The North West Golf Guide

Complimentary

August - September 2010

THE NORTH WEST

How to find...

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

Featured Course

Formby Golf Club, Established 1884.

A truly memorable golfing experience

Plus

Features, Latest news, Costa del Sol...

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Bask in glorious sunshine after your incredible victory

Join us on The Golf Guide Tour for the chance to win a golf trip to the Costa del Sol. The first of eight events is at Wychwood Park, Crewe, on 23rd November, with future events taking place from March 2011. Format is Pairs better ball stableford, and the winners from each event are invited to the final on the Costa del Sol in November 2011.

This will include a 3 night stay at The Tamisa Hotel Mijas including flights, all transfers and 3 competitive rounds of golf at Mijas, Santana and El Chaparral. A full list of future events and courses will be included in our October edition of the North West Golf Guide.

To enter call: 07885 748415 or email: competitions@golfguidepublications.com

Hotel Tamisa Golf

Event 1 of 9

WYCHWOOD PARK Tuesday 23rd November 2010 Tea/Coffee & Bacon rolls on arrival Golf Clinic with a PGA Professional Complimentary range balls Putting competition 18 Holes of Golf on the Championship Golf Course Beat the Pro competition Nearest the Pin & Longest Drive Competitions Rolling buffet and amazing prize table

Entry only £45 p.p.

(Discount for Members of Wychwood Park)

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Welcome North West Golf Guide

008 News

012 Featured Course 036 Cheshire

070 Greater Manchester 080 Lancashire

098 Merseyside 122 Travel

Welcome to the North West Golf Guide Welcome to the third edition of the North West Golf Guide, a magazine designed to help local and National golfers select and find the course they wish to play in the North West of England. It gives each golf club the chance to showcase their course and facilities with superb photography and enough information to wet the appetite of any golfer or group of golfers who wish to visit.

The North West Golf Guide is brought to you by the people who publish the Costa del Sol Golf Guidem using a formula which has worked for many years in Spain and is already proving to be a similar success in the North West of England. This bi-monthly magazine features local and international news items, with specialist editorial on a select number of courses each month. Including useful information and directions to the course, these editorials are the chance for each club to highlight themselves and detail any offers and deals they have running during that period.

The magazine is split into 4 areas. Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside & Lancashire.

These areas are colour coded, containing a map highlighting where each course can be found. Whilst our early esitions will feature a number of the courses in each region, this will increase issue by issue. A full golf course listing is also featured in the magazine, containing the address, telephone number, email and website of every golf course in the North West of England.

The Golf Guide is aimed at golfers of all levels from professionals, club players, beginners and societies. We hope that you will find this free publication an enjoyable read, and a must for choosing your golfing calendar of events in the North West for 2010.

The next issue will be available from all golf clubs, select golf shops, driving ranges and hotels from the start of October. Happy golfing from all at the North West Golf Guide!

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.

Issue 3. August - September 2010 Cover Image & Above: Formby Golf Club Published bi-monthly by North West Golf Guide Ltd Reg Office 112-114 Witton Street Northwich, Cheshire CW9 5NW Company No. 7107182 Email: info@golfguidepublications.com Web: www.golfguidepublications.com Publisher: Paul Lambert Telephone: 07786 548629 Email: paul@golfguidepublications.com Director: Kenny Plumb Telephone: 07740 411778 Email: kenny@golfguidepublications.com Printed by: Thinkprint UK Ltd Cameron Court, Winnington Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 4DU Telephone: 01606 784567 Designed by: www.Qreative.es

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News North West Golf Guide

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News North West Golf Guide

Colin Montgomerie names his backroom team

Colin Montgomerie and Darren Clarke both believe Jose Maria Olazabal will still become Ryder Cup captain - probably for the 2012 match in Chicago. Montgomerie originally wanted Olazabal as one of his assistants for Celtic Manor in October, but turned to Clarke instead after deciding the 44-year-old Spaniard’s poor health counted against him.

Olazabal’s only appearance on the European Tour this year was in France as his battle with rheumatic pains goes on.

“I think Jose Maria will be a captain of the Ryder Cup team in the future,” said Montgomerie, who was given the job last year after Olazabal hesitated on making himself available then.

“Unfortunately Jose Maria is not keeping good health right now. He hasn’t played on the European Tour very much this last two years of qualifying.”

Although he could yet make the team - and will play if he does - Clarke agreed last week to be part of the backroom staff along with former team-mates Paul McGinley and Thomas Bjorn, both of whom have captaincy experience from last September’s Vivendi Trophy.

Montgomerie added: “I have spoken to Jose Maria and explained the situation and all he did was wish us the best of luck - you know the passion that he shows for the Ryder Cup - in our quest to regain this fabulous trophy.”

“Montgomerie originally wanted Olazabal as one of his assistants for Celtic Manor in October, but turned to Clarke instead after deciding the 44-year-old Spaniard’s poor health counted against him.“

“Because of his lack of participation, it was just a sign that he wasn’t at that stage to be part of a vice-captaincy role.” “I made that decision on his behalf, I think. It was a phone call that I didn’t want really to make.”

“I think it’s very important nowadays to be part of the Tour, to be playing, to be associated with the players in the locker room, around the course and around the whole Tour.” “All I can say to that is we wish him well. I know he’s not well enough right now to be able to physically play four rounds of golf in a tournament.” “We do hope and pray that he comes back to his winning ways.”

Clarke’s name will doubtless now be added to those of McGinley and Bjorn as possible future

captains, but the Ulsterman speaks up for Olazabal too. “Olly is a legend of European golf - I think that’s how you would categorise him.”

“With his input and everything he has done in past Ryder Cups I’m sure the captaincy role will come round to him at some stage and we would all be delighted to see him as captain.

“He would also make a fantastic captain and he’s another one who would have a huge amount of respect from everyone.”

Olazabal served as Sir Nick Faldo’s assistant in the Valhalla defeat two years ago, but was always luke-warm about the idea of repeating the role and that may well have played a part in Montgomerie’s decision as well.

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Photo by Wojciech Migda

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News North West Golf Guide

Taiwan’s Yani Tseng

Wins the 2010 Ricoh Women’s British Open at Royal Birkdale

Back in April 2009, when Yani Tseng decided to buy Annika Sorenstam’s former home on the 16th fairway at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club, near Orlando in Florida, she envisaged only one minor problem – the Swede’s trophy room was far too large for her own more meagre haul of prizes.

The following month, the-then 20 yearold Taiwanese golfer started to rectify the situation when she captured the LPGA Corning Classic to add to the McDonald’s LPGA title she had won the year before. Earlier this year, she continued the process, claiming her second Major title at the Kraft Nabisco Championship, and now she has consigned such concerns well and truly into the past with a battling one shot victory over the luckless Australian, Katherine Hull, at the 2010 Ricoh Women’s British Open, staged over the majestic links at The Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport.

Tseng, who also share’s Sorenstam’s coach, Pia Nilsson, and who has sought the Swede’s personal advice on how to become the world’s No. 1 golfer, started the final round with a four shot lead over Hull and 5 ahead of the Korean, In-Kyung Kim. It appeared to be enough when both leading protagonists went out in level par 35 but then the leader dropped a shot at the 360-yard par-4 10th and Hull produced birdies at both the 11th and the 13th.

In the end, just as the Taiwanese golfer had predicted the night before, it all came down to the closing stretch where Hull lipped out for a birdie on the par-5 17th and then failed to get up-and-down from the back of 72nd green to finish with a brave 70 for a 10 under par total of 278. Meanwhile, Tseng drove into the lefthand bunker down the last, missed the green in three, putted on and then holed from five feet for a par and a 73 that gave her a slender one stroke victory on 11-under par 277.

The victory brought Tseng a cheque for £260,000 ($408,714), to add to the $3,725,545 she has already banked in her first three full seasons competing on the LPGA Tour. It makes her the youngest player ever to win three women’s Major titles and means that, in the future, Lu Liang Huan, or Mr Lu as he is known to his legion of friends, the man with the Pork Pie hat who finished second behind Lee Trevino at the 1971 Open Championship, will no longer be considered the most famous Taiwanese golfer ever to tread the historic turf at Birkdale.

Perhaps of even more lasting significance, at least as far as the golfing statisticians are concerned, the victory confirms Tseng has now won three Majors long before Sorenstam, her childhood hero, won her first at the relatively advanced age of 24. No mean feat when one

considers the Swede went on to win 10 before retiring prematurely to start a family.

“I can’t really believe I have won this Championship and now have three Major titles to my name,” said Tseng. “Katherine played awesome today. She really pushed me a lot and made the last the last four holes really difficult for me.” Tseng then said she had received a text message from Sorenstam the night before wishing her the best of luck for the final round “It was great. She’s my idol, she’s helped me a lot so it’s great she took the time to do it. “She told me she was really happy to see me on top and said that was where I belonged. She told me to trust my ability and to relax and enjoy it.

I put a few of her comments into my yardage book and I read them as I went round.”

Hull admitted she felt a mixture of pride and pain after coming up just short in her quest to win a first Major title.“I am delighted with the way I played this week, although also a little sad I didn’t quite make it,” said Hull, whose sole victory on the LPGA Tour came back at the 2008 CN Canadian Women’s Open.

“Yani played great,” she added, “and I couldn’t do quite enough to catch her. I was really happy with my ball striking the entire week. I guess I just need to go home and work a little harder on my short game.”

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Featured Course North West Golf Guide

Formby Golf Club A Potted History

The arrival of the recently extended railway to Southport (1851) created the opportunity for the development of all the golf courses along this coast. Formby lay between it and the sand hills and followed the pattern of golf course design created at St Andrews and Westward Ho! and the earliest local course of West Lancashire (1873).

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Featured Course North West Golf Guide

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Featured Course North West Golf Guide

The history of Formby Golf Club dates back to 11th December 1884 when the Club was founded. At that time, the links comprised 9 holes and opened only from 1st October to mid April each year. Membership was limited to 25 local residents at the rate of 1 guinea (£1.05p) per season. The land was rented from a tenant farmer at £10 per season. The course extended to 18 holes, under the guidance of Willie Park, at the turn of the 20th Century.

