 434 448 336 122 380 163

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 4 3 4 3 5 4

361 333 398 352 163 313 181 494 337

Special OPEN Offer from just £80*

4 Ball and 2 Buggies OR 4 Ball and Pint and Sandwich *Monday-Thursday £80 (save £30). Friday-Sunday £100 (save £30). Buggy offer MUST be pre-booked and subject to availably.

Please bring this voucher with you on the day of play. Offer expires Jul 31st 2014.

PRYORS HAYES AND HARTFORD GOLF CLUB DUAL MEMBERSHIP PACKAGES AVAILABLE FROM JUST £200 See our website for details - www.pryorshayes.co.uk - or call 01829 741250 / 740140 - or mail us info@pryors-hayes.co.uk

Contact Details

71

The Tytherington Club Dorchester Way, Tytherington, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK10 2JP

THE TYTHERINGTON CLUB

Telephone: 01625 506 000 tytherington.info@theclubcompany.com www.thetytheringtonclub.com

16. How to Find One of the major strengths of The Tytherington Club is it’s location.

Just 30 minutes from M6 Junction 17 south, Junction 19 north

By Rail, 5 minutes from Macclesfield Railway Station.

By Air, 30 minutes from Manchester Airport

Facilities Full practice area, Trolleys, Buggies, Halfway house, Shop, Lessons, Clubhouse restaurant & bar, Conference facilities, Gym, Spa &Tennis courts.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6765 • 6451 • 6172 • 5669 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 3 4 3 4 4 4 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

438 489 147 392 185 352 296 318 468

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 5 3 4 4 5 4 4

382 199 512 139 427 395 523 407 382

Opened in 1986, The Tytherington Club was one of the UK’s first custom-built golf and Health & Fitness clubs. Our 18 Hole Championship Course was designed by Patrick Dawson and Dave Thomas with the lush backdrop of the Pennines. Set within gently rolling parkland in the heart of Cheshire, the course winds through mature woodland and follows the natural contours of the land.

With close to 85 bunkers and a host of water features, it is not difficult to see why The Tytherington Club is considered one of the finest Golf Courses in the North West. An enjoyable challenge for any calibre of golfer.

Our elegant Clubhouse is the perfect place to wind down after a workout or round of Golf, and its vibrant and friendly environment is the perfect place to meet new golf partners, bring your Families, and meet new likeminded friends in exquisite surroundings.

Our state-of-the-art health & fitness gym, along with the unique personalised service provided by our Wellness Team, are unrivalled in the industry.

Our team promise to create and monitor tailormade programmes to meet your bespoke goals.

The Club also boasts a beautiful Swimming Pool and Relaxation Spa area, 2 Tennis courts and a timetable of studio classes for group exercise.

Play Pass 10 Credits (Green Fees) for £295 Play after 14:00 and use just ½ credit.

For more information please visit the club or contact Nick Holmes - 01625 506 000 – n.holmes@theclubcompany.com

Contact Details

72

Upton-by-Chester Golf Club Upton Lane, Upton-by-Chester CH2 1EE Telephone: 01244 381183 secretary@uptongolf.co.uk www.uptongolf.co.uk

UPTON BY CHESTER

17. How to Find From the M53 Junction 12 Follow the signs for Chester on the A56 for 0.4 mile. At the round-about turn right onto the A41. Travel north for approx.1.4 miles to the second set of traffic lights in Upton and turn left (Old Petrol Station on left hand side just before the lights). Fork right after about 250 yards into Upton Lane opposite the “Wheatsheaf” pub. The Club entrance is about 500 yards on the left hand side at the end of a tall brick wall.

Discover historic Chester’s gem of a golf course in Upton’s leafy suburbs. Set in delightful parkland this is not the longest course but it is a true test for the thinking golfer.

The City of Chester has much to offer for day and short break visitors. Whether it’s shopping, history, racing or the zoo you can complete your visit with a round at Upton-by-Chester.

In its 75-year history many fine golfers have honed their skills at Upton including an English Amateur champion, a British Senior champion, English and Welsh internationals, Open qualifiers, Cheshire county players and county trophy winners.

Packages are available for individuals, groups and societies who are all welcome. Please call for details or check our website.

The course is in fine condition and the USGA specification, cunningly designed greens ensure you enjoy your golf all year-round.

After your game enjoy the ambiance of a refreshing drink on the patio overlooking the 18th green. The club is two miles from Chester city centre with easy access from the M56, M53 and A41.

Facilities Bars, Restaurant, Snooker Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 69 • 5807 • 5628 • 5253 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

3 4 4 3 4 3 4 4 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

147 400 268 141 324 171 398 254 506

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 5 4 3 5 3 4

130 358 432 477 390 191 499 233 309

Contact Details

73

Vale Royal Abbey Whitegate, Northwich Cheshire CW8 2BA Telephone: 01606 301291 events@vra.co.uk www.vra.co.uk

VALE ROYAL ABBEY

18. How to Find From junction 19 M6, take the A556 west towards Chester for approx. 10 miles, crossing the ‘Blue Bridge’ over the River Weaver, through the Pelican Crossing (right turn for Hartford).

Continue for just over a mile and move into the right hand lane. At the bottom of the hill turn back up the other carriageway to branch off left after 400 yards (signposted Hartford, Winsford and Whitegate). At the T-junction turn right to Whitegate, Winsford and Vale Royal Abbey.

Vale Royal Abbey is renowned for its extremely friendly and relaxing atmosphere, welcoming visiting golfers and parties throughout the year. The course was designed by renowned British Golf Course Architect Simon Gidman, and is set amidst beautiful rolling Cheshire countryside. As such, the course enjoys breathtaking views throughout the round.

Facilities Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar, Banqueting Hall, Conference Facilities, Chipping Area, Putting Green, Practice Ground, Trolleys, Lessons, Swing Room, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6463 • 6160 • 5581 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 4 4 4 3 4 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

372 493 248 364 355 165 449 326 377

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 4 5 3 4 5

191 289 417 294 307 570 134 409 463

All greens are constructed to USGA specifications, which along with the naturally free draining site, enables the course to remain open all year round, irrespective of the weather conditions. All tees remain in use throughout the year eliminating the

need for winter tees or mats. Each hole is individually characteristic and provides a true golfing test, requiring imaginative shot making with every club in the bag whilst remaining enjoyable to play for all standards of golfer.

A worthy, but close, victor against the stunning backdrop of the 18th hole, the signature hole is the 7th. A tough dog leg left at S.I. 1. An intimidating drive with water left and woodland right. The approach is to a small green, particularly for the length of the hole at 467 yards off the competition tee, which is framed by sharp contouring to the right and the beautiful Rookery Pool left & behind.

A UNIQUE & BREATHTAKING GOLF EXPERIENCE

Memberships applications invited.

Visitors & Societies welcome.

We offer a range of packages to suit your needs.

Contact General Manager, Ian Embury or visit the website www.vra.co.uk 01606 301291

www.vra.co.uk

events@vra.co.uk

Contact Details

74

Vicars Cross Golf Club Tarvin Road, Great Barrow, Chester Cheshire CH3 7HN Telephone: 01244 335 174 manager@vicarscrossgolf.co.uk www.vicarscrossgolf.co.uk

19. How to Find

VICARS CROSS

From M6 junction 19 take A556 (Chester). After 15 miles A556 turns into A51 Tarvin Road and course is on the right hand side after 2 miles.

Four miles east of Chester City Centre on A51 Tarvin Road.

Vicars Cross Golf Club is a mature 18 hole parkland course of almost 6500 yards from the white tees and has a par of 72. In recent years many improvements have been made including extensive tree planting, improving fairway drainage and rebuilding the greens to USGA standards. Members and visitors alike can now enjoy year-round golf on one of Cheshire’s most attractive courses.

The golf course architect Ken Moodie designed and oversaw the entire project using all his knowledge and experience. He introduced some very interesting, not to mention challenging, putting surfaces with bunkers

strategically placed in just the right places in order to encourage accurate approach shots.

The USGA standard greens are now well established and receive many compliments.

Signature Holes: Hole 7. One of the harder par 4’s on the course, this dogleg right carries an abundance of hazards. Trees threaten the drive whilst a stream crossing the fairway and left of the large, undulating green demand an accurate approach.

Hole 18. A short par 3 in front of the clubhouse to finish. The steeply sloping green means you have to land on the correct tier avoiding the 3 large bunkers.

Facilities Bar, Clubhouse Restaurant, Putting Green, Driving Range (covered and open bays), Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Function/Meeting Rooms

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6446 • 6191 • 5641 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

s, ding Wed nces r o f e ater nfer We c ties, co r a p

PAR

4 5 4 5 4 4 4 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

311 513 371 508 358 411 403 161 254

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 5 3 4 5 3

336 393 335 155 533 172 387 460 130

Last chance to take advantage of our Special 75th Anniversary Offer 3 month taster membership from 1st July - Only £199.00 and then pay a full annual subscription in October and enjoy full membership until January 2016

Visitors and Societies always welcome Contact the Secretary on 01244 355174 (Ext 1) for further details

Contact Details

75

The Wilmslow Golf Club Great Warford, Mobberley Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 7AY Telephone: 01565 872148 admin@wilmslowgolfclub.co.uk www.wilmslowgolfclub.co.uk

20. How to Find

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Putting Green, Chipping area and extensive practice ground.

Electric buggies available for hire.

Visitors personal buggies not permitted Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6635 • 6311 • 5828 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 5 4 4 3 5 4 3

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

357 426 489 389 359 163 451 416 124

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 4 4 3 5

346 318 400 484 147 407 397 158 480

WILMSLOW

From North: Leave the M56 at junction 6 and bear right onto the A538 towards Wilmslow. Take the first turning on the right at the top of the hill signposted Mobberley and at the T-junction turn right, again signposted Mobberley.

Continue for two miles and turn left at the junction onto the B5085 towards Alderley Edge - the ‘Bird in Hand’ pub is on your left. Continue for one mile and turn right at the crossroads onto Warford Lane. The Wilmslow Golf Club is 400yds on the left.

This Cheshire Golf Club was founded in 1889 and is located just outside Wilmslow in the North West of England.

The fine parkland golf course measures over 6,635 yards and the Clubhouse offers a comfortable environment both before and after golf with magnificent views over the course. The Club has hosted major professional tournaments and has been a regional qualifying course for The Open.

Whilst the course is a fine test of golf for the low handicapper it also provides an enjoyable experience to golfers of all ability.

Rated one of the finest inland courses in the North West of England, always in firstclass condition and playable in all but the most extreme of weathers, The Wilmslow Golf Club is a perfect haven from the stress of business and the cares of daily life.

Toughest Hole: Hole 8. Par 4, 437 yards (competition tee). S.I. 1 A handsome and strong par 4. The drive is the key. Obviously the road and trees on the left must be avoided but shots are easily lost in the bunker and trees on the right. Crossbunkers threaten many second shots, and the green repels all but the truest of approaches.

76

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cheshire Directory

Alder Root Golf Club Telephone: 01925 291919 www.alderrootgolfclub.com

Chester Golf Club Telephone: 01244 677760 www.chestergolfclub.co.uk

Hazel Grove Golf Club Telephone: 0161 483 3217 www.hazelgrovegolfclub.com

Alderley Edge Golf Club Telephone: 01625 586200 www.aegc.co.uk

Congleton Golf Club Telephone: 01260 273540 www.congletongolf.co.uk

Heaton Moor Golf Club Telephone: 0161 432 2134 www.heatonmoorgolfclub.co.uk

Aldersley Green Golf Club Telephone: 01829 782157 www.alderseygreengolfclub.co.uk

Crewe Golf Club Telephone: 01270 584227 www.crewegolfclub.co.uk

Helsby Golf Club Telephone: 01928 722021 www.helsbygolfclub.org

Alsager Golf & Country Club Telephone: 01270 875700 www.alsagergolfclub.co.uk

Davenport Golf Club Telephone: 01625 876951 www.davenportgolf.co.uk

Heyrose Golf Club Telephone: 01565 733664 www.heyrosegolfclub.com

Altrincham Municipal Golf Club Telephone: 0161 928 0761 www.altrinchamgolfclub.org.uk

Delamere Forest Golf Club Telephone: 01606 883264 www.delamergolf.co.uk

High Legh Park Golf Club Telephone: 01565 830888 www.highleghpark.com

Alvaston Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01270 624341 www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk

Disley Golf Club Telephone: 01663 762071 www.disleygolfclub.co.uk

Hooton Golf Course Telephone: 0151 339 7689 www.brioleisure.org

Antrobus Golf Club Telephone: 01925 730890/730900 www.antrobusgolfclub.co.uk

Dukinfield Golf Club Telephone: 0161 338 2340 www.dukinfieldgolfclub.co.uk

Houldsworth Golf Club Telephone: 0161 442 1712 www.houldsworthgolfclub.co.uk

Ashton-On-Mersey Golf Club Telephone: 0161 973 3220 www.ashtononmerseygolfclub.co.uk

Dunham Forest Golf & Country Club Telephone: 0161 928 2605 www.dunhamforest.com

Knights Grange Golf Club Telephone: 01606 552780 www.brioleisure.org/knights-grange

Astbury Golf Club Telephone: 01260 272772 www.astburygolfclub.com

Eaton Golf Club Telephone: 01244 335885 www.eatongolfclub.co.uk

Knutsford Golf Club Telephone: 01565 633355 www.knutsfordgolf.com

Birchwood Golf Club Telephone: 01925 818819 www.birchwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Frodsham Golf Club Telephone: 01928 732159 www.frodshamgolf.co.uk

Leigh Golf Club Telephone: 01925 763130 www.leighgolf.co.uk

Bramhall Golf Club Telephone: 0161 439 6092 www.bramhallgolfclub.com

Gatley Golf Club Telephone: 0161 437 2091 www.gatleygolfclub.com

Lymm Golf Club Telephone: 01925 752177 www.lymm-golf-club.co.uk

Bramall Park Golf Club Telephone: 0161 485 3119 www.bramhallparkgolfclub.co.uk

Gorstyhill Golf Club Telephone: 01270 829166 www.gorstyhillgolf.co.uk

Macclesfield Golf Club Telephone: 01625 423227 www.maccgolfclub.co.uk

Brookfield Golf Club Telephone: 012708 12991 www.brookfieldgolfclub.co.uk

Hale Golf Club Telephone: 0161 980 4225 www.halegolfclub.com

Malkins Bank Golf Course Telephone: 01270 765931 www.malkinsbankgolfclub.co.uk

Carden Park Golf Club Telephone: 01829 731000 www.devere.co.uk/golf

Hartford Golf Club Telephone: 01606 871162 www.hartfordgolf.co.uk

Marple Golf Club Telephone: 0161 427 2311 www.marplegolfclub.co.uk

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cheshire Directory

Mellor & Townscliffe Golf Club Telephone: 0161 427 9700 www.mellorgolf.co.uk

Reddish Vale Golf Club Telephone: 0161 480 2359 www.reddishvalegolfclub.co.uk

Upton-By-Chester Golf Club Telephone: 01244 381183 www.uptonbychestergolfclub.co.uk

Mere Golf & Country Club Telephone: 01565 830155 www.meregolf.co.uk

Ringway Golf Club Telephone: 0161 980 2630 www.ringwaygolfclub.co.uk

Vale Royal Abbey Golf Club Telephone: 01606 301291 www.vragc.co.uk

Mersey Valley Golf Club Telephone: 0151 424 6060 www.merseyvalleygolfclub.co.uk

Romiley Golf Club Telephone: 0161 430 2392 www.romileygolfclub.org

Vicars Cross Golf Club Telephone: 01244 335174 manager@vicarscrossgolf.co.uk

Mobberley Golf Club Telephone: 01565 880188 www.mobgolfclub.co.uk

Runcorn Golf Club Telephone: 01928 572093 www.runcorngolfclub.co.uk

Walton Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01925 266775 www.waltonhallgolfclub.co.uk

Moorend Golf Course & Driving Range Telephone: 0161 440 7788 www.moorendgolf.com

Sandbach Golf Club Telephone: 01270 762117 www.sandbachgolfclub.co.uk

Werneth Low Golf Club Telephone: 0161 368 2503 www.wernethlowgolf.co.uk

Mottram Hall Hotel Golf Club Telephone: 01625 828135 www.devere-hotels.com

Sandiway Golf Club Telephone: 01606 883247 www.sandiwaygolf.co.uk

Westminster Park Golf Course Telephone: 01244 680231 www.brioleisure.org/westminster

Peover Golf Club Telephone: 01565 723337 www.peovergolfclub.co.uk

Shrigley Hall Hotel & C C Telephone: 01625 575757 www.barcelo-hotels.co.uk

Widnes Golf Club Telephone: 0151 424 2440 www.widnes-golfclub.co.uk

Portal Golf & Country Club Telephone: 01829 733933 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

Stamford Golf Club Telephone: 01457 832126 www.stamfordgolfclub.co.uk

Wilmslow Golf Club Telephone: 01565 872148 www.wilmslowgolfclub.co.uk

Portal Premier Golf Club Telephone: 01829 733884 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

Stockport Golf Club Telephone: 0161 427 2001 www.stockportgolf.co.uk

Woodside Golf Club Telephone: 01477 532388 www.woodsidegolf.co.uk

Poulton Park Golf Club Telephone: 01925 812034 www.poultonparkgolfclub.co.uk

Styal Golf Club Telephone: 01625 531359 www.styalgolf.co.uk

Wychwood Park Telephone: 01270 820336 www.deverevenues.co.uk

Prestbury Golf Club Telephone: 01625 829388 www.prestburygolfclub.com

Sutton Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01928 790747 www.suttonhallgolf.co.uk

Pryors Hayes Golf Club Telephone: 01829 741250 www.pryorshayes.com

The Oaks Mollington Telephone: 01244 852805 www.theoaksmollington.co.uk

Queens Park Golf Club Telephone: www.gczcg.co.uk/queenspark

The Tytherington Golf Club Telephone: 01625 506000 www.theclubcompany.com

Reaseheath Golf Club Telephone: 01270 625131 www.reaseheath.ac.uk

The Warrington Golf Club Telephone: 01925 261620 www.warringtongolfclub.co.uk

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Greater Manchester Introduction

Photos courtesy VisitBritain

©Britainonview / Grant Pritchard

78

Greater Manchester The area of Greater Manchester takes in the city itself, but also the surrounding towns of Bolton, Bury, Wigan, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Altrincham, and Oldham.

is the original 24-hour party city. From fine dining and chic hotels to cutting-edge clubs and bars and the world’s most progressive music scene, Manchester is always buzzing.

A few short years ago it would have been laughable to suggest that the Manchester area could provide an enjoyable tourism experience, but a cultural renaissance has taken place that has transformed this industrial region into a vibrant centre of culture and the arts. Sophisticated and stylish, Manchester

The shopping here is legendary. With exclusive independent boutiques in the funky Northern Quarter, prestigious designer stores lining the handsome King Street and every conceivable type of market, you can shop to suit any budget. The is also the large indoor “Trafford Centre”, which has

The past, the present and the future are intertwined in this city; historical landmarks complement bold, contemporary designs.

World-class live events, international sporting competitions, and award-winning museums and galleries make Manchester one of the most entertaining places in the world. Add to this the passion of two top premiership football clubs, and it’s no wonder Manchester is a place like no other.

©Britainonview / - Britain on View

©Britainonview / Pawel Libera

©Britainonview / - Britain on View

over 250 shopping outlets, a large food hall and impressive 20 screen cinema complex.

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Greater Manchester Introduction

M-6

M-61 Rochdale

M-66

Bury

M-62

01 Oldham

Wigan & Leigh

02

M-60 Salford

07

M-58

04 05

Tameside

M-602 Manchester

M-67 03 Trafford

M-62

06 M-60 Stockport

M-56 M-6

01. Bolton 02. Hindley Hall 03. Northenden 04. Prestwich 05. Swinton Park 06. Withington 07. Worsley Park

“The past, the present and the future are intertwined in this city; historical landmarks complement bold, contemporary designs.�

79

Contact Details

80

Bolton Golf Club Lostock Park, Chorley New Road Bolton, Lancashire, BL6 4AJ Telephone: 01204 843067 Email enquiries via website www.boltongolfclub.co.uk

01. How to Find

BOLTON

From Manchester & M60 ring road: Exit M61 at Junction 6 and turn right on the roundabout and head towards the stadium. Travel down the dual carriage way going over the first roundabout with the stadium on the left. You will pass a large Tesco then the next major roundabout turn right onto Chorley New Road towards Bolton. The golf club is a 1/2 mile on the left hand side.

Bolton Golf Club offers the finest, friendliest, golf facility in the North West of England.

Ideally situated for easy access, just a couple of miles from Bolton town centre and just off Junction 6 of the M61. With the Championship Golf Course, large practice ground and excellent short game area there is something to suit everyone from the seasoned veteran, to the aspiring young golfer in your family!

Founded in 1890, the golf course offers outstanding views of South Lancashire and the Cheshire plains and enjoys an enviable reputation for a manicured layout with fast consistently smooth putting surfaces.

The depth of our golf facilities, mouth watering food, spacious clubhouse and value for money makes us the perfect club to become a member. It also makes us a big favourite with societies and company days. We offer excellent food, freshly prepared by our in house chefs so you can be assured of quality dining.

The course, home to the PGA North Region, offers a fine challenge to players of a high calibre whilst remaining a fair test for golfers of all abilities. From the moment you arrive until departure you will enjoy the first class facilities of the club both on and off the course, ensuring a day out to remember.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Electric Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6174 • 5972 • 5496 (73) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 3 4 4 4 4 4

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

289 349 395 165 415 328 358 335 412

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 3 5 4 4 4

165 422 420 301 155 481 397 384 403

Contact Details

82

Hindley Hall Golf Club Hall Lane, Hindley, Wigan Greater Manchester, WN2 2SQ Telephone: 01942 255 991 Email enquiries via website www.hindleyhallgolfclub.co.uk

02. How to Find

HINDLEY HALL

Leave M61 JUNCTION 6 at roundabout.

Follow signs for A6, 1st exit at next roundabout, again A6, sign posted Westhoughton. At lights turn right onto Dicconon Lane B5239, 1 MILE left at mini roundabout into Hall Lane.

Club is on the right after 1 mile.

Located one mile from Hindley in Lancashire, Hindley Hall is a mature parkland course in a peaceful and tranquil setting.

The club was founded in 1905 and the par 69 course is highly regarded in the North West, stretching to 5926 yards and providing a fair but challenging test of golf for players of any handicap. Many holes are tree lined, with the lake coming into play on the first and eleventh holes.

A number of major developments and improvements have taken place in recent years.

All 18 greens have been re-laid, new tee’s

added, trees planted and drainage improved.

The club house has also benefited from significant renovation to the lounge and dining room and is ideal for post-round refreshments with magnificent views across the course.

A warm greeting is always extended to our visitors and our catering staff are on hand to provide a wide selection of food on a daily basis.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Electric Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Extensive conference and private function facilities for any occasion

Course Information

Our resident club professional, David Clarke, along with his staff, provide a fully stocked and comprehensive range of golf equipment and is also available for tuition.

18 holes, Par 69 • 5926 • 5764 • 5271 (70) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 5 3 4 3 4 4 4

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

361 190 480 133 415 151 404 266 358

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 4 3 4 4 3 4 4

515 418 375 196 450 297 161 340 416

Summer Sizzler Days golf & full English breakfast £28 Other deals available - contact secretary for details

New members welcome - no joining fee FREE memebership to under 14’s

Contact Details

83

Northenden Golf Club Palatine Road, Northenden Manchester, M22 4FR Telephone: 0161 998 4738 Email enquiries via website Book online through the website: www.northendengolfclub.com

03. How to Find

Northenden Golf Club is the Jewel in the Crown of the South Manchester courses.

Don’t take our word for it, ask Open winners Tony Jacklin, Nick Faldo, Sandy Lyle, Bob Charles and Greg Norman plus Ken Brown, Manuel Pinero, Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance or Mark McNulty, who were among many of the European tour stars who played in the club’s annual pro-am tournament. 2014 sees Northenden Golf Club welcome back the Cheshire Union of Golf Clubs when we will host the Seniors Championship in August.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Electric Trolleys, Buggies for hire, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6460 • 6169 • 5626 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 4 3 4 5 4 3 4

NORTHENDEN

From the M56 in direction of Manchester: Continue onto A5103 (Princess Parkway). Take the exit toward Northenden/B5166 (Palatine Road). Turn right at Wythenshawe Rd/B5167. Entrance is left after Chretien Rd (under Bridge).

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

442 486 389 142 347 581 395 161 349

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 5 4 3 5 4 4

351 345 209 541 326 173 508 390 325

With USGA greens and a fantastic drainage system, Northenden Golf Club offers a real

“New Corporate Partners Membership Package”

test of golf ALL YEAR round, making it great value for money. We are also proud of our active Social scene, Friendly atmosphere and Welcome New Members across all categories.

Our Function room is also available to hire, where our First Class chef and balcony with views overlooking the course will help to ensure your event or party is a success.

Hole 6, Par 5: At 581 yds this is the longest hole on the course. A good drive is vital if you want a par or better. The left-hand ditch awaits the over-cautious golfer trying to avoid the willows and the River Mersey. Commit to this one!

For an information pack or to arrange a visit with a courtesy round of golf, please contact the club.

This is a unique facility designed to meet the needs of today’s professional and business community which recognises the busy schedules of 21st century business people.

Our Three corporate partner packages combine Golf membership, tuition, boardroom facilities including AV & WIFI, access for family members and much more.

www.northendengolfclub.com marketing@northendengolfclub.com Telephone: 0161 998 4738

Contact Details

84

Prestwich Golf Club Hilton Lane, Prestwich Manchester, M25 9XB Telephone: 0161 773 1404 Email enquiries via website www.prestwichgolf.co.uk

04. How to Find

PRESTWICH

Directions from Manchester: Leave the city centre on the A56 sign posted for Bury. Continue on the A56 for approximately 3.5 miles until you reach a sign for the A6044. Turn Left following the signs for Swinton. Prestwich Golf Club is approximately 1/2 mile on the left.

Prestwich golf club is a par 65 Parkland course situated on the North side of Manchester and easily accessible from the Motorways 5 minutes (Jnct 17 M60). All visitors to Prestwich are welcomed and treated as friends.

After a great deal of work and investment members and visitors are reaping the benefits.

The change in the course layout has been a success with members and visitors alike, and seems to flow more smoothly than before.

already enjoyed by 100s of people from school groups to stag parties and football groups.

Also our clubhouse function room and Balcony area has been refurbished and is reaping the benefits of a brighter decor and is available for Weddings, Birthdays etc. and Business seminars.

If you want to try something different then Prestwich offer Footgolf (as seen on the BBC).

We are the home of Footgolf in the Northwest,

Directions from M60 Junction 19: Take the A576 (signposted Manchester City Centre) for approximately 1 mile until reaching A6044 junction. At the traffic lights turn right onto A6044 Sheepfoot Lane (signposted Swinton).

Continue on the A6044 for 2 miles.

Prestwich Golf club is approximately 1/2 mile past the A56 junction.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Function Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 65 • 4794 • 4554 (69) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Green Fees £15 (Monday - Friday). £20 (Saturday - Sunday) Offers on all memberships available Contact us for more information Visit: www.prestwichgolf.co.uk Email: info@prestwichgolf.co.uk or call: 0161 773 1404

PAR

4 3 4 3 4 4 4 4 3

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

364 184 313 151 363 312 326 329 131

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 3 4 3 4 3 4

253 158 422 207 257 201 279 214 330

Contact Details

85

Swinton Park Golf Club East Lancashire Road, Swinton Manchester, M27 5LX Telephone: 0161 794 0861 info@spgolf.co.uk www.swintonparkgolfclub.co.uk

05. How to Find

SWINTON PARK

From Manchester city centre follow A6 towards Salford/Bolton. Continue on A6 as it becomes A580 (East Lancashire Road) towards Liverpool/ St. Helens. Club on left hand side as carriage way forms 3 lanes.

From M6 J23 Haydock Island. Follow A580 (East Lancashire Road) towards Manchester/Leigh. Club on right hand side after you pass under foot bridge.

Facilities Bar, Restuarant, Function suite, Clubhouse, Putting greens, Chipping greens, Driving net, Trolleys, Buggy hire, Lessons, Well stocked pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 73 • 6661 • 6448 • 5504 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

5 5 3 4 4 4 5 3 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

479 495 156 413 446 405 467 167 513

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 4 4 4 3 5

358 448 298 199 369 398 390 175 485

Swinton Park provides more than just 18 holes of challenging golf. Members and visitors are welcome to relax in the comfort of our modern Clubhouse which offers great views of the 18th green, along with a refreshing range of drinks and bar meals.

The clubhouse also boasts its own restaurant, The Claremont, a weekend dining experience not to be missed. The adjoining function room caters for all manner of events and is available to hire to members and nonmembers alike. A visit to Swinton Park will be a memorable one, for all the right reasons, contact us now for more information.

Full Playing 7 Day Membership £15.75 per week (less than the average Green Fee) New full playing Male/Female Members – Child Junior 1st Year Free Summer 6 Day Membership April – October ONLY £599 - New members only Social Membership JUST £25 per year. Corporate Membership – P.O.A. Societies welcome - Packages from just £30 4 ball saver packages available for visitors Visit us online at www.swintonparkgolfclub.co.uk for all the latest news & offers

/Swinton-Park-GC

@SwintonParkGC

Our private parkland course was laid out in 1926 by the famous golfer & course designer, James Braid. With its tree-lined fairways and spacious greens, it offers a great test for golfers of all abilities. All in all, it offers the variety and challenges that you would expect from a top class course, which at 6726 yards long, is renowned to be one of the longest and best courses in Manchester.

Signature hole Hole 1, Par 5, 479 yards The fourth longest hole on the course, crossing the brook twice it represents a tough challenge at the start of your round.

Contact Details

86

Withington Golf Club 243 Palatine Road, West Didsbury Manchester M20 2UE Telephone: 0161 445 9544 secretary@withingtongolfclub.co.uk Pro Shop: 0161 445 9544 x 2 stevemarrgolf@btinternet.com www.withingtongolfclub.co.uk

WITHINGTON

06. How to Find Next to the M60 and M56, on the B5167 (Palatine Road) from Northenden to Manchester

A splendid parkland course located along the winding and very picturesque River Mersey, just 5 miles from the City centre with easy access from the motorway system and Manchester International Airport. A par 71 at 6,388 yards in length it offers a challenge to the most discerning player and at the same time is a pleasure for the higher handicapper. The lush tree lined fairways and manicured greens have been described as the best in the Greater Manchester area.

Withington Golf Club is a perfect venue for Society and Company Days or even a day away from your own club with your usual Four-

Ball. Packages can be tailored to suit all your requirements, however large or small. Help and advice is available with regard to the format of your golf competition, your catering and even the services of our PGA Professional.

The first hole is a moderately short but tricky par 3 of 156 yards followed by two longish par 4s. The par 5 fifth is considered one of the finest golf holes in the North West which requires a combination of skill & accuracy. The daunting stroke index 1, 14th is where Withington begins its sting in the tail. The 16th is one of the longest par 5s in Cheshire and the 17th & 18th are two particularly good par 4s to finish.

Facilities Buggies, Trolleys, Putting green, Pro shop, Golf lessons, Bar and catering

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6388 • 6072 • 5692 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

3 4 4 3 5 4 4 3 5

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

130 387 396 162 492 290 333 176 460

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 4 4 5 4 4

147 316 314 343 446 302 550 411 417

Open Events 2014

Irish Golf Day

Young Player Membership

Withington Salver Sunday 10th August Mixed Open Greensome

Wednesday 3rd September 2014 4 Ball Better Ball Stableford Over £1500 of Prizes.

1st, 2nd & 3rd prize winners receive golfing breaks to Ireland.

Includes - accommodation, tournament golf, prizes and Car ferry crossing.