The course is set amongst dune land, heath land and woodland in an estate of about 470 acres and is a site of special scientific interest.

It is an area of great importance to nature conservationists. An ecology booklet was published in 2006 contained a hole by hole guide to its wildlife and conservation. The course features fast seaside greens, 83 natural sand bunkers and surrounds the area of the property occupied by Formby Ladies’ Golf Club.

FGC is unique in that there is a separate Ladies club established in 1896 on the estate. They have their own golf course and clubhouse. You will see the course in the middle of the men’s course and the clubhouse on your right as you pass to the 1st Tee. FGC also has a Hippo in the Golfers Bar. Its wartime exploits are detailed on a plaque adjacent to the hippo!

In recent years, to reflect the improvement in golfing equipment, there have been modifications to the course and in 1998 new back tees were built, extending the length to over 7000 yards (SSS 74) but, more importantly bringing back into play, for the low handicap golfer, most of the original drive-length bunkers.

The original clubhouse was destroyed by fire in 1900 and rebuilt in 1904. The Clubhouse was extended in 1998. The clubhouse has dormy accommodation for 10 guests. Today, 700 members enjoy the game in surroundings bestowed upon them by men of vision.

In 1972, erosion of the shoreline required the creation of new holes at 7, 8 & 9 and a new 10th Tee playing to the existing 10th Green turning this into a short hole. These holes came into play in the early 80’s and were used for the 1984 Amateur

Apart from minor alterations of a tweaking nature little has changed until the construction of a Practice Ground, short practice area and new 14th Hole in 2005. There are four different teeing areas: Blue (7028 yards); White (6698 yards); Yellow (6505 yards) all par 72 and Red (6063 yards) par 70. The Red Tees indicate the FGC Short Course.

Formby is recognised as a true amateurs’ course. It has held 4 Amateur Championships, numerous R & A Championships for Boys, Mid-Amateurs and Seniors and has hosted many EGU and County Championships.

Formby is also a Local Final Qualifying course when the Open Championship is in the area.

Additionally we have hosted 6 Lancashire and 10 Lancashire Ladies Championships and 7 Oxford v Cambridge Matches.

In June 2009 and in our 125th year The Amateur Championship returned to Formby for the fourth time. The 16 year old Italian Matteo Manassero triumphed here then went on to win the Silver Medal at the Open Championship at Turnberry.

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Featured Course North West Golf Guide

However the course has not always been used exclusively for men’s events. The LGU has visited Formby on many occasions, as have The English Ladies’ Golf Association, The English Ladies’ Seniors GA and the Lancashire Ladies County GA. Formby was chosen by the European Golf Association to host the Ladies’ International European Amateur Championship in 1997, the first time this championship had been held in the UK. In 2004, Formby was selected to host the 33rd Curtis Cup match between the amateur ladies of the USA and GB&I. This match, won by the USA team, gathered some 20,000 people over the links in 3 days with 8500 spectators on the last day.

Contact Details

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

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PGA Euro-Pro Tour Returns to Formby Hall Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa is to host one of Europe’s leading development tours, the PGA Euro-Pro Tour.

The tour, which allows up and coming young professionals the opportunity to gain the necessary experience in competitive golf, and in particular of the additional pressures involved with televised competitions, returns to Formby Hall from the 2nd – 6th August 2010. The event, being preceded by a Pro-Am on Tuesday 3rd August will be covered on Sky Sports, being broadcast to about 50 countries worldwide.

The players compete for total prize money of over £600,000 throughout the season with a minimum prize purse of £40,000 per tournament. This year’s tour final is to be played in Aphrodite Hills, Cyprus in September.

Last year, the 52-hole tournament attracted hundreds of visitors to the three day event, with more than 25 teams competing in the pre-Tour Pro-Am event.

Tim Cowell, marketing manager at Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming back the PGA Euro-Pro Tour.

Last year was a great success in terms of the quality of golf played, the crowd attracted and the awareness raised.

“The course will provide a testing but fair challenge to some of the top up-and-coming names in European golf. Ahead of the event players will be able to hone their skills at our PGA Academy and practice on the nine-hole course, which is one of the most difficult in the world”.

Danny Nickless, operations manager for the PGA Euro-Pro Tour, echoed Cowell’s comments: “It’s great to be taking the Tour back to Formby Hall. With its abundance of lakes and water features it provides a very stern test for players and was one of the favourite courses of the 2009 Tour” For more information on Formby Hall, visit www.formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk or call 01704 875699.

A different kind of club Becketts... for all your financial needs Telephone: 01253 881920 www.beckettsca.com

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10 tips to win at Matchplay

By Rick Shiels, PGA Golf Professional, Mere Golf & Country Club With the Ryder Cup just around the corner, learn some tips that will help the Europeans win and also will improve your matchplay strategy. While you still have to play good, solid golf to win in match-play, here are some strategies that can help improve every golfer’s chances while playing the format.

1. Play the course, not your opponent. Always play to beat the course to achieve the best chance of beating your opponent.

2. Always play first. Whenever possible!

Playing first will give you a psychological edge over your opponent and will add pressure on their shot.

3. Get the ball into the hole first. You shouldn’t rush your putt by any means, but do putt out if possible. This will again add pressure

4. Always assume the worst. This might be the most important rule of match-play. Assuming you have won the hole is a recipe for disaster.

Be prepared for the worst and this will help you win more holes.

5. Take it one shot at a time. Dwelling on any mistakes or planning too far ahead will take your mind off the shot in hand. Plan to play each and every shot in a present state of mind.

6. Don’t feel pressured to give putts. If you want your opponent to hole a small putt, don’t say a word. Thoughts will be running through their head like “Why aren’t they giving me this one?” These thoughts could cause your opponent to miss the putt.

7. Watch your opponent. People are creatures of habit. Under pressure you can witness your opponent changing their pace or pre shot routine. This will give you the confidence that your opponent is feeling the pressure. Stick to you game plan and relax.

8. Don’t look ahead. There’s a temptation when you are in front during a match to look

Peter Eyre Pro Classic

Thursday 14th October 2010 at Mere Golf & Country Club The Peter Eyre 11th Annual Pro Classic takes place at Mere Golf & Country Club on Thursday 14th October 2010.

Peter is delighted to invite you to join him on this day. Whether playing with friends or work colleagues this is an ideal way to entertain, and the course is guaranteed to be in excellent condition. · Two tee start from 11:00am to 1:00pm · Excellent team prizes Teams of 4 · Team Stableford · Complimentary on course bar · Three course dinner with wine followed by presentation and comedian · Charity Raffle Cost £400 per team of 4.

Telephone: 01565 830219 Email: peter.eyre@meregolf.co.uk

ahead to the next round of the draw. The danger is that your concentration will slip, and your opponent may be working especially hard to beat you.

9. Everyone is equal. Any player you face in matchplay can be beaten. It doesn’t matter if it’s the defending champion or the club captain. Follow these tips and you will have the best chance.

10. Never give up. It’s a simple truth that in match play: “It’s never over until it’s over.”

You may pull off a miracle shot or your opponent may surprise you and miss a relatively simple shot, and let you back in the hole - or even the match.

When watching this years Ryder Cup notice all the techniques the players use to win the match at any cost. Contact Rick Shiels PGA Golf Professional, Mere Golf & Country Club. Proshop: 01565 830219. Mobile: 0795 2514656. Email: rickgolf@hotmail.co.uk

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Wirral Golf Classic Last chance to enter

The 2nd Wirral Golf Classic will be held from 19 to 23 September on four of Wirral’s magnificent coastal golf Caldy, Heswall, Royal Liverpool and Wallasey. The competition is open to male & female golfers.

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 and stages the North of England Under-16 Championships each year; Wallasey, home of the Stableford, is an Open Qualifying venue enjoying beautiful views across the Mersey to Liverpool, and Royal Liverpool is much loved by golfers throughout the world; it has staged the 1st Amateur Championship, 1st Walker Cup, 1st International Golf Match and 11 Open Championships. The Open returns

Help for Heroes at Eaton Golf Club

100 members of Eaton Golf Club took part in the National Golf Club Challenge in aid of Help for Heroes on Saturday 24 July. Golf Clubs across the country were involved in this National Event and the club raised £400 with Ian Standberg & Hilary Cottle being the winners on the day.

Spurned on by this idea Tricia Thompson, a member of the club, set about raising funds direct for Help for Heroes. She persuaded the Steward, Russ Abbott, who had served over 20 years in the Royal Navy to play 18 holes in his full naval uniform complete with medals so that members of the club could sponsor his valiant efforts. Other fund raisers were a ‘dinner tree’, a silent auction and selling wrist

bands this together with donations from local companies will raise over £4,000.

Tricia who served as a Captain in the Queen Alexandra Royal Army Nursing Corps has now taken up the cause of BLESMA and in the Autumn these brave people will be invited to be guests of Eaton and His Grace the Duke of Westminster has graciously agreed to greet these true ‘heroes’. She will be seeking sponsorship, donations and hotel accommodation and any interested parties should contact Tricia on triciapjt@ googlemail.com.

Pictured right: Russ Abbott in full naval uniform on the 1st tee.

to ‘Hoylake’ as it is more commonly know, in 2014 and the Women’s Open will be staged over the links in 2012.

Further information can be found on the website www.wirralgolfclassic.co.uk including offers from accommodation providers in Wirral. The event is supported by Wirral Council, the Northwest Regional Development Fund (ERDF) & England’s Golf Coast.

Avoid the rough with

Amateur Golf Tournament 13-17 September 2010 The inaugural Wirral Golf Classic, a 72 hole Stableford competition for amateurs, will be held in 2010 on the four beautiful golf courses on England’s Golf Coast - Caldy, Heswall, Wallasey and the magnificent Royal Liverpool Golf Club with views over the Rivers Mersey & Dee. Enjoy a wonderful week of golf with social events and prizes for just £199.

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News North West Golf Guide

James Brearley Lancashire PGA Open

Following the marking of last year’s 10th anniversary of James Brearley’s involvement as main sponsor of the Lancashire PGA Open, which throughout this period has been staged at North Shore Golf Club, it is pleasing to report that the PGA have designated this year’s event as a full Northern Order of Merit event. The tournament will run from Monday 16th to Wednesday 18th August, concluding as in previous year’s with the James Brearley Client Pro-Am event.