18 – 20 : £176 21 – 24 : £264 25 – 27 : £441 28 – 30 : £661 31 – 34 : £705

Ladies Open Thursday 4th September 2014 Team Event Ladies Mini Open Thursday 2nd October 2014 Team Event

2 for 1 New Lady Members Junior Girls join free

Contact Details

87

Worsley Park A Marriott® Hotel & Country Club Walkden Road, Worsley, Manchester, M282Q Telephone: 0161 975 2043 Email enquiries via website www.marriott.co.uk

07. How to Find

Facilities Rental Clubs, Golf Cart Rental, Pull Cart Rental, Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Area, Food Service, Bar Service, Accommodations: Onsite Marriott - 158 Rooms Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6611 • 6307 • 5914 • 5352 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 3 5 5 3 4 3

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

409 360 434 166 529 515 169 399 180

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 5 3 4 4 4 5

389 188 311 522 153 406 389 284 504

WORSLEY PARK

From the South: From the M6 northbound, exit at second junction marked 21A (M62 Manchester). Follow M62 Leeds and exit junction 12 onto M60. Exit first junction marked 13, Worsley. At the end of the slip road take second exit off the roundabout onto A575.

Entrance is on the left hand side.

Widely acclaimed as one of the finest inland courses in the North of England, Worsley Park Country Club is a classic championship design that uses the full potential of the natural terrain including seven water hazards.

The course is set on gently rolling parkland, formerly the Duke of Bridgewater’s estate.

Worsley Park has played host to the PGA EuroPro Tour in 2004 and the European Challenge Tour from 2005 to 2007.

Designed by European Golf Design in association with Michael King, the course meets the highest standards with greens and

SPRING INTO SUMMER GOLF SUMMER PACKAGE FROM £55 PER PERSON Includes arrival tea and coffee, bacon rolls, 18 holes on our Worsley Park championship course followed by chef’s dish of the day. Call 0161 975 2043 and quote: GSS14 Offer and tee times subject to availability. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer/voucher.

Tee times must be requested at time of booking. Course terms & conditions apply.

Offer available between 1st May 2014 and 1st October 2014.

tees created to USGA specifications. The strategic positioning of the bunkers with clearly sighted tees demands careful thought on how to play each hole Worsley Park Country Club also features comprehensive practice facilities including a long game practice area, short game facility, and putting green.

Signature Hole: 7th, Par 3, 177 yards Hole 7 is the course signature hole, a par 3, and requires a precise tee shot to negotiate the two water hazards that make this both a challenging and picturesque hole. An allweather buggy path is a recent addition to further enhance the playing experience.

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Greater Manchester Directory

Ashton-Under-Lyne Golf Club Telephone: 0161 330 1537 www.ashtongolfclub.co.uk

Cheadle Golf Club Telephone: 0161 428 2160 www.cheadlegolfclub.com

Flixton Golf Club Telephone: 0161 748 2116 www.flixtongolfclub.co.uk

Blackley Golf Club Telephone: 0161 643 2980 www.blackleygolfclub.com

Chorlton-Cum-Hardy Golf Club Telephone: 0161 881 3139 www.chorltoncumhardygolfclub.co.uk

Great Lever & Farnworth Golf Club Telephone: 01204 656137 www.greatleverfarnworthgolfclub.co.uk

Bolton Golf Club Telephone: 01204 843067 www.boltongolfclub.co.uk

Crompton & Royton Golf Club Telephone: 0161 624 2154 www.cromptonandroytongolfclub.co.uk

Greenmount Golf Club Telephone: 01204 883712 www.greenmountgolfclub.co.uk

Bolton Old Links Golf Club Telephone: 01204 842307 www.boltonoldlinksgolfclub.co.uk

Davyhulme Park Golf Club Telephone: 0161 748 2260 www.davyhulmeparkgolfclub.co.uk

Haigh Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01942 255991 haighhallgolfclub.users.btopenworld.com

Boysnope Park Golf Club Telephone: 0161 707 6125 www.boysnopegolfclub.co.uk

Deane Golf Club Telephone: 01204 61944 www.deanegolfclub.com

Hart Common Golf Club Telephone: 01942 818445 www.hartcommongolfclub.co.uk

Brackley Municipal Golf Club Telephone: 0161 790 6076 Website n/a

Denton Golf Club Telephone: 0161 336 3218 www.dentongolfclub.com

Harwood Golf Club Telephone: 01204 522878 www.harwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Breightmet Golf Club Telephone: 01204 527381 www.breightmetgolfclub.co.uk

Didsbury Golf Club Telephone: 0161 998 9278 www.didsburygolfclub.com

Heaton Park Golf Centre Telephone: 0161 654 9899 www.heatonparkgolfclub.co.uk

Brookdale Golf Club Telephone: 0161 681 4534 www.brookdalegolf.co.uk

Dunscar Golf Club Telephone: 01706 643818 www.dunscargolfclub.co.uk

Hindley Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01942 255131 www.hindleyhallgolfclub.co.uk

Bury Golf Club Telephone: 0161 766 4897 www.burygolfclub.com

Ellesmere Golf Club Telephone: 0161 790 2122 www.ellesmeregolfclub.co.uk

Horwich Golf Club Telephone: 01204 696980 Website n/a

Castle Hawk Golf Club Telephone: 01706 640841 www.castlehawk.co.uk

Fairfield Golf & Sailing Club Telephone: 0161 370 1641 www.fairfieldgolfclub.co.uk

Lowes Park Golf Club Telephone: 0161 764 1231 www.lowesparkgolfclub.co.uk

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Greater Manchester Directory

Manchester Golf Club Telephone: 0161 643 3202 www.mangc.co.uk

Rochdale Golf Club Telephone: 01706 643818 www.rochdalegolfclub.co.uk

Westhoughton Golf Club Telephone: 01942 811085 www.westhoughtongolfclub.co.uk

Manor Golf Club Telephone: 01204 701027 www.manorgolfclub.co.uk

Saddleworth Golf Club Telephone: 01457 873653 www.saddleworthgolfclub.org.uk

Whitefield Golf Club Telephone: 0161 351 2700 www.whitefieldgolfclub.co.uk

Marland Golf Club Telephone: 01706 649801 www.spgc.org

Sale Golf Club Telephone: 0161 973 3404 www.salegolfclub.com

Whittaker Golf Club Telephone: 01706 378310 www.whittakergolfclub.co.uk

Northenden Golf Club Telephone: 0161 998 4738 www.northendengolfclub.com

Stand Golf Club Telephone: 0161 766 2388 www.standgolfclub.co.uk

Wigan Golf Club Telephone: 01257 421360 www.wigangolfclub.co.uk

North Manchester Golf Club Telephone: 0161 634 9033 www.northmanchestergolfclub.co.uk

Swinton Park Golf Club Telephone: 0161 794 1785 www.spgolf.co.uk

William Wroe Golf Club Telephone: 0161 748 8680 www.traffordleisure.co.uk

Oldham Golf Club Telephone: 0161 624 4986 www.oldhamgolfclub.co.uk

Tunshill Golf Club Telephone: 01706 342095 www.tunshillgolfclub.co.uk

Withington Golf Club Telephone: 0161 445 3912 www.withingtongolfclub.co.uk

Pennington Golf Club Telephone: 01942 682852 www.penningtongolfclub.co.uk

Turton Golf Club Telephone: 01204 852235 www.turtongolfclub.com

Worsley Golf Club Telephone: 0161 789 4202 www.worsleygolfclub.co.uk

Pike Fold Golf Club Telephone: 0161 766 3561 www.pikefold.co.uk

Valynette Golf Club Telephone: 01257 480485 Website n/a

Worsley (Marriott) Park Golf Club Telephone: 0161 975 2000 www.marriott.co.uk

Prestwich Golf Club Telephone: 0161 773 2544 www.prestwichgolf.co.uk

Walmersley Golf Club Telephone: 0161 764 1429 www.walmersleygolfclub.co.uk

Regent Park (Bolton) Golf Club Telephone: 01204 844170 www.regentparkgolfclub.co.uk

Werneth Golf Club Telephone: 0161 624 1190 www.wernethgolfclub.co.uk

89

90

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Lancashire Introduction

Lancashire With two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty full of dramatic scenery and quiet lanes, the summer months provide the perfect opportunity to explore Lancashire’s undiscovered countryside.

restaurants and inns with brilliant beer gardens. From Morecambe Bay potted shrimps to Bowland beef, Lancashire’s skilled chefs know how to make the most of the abundant store cupboard on their doorstep.

This Royal Duchy is full of ancient castles and picturesque stone-built villages.

It’s also home to some of the country’s favourite seaside resorts, including Blackpool - Europe’s biggest and brightest, and the perfect destination for families.

Make sure you work up an appetite too, as Lancashire is packed with award winning

Just six miles from the bright lights of Blackpool, Lytham and St Annes-on-Sea, Fylde, are worlds apart in both character and atmosphere.

The dual seaside towns are nestled along a picturesque stretch of coastline lined with well tended lawns, a boating lake and pretty parks. The rolling sand dunes of St Annes-onSea and the Ribble Estuary adjacent to Lytham

make a safe haven for more than 250,000 migrating birds that flock here in winter.

Some of the world’s most famous golf tournaments take place at Lancashire’s celebrated Links Courses, which stretch along the renowned Lancashire Golf Coast.

Luckily for any golf enthusiasts out there, many of the best courses are also open to the public, so you can test your ability with the challenges that links courses are famous for – tricky winds, sand dunes, small, deep bunkers, uneven fairways and thick rough.

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Lancashire Introduction

M-6

02 Morecambe Lancaster

07

Fleetwood

Poulton-Le-Fylde

Colne

04 Nelson

03 M-55

Blackpool

Burnley 01

05

Preston

08

Blackburn 09

Lytham

M-65 Leyland 10 Eccleston

Chorley

06 M-61 M-6 Skelmersdale

01. Royal Lytham & St. Annes 02. Bentham 03. Blackpool North Shore 04. Clitheroe 05. Fairhaven

06. Hurlston Hall 07. Lancaster 08. Lytham Green Drive 09. Pleasington 10. Shaw Hill

Accrington

91

ROYAL LYTHAM & ST. ANNES

92

Royal Lytham & St. Annes Venue for The Open Championship 18-22 July 2012 and the Walker Cup in 2015, Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club sits between the two seaside resorts of Lytham St Annes and Blackpool, and is one of the most unique venues to host the British Open. A truly magnificent course situated in the heart of a stunning Victorian estate, and one which locals are extremely proud of.

The layout of Royal Lytham & St Annes has remained faithful to the original created by the clubs first professional, George Lowe, over a century ago. The only significant changes were made in 1919 when the club asked Harry Colt, the pre-eminent course designer of the time to make recommendations for improvement.

Over the next four years he repositioned some of the greens and tees added numerous bunkers and lengthened the course. It is not a conventionally beautiful golf course, surrounded as it is by suburban housing and flanked by a railway line, but it has a charm

ROYAL LYTHAM & ST. ANNES

93

Photographs by Alan C. Birch

Contact Details Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club Links Gate, Lytham St Annes FY8 3LQ Telephone: 01253 724206 bookings@royallytham.org www.royallytham.org 01. How to Find From the M55 direction of Airport Progress Way to Squires Gate Land (A5230) At 3rd set of Traffic Lights turn left for Lytham St Annes you are now on the A584 proceed past Pontins Holiday Centre, at the 3rd set of traffic lights (St Thomas Road) turn left over railway bridge, Royal Lytham situated on your right at next junction.

Handicaps Handicap Certificates must be produced and permitted handicaps are 21 (Men and Boys) and 30 (Ladies and Girls). Juniors must be accompanied by an Adult.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 7118 • 6731 (71) • 6360 (71) • 5854 (75)

all of its own. It is a Links course that is a long way from the sea yet close enough for the sea breeze to have an effect on one’s game and was aptly described by Bernard Darwin, the leading golf writer of the thirties, as ‘a beast of a course, but a just beast’. He went on to say that ‘no one could fail to be impressed by its difficulties, which sets a golfer just about as ruthless as an examination as any course of my acquaintance’.

Ryder Cup Captain Mark James wrote “ And Lytham was set up magnificently in 2001 (for the Open Championship), perfect for the world’s premier golfing event. I do not think they could have prepared that course better. It was a perfect combination of width of fairways, length of rough and pace and quality of greens. It should be used as a

model for future Opens. Everyone who knows Lytham knew that it would be the one course where Tiger Woods would not have a big advantage because of the distance he hits, as there are relatively few holes where you can carry the trouble. Tiger could not tame it”.

It is renowned as a course on which it is hard to scramble a good score, after all, there are 200 bunkers peppering the fairways and surrounding the greens. It may not be the longest of courses but it is one where careful thought and accurate shots are required.

As Darwin wrote, ‘hit your ball to the right place and the way to the hole is open to you, but hit your ball to the wrong place and every kind of punishment, whether immediate or ultimate, will ensue’.

Contact Details

94

Bentham Golf Club Robin Lane, High Bentham Lancaster, LA2 7AG Telephone: 01524 262455 golf@benthamgolfclub.co.uk www.benthamgolfclub.co.uk

02. How to Find

BENTHAM

Bentham Golf Club is remarkably accessible, only 20 minutes from J 34 or J 36 on the M6, or if travelling from the Yorkshire Dales, only 5 minutes from the A65 to the centre of Bentham where the golf course is well sign posted.

Facilities

Bentham Golf Club is a picturesque 18 hole Golf course situated in the Three Peaks area of North Yorkshire which is famous for its wonderful scenery. The stunning views from the course provide a welcome distraction for players who are struggling with their game.

Previously described as the Augusta of the Dales, Bentham offers a challenge to golfers of all abilities. The views on the golf course of Ingleborough, Pen-y-Ghent and Whernside are a sight to behold on a clear day, with a breathtaking background of the Lake District Fells. The course has been under new ownership of the Marshall Family since 2009

and has a bright future ahead of it following many improvements over the last few years.

One of these changes includes ‘The Bunker’, our new state-of-the-art teaching room featuring the latest video software to analyse every aspect of your game. The Bunker is the only one of these rooms with all this amazing technology in the area so it’s well worth a visit to see how it can transform your game.

Many visitors have commented on the outstanding quality of the greens and even more of them discovered that it is the friendliest of clubs, offering a warm welcome to new members and visitors alike.

18 hole course, Pro Shop, Clubhouse/ Function Room with patio overlooking 18th green, Changing rooms with showers, Buggy hire (April September), Trolley hire, Electric trolley hire, Indoor teaching studio, Putting Green, Practice area Coming Soon Covered Practice range All weather buggy tracks

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6033 • 5682 • 5484 (73) H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 387

10

4

394

2

5 512

11

4

296

3

4 267

12

5

509

4

4 361

13

4

326

5

5 488

14

3

169

6

3 148

15

4

350

7

4 398

16

4

343

8

3 141

17

3

147

9

4 381

18

4

416

Contact Details

95

Blackpool North Shore Golf Club Ltd Devonshire Rd, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY2 ORD

BLACKPOOL NORTH SHORE

Telephone: 01253 352054 office@bnsgc.com www.bnsgc.com www.facebook.com/BNSGC www.twitter.com/BNSGC1904 03. How to Find From Blackpool: Make your way on to the Promenade and head North.

Go past the Tower and North Pier - two miles down there is a roundabout (the only one on the promenadae) continue along the Queens Promenade heading north and take the 7th right into Shaftesbury Avenue (Castle Casino on the corner). Go to the top of this road (about ½ mile) crossing all junctions, and turn left at the T junction into Devonshire Road. BNSGC is the first on the left BEFORE you go down the hill.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Buggies, Lessons, Pro shop, Golf Teaching Academy, Sky Sports, WIFI, Function Room, Practice Ground, Buggy Storage Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6431 • 5878 • 5657 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 5 4 4 4 3 4 3

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

436 400 524 367 429 385 175 303 196

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 4 5 4 3 4

533 435 178 296 341 537 309 172 415

Just 500 yards from the North Promenade, this links course is relatively flat compared to most as it uses natures elements to make the rolling fairways and large greens testing to all handicappers. It has been used as an Open Championship qualifying course on more than one occasion and is a real gem of the north. The renowned H S Colt designed the course in 1920 with very few changes being made since to this entertaining track.

course when The Open has been held at Royal Lytham & St Annes. Currently it is the venue for the Lancashire PGA Championship.

Since 1920 the course has hosted the Great Britain match with the Rest of the World in 1963, the PGA Penfold Tournament in 1967 and a number of occasions has been a qualifying

The green at the closing hole, just over 400 yards, is approached through a narrow neck of fairway and has bunkers to protect it on each side.

Signature Holes The three par-five holes are all in excess of 500 yards, with the 10th green being closely guarded by a pond. There are many testing par-4s which use the undulations to good effect and the par-3s all play long off the back tees.