The decision to promote the event to a full Northern order event, provides PGA members and amateurs from Cheshire and Yorkshire to also compete in the event. PGA Secretary,

Graham Maly, is delighted at this decision and fully expects a record number of entries for this year’s event. He commented “Given the increased year on year on year support for the event, driven by the excellent prize fund and superb condition of the course each year, coupled with the warm reception we receive from North Shore, I would not be surprised if we need to stage one or more pre-qualifying rounds.”

David Hannis, Director James Brearley & Sons commented that the company is delighted at the decision taken by the PGA. He stated “This not only helps raise the profile of the event throughout the North of England, but makes

it accessible to areas where we have a high concentration of clients. This is hopefully a further endorsement of how well received the course and facilities at North Shore are viewed by the PGA membership in the area.”

John Morris, Secretary of North Shore Golf Club stated “We are delighted to be seen as the home of this high profile tournament and look forward to potentially introducing our club and its facilities to a wider range of PGA members and amateur golfers at this year’s event. It has been very noticeable over the last 10 years how the event has grown in stature and status and is now very much embedded into our club’s golfing calendar.”

The Academy WANT TO PLAY BETTER GOLF?

The Golf Guide Tour Society Day

Come and visit the brand new ‘State of the Art’ Indoor Golf Teaching/Club Fitting & Putting Studio.

NOW OPEN AT BLACKPOOL NORTH SHORE GOLF CLUB Would you like to: Reduce your handicap Perfect your all round game Improve your swing Advance your putting skills Find your perfect putter Be fitted for the right set of clubs EVERY ASPECT OF YOUR GAME VIDEOED & ANALYSED Head Professional Andrew Richardson, enshrines the philosophy that improving a player’s performance improves their enjoyment of the game. The academy, which includes important focus for developing a player’s short game with the academys ability for the player to hit out to the short game area and use of the indoor putting green, in addition to improving play from the tee.

Andrew and his team of staff including Teaching Professional Steve McLaughlin improve the performance of enthusiastic beginners and advanced players alike, through lessons and instruction. Using the latest A-Star, Vector Launch Monitor and Quintic Putting software to analyse and perfect every aspect of your game – starting with your grip, your posture, the rhythm of your swing and the consistency of your contact with the ball. With this state of the art facility Blackpool North Shore Teaching Academy is the only place to learn.

Golfers are increasingly aware of the value of instruction and the Golf Academy at Blackpool North Shore is the centre of excellence for the teaching of golf.

CUSTOM FITTING Blackpool North Shore Teaching Academy is also a Custom Fit Centre bringing together a range of the latest golf clubs from the worlds leading brands including academy sponsors Srixon, Cleveland & Taylor Made. Equipped with the latest launch monitors and trained by the individual manufacturers, the custom fit specialist team will provide an unrivalled service for the success of your game.

Equipment is a key component to developing a repeatable technique. The best players in the world rely on renowned custom fitting specialists to ensure their equipment matches their unique launch conditions.

24th September 2010 Pairs Betterball Stableford Coffee & Bacon rolls on arrival 18 holes of Golf Buffet afterwards

Extensive prize list including free entry to a future Golf Guide Tour Event of your choice, with the chance to win a golfing holiday to Spain!

Golf lessons, polo shirts and golf equipment.

Entry only £15 p.p.

ty Socie For further information or to book please call 01253 354640 Visit our website at: www.blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com

Day

To enter call: 07885 748415 or email: competitions@golfguidepublications.com

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Cheadle Golf Club A History

Cheadle Golf Club was founded, like the majority of sporting organisations, around the common bond of companionship and sporting interest of a group of prominent citizens in the area. No doubt inspired by the deeds of the golfing greats such as John Bell, James Braid and J.H. Taylor in the years 1883/84, six of the local dignitaries, the Rev F.A. Macdona (Rector of Cheadle), Messrs J.D.,J.H. and C.D. Milne. Dr W. Scowcroft and Mr F Bindloss got together to discuss the project. The result – in 1885 Cheadle Golf Club came into being.

For the first six years the course was laid on land close to Gatley Carrs, a local beauty spot, but when this was judged to be too restricted, land sufficient for 18 holes was rented in 1891 on the Bradshaw Hall Estate belonging to the Rev. O. K. Prescott. This venture was never pursued fully and in 1894 the club decided to construct a nine-hole course at Moseley Park

Farm with one of two farm cottages being used as a club house.

The club owes its origins in many respects to the Milne family, who until recent years owned the prestigious department store in Manchester, Kendal-Milne. Three members of the family Messrs J.H., J.D. and C.D. Milne were among the founders and along with the others, The Rev. F.A. Macdona, Dr W Scowcroft and Mr F Bindloss became captains in turn. Mr C.D. Milne also served as honoury secretary from 1892 until 1896.

In 1908 the members planned to buy the course if the price did not exceed £2,500 and promises from Committee members totalling £1,100 were immediately secured.

Unfortunately the owner was not prepared to sell at this stage so moves to extend the lease were immediately implemented.

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The club owes its origins in many respects to the Milne family, who until recent years owned the prestigious department store in Manchester, Kendal-Milne.

The club finally signed a new lease in 1910, the rental having doubled to £150 a year but this was offset somewhat by a sheep grazing lease which brought in £25 a year and subscriptions were marginally increased. They were later put up to four guineas in 1913.

The playing side of the club was flourishing and the first matches were arranged with Bramall Park in the summer of 1914 – but then came the war. At a meeting at the Cardomah Cafe in Manchester it was decided to cancel all competitions except the monthly medals and the sweep money for these to be sent to the War fund. Members also responded generously to an appeal for clothing for Belgian refugees and of course many of them were called to active service.

The land was put up for sale in 1923 and although a sub-committee was formed to

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The reality of the war was brought home to members on the night of the 12th of January 1941 when a bomb was dropped on the course by an enemy aircraft. prepare a bid and Mr J. Burton attended the auction for the club, the course was bought for £2,500 by Messrs Clay Ltd. The company promised to give a long lease and it was decided to approach the new owners at the end of the term with a view to purchase.

It was learned in 1925 that the ownership had changed hands and the land and property had passed to the Bradford Dyers Association.

They assured the club that the tenure of the lease would be endorsed, and encouraged by this, proposed alterations to the course were put into effect, principally the lengthening of the first and sixth holes and bunkers removed from around the second and seventh greens.

The reality of the war was brought home to members on the night of the 12th of January 1941 when a bomb was dropped on the course by an enemy aircraft. It was of the delayed action variety and exploded 24 hours later leaving a huge crater on the left side of the fourth green. Mercifully no one was injured. Obviously the hole was unplayable in its original form for a while and local rules were introduced to accommodate the freak conditions and a temporary green constructed.

The course needed very careful housekeeping to keep the club solvent in the final years of the War but after hostilities ceased in 1945 and members returned from the Armed Forces, the Committee began to consider ways of improving facilities despite the still strict Government controls on building materials and labour.

Subsequent years brought frequent improvements and additions to club house and course but with costs spiralling, so subscriptions climbed and in 1963 they had reached 14 guineas for men and 6 guineas for ladies. About this time a new ten-year lease was signed with Cheadle and Gatley U.D.C. Early in 1965 it was necessary to remeasure the course because of the new Standard Scratch Score scheme and 63 was awarded to Cheadle Golf Club.

In 1975, the committee decided to modernise the interior of the main club room and redesign the bar to facilitate the increase in demand by members. Things remained fairly stable until 1979 when a further improvement enhancing the club’s facilities was undertaken in the dining room.

The need for financial stability was soon evident in the 1980’s. In January 1982 the entire electrical system was vetted and subsequently completely rewired.

Only three months later new demands by the Fire Authority had to be put in hand at a cost of £700. Then an extra shed for housing machinery was erected in August and that cost £1,200.

The expenditure didn’t stop there as the following year work began on reconstruction of the seventh tee, new sprinkler systems and further improvements to the surrounds of the club house. This put an immense amount of pressure on the clubs finances but the generosity of members enabled the club to take the strain.

The club is always looking for new ways of stimulating and maintaining the interest of members – members who have strengthened that special bond of sportsmanship and friendliness being the principal characteristic of Cheadle Golf Club over a memorable and remarkable 100 years.

125 Anniversary Charity Golf Challenge in aid of

Design & installation of artificial grass PATHWAYS • COUNTY 20 • COUNTY 10 • COUNTY TEE TURF

County Sport Surfaces are the industry leaders in the cutting-edge manufacture of superior synthetic sporting surfaces. With family experience producing a range of sports surfaces, County Sport Surfaces use only the finest materials sourced worldwide, unparalleled in quality, to produce hi-tech synthetic grass surfaces that have been manufactured to industry standards.

Whether it’s a single or multi-purpose synthetic surface application you require, County Sport Surfaces should be your first choice for products and services that adhere to the utmost standards in quality.

Friday 17th September Shotgun Start @ 1.00pm Plus Prize Presentation Meal

Low Cost • Easy to Install Natural Appearance • Established Product Excellent Playing Characteristics Nationwide References

The Cheadle 125 Charity Golf Challenge will feature: 18 holes of Golf

Stableford Format – 4 Man Team Event – Best two scores on each hole except for the par 3’s where all four count 28 – Stroke Allowance: ¾ Handicap

Competitions – Nearest the Pin – Longest Drive – Nearest the Pin in 2

Golf tee grass • Personal fairway mats Patio grass covering • Putting green grass Pathway or wooden sleeper grass covering Full size lawn area

Overall Winning Team Trophy

2nd, 3rd and 4th placed prizes Pre Golf Soup & Sandwich 3 Course Evening Meal Charity Raffle/Auction

£200.00 per team (4 players) including Soup/Sandwich on arrival (available from 11.30am) & Presentation Meal.