OPEN COMPETITIONS Wednesday 23rd July Haslam Trophy Men’s Singles Stableford 9-24 handicap £15 Sunday 27th July De Frece 36 Holes up to 7 handicap Strokeplay £25 Tuesday 29th July Ladies Open Teams of four Stableford £56 per team Wednesday 30th July Morrell Seniors Trophy 4BBB Stableford £25 per pair Saturday 2nd August North Shore Trophy 36 Holes Strokeplay 8-15 handicap £25 Sunday 3rd August Gents 4BBB Stableford £25 per pair Sunday 10th August Mixed Betterball Strokeplay £25 per pair Sunday 24th August Family Greensomes Any combination of 2 generations. £20 per pair Book online www.bnsgc.com of contact the Secretary on 01253 352054 opt 1

Visit our new website www.thegolfersguide.co.uk

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Contact Details

97

Clitheroe Golf Club Whalley Road, Clitheroe Lancashire BB7 1PP Telephone: 01200 422292 Pro Shop: 01200 424242 secretary@clitheroegolfclub.com www.clitheroegolfclub.com 04. How to Find

CLITHEROE

From Preston Clitheroe Golf Club is situated just off the A59 1mile to the west of Clitheroe. When proceeding from Preston take the first exit to Clitheroe by turning left at the roundabout.

Take the first road on the left and the Club will be seen on your right.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Function/Conference Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Driving range

Regional Qualifying Course 2010-2014 Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6531 • 6379 • 6159 • 5632 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

5 4 4 4 3 4 4 3 4

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

466 361 444 293 140 345 441 168 391

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 4 4 3 5

372 417 447 518 182 398 317 151 528

Clitheroe Golf Club was formed in November 1891 and moved to its present site when ninety six acres of land were purchased for £5,000 at Barrow Gardens in 1932. The generosity of the Southworth family made possible the erection of a fine clubhouse building, as well as the establishment of a full 18 hole course rather than the 9 holes originally planned.

To the east is Pendle Hill, scene of many witch trials so legend states. Clitheroe is a beautiful 18 hole parkland golf course located in the heart of the Ribble Valley. The Club hosted the Regional Open Qualifying for the first time in 2010 and will continue to do so until 2014. Designed by the legendary Scottish designer, James Braid, the course has been on its present site since 1932.

The course is a challenge to all levels of golfer with a premium on straight driving without being too demanding physically. The views from the course are quite spectacular, with Longridge Fells and Waddington providing the backdrop to Stonyhurst College and Mitton Church.

and this year has also hosted the Lancashire Ladies Championship and the Northern Seniors Championship. The Club has also previously hosted the England Golf County Champions Tournament and next year will welcome the English Stroke Play Championship Northern Qualifying event.

Societies: Clitheroe Golf Club welcomes visitors either as Golf Club away days, company days or organised parties. The Club caters for visiting parties Monday to Friday (subject to availability) and can accommodate from small groups to large corporate golf days throughout the year.

Contact the Secretary who can provide details of packages available to meet your needs.

The Club has just hosted its fifth successful Regional Qualifying event for the Open Championship

Society offers available in August & September. Telephone: 01200 422292 CLITHEROE GOLF CLUB OPEN COMPETITIONS 2014 JAMES BRAID MENS SINGLES 12th JULY £25 each GENTS OPEN FOURBALL 27th JULY £40 per pair SIR MICHAEL BONALLACK 30th JULY £15 each MIXED OPEN TEAM EVENT 24th AUG £80 per team JUNIOR OPEN 26th AUG £8 each

LADIES OPEN TEAM EVENT GENTS OPEN TEAM EVENT SENIORS 4 MAN TEAM EVENT PENDLE WITCH 36 HOLE AUTUMN 4 BBB LADIES OPEN TURKEY SHOOT

31st AUG 7 th SEPT 17th SEPT 21st SEPT 12th OCT 5th NOV

£64 per team £100 per team £80 per team £25 each £40.00 per pair £10.00 each

Online booking & entry forms can be downloaded from our website www.clitheroegolfclub.com

Contact Details

98

Fairhaven Golf Club Oakwood Avenue, Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire, FY8 4JU Telephone: 01253 736 741 info@fairhavengolfclub.co.uk www.fairhavengolfclub.co.uk

05. How to Find

FAIRHAVEN

From the M6, exit junction 32 to M55/ Blackpool. Leave M55 at junction 4, take the A583 exit. At roundabout, take the 1st exit onto A583/Preston New Rd, at the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Lytham Saint Annes Way. At 2nd roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto School Road. Turn left at B5261 onto Common Edge Road at lights. At next traffic lights turn right at B5261 onto Blackpool Rd. Turn left, immediately after zebra crossing, at Forest Drive.

Turn 1st left at Oakwood Ave. Turn 1st right into Fairhaven Golf Club.

Recognised by the hierarchy of golf as one of the best courses in Northern England, Fairhaven has much to offer visiting golfers, whatever their handicap. Fairhaven is not only a beautiful place to play golf but fully lives up to its designation as a ‘Championship’ course originally designed by James Braid. Professional golf at Fairhaven started back in 1934 when the course played host to the ‘Penfold’ Tournament.

The course is an unusual blend of links and parkland which is relatively flat. This makes it not too strenuous to walk around and allows complete vision of each hole from tee to green.

It is consistently maintained and presented to

the highest standard, presenting a fair challenge to golfers of all abilities, featuring the ‘risk & reward’ elements of negotiating the 118 deep revetted bunkers for which Fairhaven is famous.

1st, Par 5. Listed and described in ‘Golf World’ as one of the top ten opening holes in Great Britain & Ireland. In many ways this past Open Championship final qualifying course’s opener is the perfect par 5. 18th, Par 5. A classic finishing hole, it can reward the brave and punish the nervous. For long hitters a good line is over the right edge of the left-hand bunkers.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Driving Range, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Function/Meeting Rooms

Course Information 18 holes, Par 73 • 7015 (72) • 6787 • 6562 • 6002 (75) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

5 3 5 4 3 4 4 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

510 177 500 436 179 366 335 387 351

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 5 4 4 4 5 4 3 5

181 483 349 345 364 485 471 146 497

Looking for a special venue for your golf day – look no further!

Special rates for groups of 4 to 12 golfers & Captains Away Days Contact Lindzi for further information and to arrange your special day Tel: 01253 736741 | Email: info@fairhavengolfclub.co.uk | Web: www.fairhavengolfclub.co.uk

Contact Details

99

Hurlston Hall Golf & Country Club Hurlston Lane, Scarisbrick, Lancashire, L40 8HB Telephone: 01704 840 400 info@hurlstonhall.co.uk www.hurlstonhall.co.uk

06. How to Find

Facilities Spa, Leisure Club, Bar, Restaurant, Spike Bar, Bistro, Floodlit Driving Range, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Bowling Green

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6585 • 6328 • 5882 (75) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 4 4 4 5 3 5 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

403 156 331 362 399 454 137 483 385

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 5

408 523 181 358 343 407 156 359 483

HURLSTON HALL

From M6, exit at junction 26 onto M58 Skelmersdale/Liverpool. Exit junction 3 to St Helens/Southport. At roundabout take 3rd exit onto A570/ Rainford Road heading to Southport/ Ormskirk. Turn left at A577/Park Road. Turn left at A577/Church Street. Continue onto A570/Southport Road, turn right at Hurlston Lane.

Designed by the famous Donald Steel, this young course has matured way beyond its years.

If you choose to play cautiously or aggressively, your round at Hurlston is bound to be enjoyable.

Additional bunkers placed expertly by Open Championship designers Mackenzie and Ebert mean whether you are an amateur or experienced golfer, you will find you are faced with ‘risk and reward’ shots on many of the 18 holes.

Pre-round warm-ups have been catered for with the 15 bay power-tee equipped driving range and putting green, and the pro-shop staff are always on hand to help you with any items you may need to re-stock with before your round.

The presence of water is never far away, which is ready to swallow up any wayward shots. However a personal best can be reached by treating the lakes, ponds and streams with the respect they deserve.

Before you leave try to take in the spectacular sunsets from the spike bar, which have to be seen to be believed, and the friendly staff will ensure that you do not make your journey home with an empty stomach!

We would like to invite you to celebrate our 20th Year Celebrations at Hurlston Hall!

SPECIAL OFFER FOR 2014 From £80 a four ball. Book Now - 01704 842 829

SUMMER 2014 GOLF SOCIETY SPECIALS Coffee & Bacon Roll, 18 Holes Golf & 1 Course Meal ONLY £30.00 per person

Telephone: 01704 840400 Email:info@hurlstonhall.co.uk www.hurlstonhall.co.uk

Coffee & Bacon Roll, 18 Holes Golf & 2 Course Meal ONLY £33.00 per person Minimum of 12 players, available on Mondays & Tuesdays

GOLF CLUB MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE FROM £450

Contact Details

100

Lancaster Golf Club Ashton Hall, Ashton-with-Stodday Lancaster, Lancashire LA2 0AJ Telephone: 01524 751247 enquiries@lancastergc.co.uk www.lancastergc.co.uk

07. How to Find

LANCASTER

From M6, junction 33. At Junction 33, exit toward Lancaster(South) / A6. Proceed through traffic lights at Galgate and continue on A6 past Lancaster University. At Traffic lights (Boot & Shoe public house & Booths supermarket) turn left along Ashford Road. At next roundabout turn left onto Ashton Road (A588). Continue along Ashton Road, Lancaster Golf Club is 1 mile on the right.

Designed by James Braid, the renowned golf course architect, Lancaster Golf Club has built a reputation of being one of the finest courses in the north west of England.

Stunning views of the Lakeland hills, Trough of Bowland and the Lune estuary add to the enjoyment of the “Lancaster experience.”

With two loops of 9 holes and a par of 71 Lancaster is a fair test of golf for both the accomplished & intermediate golfer. Lancaster has recently hosted the Lancashire County Championship and is a popular venue for the annual Pro-Am held in June. Enjoy the impressive grade 1 listed clubhouse that dates

back to the 14th century and hosts a Dormy house that caters for up to 18 guests, all in ensuite rooms. Residential golf packages, weddings and functions can be booked at the golf club.

The Caterers, Bowland Village Inns, provide 1st class cuisine using fresh local produce.

Hole 18, Par 3, ‘Ashton Home’, 178 yards Much admired in Braid’s day when it was 25 yards shorter. However the problem remains the same. How best from a high tee, to carry a ravine of rough, water and sand, to the green below which lies under the Clubhouse windows.

It’s not surprising that this gem merits inclusion in any anthology of the best holes in Britain.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Dormy House(sleeps 18), Snooker Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6512 • 6269 • 5791 H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 415

10

4

390

2

5 486

11

5

476

3

4 422

12

4

385

4

3 156

13

3

141

5

4 352

14

5

496

6

3 166

15

4

391

7

4 347

16

4

296

8

4 385

17

4

426

9

4 373

18

3

166

Five minutes from the city centre... ...a million miles from the office.

18 & 27 hole golf packages for societies.

Residential Dormy Packages.

Membership available for the 2014 season.

TEL: 01524 751247

Lancaster Golf Club

Contact Details

101

Lytham Green Drive Golf Club Ballam Road, Lytham St Annes, FY8 4LE

LYTHAM GREEN DRIVE

Telephone: 01253 737390 secretary@lythamgreendrive.co.uk www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk

08. How to Find Exit the M55 motorway at junction 4, signposted North Shore and A583.

Keep left and move into the inside lane. Go straight over the roundabout (pass a B & Q store on the right), at the first set of traffic lights turn right, then immediately left down Peel Road.

Continue until you reach a T-junction, turn right onto Ballam Road, and the club is 1½ miles on the left.

Laid out by 1902 Open Champion, Alex Herd, and re-designed by James Steer in the 1940’s, at first sight Lytham Green Drive is a pleasant tree-lined course, which although within a mile of the Irish Sea still retains parkland characteristics.

Facilities Driving range, Putting green, Golf Lessons, Buggies, Clubhouse, Restaurant

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6305 • 6159 (69) • 5750 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 4 5 3 4 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

383 382 329 348 510 177 335 336 392

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 4 4 4 4 5

450 343 336 152 442 142 397 200 505

The greens are small by modern standards, and very well bunkered. This parkland course also has links-like undulating fairways that can fool the eye when it comes to judging distance.

Despite its modest length, the course demands a wide variety of golf shots and will make you use just about every club in your bag, with its assortment of different challenges and

Visit www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk or follow us on Twitter @Lythamgolf for regular updates and offers

approaches to most greens. This formidable little test was officially recognised when it was used as a Final Qualifying course for the 1974, 1979 and 1988 Open Championships held at nearby Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club.

The first hole could start the round off on the wrong foot. This 398-yard gentle dog-leg has an out of bounds on the right, trees to the left and a well-bunkered green with a pond at the rear.

Two well-placed bunkers on the right of the fairway will catch any crooked drives.

The 13th hole is named “Harold’s Beck” after the club’s famous professional and renowed club maker Harold Beck.

1913

Contact Details

102

Pleasington Golf Club Pleasington, Blackburn Lancashire, BB2 5JF Telephone: 01254 202 177 secretary-manager@pleasington-golf.co.uk www.pleasington-golf.co.uk

09. How to Find

PLEASINGTON

From M65 Junction 3 Follow signs to Blackburn. Turn right at traffic lights. Follow A674 for 1 mile. Take lane on left signposted to Pleasington Priory and Railway Station.

Pleasington Golf Club is located on left hand side, at 400 yards.

Formed in October 1890, Pleasington is without doubt one of the best tests of golf in the NorthWest of England, with a superb layout, being part heathland in character with some heather.

This beautiful and picturesque golf course is within 2 miles of exit 3 of the M65 Motorway in Pleasington, a rural village area on the outskirts of Blackburn, with magnificent country views.

The course is a regular venue for County matches and has hosted numerous prestigious competitions. These include top class amateur events and The Open Regional Qualifying returning annually again to Pleasington for

6 years from 2004. Pleasington can cater for the small, medium or large visiting party.

Set in 142 acres of rolling wooded countryside and with many holes in individual valleys, this most picturesque of courses offers a tough challenge of golf, even to the best golfers.

Signature Hole: Hole 7, Par 5 “Mill” A wonderful par 5; drive it on the top fairway and leave yourself a difficult second shot or drive the ball down onto the lower fairway and give yourself a chance of a birdie or even an eagle. It is a hole that the more you play the better you get to know it’s marvellous design.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Practice Ground, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6562 • 6402 • 6177 • 5807 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Contact us or visit our website for the latest news & offers www.pleasington-golf.co.uk Professional: 01254 201630 Office: 01254 202177

PAR

4 4 4 4 4 4 5 3 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

378 341 318 423 335 346 507 149 468

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 4

169 531 156 449 379 352 147 353 376

Contact Details

103

SHAW HILL GOLF & SPA HOTEL

Shaw Hill Hotel, Golf & Country Club Preston Road, Whittle le Woods Chorley, Lancashire, PR6 7PP Main Hotel: 01257 269221 ext 201 Pro Shop: 01257 279222 Daily Course Info line: 01257 226822 golf@shaw-hill.co.uk www.shaw-hill.co.uk 10. How to Find From M6: Leave the motorway at Junction 28 and follow the signs for Chorley A6, at the traffic lights (The Hayrick Pub) turn right on to the A49 following the signs for Wigan. Turn left after Leyland Golf Club following signs for M61 down ‘Dawson Lane’ (BUCKSHAW DEVELOPMENT) go straight at the first roundabout and turn left at the traffic lights, keep on the road until it eventually stops at a T Junction (A6) turn right towards Chorley and SHAW HILL 20 yards on the right.

The wonderful Georgian Manor House now lovingly restored and owned by the Stokes family, is a breathtaking sight, one which dominates the landscape as you make your way around the challenging and undulating par 72 course laid out on luxurious, undulating and verdant parkland.

Facilities Hotel, Spa, Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Practice Ground, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6283 • 5965 • 5417 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 4 5 4 3 4 4 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

257 212 366 478 331 156 310 464 525

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 4 4 3 5 4

476 337 198 358 402 377 143 498 395

The course was designed by Laurence Allamby, a young golf professional who had studied Golf Architecture and Course Design under the world famous course architect Dr. Alistair McKenzie. Whatever you do don’t rush straight off afterwards. Vardons restaurant and the VP bar in the hotel are great places to eat and

drink with fine cuisine, extensive wine cellar and a delightful atmosphere.

A Corporate Golf Day at Shaw Hill is a favourite way to unwind and network. Our professional team can arrange a full Corporate Golfing Day that is guaranteed to keep your guests talking for months to come.

Signature hole Finishing off your round with the with the beautiful backdrop of the stunning Georgian mansion, the 18th is a challenging par 4. Drive to clear the lake and set up an approach shot to the green which is well guarded by bunkers.

Visit our website www.shaw-hill.co.uk for the latest news & offers

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Lancashire Directory

Accrington & District Golf Club Telephone: 01254 350112 www.accringtongolfclub.com

Chorley Golf Club Telephone: 01257 480263 www.chorleygolfclub.co.uk

Gathurst Golf Club Telephone: 01257 252861 www.gathurstgolfclub.co.uk

Ashton & Lea Golf Club Telephone: 01772 735282 www.ashtonleagolfclub.co.uk

Clitheroe Golf Club Telephone: 01200 422292 www.clitheroegolfclub.com

Ghyll Golf Club Telephone: 01282 842466 www.ghyllgolfclub.co.uk

Bacup Golf Club Telephone: 01706 873170 www.bacupgolfclub.com

Colne Golf Club Telephone: 01282 863391 www.colnegolfclub.com

Great Harwood Golf Club Telephone: 01254 884391 www.greatharwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Baxenden & District Golf Club Telephone: 01254 234555 www.baxendengolf.co.uk

Darwen Golf Club Telephone: 01254 701287 www.darwengolfclub.com

Green Haworth Golf Club Telephone: 01254 237580 www.greenhaworthgolfclub.co.uk

Beacon Park Golf Club Telephone: 01695 627500 www.beaconparkgolf.com

Dean Wood Golf Club Telephone: 01695 622219 www.deanwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Herons Reach Golf Club Telephone: 01253 832505 www.devere.co.uk

Bentham Golf Club Telephone: 01524 262455 www.benthamgolfclub.co.uk

Duxbury Park Golf Club Telephone: 01257 265380 www.glendale-golf.com

Heysham Golf Club Telephone: 01524 851011 www.heyshamgolfclub.co.uk

Blackburn Golf Club Telephone: 01254 51122 www.blackburngolfclub.com

Fairhaven Golf Club Telephone: 01253 736741 www.farhavengolfclub.co.uk

Hurlston Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01704 840400 www.hurlstonhall.co.uk

Blackpool North Shore Golf Club Telephone: 01253 351017 www.blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com

Fishwick Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01772 798300 www.fishwickhallgolfclub.co.uk

Knott End Golf Club Telephone: 01253 811365 www.knottendgolfclub.com

Burnley Golf Club Telephone: 01282 421045 www.burnleygolfclub.org.uk

Fleetwood Golf Club Telephone: 01253 773573 www.fleetwoodgolf.co.uk

Lancaster Golf Club Telephone: 01524 751247 www.lancastergc.co.uk

Charnock Richard Golf Club Telephone: 01257 470707 www.crgcc.co.uk

Garstang Country Hotel & Golf Club Telephone: 01995 600100 www.garstanghotelandgolf.com

Lansil Golf Club Telephone: 01524 39269 www.lansilgolfclub.org.uk

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Lancashire Directory

Lobden Golf Club Telephone: 01706 343228 www.lobdengolfclub.co.uk

Penwortham Golf Club Telephone: 01772 744630 www.penworthamgc.co.uk

Standish Court Golf Club Telephone: 01257 425777 www.standishgolf.co.uk

Leyland Golf Club Telephone: 01772 436457 www.leylandgolfclub.co.uk

Pleasington Golf Club Telephone: 01254 202177 www.pleasington-golf.co.uk

Stanley Park Golf Course Telephone: 01253 302613 www.mackgolf.co.uk

Longridge Golf Club Telephone: 01772 783291 www.longridgegolfclub.co.uk

Poulton-Le-Fylde Golf Club Telephone: 01253 892444 www.poultonlefyldegolfclub.co.uk

St. Annes Old Links Telephone: 01253 723597 www.stannesoldlinks.com

Lytham Green Drive Golf Club Telephone: 01253 737390 www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk

Preston Golf Club Telephone: 01772 700011 www.prestongolfclub.com

Stonyhurst Park Golf Club Telephone: 01254 826478 www.stonyhurstpark.co.uk

Lytham St Annes Mini Links Complex Telephone: 01772 895289 www.LythamStAnnesMiniLinks.com

Rishton Golf Club Telephone: 01254 884442 www.rishtongolfclub.co.uk

Towneley Golf Club Telephone: 01282 451636 www.towneleygolfclub.co.uk

Marsden Park Golf Club Telephone: 01282 661912 www.marsdenparkgolfclub.co.uk

Rossendale Golf Club Telephone: 01706 831339 www.rossendalegolfclub.net

Whalley Golf Club Telephone: 01254 822236 www.whalleygolfclub.com

Morecambe Golf Club Telephone: 01524 418050 www.morecambegolfclub.com

Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club Telephone: 01253 724206 www.royallytham.org

Wilpshire Golf Club Telephone: 01254 248260 www.wilpshiregolfclub.co.uk

Mytton Fold Golf Club Telephone: 01254 240662 www.myttonfold.co.uk

Shaw Hill Hotel G & C C Telephone: 01257 269221 www.shaw-hill.co.uk

Nelson Golf Club Telephone: 01282 611834 www.nelsongolfclub.com

Silverdale (Carnforth) Golf Club Telephone: 01524 701300 www.silverdalegolfclub.co.uk

Ormskirk Golf Club Telephone: 01695 572112 www.ormskirkgolfclub.com

Staininglodge Golf Course Telephone: 01253 891336 www.staininglodge.co.uk

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106

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Merseyside Introduction

Merseyside Merseyside comprises of the boroughs of Liverpool, Knowsley, Wirral, Sefton and St Helens, and as the name suggests straddles the River Mersey. The county has been the birthplace of many famous names throughout its history, with Liverpool’s bustling port at its heart Merseyside was always a cosmopolitan place for both artist and artisan.

From TV legends Cilla Black and Tom Baker, to sporting heroes like Wayne Rooney and Stephen Gerrard, the area has long been a cultural hotbed and no-one typifies this more than its biggest export: The Beatles. To this day a source for much of the area’s tourism,

The Beatles went from humble beginnings at The Cavern Club to global acclaim in the 60’s and many favourite spots for tourists today owe their fame to The Fab Four: the original Cavern was demolished in the 70’s but an exact replica was built in 1984 even using some of the bricks from its predecessor and this houses The Beatles museum; Strawberry Fields cemetery also lies within the city.

Historically Merseyside has grown from a rural community to a bustling urban sprawl, and much of this growth is down to the county’s docks. The city of Liverpool, Birkenhead and Bootle docks were all

massively enriched by the slave-trade in the 18th century and by ship-building until more recent times, as well as being the first step on the road to America in the 19th and early 20th centuries: the ill-fated Titanic was constructed in Liverpool’s ship-yards.

With Liverpool’s Capital of Culture status the area has seen large investment recently, which can only add to its draw for tourists; although a county that can boast the biggest band in history, two of the nation’s biggest football clubs, the world’s largest Anglican cathedral, Tate Liverpool and Wayne Rooney probably needs little help.

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Merseyside Introduction

10 Southport 01

13

5/6

07 M-58

14

M-6

12

Crosby

Ashton-in-Makerfield 03

Knowsley

Bootle

Prescot Wallasey 15

St. Helens

Widnes

04

11

Ellesmere Port M-53

01. Royal Birkdale 02. Royal Liverpool 03. Ashton in Makerfield 04. Caldy 05. Formby 06. Formby Ladies 07. Formby Hall 08. Grange Park

09. Haydock Park 10. Hesketh 11. Heswall 12. Houghwood 13. Southport & Ainsdale 14. West Lancashire 15. Wirral Ladies

M-62 M-6

Birkenhead 02

Newton-le-Willows

08

M-57

Liverpool

09

107

ROYAL BIRKDALE

108

Royal Birkdale Golf Club Royal Birkdale, one of Britain’s finest golf clubs has been voted the No 1 course in England and is among the best in the World. Having previously hosted two Ryder Cups, the Walker and Curtis Cups, the Women’s British Open, The Senior Open Championship and on nine occasions the Open Championship.

Looking ahead The Ricoh Women’s British Open Championship returns again in 2014.

The stunning coastal resort of Southport is host to the finest links courses in England. This is the home of Royal Birkdale, for many golfers, quite simply, the best of all the great golf courses to have staged The Open Championship. Among the many great courses along the Northwest coast, Royal Birkdale stands out as a perfect example of links golf. It is currently voted by Golf Monthly as the best course in England and the 4th best course in the British Isle and in a survey commissioned by Planet Golf for Golfing Digest it was listed as the 18th best courses outside of the United States.

The Club was formed in 1889, starting life as a nine hole course. In 1897 the decision was taken to move to Birkdale Hills where an 18 hole course was constructed. The course underwent considerable changes in the mid 1930’s when the current Clubhouse

was built. There was further restructuring in the 1960’s and in the early 1990’s all of the greens were reconstructed and redesigned.

In preparation for the Open Championship in 2008 and as a part of the Club’s on going improvement there have been some significant alterations carried out from 2005 to 2007 which have enabled the Club to retain its position as one of the finest links courses.

Even in the early days, the Birkdale Club was forward-thinking, with the members voting in favour of allowing ladies to use the links from 1889. Indeed, one of the first tournaments held was the 1909 Ladies’ British Open Match play Championship.

The growing stature of the club was acknowledged in 1951 when the King gave his permission for the club to be known as The

ROYAL BIRKDALE

109

Photographs by Alan C. Birch

Contact Details Royal Birkdale Golf Club Waterloo Road, Birkdale, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 2LX Telephone: 01704 568857 secretary@royalbirkdale.com www.royalbirkdale.com 01. How to Find The club is one and half miles south of Southport town centre on the A565 Waterloo Road between Southport and Ainsdale.Drivers approaching from the North should use the M6, exit at Junction 29, Leyland, to the A582, A59 and A565.

Drivers from the South, via the M6, M62, M57 and A5147. Traffic from Central Lancashire should use the M58, exit at Junction 3, Rainford, to the A570. Traffic from Wales and the Wirral should use the M53, Queensway Tunnel to the A565.

Requirements Handicap Certificates will be required from all visiting golfers. Reservations must be made in advance by telephone, letter, fax or email to the Secretary’s Office.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6817 • 6381 • 5793 (75)

Royal Birkdale Golf Club. The course has been the stage for many great golf championships including the Amateur Championship, the Walker Cup, the Curtis Cup, the Ryder Cup and the Women’s British Open. On nine occasions the greatest championship, The Open, has been played here, the most recent in 2008. In 2005, the club was the venue for both the Amateur Championship and the Women’s British Open which Royal Birkdale will host again in 2014.

The Championship Course now measures 7.180 yards. Visitors generally play the yellow tees which at 6.381 yards is a test in itself even for the most accomplished golfer. The wind, whistling down the fairways when it comes from the sea, adds to the challenge.

Each hole runs through a landscape of high dunes, the fairways are flat and fair and from the tee there is generally a clear view of the task ahead. Each hole is memorable, from The Open Championship

tee the 13th measure 498 yards, one of the longest par 4s in championship golf.

Visitors to the course can walk in the footsteps of many of golf’s legends, among them Open Winners, Peter Thomson, a double winner at Royal Birkdale, Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, Johnny Miller and Tom Watson. On the 16th hole, a plaque commemorates Arnold Palmer’s great shot in appalling weather conditions, on the way to his Open win 1961.

The clubhouse was designed to resemble an Ocean Liner cruising through the sand hills of Birkdale. It too has undergone significant changes over the years but it has retained its distinctive art-deco style. The balconies and handrails have been replaced with enormous bay window in providing spectacular views of the 18th green and it is the only place to be on the last afternoon of The Open.

ROYAL LIVERPOOL

110

Royal Liverpool Golf Club The Hoylake links can be, by turns, beautiful, uplifting, awe inspiring and, on occasion, soul-destroying.

They were created to be a demanding test of golf and remain so, and they lie at the very heart of the history and development of golf in Great Britain. It has been the host for both The Walker & Curtis Cups in the past together with 11 Open Championships. Host to The Ricoh Women’s British Open for the first time in 2012 and looks forward to The Open Championship returning again in 2014.

Built in 1869, on what was then the racecourse of the Liverpool Hunt Club, Hoylake is the oldest of all the English seaside courses with the exception of Westward Ho! in Devon, which was established just a few years earlier. Robert Chambers and George Morris were commissioned to lay out the original Hoylake course, which was extended to 18 holes in 1871. This was also the year in which the Club was granted its Royal designation thanks to the patronage of His Royal Highness The Duke of Connaught.

For the first seven years of its life the land still performed its original function, doubling as a golf course and a horse racing track - indeed, echoes of this heritage can be found today in the names of the first and eighteenth holes, Course and Stand, while the original saddling bell still hangs in

the club house. Once the horses had been dispatched to pastures new Hoylake began to take its place in the history of golf in general and of the amateur game in particular.

In 1885 the links hosted the first Amateur Championship; in 1902 the first international match between England and Scotland, later to become the Home Internationals; and, in 1921, the first international match between Great Britain and the United States of America, which we now know as The Walker Cup. In fact, it is Royal Liverpool Golf Club’s contribution to the amateur game that has set it apart from all other clubs in England.

Although, at the end of the nineteenth century, it was the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews that took on the role of the governing body in golf as the game developed, it was at Hoylake that the rules of

ROYAL LIVERPOOL

111

Contact Details Royal Liverpool Golf Club Meols Drive, Hoylake Wirral CH47 4AL Telephone: 0151 632 3101 bookings@royal-liverpool-golf.com www.royal-liverpool-golf.com 02. How to Find The club is situated on Meols Drive (A540) between Hoylake and West Kirby, 10 minutes from Junction 2 of the M53 and less than 1 hour from Manchester Airport. Leave M53 at Junction 2, follow A551 to Moreton and then A553 to Hoylake. Continue straight ahead at the roundabout in Hoylake (railway station is on the left) and the Club is 300 yards along Meols Drive on the right.

Handicaps All visitors are expected to be competent golfers who hold a current Club or Society handicap. As the Links provide a difficult test of golf, maximum handicaps allowed for visitors are: Men - 21, Ladies - 32. Proof of playing ability is required prior to play.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7350 • 6933 • 6466 • 5896 (74)

amateur status were laid down. Ironically it was John Ball, who was to become the Club’s greatest player, who almost fell foul of them.

In 1878, when he was just sixteen years old, Ball had finished tied for 4th place in the Open Championship with Bob Martin of St Andrews.

Although Ball lost the play-off for fourth place the following day there was still a money prize due to him from the purse. The sum involved was only one pound but John Morris advised the young John Ball to put the money in his pocket. It was this incident, recalled seven years later, that came back to haunt Ball when he wanted to enter the Amateur Championship. Ball had accepted prize money and therefore was technically a “professional”.

The rules were, however, diplomatically but conveniently adjusted to enable Ball to play.

John Ball’s influence on amateur golf, together with that of Harold Hilton who was also a Hoylake player, cannot be over emphasised.

Between them they dominated the amateur game of that era and the pair was also a major influence on the professional game, each of them winning the Open Championship as amateurs. John Ball won the Amateur Championship eight times between l888 and l9l2 and was runner-up twice. He won the Open Championship in l890, the first Englishman and the first amateur to do so, and also took the amateur title the same year.

Harold Hilton’s record was just as impressive.

He won the Open twice, in l892 (the first year the Open was played over 72 holes) and again five years later, making him the only amateur apart from John Ball and Bobby Jones to win the title. His victory at Hoylake

in 1897 was marked 100 years later by the creation of a new, annual Harold Hilton Medal tournament open to amateur golfers aged 30 or more and handicap 5 or less.

Hilton also won the Amateur Championship four times, was runner-up on three occasions and won the US Amateur Championship in 1911, the year in which he also held the British title. The man was obviously no slacker - in the same year he still found time to become the first editor of the new Golf Monthly magazine.

No history of Hoylake would be complete without mention of the legendary Bobby Jones. In 1930 the club was privileged to host his winning of the Open Championship, a victory that would become the second leg of his remarkable Grand Slam - the winning in the same year of the Amateur and Open Championships of both Great Britain and the United States. Shortly afterwards, a mere twenty-eight years old, Bobby Jones found himself with no golfing peaks left to conquer and he retired from the game.