Entries not accepted without payment

Contacts: John Sandford: 07836 379859 Cheadle Captain Ian Haig: 07815 465813

CHEADLE GOLF CLUB – Shiers Drive, Cheadle, Cheshire, SK8 1HW

Call: 0161 488 4251 M: 07846 075074 • E: duncan@countysportsurfaces.co.uk

www.countysportsurfaces.co.uk

28

News North West Golf Guide

Shaw Hill Golf & Country Club We have Leisure off to a tee…

Shaw Hill Golf & Country Club Preston Road, Nr Chorley Lancashire, PR6 7PP Tel.: 01257 269221 Fax: 01257 261223 info@shaw-hill.co.uk www.shaw-hill.co.uk

29

News North West Golf Guide

With its own 18 hole parkland golf course and classical manor building, Shaw Hill provides the perfect setting for any event.

With its own 18 hole parkland golf course and classical manor building, Shaw Hill provides the perfect setting for any event. Our golf course lends itself to all levels of skill. We are pleased to announce that membership is still open should you be contemplating joining one of the North West’s most majestic courses.

Our Leisure Club is also accepting new members and houses a fully equipped gym, aerobics classroom, swimming pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. Please telephone 01257 226821 for membership information.

Shaw Hill has a renowned reputation for elegance and delightful cuisine. Whether it is to hold your perfect Wedding Day or bring your family to an intimate meal, we happily cater for a range of events. As a wedding venue, Shaw Hill has a reputation that is second to none. We can cater for weddings up

to 200 persons and you can be assured that Shaw Hill exclusively hosts only one wedding per day to guarantee you that personal touch.

Within the magnificent building, we boast a variety of conference and meeting facilities.

With wireless internet, competitive rates and delightful surroundings, Shaw Hill is the ideal location to hold you out of office meetings and seminars.

Vardon’s Restaurant caters for every occasion such as Birthday’s & Anniversaries with a choice of A la Carte & Table d’hôte menus available each day. A meal for two or a party of thirty, Vardon’s can accommodate you and offer food and service fitting of its setting.

In fact everything you could ever want for a luxury day out at our country house hotel.

We’re just a swing away from Chorley on the A6.

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32

News North West Golf Guide

BBC Stars

Filming at Hazel Grove Golf Club Hazel Grove Golf Club in Stockport recently allowed the BBC to turn the course pink by filming golf scenes for their new sitcom “Candy Cabs”.

Stars included Claire Sweeney, “Baddie” of the show Denis Lawson and fellow stars Paul Nicholls and John Henshaw. All used the clubs new buggies and thought they were easy to ride and great fun.

Hazel Grove Golf Club had been looking for a “Buggy” solution to allow more access to the course, extend the playing membership and enjoyment of older members who may otherwise have given up, and to fulfil frequent requests made from visiting societies & guests.

Many views have been voiced, heated members discussions took place, the United Nations were nearly called upon in the bar on more than one occasion!

However, what was most important to the club, was its cost effectiveness, safety limitations, ease of use, power-usage, eco-friendly, zero carbon, minimal alterations and damage to the course, profit, the list was endless, all had to be argued over and considered.

With the burden of new health and safety legislation, it would mean change and implementation was needed in a controlled manner. Seizing the ‘bull-frog’ by the horns, Hazel Grove Golf Club now have a fleet of

fairway rider, single seater “Frog” buggies for hire. The teething problems were minimal and even the buggies worse critics have now been seen using them. Booking’s are made from professional James Hopley and a growing acceptance by members and guests has enhanced a great working relationship with Chris, Sean and Neil of Fairway Rider as the club looks to extend it’s fleet in the future Not to be out-done by the TV stars, at the latest Centenary Fundraising event Mr Captain, Malcolm Shannon became a human target in a laser clay pigeon shoot out, amusing himself on the frog-buggy driving across the 1st and 18th fairways to avoid being hit, certainly a great way of raising more funds for his charity.

Have You Received Your Payment Protection Insurance Refund Yet? No. Why Not? The Banks Have Your Money!

Get It Back. NOW! What is Payment Protection Insurance (“PPI”): a policy that was sold in support of financial applications with a view to providing an income to maintain a borrower’s repayments in the event of an accident or sickness that would prevent them from working or resulting in redundancy. PPI was sold with both secured and unsecured financial packages including general loans, car finance including HP credit and, both credit and store cards.

How do I know if I have been miss-sold?

Miss-selling checklist - If you can answer ‘no’ to one or more of these questions, then you may have been miss-sold your PPI policy: • Was it made clear to you that the insurance was optional?

• Did the representative establish whether or not you had any other form of cover in place already?

• Did the representative inform you about any significant exclusions under the policy – such as those that say you will not be covered for any pre-existing medical condition or if you are self-employed?

• If you took out a loan or finance agreement, did the representative make it clear that you would have to pay for the insurance up front in one single premium payment?

• If you had to pay for the PPI as a single premium payment, did the adviser make it clear that the insurance cost would be added to the loan and you would be paying interest on the total amount?

• Single premium PPI policies normally have a maximum cover of 5 years. If your loan or finance agreement was for longer than this, did the representative make it clear that the insurance would run out before you had finished paying for your loan or finance agreement? The representative should also have told you that you would continue to pay interest on the insurance premium, even after the insurance expired.

• Did the adviser inform you that any claim under the policy was limited to a maximum of 12 months cover?

What do I Recover?

1. The full cost of the Payment Protection Insurance premium(s) 2. Interest attached to the loan to cover the PPI Premium(s) 3. Simple interest of 8% on the total amount recovered 4. Other damages that are appropriate (subject to County Court claim) 5. Possible unenforceability of continuing finance agreement (as above) 6. This usually results in you recovering double of what you have actually paid for your PPI premium(s).

Act Now. Time Is Running Out. Our Offer: By instructing WiReD™ you will automatically be entitled to a FREE without obligation review of ALL and ANY financial arrangements that you have taken out in the last 6 years. We will value you your claim and provide advice on how best to RECOVER what is rightfully yours.

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T: 0845 094 3339 E: info@wiredlegalservices.com

34

Promotion North West Golf Guide

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New for 2010 the Waterproof Shotsaver S320 Golf GPS unit uses the latest GPS technology available to provide you with accurate positional information anywhere on the golf course.

The Shotsaver uses the most accurate GPS technology to provide you with distances to the front, back and middle of the green plus bunkers, fairways, streams, lakes plus many other hazards. This stylish and waterproof handheld device incorporates a bright LCD display and built-in 12hr lithium battery, capable of taking you round even the most demanding golf courses.

Shotsaver’s electronic scorecard will save the scores of up to four players. Enter the name and handicap of each player at the beginning of the round and then enter your scores at the end of each hole. Shotsaver’s electronic scorecard will total your score and automatically calculate your net score and Stableford score. Shotsaver let’s you see your score at a glance at any time, leaving you free to concentrate on your golf.

Our FREE to download golf course database of over 5000 courses covers the whole of Western Europe and is one of the most comprehensive available and still growing.

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The Waterproof, colour, touch screen SHOTMISER G500 incorporates the most advanced Golf GPS software on the market.

Most GPS systems can only give numeric readouts to a limited number of positions on a hole, which are only useful if you can see them.

In contrast the SHOTMISER G500 uses accurate and detailed maps of the entire course and automatically interacts with your exact position. You can see exactly what is between you and the green so that you can plan your strategy for your next shot. Unlike most other systems the SHOTMISER G500 allows you to preview the hole in play by displaying an overhead birds eye view of the hole. Allowing you to see round doglegs and avoid those hidden hazards.

A simple tap of the colour touch screen handset gives you exact distances to any chosen point on the course. You can find the exact distance to any point on a fairway or green helping you to avoid hazards and reach your chosen landing- lay up area Crucially helping you to massively improve on your course management and reduce your scores.

Course downloads are available to SHOTMISER owners by simply purchasing via the SHOTMISER website where courses all over the US, UK & Europe are listed and available for download on a click and buy basis @ £5.00 per course. Or in bundles (5+1 FREE) (10+3 FREE) Unlike most other brands there is no monthly or annual fees. Once you download a course you own it and no further fees are due.

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36

Cheshire INTRODUCTION

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’. 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 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.

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

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.

37

Cheshire INTRODUCTION

M-6 M-62

M-56

Warrington

Lymm

20 M-53

10

Runcorn 17

11

02 09

Frodsham Ellesmere Port

06

08 18

M-56

04

21 Chester

23 05

Wimslow Knutsford

19

14

Macclesfield

Northwich 22 Winsford

16 15

Congleton

Tarpley

03

Sandbach

01

Crewe Nantwich

24 07

Malpas M-6 Whitchurch

01.

02.

03.

04.

05.

06.

07.

08.

09.

10.

11.

12.

Aldersey Green Antrobus Carden Park Delamere Forest Eaton Golf Club Frodsham Gorstyhill Hartford Heyrose High Legh Mere Mobberley

13

12

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

Mottram Hall Peover Portal Pryors Hayes Runcorn Sandiway Barceló Shrigley Hall The Warrington Upton-by-Chesterl Vale Royal Vicars Cross Wychwood Park

38

Contact Details Aldersey Green Golf Club Aldersey, Nr. Chester CH3 9EH

Telephone: 01829 782157 bradburygolf@aol.com

01. How to Find

Aldersey Green Set in 200 acres of Cheshire countryside, Aldersey Green Golf Club has a golf course that is envied by many but rivalled by few in terms of sheer enjoyment to play.

Many of the fairways are tree-lined and narrow making accuracy from the tee absolutely pivotal to scoring well. The course is also home to 14 lakes so be warned that any stray shots can, and on many occasions will be punished. Packing a few extra balls in your bag might be a good idea!

The course is superbly laid out and offers some fine panoramic views. Why not enjoy

them after your round by relaxing in the fine clubhouse, the perfect place for some postmatch unwinding.

Signature Holes: 3rd. Recently voted 2nd hardest par 3 in the country by top golf magazine. The Green has a lake at the back a bunker guards the right front corner, water to the left side, and two lateral water hazards run up both sides of the hole. A challenge for any golfer. The 15th Hole is a beautiful par 4 slight dog leg right, and features an original bomb crater. The raised green is protected by a stream / pond at the front and a steep wall of sleepers.

From Warrington & Manchester Take the M56 west and follow the signs for Chester. At Junction 15 (Ellesmere Port), join the M53 South to Chester (left hand lane).