Much time has passed since then, but the Hoylake links, despite their at first glance flat and benign appearance, are still very much among the toughest and most demanding tests of golf. Work is currently ongoing and almost finished on the links to improve the playability of the same for players of all standards. This work is being carried out under the direction of the eminent Architect Dr. Martin Hawtree.

In July 2006 the fabled mighty winds did not blow. But there was no denying that another mighty champion was born... in the shape of one Eldrick “Tiger” Woods.

Contact Details

112

Ashton-in-Makerfield Golf Club (Established 1902) Garswood Park, Ashton in Makerfield Wigan, WN4 0YT

ASHTON-IN-MAKERFIELD

Telephone: 01942 727267 secretary@ashton-in-makerfieldgolfclub.co.uk

www.ashton-in-makerfieldgolfclub.co.uk 03. How to Find From The North M6 exit at junction 24. Turn right at top of slip road. At next set of lights (Ashton Cross) turn 180° left into the Golf Club drive.

From The South & East M6 exit at Junction 23. Follow signs for Ashton / Wigan. Pass entrance to Haydock Park Race course. At the next set of lights turn left onto theA58 to St Helens. Through the next set of lights over the M6 & at the next set of lights (Ashton Cross) turn 180° left into the Golf Club.

Ashton-in-Makerfield Golf Club is a great 18 hole course, famous not only for its welcome to first time visitors, but for its striking panoramic views towards Manchester and beyond. The inward nine holes are particularly demanding (especially on a windy day) with some difficult driving holes through heavily wooded areas. Special care should be taken on the 5th, 11th and 16th holes.

The course was founded by long time cricketing pals Tom Mayall and Andrew Molyneux, and celebrated its Centenary back in 2002.

Ashton-in-Makerfield Golf Club has certainly taken giant steps in the quest to produce a

top quality golf course, with excellent facilities and staff to deliver those aspirations.

Facilities The developments range from 2 new holes being designed and constructed to enable the club to play 18 holes during a United Utilities pipeline project, a Professional who ‘went back to school’ and achieved full playing privileges on the Senior European Tour and a Manager with almost 30 years County playing experience.

All of this adding to the existing assets of a vibrant Club which welcomes Societies, visitors, wedding and anniversary functions and provides a wide range of entertainments.

Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6205 • 5918 • 5306 H OLE

PAR

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

1

4 373

10

4

365

2

4 416

11

4

450

3

5 494

12

4

349

4

3 197

13

3

177

5

4 383

14

4

368

6

4 378

15

3

165

7

3 157

16

4

456

8

4 380

17

5

496

9

4 304

18

4

297

Golf Society Packages Available Tailored to your requirements

Monday 4 Ball Offer ONLY £80 PER 4 BALL

Limited Membership now available

For more information please contact The Manager, Garry Lacy on 01942 719330

Contact Details

113

Caldy Golf Club Limited Links Hey Road, Caldy, Wirral Merseyside, CH48 1NB Telephone: 0151 625 5660 golf@caldygolfclub.co.uk www.caldygolfclub.co.uk

04. How to Find

Facilities 2 Lounges, Bar, Restaurant, Snooker Room, Putting Green, Practice Range, Buggies, Trolleys, Club Hire, Pro Shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6714 • 6336 • 5823 (70) • 5798 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 4 4 5 4 5 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

369 152 346 331 532 384 479 142 404

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 5 4 4 4 4 4 3 5

179 509 425 337 372 334 401 145 495

CALDY

Exit Jct. 2 from the M53 and follow the Upton By-pass (A5027) onto Frankby Road (B5139) before turning left onto Hillbark Road (B5140). Turn right onto Montgomery Hill (B5141), this road leads onto Caldy Road (B5140).

Then turn left onto Croft Drive East and left again onto Links Hey Road.

Playing at Caldy is one of the most rewarding golfing experiences one can enjoy on the beautiful Wirral Peninsula. Golfers from the UK and abroad are always welcome to share the Club’s challenging course, vast Practice Ground and Excellent Clubhouse facilities.

From the often breezy cliff top holes, breathtaking views can be enjoyed over the River Dee Estuary towards the three Hilbre Islands and the mountains and coastline of Wales. In contrast, the heathland inner holes offer a more tranquil rural vista towards Thurstaston Hill and adjacent farmland. This glorious combination of links

and inland holes make for a memorable game for golfers of all standards.

Hole 3. Par 4, “Sands of Dee”. A superb dog-leg right. The fairway sweeps around two sets of bunkers well placed to catch both short and long hitters. A good tee shot will leave a demanding approach to a well guarded green and a stunning backdrop over the Dee Estuary.

Hole 6. Par 4, “Donga”.

An extremely challenging hole, the last one along the cliff edge. Rough on the right and out of bounds on the left over the cliff make the tee shot tight.

GOLF PACKAGES Sunday 13th July - Monday 21st July

HOSPITALITY PACKAGES FOR THE OPEN Sunday 13th July - Monday 21st July

SILVER PACKAGE - £105.00 PER PERSON 18 holes of golf, 3 course dinner

PREMIUM PACKAGE - £25.00 PER PERSON Car parking at Caldy Golf Club, Breakfast on arrival Transport to and from The Open

GOLD PACKAGE - £115.00 PER PERSON Breakfast on arrival, 18 holes of golf, 3 course dinner PLATINUM PACKAGE - £130.00 PER PERSON Breakfast on arrival, 18 holes of golf 3 course dinner after golf, Caldy branded gift set

1907

When booking please quote ref: GGJ14

www.caldygolfclub.co.uk

DELUXE PACKAGE - £55.00 PER PERSON Car parking at Caldy Golf Club Breakfast on arrival, Transport to and from The Open 3 course dinner on arrival back at caldy For other offers please visit our website When booking please quote ref: GGJ14

Contact Details

114

Formby Golf Club Golf Road, Freshfield Liverpool, L37 1LQ Telephone: 01704 872164 teetimes@formbygolfclub.co.uk www.formbygolfclub.co.uk

05. How to Find

FORMBY

From the Motorway Network at the junction of the M57/M58 take the signposts to Formby. On the A565 from Liverpool turn left at the 2nd roundabout (with BP station) towards Formby Golf Club, Formby Point and Freshfield station.

Immediately after the station turn right into Golf Road and enter the club through the automatic barrier.

Set in the links between the arable land of the Lancashire plain and the Irish sea, Formby is blessed with the combination of sand dunes and towering pine forest as the backdrop to this great course.

The natural terrain ensures that accuracy is always at a premium.

Heather and unforgiving rough protect the well bunkered course and caution is definitely required whether playing off the tee or approaching the quick and true greens. The course voted 77 in the world by golf course architects is challenging, idyllic and an unforgettable course of contrasts.

Formby has always supported the highest standards in amateur golf and the Amateur Championship has been held here on four occasions, the most recent being in 2009.

The winner then, Matteo Mannassero is the youngest ever winner of the championship at 16 years of age and has now gone onto win 4 professional titles. The Open championship has also used Formby as a qualifying venue in 1924, 1971 and 1996.

Hole 12, Par 4, 385 yards (yellow tee) Regarded as one of the best holes on the course. There is a large bunker on the left side of the green and the main trouble is short.

Facilities 2 bars, restaurant, Dormy accommodation, snooker room, putting green, chipping area, practice ground, trolleys, lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7031 • 6725 • 6489 • 6048 (70) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 5 4 3 4 4 5 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

394 372 449 310 153 385 368 470 444

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 4 4 3 5 4

178 376 385 370 411 393 120 477 384

Formby Golf Club Corporate Day Thursday 7th August 2014 Your chance to play one of the world’s finest links courses and enjoy the idyllic surroundings of one of the finest private member clubs in England. £650 per team of 4

Visit our website for the latest news & offers: www.formbygolfclub.co.uk

Price includes, golf, meal and a host of other activities on the day Please contact us on 01704 872164 or e-mail info@formbygolfclub.co.uk for more details or to book your place.

Contact Details

115

Formby Ladies Golf Club Golf Road, Formby Liverpool, L37 1YH Telephone: 01704 873493 secretary@formbyladiesgolfclub.co.uk www.formbyladiesgolfclub.co.uk

06. How to Find

Formby Ladies Golf Club is situated at the heart of ‘England’s Golf Coast’ set amongst a magnificent tract of sand hills and pine forest. Founded in 1896, we believe Formby Ladies’ is the only truly independent Ladies Golf Club in Britain. The Course is part of the Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve managed by Natural England.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Practice Ground, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71, SSS 72 • 5374 yards H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 3 4 3 4 4 5 4

FORMBY LADIES

From the Motorway Network at the junction of the M57/M58 take the signposts to Formby. On the A565 from Liverpool turn left at the 2nd roundabout (with BP station) towards Formby Golf Club, Formby Point and Freshfield station.

Immediately after the station turn right into Golf Road and enter the club through the automatic barrier.

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

261 417 129 287 122 412 251 428 322

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 4 4 3 4 4

422 307 158 385 301 374 128 324 346

Formby Ladies Golf Club is able to offer week days and weekend tee times on both Saturday and Sunday and is delighted to welcome both male and female visitors. Many visitors return year after year to play the course with friends, in societies or in our extremely popular Open

Competitions. Over the years we have hosted many prestigious competitions at County, National and International level including the British Girls Home Internationals, the British Men’s Seniors and the British Women’s Seniors.

With challenging fairways, heathery rough and greens well protected by pot bunkers, Formby Ladies provides visitors with a unique experience. Open Champion Greg Norman said of Formby Ladies ‘Over a hundred years old and still your course can stand the test of time. What a beautiful course.

It clearly shows that courses do not have to be 7000 yards plus to be formidable’.

Visit our website for the latest news & offers: www.formbyladiesgolfclub.co.uk

Contact Details

116

Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa Southport Old Road, Southport Merseyside L37 OAB Telephone: 01704 875699 Email enquiries via website www.formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk

07. How to Find

FORMBY HALL

From M62: Exit towards M57/ Southport. Turn left at A5036/Dunnings Bridge Road. Turn right at A5207/ Copy Lane. Take 2nd right at A5207/ Northern Perimeter Rd, turn right at Lydiate Lane and right again at A565/ Park View. At roundabout, take 3rd exit onto Southport Old Road.

From Liverpool: (14 miles) Head West on A580 towards A59/Byrom Street.

Turn left at Leeds Street. Turn right at A565/Great Howard Street. Turn right at A565/ The By-pass. Take 3rd exit at roundabout to Southport Old Road.

Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa, opened in 1996, is one of the newest golf facilities on England’s Golf Coast but has already built an enviable reputation, for its two golf courses, its state-of-the-art PGA National Golf Academy and its luxurious 4-star hotel. Hewn from marshland, six miles south of Southport and at the heart of England’s Golf Coast.

Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa features a fine 18-hole course and a challenging 9-hole course which is ideal for experienced golfers and beginners alike. The 18-hole course hosted two events on the Challenge Tour, the 2004 ADT English Seniors’ Open, and

in 2009 staged its first EuroPro Tour event.

Formby Hall’s 18-hole lay-out features a series of testing holes protected by water and well-placed-bunkers. Water, in fact, can be found on 16 out of the 18 holes.

The 16th is a picturesque yet extremely testing par 3, with a 170-yard carry over water, and 6 well placed greenside bunkers waiting to catch any errant tee shot leaves very little margin for error, and a Par-3 on the card is true reward for selecting the right club. The Resort enjoyed a £15 million development in 2008 which has resulted in the completion of a stylish new 4-star 62-bedroom hotel and luxury Spa.

Facilities 4 star Hotel & Spa, Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar, 9 hole par 3 course, PGA Golf Academy, Driving Range, Putting Greens, Short Game Area, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Club Fitting, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7081 • 6833 • 6462 • 5577 (73) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 5 4 4 3 5 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

342 171 476 340 437 178 492 373 352

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 5 4 3 4 5

292 373 446 190 558 446 145 341 510

Contact Details

117

Grange Park Golf Club Prescot Road, Toll Bar, St. Helens, Merseyside, WA10 3AD Telephone: 01744 26318 Email enquiries via website www.grangeparkgolfclub.co.uk

08. How to Find

GRANGE PARK

Grange Park Golf Club is situated a mile from St. Helens town centre.

Please ensure you search for Grange Park Golf Club and Prescot Road (A58) on any satellite navigations systems, or use post code WA10 3AD.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 3 5 5 4 3 4

Our Clubhouse is an ideal resting place after your round, where you will find our bar and catering staff willing to serve you.

Grange Park Golf Club is a traditional parkland course set in the industrial town of St Helens, but you wouldn’t know it; neither would you realise that the Club was established in 1891.

Grange Park Golf Club can cater for any society soirée and we will tailor our package to suit your needs.

At 6496 yards from the medal tees, it’s a true test of golfing skill. The course’s main defence are the greens, which are regularly amongst the best in the country and the views from our the highest points are stunning.

18 holes, Par 72 • 6496 • 6278 • 5557 (73) H OLE

If you have played Grange Park you will need little or no persuasion regarding the merits of our Championship Course.

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

348 354 362 208 489 499 350 153 444

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 5 3 4 4

320 453 463 504 186 492 160 349 362

Green Fees Limited Availability Special offers Summer 4 ball special £120.00 (April - August) Summer 4 ball special £100.00 (September - October) Winter 4 ball special £80.00 (November to March)

Chosen as the venue for the 2014 Lancashire Amateur Championship in May - 23rd, 24th and 25th - come and play this gem of a course and enjoy a unique parkland challenge.

Weekdays £40.00 18 holes £45.00 27 holes Weekends & Bank Holidays £45.00 18 holes £50.00 27 holes

To take full advantage of our special offers please contact our Professional now on 01744 28785 If there are 12 or more players, please check our SOCIETY page for Winter Special Offers and Summer Packages

Contact Details

118

Haydock Park Golf Club Golborne Park, Newton Lane Newton-Le-Willows Merseyside WA12 0HX Telephone: 01925 228525 secretary@haydockparkgc.co.uk www.haydockparkgc.co.uk 09. How to Find

HAYDOCK PARK

From M6, Junction 23 Exit junction 23 towards St Helens/ LiverpoolA580. Road merges onto E Lancashire Rd/A49 (signs for Manchester/A580). At the roundabout, take the 4th exit onto A580 heading towards M6/St Helens, turn left at Newton Lane, golf club is on your left.

Founded in 1877, Haydock Park Golf Club is a well-established golf course situated near Haydock Park Racecourse. It is a mature parkland course of just over 6,000 yards.

The course was designed by the famous golf course architect James Braid.

Haydock Park is one of the North West’s premier golf clubs; it’s tree-lined fairways and well bunkered greens make scoring well a real challenge, for both high and low handicappers. We welome visitors every day during the week except Tuesdays (Ladies Only) and weekends. The Club is an excellent friendly venue for a day’s golf offering superb

catering and clubhouse decor. Being very convenient to the M6/A580 junction, the Club is readily accessible from all directions.

Signature Hole Rated by many members as the feature hole on the course, the par 4, 6th has a daunting drive down a funnel of trees from a magnificent three tiered tee. With out of bounds all the way down the right and two bunkers placed perfectly to catch the slightest fade a drive to the left center is ideal as this fairway also slopes from left to right. A very large and high cross bunker 29 yards from the green makes distance judgement difficult.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6073 • 5826 • 5390 • 5097 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 5 3 5 4 4 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

404 166 484 110 503 317 303 170 424

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 4 4 5 4 4 3

354 370 140 434 282 493 320 369 183

Visitors and Societies welcome with golf packages tailored to suit your needs.

For more information please contact Jill or Vicki on 01925 229525 option 6.

Haydock Park Golf Club Newton-Le-Willows, Merseyside, WA12 0HX

www.haydockparkgc.co.uk

Contact Details

119

Hesketh Golf Club Cockle Dick’s Lane Southport, PR9 9QQ Telephone: 01704 536897 Email enquiries via website www.heskethgolfclub.co.uk

10. How to Find

Hesketh Golf Club in Southport is set amidst the towering Victorian villas of Southport’s premier residential area - Hesketh Park, & is the town’s oldest golf club, founded in 1885. Standing alone on the crest of a tall sandhill, the clubhouse dominates the golf course, and the surrounding district.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Indoor Teaching Facility, Chipping Area, Practice Ground, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6703 • 6239 • 5639 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 4 3 4 4 5 4 4

HESKETH

Hesketh is at Cockle Dick’s Lane which is off Cambridge Road. Cambridge Road is the A565, the main road between Southport and Preston.