At Junction 12 (Hoole), the M53 becomes the A483. Take the next exit sign posted for A41 & A51 (Christleton & Huntington), and take the third exit on the roundabout (right) and follow the signs to the A41. After approximately six miles, Aldersey Green Golf Course is sign posted on the right hand side.

Facilities Pro Shop, Putting Green, Trolley Hire, Changing Rooms, Club Repair & Custom fitting, Bar & Restaurant

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6145 • 5983 (70) • 5541 (73) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Twilight Special Offer Any Day After 3 pm Weekends Included

Only £10 per player Tel: 01829 782157

4 3 3 4 5 4 4 4 5

413 161 217 351 510 290 341 372 484

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 5 3 4 4 3 4 4

273 189 551 216 397 318 167 379 354

39

Contact Details Antrobus Golf Club Foggs Lane, Antrobus Cheshire, CW9 6JQ

Telephone: 01925 730 900 antrobusgolfclub@gmail.com www.antrobusgolfclub.co.uk 02. How to Find Easily accessible from Manchester, Liverpool, Chester, Birmingham and of course Northwich and Warrington.

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.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6220

Antrobus As you enjoy this course, imagine the landscape as it was in 1992 before the course was built – 100 acres of open farmland with just a few mature trees along its boundries for shelter. Now after 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. The fact that it is one of the new gems of the Cheshire Countryside, the course appeals to many players from around the country.

Located in the heart of the Cheshire Countryside between Northwich and Warrington with

easy access from the M56 at junction 10, this superbly laid out 18 hole course is suited for its now 500 members, visiting golf societies and corporate golf day’s, having excellent clubhouse facilities complementing this most relaxing and enjoyable golfers paradise.

Course Guide: There is little doubt... Antrobus is a challenge! The course has been cleverly designed and built around existing natural features, with both the plentiful water hazards and wooded areas. Off the back tees even the better golfers will feel the pressure, with narrow fairways and well protected greens. Antrobus certainly requires more in your bag than a big driver.

40

Contact Details 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 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

CARDEN PARK 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 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

3 5 4 4 4 5 4 3 4

155 542 365 338 389 524 374 206 432

Twilight Golf at Carden Park Only £15.00 per person Available after 3pm

To Book Call 01829 731534 and quote ‘NWG10’

T&C’s – Subject to availability, can not be used in conjunction with any other offer and is applicable to new bookings only. Valid until 30.9.10.

Hole Par Yards

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

41

03. How to Find 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.

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

CARDEN PARK 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

Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 3 5 4 4 4 3 5

383 285 138 479 373 305 358 120 515

Hole Par Yards

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.

42

Contact Details Delamere Forest Golf Club Ltd Station Road Delamere, CW8 2JE Telephone: 01606 883800 sec@delameregolf.co.uk www.delameregolf.co.uk 04. How to Find From M6 Junction 19 take the A556 and head in the direction of Chester and after approximately 15 miles look for Harrington’s Caravans. 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).

Delamere Forest Designed by W H Fowler, Delamere Forest was founded in 1910, reputedly in a hunting field.

The early list of members reads like an extract from the Cheshire Hunt register. It was the venue for the first Cheshire County Championship in 1912, an event held at the club on a further seven occasions, most recently in 2004.

In 1967, Delamere forest was one of the two qualifying courses for the Open Championship when it was held at Hoylake. At that time Maurice Bembridge posted the professional course record of 63, which stands to this day.

Despite the word ‘forest’ in its title, Delamere is a natural heath land course. Certainly trees

are part of the strategy on several holes, but in general Delamere Forest provides a glorious backdrop to the panoramic views from the higher parts of the course.

Signature Holes: The 6th is a short hole from an elevated tee to a small, well bunkered, green set at an angle to the tee with enticing views over the pond below the green, with woods and fields in all directions. The 8th requires a long straight tee shot over a hollow and a second shot in to a steeply sloping green. It was reached from the medal tee in the 1970s by one of our past members, Mr George Johnson, a feat repeated on the 19th April 2003 by Mr David Blockley.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6817 • 6330 • 5680 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 4 3 4 3 5 4 4

420 428 399 206 424 131 438 411 321

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 5

323 492 145 302 364 295 188 356 458

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

43

Contact Details Eaton Golf Club Guy Lane, Waverton, Chester Cheshire, CH3 7PH Tel.: 01244 335885 Fax: 01244 335782 info@eatongolfclub.co.uk www.eatongolfclub.co.uk 05. 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.

Eaton 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 • 6580 • 6414 • 5642 (73) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 4 3 5 3 4 5 4

357 370 414 166 488 178 322 476 429

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 4 5 4 5 3 4

386 170 340 342 518 379 503 145 431

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.

Signature Hole: 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?

44

Contact Details Frodsham Golf Club Simons Lane , Frodsham Cheshire, WA6 6HE

Telephone: 01928 732159 paulw@frodshamgolf.co.uk www.frodshamgolf.co.uk 06. How to Find Exit M56 at junction 12, A557 for Frodsham/Widnes. At the roundabout, take the first exit onto A557 to Frodshm/A56. Turn right at Sutton Causeway, continue to follow A56. Turn left at B5152/ Church Street. Turn right at Manley Road, Turn right at Simons Lane.

Frodsham Amidst 130 delicious acres of Green Cheshire countryside, Frodsham Golf Club plays host to a magnificent 18-hole par-70 course, offering a great challenge to golfers of all ages and levels of ability. Greens and tees are constructed to USGA specifications and benefit from free-draining soil structure on a sandstone base, with excellent manicured, dry conditions all year round.

The course well deserves its widespread reputation for quick, undulating greens, where strategy, driving and putting skills are constantly put to the test – and this, combined with the panoramic vistas over the Mersey estuary

and spectacular distant views of Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral, makes Frodsham Golf Club one of the most sought-after and popular golf clubs in the whole of the area.

Pro Shop: Graham Tonge has been the PGA Professional at Frodsham GC since the club opened in 1990. Over the past 18 years he has carved a unique niche in the world of golf. He has managed to mix the skill of golf professional and clubmaker giving him the kind of insider information required to produce his own competitive custom golf club company.

Graham and his team aslo offer a specialist club repair and alteration service.

Facilities Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar, Putting Green, Practice Ground, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Club Fitting, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6328 • 6068 • 5316 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 4 4 3 4 4 4 3

403 378 373 323 157 421 320 335 121

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 5 4 4 4 3 5

320 188 326 535 415 356 364 175 558

Frodsham Golf Club · Simons Lane · Frodsham · Cheshire · WA6 6HE · Telephone: 01928 732159 · paulw@frodshamgolf.co.uk · www.frodshamgolf.co.uk

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Contact Details Gorstyhill Golf Club Abbey Park Way, Wychwood Village Weston, Crewe Cheshire, CW2 5SQ Telephone: 01270 829166 info@gorstyhillgolf.co.uk www.gorstyhillgolf.co.uk 07. How to Find Wychwood Village off the A531 between Weston and Betley Opposite Wychwood Park. From Jn 16 M6 take A500 towards Crewe, Nantwich and Keele. At the first Roundabout take First Exit left on the A531 towards Keele. At the second Roundabout take First Exit left onto A531. After 300m take the First Exit left at the roundabout onto the new development. The clubhouse is the first building on the left.

Facilities Practise Area, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys and Electric Trolleys, Clubhouse with Bar and Catering overlooking the 9th green, Pro-Shop, Lessons, Club Repairs Course Information

18 holes, Par 72 • 6456 • 6120 • 5859 • 5414 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

5 4 3 4 3 4 4 4 5

506 337 141 403 119 351 281 304 475

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 5 3 4 4 4 3 5

273 283 467 176 318 385 350 167 523

Gorstyhill Founded in 2005 by entrepreneur and golf enthusiast David Holmes, Gorstyhill Golf Club is located in undulating Cheshire countryside near Crewe. At just over 6,400 yards from the main competition tees it is intended to test a golfer’s course management ability. Gorstyhill, designed by one of England’s premier designers, Hawtree Ltd, is a parkland course but the shaping of the long rough and beautifully contoured USGA greens coupled with a northerly breeze can produce a links feel.

There are natural conservation areas and water hazards to negotiate, with strategically positioned bunkers to ensure that you think

about your shot. Although a young course, Gorstyhill is maturing quickly and has gained an excellent reputation for both the USGA greens and winter golf. The course has also established itself on the Cheshire Union map, having already hosted a county event and team matches.

Signature Holes: There are many memorable holes at Gorstyhill including the 6th, with an intimidating tee shot over the lake. Two stunning par 3’s, the 13th and 17th, need accurate tee shots over lovely valleys to greens that are well protected by bunkers. The 15th and 16th can easily spoil your card as they are partly unsighted.

Try our Afternoon rates: £15 Mon-Thur £20 Sat-Sun-B.Hol

...Set your game alight at Gorstyhill in 2010...

Find our best rates at www.teetimes.co.uk

Abbey Park Way, Weston, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 5SQ · Email: info@gorstyhillgolf.co.uk · Web: www.gorstyhillgolf.co.uk

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Contact Details 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 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 left at Golf Club sign by garden center. Approx one mile on the left.

Hartford 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 Driving Range, Clubhouse, Putting Green, bar, catering, function rooms

Course Information 9 holes, Par 35 • 2770 • 2602 • 2309 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Hartford Golf Club Start of season membership offers Full 7 Day £560 · Full 5 Day £400

Pay & Play 7 Day £150 · Pay & Play 5 Day £100 Junior from £25 · No Joining Fee!

Get fitted properly with our PGA Professionals

5 3 5 4 3 4 3 4 4

466 158 488 246 125 247 172 340 353

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Contact Details Heyrose Golf Club Budworth Road, Tabley, Knutsford Cheshire, WA16 0HZ Office: 01565 733664 Pro Shop: 01565 734267 info@heyrosegolfclub.com www.heyrosegolfclub.com 09. How to Find Heyrose Golf Club is signposted from M6 Junction 19, head for Northwich/Chester and turn right directly after the Windmill pub. Then just follow the brown tourist signs to the course. We are just 19 miles from Manchester and 22 miles from Chester.

Heyrose Heyrose Golf Club, Cheshire’s best kept secret. Set in beautiful parkland with ancient woodlands and many water features Heyrose is not an ordinary golf club.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Undercover driving range, Practice Bunker, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Established over 19 years ago the course is continually modified making it one of the most respected and professionally managed golf courses in the North West.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 73 • 6499 • 6308 • 5513 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

3 5 3 4 4 5 4 4 3

164 518 171 379 312 512 449 407 121

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 4 4 3 5 5

295 342 386 451 373 261 228 472 467

It has been adapted over recent years so it challenges the experienced and rewards the beginner. Set in tranquil parkland and full of wildlife this course cannot be beaten on quality.

Unlike others it is playable in all but adverse

conditions, with ancient woodland and water features this is a course to join and enjoy, don’t settle for the ordinary, experience Heyrose.

Signature Holes: 13th. A great hole. This dogleg right par 5 requires you to drive the ball between 2 sets of bushes that are encroaching the fairway on either side. If you manage to drive past them you have the big decision of laying up or going for it in 2. 16th. Signature hole and probably one of the hardest par 3’s you will find. It is very long and very tight. From an elevated tee, you have a stream with out of bounds all down the left, and a ditch with red stakes all down the right.

PHIL (the shankbuster) BILLS PGA .

Guaranteed to cure shank or money back.

Popular respected teaching pro in cheshire.

25 years experience.

Friendly relaxing no pressure atmosphere.

All abilities catered for Beginners, Low handicap, Pros.

12 bay covered driving range, chipping, pitching area, putting.

Heyrose Golf Academy. Tel: 01565 734 267

Members £18 per 1/2 hour , or £90 for 6 lessons Non Members £20 per 1/2 hour , or £100 for 6 lessons .

48

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

High Legh Park Opened in 1998, High Legh Park Golf Course was co-designed by Mark James and Steve Marnoch, International Golf Course architect. It now offers 20 holes of outstanding golf together with superb practice facilities including 3 putting greens and a 300 yard driving range.

Together with a large modern clubhouse, a top class restaurant, bar and fully stocked pro shop, High Legh is the friendly golf venue you will want to return to time and again.

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.

Facilities 2 Practice Putting Greens, Approach Play Green with 40yd fairway, Short game green with bunkers, Mark James Academy 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

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.

Course Information

1

3

Summer Golf Day Packages Until 31st October 2010

To book call Sam Barnes on 01565 830 012

18 Holes (minimum 12 golfers) Bacon Rolls & Coffee 18 Holes of Golf Weekday: £30 per golfer Sunday: £35 per golfer

18 Holes (minimum 12 golfers) Bacon Roll & Coffee on arrival 18 Holes of Golf 2 Course Dinner* (Choice of Menus) (Sunday - 2 Course Carvery Dinner) Weekday: £41 per golfer Sunday: £45 per golfer

2

4

18 Holes (minimum 12 golfers) Homemade Soup & Sandwiches 18 Holes of Golf Weekday: £34 per golfer Sunday: £39 per golfer

27 Holes (minimum 12 golfers) Bacon Roll & Coffee on arrival 9 Holes of Golf Homemade Soup & Sandwiches 18 Holes of Golf 2 Course Dinner (Choice of Menus) £50 per golfer

Golf Days are usually held on Thursdays and Fridays and Sundays, other days are available, we can tailor to your individual requirements, prices on request.

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

49

Contact Details Mere Golf & Country Club Chester Road, Mere, Knutsford Cheshire, WA16 6LJ Telephone: 01565 830 155 play@meregolf.co.uk www.meregolf.co.uk 11. How to Find 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 Golf Ball Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green, Golf Tuition, Buggies, Clubhouse, Restaurant, Member’s Leisure Club Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6887 • 6330 • 5680

Mere 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.

The Open Championship Regional Qualifying Course 2009 - 2013

Membership applications invited

the experience 01565 830155 play@meregolf.co.uk · www.meregolf.co.uk

50

Contact Details Mobberley Golf Club Burleyhurst Lane, Mobberley Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 7JZ Telephone: 01565 880188 enquiries@mobgolfclub.co.uk www.mobgolfclub.co.uk 12. How to Find From M56.

Exit M56 at junction 6 (Wilmslow/ Hale/A538). Turn left at Wilmslow Road/A538. Turn right at Morley Green Road, Turn right at Mobberley Road. Continue onto Burleyhurst Lane. Golf club is on your right.

Mobberley Mobberley Golf Club is deliberately called the ‘Friendly Golf Venue’. We cater for all level of golfers, from raw beginners to seasoned players, apart from the club competitions we have social golf roll ups on most days and all are welcome, including non members.

Our membership has gone up threefold in under two years and we have obtained planning permission for 18 holes, a much enlarged clubhouse a driving range and a 6 hole academy course. The old “farmer’s field with 9 flags” as Mobberley was unkindly known is now a thing of the past. The general course condition in particular the greens

and fairways are as good as you will find anywhere, not only when we have a big event, but on a day to day basis as we believe in value for money, and at our membership and green fee rates you’ll find it certainly is that.

Our owners, golf director and captain are all very approachable and they will be happy to tell you first hand, about our exciting plans.

Why not come down to Mobberley and see for yourself why we are the Friendly Golf Venue!

3rd Hole, Par 3. “Wee Flick”. Not as easy as you might think, just a short iron but it’s very difficult to get it close.

SPECIAL GREEN FEE OFFERS * Monday and Thursday Special (Before 4pm) 9 Holes Only £10 - 18 Holes Only £15 * Twighlight Special (After 5 Pm) 2 Ball – 9 Holes & Buggy – Only £12.50 p/p 4 Ball – 9 Holes & Buggys – Only £10 p/p

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Buggies, Practice Ground, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 9 holes, Par 34 • 2783 • 2622 (36) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

5 4 3 4 4 3 4 4 3

599 360 118 422 252 153 292 414 173

MEMBERSHIP OFFERS * Membership from only £45. Please call for details! * Join as a Full 7 Day Member for only £500! * Any Full 7 Day Member recieves a Junior Membership Free!

51

Contact Details Mottram Hall Wilmslow Road Mottram St Andrew Cheshire, SK10 4QT

Telephone: 01625 828135 DMH.Sales@Devere-hotels.com www.devere.co.uk 13. How to Find From M56, exit junction 6 towards Wilmslow/Macclesfield. Turn left at A538/Wilmslow Rd. Turn left at A538/Alderley Rd. At roundabout take 3rd exit onto A538 and next roundabout take 2nd exit onto A34/Handforth Bypass. At A538 take the 1st exit onto A538/Prestbury. Mottram Hall is on your left after 2 miles.

Mottram Hall Championship course was designed by Dave Thomas, who previously designed the Brabazon course at the Belfry. It is a challenging 7006 yard par 72, perfect for a weekend golf break or a golf society outing.

Set in 270 acres of Magnificent Cheshire parkland, fairways dotted with oak and beech trees. Tricky, well-guarded greens. This is golf at its best.

Facilities Hotel & Spa, Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Driving Range, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Function/Meeting Rooms Course Information 18 holes Par 72 • 7006 • 6675 • 5929 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

5 4 3 4 4 4 3 4 5

485 364 158 377 414 347 190 376 490

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 3 4 4 4 4 3 4 5

Mottram Hall

545 193 405 453 361 343 209 445 520

The Championship is a course of 2 loops; The front 9 are played on relatively flat meadowland, with generous fairways giving you the chance to pull the driver out of the bag without too many worries. The back 9 is

tougher and makes you think on every tee.

The holes are more densely wooded with undulating fairways and carpet like greens.

The Clubhouse has an impressive brasserie type bar area with sunny terraces that overlook the course.

Signature Holes: 13th, Par 4. S.I. 1 hole, and an absolute brute. Only the very longest hitters will reach this hole in 2, with a right to left fairway that goes uphill and downhill, before having a sharp incline to the large undulating green. 17th. Another long par 4 that doglegs left to right round heavy woodland on either side of the fairway.

Summer Group Golf from £30.00 per person. Call (01625) 820 064 for details.

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53

Contact Details Peover Golf Club Plumley Moor Road Lower Peover, Near Knutsford Cheshire, WA16 9SE Telephone: 01565 723337 mail@peovergolfclub.co.uk www.peovergolfclub.co.uk 14. How to Find 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 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.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6702 • 6339 • 5640 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 4 3 5 5 4 4 3

375 289 348 230 506 558 362 320 176

Hole Par Yards

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

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.

Plumley Moor Road, Lower Peover, Near Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 9SE Tel: 01565 72 33 37 · mail@peovergolfclub.co.uk · www.peovergolfclub.co.uk

54

Contact Details Macdonald Portal Hotel, Golf & Spa Cobblers Cross Lane, Tarporley Cheshire, CW6 0DJ

Telephone: 0870 194 2235 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

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

PORTAL 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 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 5 5 3 4 4 4 4

275 321 557 524 197 344 383 387 340

Hole Par Yards

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

3 Months Free Membership Are you a member of a club looking to move?

If you have time left on your current membership we will give you up to 3 months free membership Quote: Golf Guide

Contact our Golf Sales Team on 01829 734161

55

15. How to Find 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.

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.

PORTAL Just 2 minutes from the hotel, the scenic 18hole 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

Hole Par

Yards

306 591 292 336 152 340 152 367 387

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

414 421 335 404 408 157 519 160 476

4 4 4 4 4 3 5 3 5

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

4 Fore 1 £80 Quote: Golf Guide

Contact our Golf Sales Team on 0844 879 9082

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.

56

Contact Details 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.com 16. How to Find 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

Pryors Hayes

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, Pryors Hayes was nominated for Golf Club of the Year in 2009, narrowly missing out on the top prize.

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

With a recent refurbishment the overall look of the club is warm and homely with very

RU N N ER UP I N

GOLF CLUB OF

THE YEAR

welcoming staff to both members and visitors alike. Pryors Hayes is a golf club with a modern outlook on how golfers should be looked after.