The turn off to Cockle Dick’s Lane is almost 2 miles North of Southport Town Centre along the A565.

To get to Southport from the M6, take J26 exit and continue along M58 until the Southport exit.

Follow the A577 and then the A570 through Ormskirk to Southport.

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

383 158 444 183 372 450 516 349 439

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 5 4 4 3 5 5

340 186 422 515 392 382 187 505 480

The course is at the northern end of southwest Lancashire`s sand dune system, which is the home of so many great golf courses.

Professional championship golf has been played on these famous old links from the club`s earliest days, and the course has been regularly used as a final qualifying course

Date 10 Aug 11 Aug 11 Aug 12 Aug 13 Aug 14 Aug 15 Aug 16 Aug

Hesketh Festival Week

when The Open is played at Royal Birkdale. The course sets a unique challenge with half of the holes threaded through tall sand dunes; whilst the other holes border the Ribble estuary.

15th, Par 4. A blind tee shot over a large sand dune looks imposing. The ideal line is the church spire. With large sand dunes covered in rough on the right and left a straight tee shot is a must. An accurate approach shot is then needed to avoid the pot bunker which guards the right side of the green.16th.

Without doubt the most picturesque par 3 on the course. A long iron is usually needed to a green surrounded by bunkers and sand dunes.

Competition Mixed 4BBB Junior Open Ladies’ Team of 4 (Stableford) Men’s Team of 4 (Stableford) Men’s Senior 4BBB (Stableford) Men’s Team of 4 (Stableford) Men’s Team of 4 (medal) Men’s 4BBB (Stableford)

Entry fee £50 £12 £80 £100 £40 £100 £100 £60

Anyone interested should contact the Secretary Manager, Paul Corker, on 01704 536897 or secretary@heskethgolfclub.co.uk

Contact Details

120

Heswall Golf Club Cottage Lane, Gayton Wirral, CH60 8PB Telephone: 0151 342 1237 secretary@heswallgolfclub.com www.heswallgolfclub.com

11. How to Find

HESWALL

Exit Jct. 4 from the M53 and take the 2nd turning on the left marked “Heswall 4 miles”. Follow the A5137 to the roundabout, where you will see the Devon Doorway pub on the right. Bear right and follow the signs for “Gayton / Heswall Golf Club”.

Situated on the Wirral Peninsula, nestled between North Wales and the English Golf Coasts, Heswall Golf Club is a distinguished and beautiful 18 hole, 6,882 yard parkland course.

It is within easy reach of the cities of Manchester, Liverpool and Chester with breathtaking views of the Welsh hills from the banks of the Dee Estuary, overlooking one of the United Kingdom’s premier RSPB World Bird Sanctuaries, providing an unrivalled and peaceful environment for any golfer to enjoy this wonderful venue.

The course presents a variety of challenges for short and long handicap players and has been the venue for a number of national

championships in recent years. The club has a very active playing membership and in recent years, has hosted the Wirral Classic and a number of county, national and international fixtures.

Whether you are visiting Heswall Golf Club as an individual visitor or as a guest of a member, with a society or corporate event, our recently renovated clubhouse will provide you with a place for unparalleled relaxation as you enjoy a drink, snack or full restaurant facility whilst taking in the fantastic panoramic views of the course and Dee Estuary from the comfort of our open glass fronted extended patio.

Facilities Lounge, Bar, Catering Facilities, Putting Green, Indoor Teaching Facility, Trolleys, Buggies, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6882 • 6624 • 6272 • 5773 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Coming to the Open Championship?

Play Heswall Golf Course 13th-21st July 2014

PAR

4 4 4 3 5 4 3 4 5

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

421 393 351 209 545 335 158 330 511

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 5 4 3 4 3 5 4

431 350 509 450 136 460 183 518 334

SPECTATOR Golf OFFER

4 Ball for only £200 Limited Tee Times available book early to avoid disappointment. Advance booking:- Professional Shop, Heswall Golf Club:- 0151 342 7431, book through our website at www.heswallgolfclub.com

Contact Details

121

Houghwood Golf Billinge Hill, Crank Road, St Helens, WA11 8RL Telephone: 01744 89 44 44 office@houghwoodgolf.co.uk www.houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk

12. How to Find

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Function/Conference Room, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6374 • 5990 • 5341 16th, Par 3. 204 yards (white tee) “Little Cinder”. The view from the tee is worth the green fee alone. A 50ft drop in elevation from tee to green & unpredictable wind directions make club selection here a little tricky. A large undulating green which is protected by a large left hand side bunker accepts a well struck tee shot with anything from a 3 wood to a wedge and two putts gives the golfer a great sense of achievement.

HOUGHWOOD

Leave M6 at Junction 23 - Follow signs for A580 Liverpool At 3rd set of lights turn right onto A571 to Wigan (Waterside Inn on your right) Follow this road to Billinge till you reach a mini roundabout. Turn left into Rainford Road Proceed for approx 1 mile till you approach a right fork on a left hand bend (Gores Lane). Take this fork to a T junction. Turn right into Crank Road, go over a hump back bridge and start to climb the hill. The golf course is now on your right hand side The entrance is located on the right between a stone barn and a bungalow.

Houghwood was constructed during 1994/95, amidst some 132 acres, and has magnificent panoramic views over the Lancashire plain and the Welsh hills which makes Houghwood an interesting course to play.

At par 71 and 6374 yards for men, and 5341 yards for ladies, it provides a stimulating and enjoyable test for golfers of all handicaps.

The large greens built to USGA specification are probably the finest in the area and a permanant track allows the use of the large fleet of buggies and trolleys the whole year round.

The specially designed stone clubhouse

WEEKDAY SUMMER GOLF DEALS Without Buggies 4 Ball: £80 - 3 Ball: £60 - 2 Ball: £40 With Buggies 4 Ball: £120 - 3 Ball: £100 - 2 Ball: £60 NEWLY REFURBISHED BAR / RESTAURANT OPENS MAY

01744 894444 office@houghwoodgolf.co.uk www.houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk

compliments the parkland surroundings and features a spacious Spike bar and terrace overlooking the 18th green.

Houghwood provides quality facilities, friendly, professional service and superb value for money.

Corporate Golf: Whether a corporate member or visitor to Houghwood we aim to offer a personal service with a professional approach.

With our superb venue and convenient location we can ensure that your corporate golf not only promotes your business but is enjoyed and remembered by colleagues and clents alike.

Societies Welcome.

Contact Details

122

Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club Bradshaws Lane, Ainsdale, Southport, PR8 3LG

SOUTHPORT & AINSDALE

Telephone: 01704 578000 Email enquiries via website www.sandagolfclub.co.uk

13. How to Find From M6, exit junction 26, take the M58 to Liverpool/Southport. Exit at junction 3 to A570/St Helens/ Southport. Turn left at A577/Park Rd, then left at A577/Church Street, continue onto A570 Southport Rd. Turn left at A5147. Turn right at Carr Moss Lane. Continue onto Segars Lane. At roundabout take 3rd exit onto A565/Liverpool Rd. Turn left at Bradshaws Lane.

Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club is a true championship links course, with first class facilities to match. The course is set amongst the dunes on the North West coastline and is another of course designer, James Braid’s great creations.

The club has hosted two Ryder Cup matches in 1933 and 1937 and a number of other prestigious championships including The British Ladies Open and The British Amateur.

It remains a final qualifying course for The Open Championship and it has been voted by one golf magazine as among the top 50 courses in Great Britain.

The course is a magnificent test of golf, especially with the sea breeze, profusion of heather and gorse combining to provide you with a challenging and immensely enjoyable experience.

Hole 16, Par 5. “Gumbleys”. Certainly the feature hole on the course. A straight tee shot is required towards the sleepers some 300 yards away. A good drive leaves a blind second shot over a 20ft high bank of sleepers. On reaching the brow of the hill, you will see a long narrow green in front of a high links dune. This very picturesque hole demands respect, offering a birdie opportunity – but many cards have been wrecked here.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6768 • 6339 (71) • 5912 • 5676 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

3 5 4 4 4 4 5 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

185 504 385 313 400 372 478 147 447

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 3 4 4 5 4 4

158 426 407 145 380 333 490 430 339

Open Competitions now available to book online – Gents, Ladies and Seniors Visit www.sandagolfclub.co.uk/competition.php

Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club. Bradshaws Lane, Ainsdale, Southport, PR8 3LG. Telephone: 01704 578000. www.sandagolfclub.co.uk

Contact Details

123

The West Lancashire Golf Club Hall Road West, Blundellsands Liverpool, L23 8SZ

THE WEST LANCASHIRE

Telephone: 0151 924 1076 golf@westlancashiregolf.co.uk www.westlancashiregolf.co.uk

14. How to Find From M6. At junction 21A, exit onto M62 toward Liverpool/Warrington (N)/ Southport/M57. At junction 6, exit onto M57 toward Docks/Prescot/Southport.

Turn left onto Dunnings Bridge Rd/A5036.

Turn right onto Copy Ln/A5207. Turn left onto Quarry Rd/A565. Go through 1 roundabout. Turn right onto Coronation Rd/B5193. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Cooks Rd. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Manor. Turn left onto Hall Rd E. Turn right, destination will be on the left Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Indoor Teaching Room, Lessons, Pro shop

Imaginative and varied in layout, the course has so much more to offer than simply a wonderful experience of classic links with stunning views of the Mersey Estuary, and the Welsh Mountains.

Final Qualifying Course 2012 Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7055 • 6772 • 6239 (70) • 5834 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 3 4 5 3 4 4 4

The West Lancashire Golf Club was founded in 1873 and is among the ten oldest golf clubs in England, and boasts one of the most natural and testing links in the British Isles.

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

436 489 159 411 478 156 358 446 403

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 3 4 4 4 5 3 4

358 561 179 371 447 395 530 167 428

Our recently refurbished modern clubhouse offers state of the art facilities. In its comfortable bars, dining rooms and lounges you can relax after your round on the links and

take in the spectacular views while enjoying a drink and sampling our excellent food.

At West Lancashire we are proud of our history and challenging championship links where visitors are most welcome throughout the year. We look forward to welcoming you for a round in the near future.

Signature Hole Hole 14, ‘Bell’. Par 4, 447 yards (Blue Tee) The most difficult hole on the course. The tee shot needs to be in the order of 300 yards to give an unobstructed view of the green. If you cannot see the green, play short and left. No bunkers around this green, you will see why.

CALL US ON: 0151 924 1076 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR THE LATEST OFFERS: WWW.WESTLANCASHIREGOLF.CO.UK

Contact Details

124

Wirral Ladies’ Golf Club 93 Bidston Road, Prenton, Wirral, CH43 6TS Telephone: 0151 652 1255 wirral.ladies@btconnect.com www.wirral-ladies-golf-club.co.uk

15. How to Find

WIRRAL LADIES’

Exit the M53 at junction 3 and follow the signs for Birkenhead. Follow Woodchurch Road (A552) and turn left onto Storeton Road (B5151) which merges into Ingestre Road then Talbot Road and finally Bidston Road.

Facilities

Wirral Ladies’ is a delightful, undulating heathland course combining heather, gorse and natural woodland. At around 5,000 yards this compact course can be played in a little over three hours, making it a perfect venue for a half day outing, corporate day or for those with limited time to spare.

This historic venue was originally created in 1894 for the wives and families of Royal Liverpool members. The course was designed by local lad Harry Hilton, twice a winner of the Open including at his home club Royal Liverpool in 1897. His clever design offers a subtle challenge which is about so much more than how far

you can hit the ball. The course was recently given a four star review and described as “a short but fine test of golf” in a national golf publication. The course occupies the highest land on the Wirral Peninsula with sandstone bedrock and this geological feature, together with the considerable investment made by the club in drainage improvements, means that the course drains quickly after heavy rain and the full greens are normally in use all year round.

The recently refurbished locker and bathroom areas have improved facilities for members and visitors alike and a warm welcome awaits in the clubhouse bar and dining room.

Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop.

The Clubhouse has a well known reputation for delicious home made cakes and confectionary; lunches, daily specials and afternoon teas are also available.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 68 • 5180 • 4954 (70) H OLE

PAR

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 4 4 4 4 4 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

378 120 344 292 343 357 330 132 261

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 4 4 4 4 3 4

274 322 173 422 343 352 256 163 318

WIRRAL LADIES’ GC 2014 OPENS All 4BBB pairs. £35 per pair entry (including 2’s).

Wed 21st May Sun 29th June Sun 6th July Sun 7th Sept Tues 23rd Sept Wed 5th Nov

Ladies Open Men’s Open Mixed Open 1 Mixed Open 2 Men’s Seniors Open (over 55) Bonfire Fun Open (12 hole 3 B Stableford only £15 per team)

To enter visit www.wirral-ladies-golf-club.co.uk

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Merseyside Directory

Ashton-In-Makerfield Golf Club Telephone: 01942 727267 www.ashton-in-makerfieldgolfclub.co.uk

Formby Golf Club Telephone: 01704 873090 www.formbygolfclub.co.uk

Prenton Golf Club Telephone: 0151 608 1636 www.prentongolfclub.co.uk

Aintree Golf Centre Telephone: 0151 523 5157 www.aintree.co.uk

Formby Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01704 875 699 www.formbyhallgolfclub.co.uk

Royal Birkdale Golf Club Telephone: 01704 568857 www.royalbirkdale.com

Allerton Park Golf Club Telephone: 0151 428 7490 Website n/a

Formby Ladies Golf Club Telephone: 01704 873 493 www.formbyladiesgolfclub.co.uk

Royal Liverpool Golf Club (Hoylake) Telephone: 0151 632 6737 www.royal-liverpool-golf.com

Arrowe Park Golf Club Telephone: 0151 677 1527 www.arroweparkgolfclub.com

Grange Park (St Helens) Golf Club Telephone: 01744 28785 www.grangeparkgolfclub.co.uk

Sherdley Park Golf Club Telephone: 01744 815516 www.sherdleyparkgolfclub.co.uk

The Bidston Golf Club Ltd. Telephone: 0151 638 3412 www.bidstongolf.co.uk

Haydock Park Golf Club Telephone: 01925 228525 www.haydockparkgc.co.uk

Southport and Ainsdale Golf Club Telephone: 01704 577316 www.sandagolfclub.co.uk

Blundells Hill Golf Club Telephone: 0151 4300100 www.blundellshill.co.uk

Hesketh Golf Club Telephone: 01704 536897 www.heskethgolfclub.co.uk

Southport Municipal Golf Club Telephone: 01704 535286 Website n/a

Bootle Golf Club Telephone: 0151 928 1371 Website n/a

Heswall Golf Club Telephone: 0151 342 7431 www.heswallgolfclub.com

Southport Old Links Golf Club Telephone: 01704 228207 www.southportoldlinksgolfclub.co.uk

Bowring Golf Club Telephone: 0151 480 8685 www.mackgolf.co.uk

Hillside Golf Club Telephone: 01704 568360 www.hillside-golfclub.co.uk

The North West National Golf & Country Club Telephone: 01744 885808 www.thenorthwestnational.co.uk

Brackenwood Golf Club Telephone: 0151 608 3093 www.brackenwoodgolf.co.uk

Houghwood Golf Club Telephone: 01744 89 47 54 www.houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Wallasey Golf Club Telephone: 0151 638 3888 www.wallaseygolfclub.com

Bromborough Golf Club Telephone: 0151 334 4499 www.bromboroughgolfclub.org.uk

Hoylake Municipal Golf Club Telephone: 0151 632 6823 www.hoylakegolfclub.com

Warren (Wallasey) Golf Club Telephone: 0151 639 5730 www.wirral.gov.uk

Caldy Golf Club Telephone: 0151 625 1818 www.caldygolfclub.co.uk

Huyton and Prescot Golf Club Telephone: 0151 489 2022 www.huytonandprescotgolf.co.uk

West Derby Golf Club Telephone: 0151 220 5478 www.westderbygc.co.uk

Childwall Golf Club Telephone: 0151 487 9871 www.childwallgolfclub.co.uk

Leasowe Golf Club Telephone: 0151 678 5460 www.leasowegolfclub.co.uk

West Lancashire Golf Club Telephone: 0151 924 5662 www.westlancashiregolf.co.uk

Eastham Lodge Golf Club Telephone: 0151 327 3008 www.easthamlodgegolfclub.co.uk

Lee Park Golf Club Telephone: 0151 498 4666 www.leepark.co.uk

Wirral Ladies Golf Club Telephone: 0151 652 2468 www.wirral-ladies-golf-club.co.uk

Eccleston Park Golf Club Telephone: 0151 493 0033 www.ecclestonepark@crown-golf.co.uk

Liverpool Municipal Golf Club Telephone: 0151 546 5435 www.liverpool.gov.uk

Woolton Golf Club Telephone: 0151 486 2298 www.wooltongolfclub.com

Formby Golf Centre Telephone: 01704 875 952 www.redteegolf.co.uk

Mossock Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01695 421717 www.mossockhallgolfclub.co.uk

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cumbria Introduction

Photos courtesy VisitBritain

©Britainonview / Rod Edwards

126

Cumbria The County of Cumbria includes the old counties of Cumberland, Westmorland, and part of North Lancashire.