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

Golf’s in full swing at

AWARD 2009

RUNNER UP IN GOLF CLUB OF THE YEAR AWARD 2009

COMMENDED FOR COMMUNITY CLUB OF THE YEAR 2009 FINALIST IN MOST WELCOMING CLUB OF THE YEAR 2008 Course Information 18 holes, Par 69 • 5915 • 5524 • 4996 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 3

437 444 178 382 407 328 117 370 155

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 4 3 4 3 5 4

334 275 387 324 156 302 161 444 323

1/2 PRICE GOLF OFFER Play for half price when producing this advert

COMMENDED FOR

COMMUNITY CLUB OF THE

YEAR 2009

WEEKDAYS

WEEKENDS

FINALIST IN MOST

(Normally £60)

(Normally £80)

WELCOMING CLUB OF THE

YEAR 2008

2 for £30

To book call 01829 741250 or email info@pryors-hayes.co.uk

2 for £40

Call: 01829 741250 to book quoting reference: NWGG or email info@pryors-hayes.co.uk

57

Contact Details Runcorn Golf Club The Heath, Clifton Road, Runcorn, Cheshire WA7 4SU

Telephone: 01928 574214 Email enquiries via website www.runcorngolfclub.co.uk 17. How to Find From the South via M56 exit at junction 12. Follow expressway signed Liverpool/Airport. Leave at 2nd exit following sign for Weston Village/ The Heath. After 1 mile turn right at traffic lights into Clifton Road. The Club is 300 yards on your right.

From the North via M62 head through Widnes and accross the Runcorn Widnes bridge exiting left following the Northwich sign onto the Expressway. After ½ mile take slip road exit turning left at the Polar Ford Garage onto Heath Road for one mile to traffic lights. Turn left into Clifton Road Facilities Putting Green, Practice Nets, Practice area, Professionals Shop, Golf Lessons, Club House/ Locker room etc, Restaurant, Snooker Room Course Information 18 holes, Par 69 • 6048 • 5877 • 5402 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 4 4 3 4 5 3 4

368 159 377 346 175 330 539 192 331

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 4 5 4 3 4 3

397 414 400 346 521 261 156 447 118

Runcorn Runcorn Golf Club was established in 1909 as a 9-hole course on heath land and is currently celebrating its Centenary Year. The course continued as 9 holes until the early 1970’s when it was extended to 18 holes, this being completed in 1977.

The course, which is situated on the highest part of Runcorn, has now matured into a fine tree-lined parkland course giving easy walking with views over the Mersey and Weaver Valleys. The undulating course has superb greens that will test the best of putting skills having a variety of excellent designs and features. The course is a thorough test

for all golfers and is truly a ‘hidden gem’ with visitors and societies returning annually.

A friendly welcome awaits visitors and new members with fantastic food, good company and a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a drink and a meal with friends or family.

Hole 9, Par 4. Surely a magnificent hole. Do not be fooled by the panoramic views of the 9th and 10th fairway as many dangers lie ahead.

Slice the ball to the right and it will be a certain dropped shot. For the big hitter a ditch secretly guards the green. For those with a good drive to the left of the fairway, a giant tree obscures the view of the hole and the way in.

RUNCORN GOLF CLUB WELCOMES New members, societies and visitors No joining fees and Special Introductory Offer to new Lady Members of 50% subscription.

Contact Hon secretary · 01928 574214 · secretary@runcorngolfclub.co.uk · www.runcorngolfclub.co.uk

58

Contact Details Sandiway Golf Club Limited The Clubhouse, Chester Road, Sandiway, Northwich, CW8 2DJ

Telephone: 01606 883247 information@sandiwaygolf.co.uk www.sandiwaygolf.co.uk 18. How to Find From M6 junction 19 take A556 (Chester) and the entrance is 10.5 miles on the left hand side of the A556.

From Chester take A51 and then A556. Bear left onto A559 to tee junction in 800 metres. Turn right over bridge & take next right that is the slip road to A556 (Chester).

The entrance driveway is the next turning left in 250 metres.

Sandiway Drive along the A556 on the Manchester to Chester route between the villages of Hartford and Sandiway on the Northwich bypass and you could be forgiven for missing a sign on the left that denotes Sandiway Golf Club. If you missed the sign you would have driven past the entrance to one of the finest clubs and one of the highest quality inland golf courses in the region.

Its fairways are generous, but tree-lined with mature oak, beech and birch; the classic inland course trees dominate, and the picturesque back nine offers unrivalled views of Petty Pool, an old Cheshire mere, which forms a stunning

backcloth, particularly on the eleventh and twelfth holes. The greens, although small by modern standards, are of the quality expected on a championship course.

The Clubhouse: Originally built in 1926 with the financial assistance of Brunner Mond and Company, its external style followed that of a traditional Cheshire farmhouse. As the game thrived and the membership increased extensions and facilities were added, but the environmentally friendly appearance has been kept. It is a Clubhouse for golfers. Sandiway has been singled out to host international, national, regional and local championships.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Driving Range, Buggies, Trolleys, Custom fitting, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6404 • 6019 • 5632 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 3 5 4 3 4 4 4

385 499 169 478 361 150 391 326 393

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 3 4 4 5 4 3

455 197 405 123 393 350 498 283 164

Sandiway Golf Club We currently have vacancies for ladies within the membership.

For full details please contact the office.

Tel: 01606 883247 – option number 4.

Sandiway Golf Club, Chester Road, Sandiway, Northwich CW8 2DJ · Tel: 01606 883 247 · information@sandiwaygolf.co.uk · www.sandiwaygolf.co.uk

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Contact Details Barceló Shrigley Hall Golf Club Pott Shrigley, Shrigley Nr. Macclesfield Cheshire, SK10 5SB

Telephone: 01625 575626 shrigleyhall.golfretail@barcelo-hotels.co.uk www.barcelo-hotels.co.uk 19. How to Find From the South; exit the M6 at Junction 17. Take A534 then A536 to Macclesfield.

From the North; exit the M6 at Junction 20. Take A50 then A537 to Macclesfield. At Macclesfield follow A523 towards Stockport for approx. 4 miles. Turn right into Brookledge Lane, Barceló Shrigley Hall is 2 miles on your left.

Facilities Hotel, Spa, Bars, Restaurants, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Practice Ground, Lessons, Pro shop, Conference, Leisure & Beauty Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6241 • 5984 • 5241 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 3 5 4 4 5 3 4

329 274 130 527 382 383 471 150 407

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 4 3 4 3 4 5

299 372 376 381 176 357 213 303 557

Barceló Shrigley Hall Set in 262 acres of glorious Cheshire countryside, Barceló Shrigley Hall offers a true Championship course, and a real test of skill and stamina, whatever your handicap.

Our 18-hole, par-71 course takes you through magnificent woodland and open parkland, and was designed by celebrated architect Donald Steel, who has worked on every Open Championship venue in the country.

It’s greatest rewards, though, are the stunning views over five counties, and the warm welcome you’ll receive at our historic Country House Hotel and Health & Leisure Club. Built in the 19th Century, it combines Victorian grandeur

with the finest contemporary comfort. And with a range of day, short break, corporate and membership packages to choose from, Barceló Shrigley Hall has everything you need to relax and enjoy some of the best golf in Britain.

Barceló Shrigley Hall is the perfect venue for entertaining colleagues, clients or business associates. We tailor packages to suit different budgets for groups of 8 or more, and include free use of the hotel’s leisure facilities & the Clubhouse’s private function room. We will happily place your chosen signs or banners around the course during the event. Our club pros will be at your disposal on the day.

Two month membership trial for £99.00 in September and October. REF: MEMGNW

60

Contact Details The Warrington Golf Club Hill Warren, London Road Appleton, Warrington WA4 5HR

Club: 01925 261 775 Pro: 01925 265 431 secretary@warringtongolfclub.co.uk www.warringtongolfclub.co.uk 20. How to Find Warrington Golf Club is ideally situated on the south side of Warrington, within easy access from the M56 motorway. Its location midway between Manchester and Liverpool gives access to all major transport routes.

The Warrington The Warrington Golf Club was founded in 1903 and is located on the south side of the town.

Recent improvements to the course and its woodland areas have created a course that is both a challenging test of golf and an enjoyable experience for all. The imposing clubhouse also has excellent bar and catering services for the hungry and thirsty golfer at the end of a round. Situated less than a mile from the M56, Warrington Golf Club is easy to find and an excellent choice for the visiting golfer.

The heathland course is noted for its natural surroundings, including fine views of Lancashire, Cheshire and the Welsh hills.

Superb drainage makes play possible all year, and an experienced pro shop, clubhouse and administration team ensure you will get a warm welcome and a day to remember.

7th. “Steeple.” Teeing off from the highest part of the course, you can enjoy magnificent views across Warrington and the adjoining countryside. Although a relatively short Par 4, you take on the fairway bunkers at your peril.

17th. “Hill Warren.” Named after the land on which the course is built, is a challenging Par 5.

Bunkers and gorse make for a testing drive. A pond short of the green requires a decision on whether to go for the green or lay up.

From the M56 junction 10 take the A49 towards Warrington.

Travel through one set of lights and across a roundabout before coming to Warrington Golf Club’s entrance on the left hand side.

Facilities

Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Pro shop, Trolleys, Custom fitting, Lessons

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6211 • 5930 • 5700 (73) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 4 4 5 3 4 4 3

407 353 327 352 471 158 332 348 148

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 4 5 3 5 4

286 414 239 149 401 484 149 490 422

The Warrington Golf Club Secretary - 01925 261775 secretary@warringtongolfclub.co.uk www.warringtongolfclub.co.uk

Societies and visitors are assured of a warm welcome at The Warrington Golf Club

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Contact Details Upton-by-Chester Golf Club Upton Lane, Upton-by-Chester CH2 1EE Telephone: 01244 381183 secretary@uptongolf.co.uk www.uptongolf.co.uk 21. 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.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 69 • 5807 • 5628 • 5253 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

3 4 4 3 4 3 4 4 5

147 400 268 141 324 171 398 254 506

Hole Par Yards

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

UPTON BY CHESTER 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.

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.

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

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 Uptonby-Chester.

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

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.

62

Contact Details Vale Royal Abbey Whitegate, Northwich Cheshire CW8 2BA

Telephone: 01606 301291 events@vra.co.uk www.vra.co.uk 22. 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 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.

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.