Much of its appeal stems from the magnificent Lake District National Park and a range of steely mountains that stand guard over a veritable treasure trove of crowd-pleasing attractions.

riding, walking, heritage sites, attractions, gardens and stunning coastal scenery.

England’s second largest county – and its least populated – has a sense of wonder unequalled elsewhere thanks to its inspirational landscape, which can smile, brood or blaze depending on the season.

Cumbria is especially famous as the home of Beatrix Potter and Lake District has been the inspiration for generations of poets, the most famous of which is Wordsworth.

This unique County has something to suit everybody’s taste - great outdoor pursuits including waters sports, climbing, horse

This dazzling region covering almost 900 square miles contains no less than 16 ‘great’ lakes, as well as tarns, glacier-gouged valleys, chocolate-box villages – and even some marvellous beaches. It also boasts England’s five highest mountains and the country’s deepest lake. Cumbria and the Lake District is one of the great golfing areas of England, offering quality courses for the discriminating golfer in magnificent settings.

©Britainonview / Rod Edwards

©Britainonview / - Britain on View

©Britainonview / - Britain on View

Very few places in Britain can hope to compete with the undeniable beauty and romance offered by the county of Cumbria.

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cumbria Introduction

01. Furness 02. Silloth on Solway 03. Ulverston

A7

02

A69

Carlisle

A595

A596

M6

A595

A66 A66 M6

A591 A685 A595 A6 Windemere

M6 A590 A65 03 01

“Cumbria and the Lake District is one of the great golfing areas of England, offering quality courses for the discriminating golfer in magnificent settings.�

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Contact Details

128

Furness Golf Club Central Drive, Walney Island Barrow in Furness Cumbria LA14 2LN Telephone: 01229 471232 furnessgolfclub@btconnect www.furnessgolfclub.co.uk

01. How to Find

FURNESS

The club is situated on Walney Island in the South of Cumbria. For visitors coming from the M6 leave at Junction 36 following the signs from Barrow and South Lakes along the A590. On reaching Barrow follow the signs to Walney Island, stay in the left hand lane over the bridge to Walney and go straight across the traffic lights.

The club is 500 yards on the right.

With its stunning backdrop of the Lakeland Hills and spectacular views across the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man, Furness offers a true links experience you cannot afford to miss.

Opened in 1872, it’s England’s 6th oldest golf club and one of the hidden gems of Cumbria located on the Furness Peninsula.

It offers a fair but challenging test of golf for all abilities, there’s something for everyone, from the big hitter to the player who prides himself on the gentler touch.

Furness is becoming ever more popular with golfers from outside Cumbria and visitors are assured of a friendly welcome at all times.

Signature Hole: The 188 yard downhill par three 10th played from an elevated tee is closely guarded by a ring of bunkers on three sides of the green and a wartime gunners tower on the steep bank to the left. Anything short will find sand: anything over hit, more sand, so club selection is crucial.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, practice area, putting green, trolleys, shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6222 • 5959 • 5367 H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

5 533

10

3

188

2

3 156

11

4

434

3

4 299

12

4

337

4

4 332

13

4

410

5

5 539

14

4

373

6

3 139

15

4

315

7

4 407

16

4

262

8

4 373

17

4

383

9

4 397

18

4

345

Great Summer Savers 2 ball £35.00 / 4 ball £60.00 All bookings must be made in advance.

For tee time availability please contact the Secretary’s office on 01229 471232 quoting ‘Summer Saver’ or Email: furnessgolfclub@btconnect.com

Contact Details

129

Silloth Golf Club The Club House, Station Road Silloth, Wigton, CA7 4BL Telephone: 01697 331304 office@sillothgolfclub.co.uk www.sillothgolfclub.co.uk

SILLOTH ON SOLWAY

02. How to Find Location travelling from the South. M6 Junction 41. B5305 to Wigton. BB5302 to Silloth Location travelling from the North/ East. M6 Junction43. A69 Carlisle.

A595/A596 to Wigton. B5302 Silloth.

Approx travelling time from the M6 45 minutes.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Snooker Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Buggies, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6641 • 6408 • 6151 • 5806 Visitors play from Yellow Tees H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 371

10

4

283

2

4 311

11

4

402

3

4 352

12

3

191

4

4 352

13

5

450

5

5 499

14

5

462

6

3 172

15

4

390

7

4 363

16

3

169

8

4 348

17

5

488

9

3 121

18

4

427

The Silloth golf course has been a major visitor attraction ever since Davy Grant laid it out it in 1892 over the linksland west of the docks. It has evolved continuously since then, including contributions from two of the great classic designers: Willie Park Junior and Dr Alister MacKenzie. A number of blind holes still remain, architecturally-incorrect in the modern era, but a source of uncertainty, surprise and occasional delight to successive generations of members and visitors. Some of the original sandy wastes remain as heroic hazards, but the course is mostly clad in mature dune flora that is ideal for presenting the great challenge of links golf. The fairways are covered in the

springiest of Cumbrian turf, inviting crisp iron shots and courageous woods. Shoreward holes on the way out are mostly framed by high sandhills covered with heather and bent; gorse prevails on the back nine. The fairways are never generous in width, but always more rewarding than first appearance from the tee.

The great golf writer Bernard Darwin wrote about his first visit to the course in 1925.

Ever the traditionalist, and never one to hide his enthusiasms, he wound up his account: ‘I never more violently fell in love with a course at first sight.’

Come and play the best value golf course in Britain Only £49 midweek for a day’s golf

016973 31304 www.sillothgolfclub.co.uk Follow us on social media. Facebook – Silloth on Solway golf club Twitter - @silloth golf club

Contact Details

130

Ulverston Golf Club Bardsea Park, Ulverston, LA12 9QJ Telephone: 01229 582824 enquiries@ulverstongolf.co.uk www.ulverstongolf.co.uk

03. How to Find

ULVERSTON

The Club is situated close to the delightful village of Bardsea in the south of Cumbria. For visitors coming from the M6 leave at Junction 36 following the signs for Barrow and South Lakes along the A590. Follow the A590 to Ulverston upon which you should turn left on the A5087, 300 yards after Booths Supermarket situated by the Shell garage. After a few miles take the right turning just after you pass the Manjushri Institute.

The club is 400 yards up on the right.

With spectacular views over Morecambe Bay, and the Lakeland Fells in the background, Ulverston Golf Club is lucky enough to boast one of the most picturesque golf courses in Cumbria. Set in the Furness Hills, it is surprisingly quite flat and easy on the legs, although it measures a considerable 6261 yards with a par of 71 from tee to pin over eighteen holes, so stamina is a useful quality to have.

It is set on mature, undulating, partwooded parkland, and was redesigned by H.S. Colt, a World renowned leading golf course architect and part of the famous triumvirate of course designers, so visitors

are assured of a most enjoyable, challenging and hopefully rewarding round of golf.

Signature Hole: Hole 18, Par 4 ‘Conishead’ The final tee is close to the highest point on the course and offers splendid views. The Old Man of Coniston can be seen in the north, Conishead priory to the east, with Morecambe Bay and Blackpool Tower to the south. This dogleg right requires a good drive with sufficient carry to reach a plateau beyond the marker post. Any shot right of the trees could be OB. The second shot is just as difficult to a severely sloping green, with a pair of bunkers on the right, which often gather in the short ball played to the pin.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Meeting Room, Extensive Practice Areas, 4 Bay Driving Range, Swing Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6261 • 6060 • 5720 (74) H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 341

10

3

139

2

4 315

11

5

523

3

4 414

12

4

351

4

5 505

13

5

484

5

3 153

14

3

188

6

4 408

15

4

390

7

4 368

16

4

352

8

3 161

17

4

379

9

4 358

18

4

432

2014 O P E N S JOHNSTON TROPHY OPEN – SUNDAY 6TH JULY – £28 PER PAIR CAPTAIN’S AM/AM CHARITY TEAM OPEN – SUNDAY 27TH JULY – £50 PER TEAM H DEARDEN ‘MIXED’ OPEN – SUNDAY 3RD AUGUST – £28 PER COUPLE BOB BAKER ‘SENIORS’ 4 BALL OPEN – WEDNESDAY 6TH AUGUST – £28 PER PAIR LADIES CHARITY OPEN – WEDNESDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER – £20 PER PAIR MEN’S ‘SENIORS’ 4BALL OPEN – THURSDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER – £28 PER PAIR 4 MAN TEAM OPEN – WEDNESDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER – £56 PER TEAM STAINTON JUBILEE ‘MIXED TEAM’ OPEN – SUNDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER – £56 PER TEAM MEN’S ‘SENIORS’ 4BALL OPEN – THURSDAY 2ND OCTOBER – £28 PER PAIR

Ulverston Golf Club

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cumbria Directory

Alston Moor Tel: 01434 381354 www.alstonmoorgolfclub.org.uk

Furness Tel: 01229 471232 www.furnessgolfclub.co.uk

Silloth on Solway Tel: 01697 331304 www.sillothgolfclub.co.uk

Appleby Tel: 01768 351432 www.applebygolfclub.co.uk

Grange Fell Tel: 01539 558513 www.grangefellgolfclub.co.uk

Silverdale Tel: 01524 702074 www.silverdalegolfclub.co.uk

Barrow Tel: 01229 831358 www.barrowgolfclub.co.uk

Grange-over-Sands Tel: 01539 533754 www.grangegolfclub.co.uk

St Bees Tel: 01946 824300 www.stbeesgolfclub.org.uk

Brampton Tel: 01697 72255 www.bramptongolfclub.com

Kendal Tel: 01539 733708 www.kendalgolfclub.co.uk

Stoney Holme Tel: 01228 33208 www.carlisleleisure.co.uk

Brayton Park Tel: 01697 322517 www.braytonpark.net

Keswick Tel: 01768 779324 www.keswickgolfclub.com

The Eden Tel: 01228 573003 www.edengolf.co.uk

Carlisle Tel: 01228 513029 www.carlislegolfclub.org

Kirkby Lonsdale Tel: 01524 276365 www.kirkbylonsdalegolf.co.uk

Ulverston Tel: 01229 582824 enquirires@ulverstongolf.co.uk

Carus Green Tel: 01539 721097 www.carusgreen.co.uk

Maryport Tel: 01900 812605 www.maryportgolfclub.co.uk

Whitehaven Tel: 01946 591177 www.whitehavengolfclub.com

Casterton Tel: 01524 271592 www.castertongolf.co.uk

Penrith Tel: 01768 891919 www.penrithgolfclub.co.uk

Windermere Tel: 01539 443123 www.windermeregolfclub.co.uk

Cockermouth Tel: 01768 776941 www.cockermouthgolf.co.uk

Seascale Tel: 01946 728202 www.seascalegolfclub.co.uk

Workington Tel: 01900 603460 www.workingtongolfclub.com

Dalston Hall Tel: 01228 710165 www.dalstonhallholidaypark.co.uk

Sedbergh Tel: 01539 621551 www.sedberghgolfclub.com

Dunnerholme Tel: 01229 462675 www.thedunnerholmegolfclub.co.uk

Silecroft Tel: 01229 770467 www.silecroftgolfclub.co.uk

131

Costa del Sol Golf Holidays

Hotel Tamisa Golf

Incredible Offer Hotel & Golf Package for 3/4 days stay Bed & Breakfast sharing twin or double room with terrace and golf views.

Includes 2 or 3 Rounds of Golf at Mijas Los Lagos (new championship course) & Mijas Los Olivos.

All with free transfers from Airport and Golf Courses included free of charge.

Amazing Price from

â‚Ź249

Per person Including all taxes (min 4 persons)

Extra nights on request.

Hotel Tamisa Golf Camino Viejo de Coin, km 3.3, 29649 Mijas Costa (Malaga), Spain Tel.: (+34) 952 585 988 Fax: (+34) 952 663 893 Email: reservas@hoteltamisagolf.com

www.hoteltamisagolf.com

Autumn bookings already available on reserv.golf@marbellaclub.com

134

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

The Best for less!

CostaLessGolf S.L offices are based in Fuengirola, Malaga, Spain and our company has been established since 2005. CostaLessGolf prides itself on having an extensive knowledge of the very best golf courses with green fees at discounted rates, 3*, 4* & 5* accommodation, car hire with fare fuel policies, luxury airport and golf transfers and golf club hire. Our services are provided along the coast not only throughout mainland Spain but also in the Canary Islands, Balearic Islands, Portugal, Turkey and the USA. CostaLessGolf S.L is a member of IAGTO (The Global Golf Tourism Organisation) and strives to develop the very best working practises within the golf industry and develop good working relationships within all areas of the global golf tourist industry.

We strive to provide our clients with the best value for their individual budget, especially in difficult economic times, but without compromising on quality and high standards of service.

With flexible conditions clients are able to reserve a single green fee to a complete golf holiday package. We cater for individuals, couples and large groups of golfers with handicaps at all levels of ability, including ladies, gentlemen, professionals, juniors, academies, societies, residents and non- golfers.

Our Mission Statement “Here at CostaLessGolf.com we guarantee to provide the best for less� is of high importance to our Company. We provide our long established client base of satisfied customers an extensive choice of the very best golf packages and golf services via CostaLessGolf S.L and we are confident you will not find better value for money.

CostalessGolf S.L is a Spanish Registered Travel Agency fully licensed, bonded and insured via AXA. We invite you to become part of the CostalessGolf Holiday Experience, please contact us today for a free no obligation quote and be amazed what you can save.

Email: enquiries@costalessgolf.com Tel: 0034 965 661 849 / 0034 952 466615 Website: www.costalessgolf.com

How can digital media help golf clubs?

More and more golf clubs are now considering digital and social media as part of their overall business plans when deciding on how to promote and advertise their course and facilities.

Significantly more golf related sponsors are looking for digital media products to complement existing advertising campaigns and strategies.

72% of all online golf booking are done outside of traditional office opening times.

A golfer’s traditional approach to choosing a course to visit and booking a game of golf is changing at a rapid pace due to the increased use of websites, targeted promotions and booking facilities online.

Bringing a fresh, new approach to Golf club marketing and promotion On 1st September 2014, The Golf Guide will be relaunching its digital media presence and products to complement and enhance the established printed magazine - providing a solution to a burning question in the golf course advertising Sector: How can golf courses adapt and keep pace with the ever changing world of digital media to promote their products?

Golf Guide Digital Media will be launching an interactive, content rich mobile enabled website that proactively advertises the golf club as a whole, in a way not currently present in this market sector.

This new site will provide a fresh approach to dynamically advertise golf clubs, their facilities, special offers and complimentary sponsors.

From a golfers’ perspective, we will provide an environment that will allow them to search for courses, hotels, local amenities and book everything directly through one site.

More and more golfers are moving away from classical golf course memberships and are looking to play high quality courses at the right price. To ensure golf courses continue to attract golfers to their courses, marketing concepts and approaches are changing. Leveraging our position as a leading golf publication - we not only publish 10,000 printed copies of the magazine in the region - we are now digitally publishing the magazine to over 11,000 readers in the North West alone on a quarterly basis.

For more information on how your golf club can be part of the new Digital media format, please contact Andrew Noone at andrew@thegolfguide.co.uk

DIGITAL MEDIA

/golfguidehq

@golfguidehq

www.thegolfersguide.co.uk