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 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 4 4 4 3 4 4 4

372 493 248 364 355 165 449 326 377

Hole Par Yards

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

63

Contact Details Vicars Cross Golf Club Tarvin Road, Great Barrow, Chester Cheshire CH3 7HN Club: 01244 335 174 Pro: 01244 335 595 manager@vicarscrossgolf.co.uk www.vicarscrossgolf.co.uk 23. How to Find 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 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 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 4 5 4 4 4 3 4

311 513 371 508 358 411 403 161 254

Hole Par Yards

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

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

Special Offers on Full Membership We are currently waiving our Entrance Fee - a saving of £500

with bunkers strategically placed in just the right places in order to encourage accurate approach shots. The new USGA standard greens are establishing themselves well and have received a lot of complimentary remarks.

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.

Open Day “Come and See What We Have To Offer” Saturday, 21st August 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m.

Everyone welcome - all ages and abilites Free lessons for all the family

Join in September 2010 for £350

Chipping, Putting, Range & Junior Competitions

(Including £100 refundable bond)

8 holes of golf (experienced golfers only)

Quote : NWGG30

Quote : NWGG31

64

Contact Details Wychwood Park Golf Club Weston, Crewe Cheshire, CW2 5GP

Telephone: 0844 980 2323 wychwood@deverevenues.co.uk www.devere.co.uk 24. How to Find From the M6 Junction 16, take the A500 toward Nantwich. At the roundabout take the A531 towards Keele and Nantwich. At the next roundabout turn left onto the A531 towards Keele. The entrance is at the right exit on the next roundabout.

From Chester take the A51 to Nantwich until you reach the Burford Crossroads. Turn left, towards Stone and follow A500 through Shavington and Hough. At the next roundabout take 3rd exit onto A531 towards Keele.

Wychwood Park Just 5 minutes from Junction 16 of the M6, Wychwood Park enjoys stunning views of the Cheshire countryside in a location accessible to both the North and South. This European PGA tour standard course opened in 2002, and provides the ultimate challenge for golfers.

Water features throughout the course, with a number of protected wildlife areas scattered throughout. Wychwood also contains the latest computer irrigation system ensuring the course is in the best playing condition and well presented throughout the year.

The elegant Clubhouse provides a relaxing

setting before and after your game, and features the Wychwood Suite - the perfect base for Corporate days and client entertaining.

Signature Holes Hole 7, Par 5. A tough hole that requires nerve off the tee, your drive must clear a nature reserve onto split fairways either side of a stream. Long second shot to a narrow target means it may be safer to lay up.

Hole 17, Par 3. A long hole when played off the back tees, it requires a full carry of almost 200 yards to clear the water. The elevated position of the tee box makes the hole appear shorter than it is. A visually stunning hole.

Facilities

Bar, Restaurant, Driving range, chipping area and putting green, Buggies, Electric Trolleys, Equipment hire, Custom fitting, Lessons and clinics, Pro shop, Conference facilities, Hotel and Spa Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7213 • 6736 • 6320 • 5618 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

5 3 4 4 4 3 5 4 4

524 139 332 440 365 175 519 347 369

Winter Offer. All inclusive golf. £120 per 4 ball

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 5 4 4 4 4 3 5

321 127 512 388 331 376 396 188 471

Bask in glorious sunshine after your incredible victory

Event 1 of 9

WYCHWOOD PARK

Tuesday 23rd November 2010

Tea/Coffee & Bacon rolls on arrival Golf Clinic with a PGA Professional Complimentary range balls Putting competition 18 Holes of Golf on the Championship Golf Course Beat the Pro competition Nearest the Pin & Longest Drive Competitions Rolling buffet and amazing prize table

Entry only £45 p.p.

(Discount for Members of Wychwood Park)

Join us on The Golf Guide Tour for the chance to win a golf trip to the Costa del Sol. The first of eight events is at Wychwood Park, Crewe, on 23rd November, with future events taking place from March 2011. Format is Pairs better ball stableford, and the winners from each event are invited to the final on the Costa del Sol in November 2011.

This will include a 3 night stay at The Tamisa Hotel Mijas including flights, all transfers and 3 competitive rounds of golf at Mijas, Santana and El Chaparral. A full list of future events and courses will be included in our October edition of the North West Golf Guide.

To enter call: 07885 748415 or email: competitions@golfguidepublications.com

66

Cheshire Directory

Alder Root Golf Club Alder Root Lane, Winwick Warrington, WA2 8RZ Telephone: 01925 291919 enquiries@alderrootgolfclub.com www.alderrootgolfclub.com Alderley Edge Golf Club Brook Lane, Alderley Edge SK9 7RU Telephone: 0162 585583 office@aegc.co.uk www.aegc.co.uk

Astbury Golf Club Peel Lane, Astbury, Congleton, CW12 4RE Telephone: 01260 272772 admin@astburygolfclub.com www.astburygolfclub.com

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

Aldersley Green Golf Club Aldersey, Nr Chester CH3 9EH Telephone: 01829 782157 bradburygolf@aol.com www.alderseygreengolfclub.co.uk

Bramhall Golf Club Ladythorn Road, Bramall, Stockport, SK7 2EY Telephone: 0161 439 6092 secretary@bramhallgolfclub.com www.bramhallgolfclub.com

Alvaston Hall Golf Club Middlewitch Road, Nantwich, CW5 6PD Telephone: 01270 624341 warnerweb@warnerleisurehotels.co.uk www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk

Brookfield Golf Club Hankelow, Audlem, Nr Nantwich Cheshire CW3 0JE Telephone: 012708 12991 info@brookfieldgolfclub.co.uk www.brookfieldgolfclub.co.uk

Altrincham Municipal Golf Club Stockport Road, Timperley, Altrincham, WA15 7LP Telephone: 0161 928 0761 enquiries@altrinchamgolfclub.org.uk www.altrinchamgolfclub.org.uk

Antrobus Golf Club Foggs Lane, Antrobus, Northwich, CW9 6JQ Telephone: 01925 730890 admin@antrobusgc.com www.antrobusgolfclub.co.uk

Ashton-On-Mersey Golf Club Church Lane, Sale, M33 5QQ Telephone: 0161 973 3220 golf.aomgc@dbhmail.co.uk www.ashtononmerseygolfclub.co.uk

Bramall Park Golf Club 20 Manor Road, Bramall, Stockport, SK7 3LY Telephone: 0161 485 3119 secretary@bramhallparkgolfclub.co.uk www.bramhallparkgolfclub.co.uk

Carden Park Golf Club Carden Park, Chester, Cheshire, CH3 9DQ Telephone: 01829 731000 golf@devere.co.uk www.devere.co.uk/golf

Chester Golf Club Curzon Park, Chester, CH4 8AR Telephone: 01244 677760 secretary@chestergolfclub.co.uk www.chestergolfclub.co.uk

Congleton Golf Club Biddulph Road, Congleton, CW12 3LZ Telephone: 01260 273540 info@congletongolfclub.co.uk www.congletongolf.co.uk

Crewe Golf Club Fields Road, Haslington, Crewe, CW1 1TB Telephone: 01270 584227 secretary@crewegolfclub.co.uk www.crewegolfclub.co.uk

Davenport Golf Club Worth Hall, Middleswood Road, Poynton, SK12 1TS Telephone: 0162 876951 Email enquiries via website www.davenportgolf.co.uk

Delamere Forest Golf Club Station Road, Delamere, Northwich, CW8 2JE Telephone: 01606 883264 info@delameregolf.co.uk www.delamergolf.co.uk

Disley Golf Club Stanley Hall Lane, Disley, Stockport, SK12 2JX Telephone: 01663 762071 secretary@disleygolfclub.co.uk www.disleygolfclub.co.uk Dukinfield Golf Club Yew Tree Lane, Dukinfield, SK16 5DB Telephone: 0161 338 2340 dgclub@tiscali.co.uk www.dukinfieldgolfclub.co.uk

Dunham Forest Golf & Country Club Oldfield Lane, Altrincham, WA14 4TY Telephone: 0161 928 2605 enquiries@dunhamforest.com www.dunhamforest.com

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Cheshire Directory

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

Ellesmere Port Golf Club Chester Road, Childer Thornton, South Wirral, CH66 1QF Telephone: 0151 339 7689 Email n/a Website n/a

Frodsham Golf Club Simons Lane, Frodsham, WA6 6HE Telephone: 01928 732159 paulw@frodshamgolf.co.uk www.frodshamgolf.co.uk

Gatley Golf Club Styal Road, Heald Green, Cheadle, SK8 3TW Telephone: 0161 437 2091 secretary@gatleygolfclub.com www.gatleygolfclub.com

Gorstyhill Golf Club Wychwood Village, Weston, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 5SQ Telephone: 01270 829166 info@gorstyhillgolf.co.uk www.gorstyhillgolf.co.uk

Hale Golf Club Rappax Road, Hale, WA15 0NU Telephone: 0161 980 4225 secretary@halegolfclub.com www.halegolfclub.com

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

Heaton Moor Golf Club Mauldeth Road, Heaton Mersey, Stockport, SK4 3NX Telephone: 0161 432 2134 heatonmoorgolfclub@yahoo.co.uk www.heatonmoorgolfclub.co.uk Helsby Golf Club Tower’s Lane, Helsby, Warrington, WA6 0JB Telephone: 01928 722021 secretary@helsbygolfclub.org www.helsbygolfclub.org

Heyrose Golf Club Budworth Road, Tabley, Knutsford, WA16 0HY Telephone: 01565 733664 info@heyrosegolfclub.com www.heyrosegolfclub.com

High Legh Park Golf Club Mere & High Legh, Warrington Road, Knutsford, WA16 0WA Telephone: 01565 830888 info@highleghpark.com www.highleghpark.com

Houldsworth Golf Club Houldsworth Street, Reddish, Stockport, SK5 6BN Telephone: 0161 442 9611 houldsworthsecretary@hotmail.co.uk www.houldsworthgolfclub.co.uk Knights Grange Golf Club Grange Lane, Winsford, CW7 2PT Telephone: 01606 552780 mail.knightsgrangegolfclub.co.uk www.knightsgrangegolfclub.co.uk Knutsford Golf Club Mereheath Lane, Knutsford, WA16 6HS Telephone: 01565 633355 secretary@knutsfordgolf.com www.basickey.com/knutsfordgolf Leigh Golf Club Kenyon Hall, Culcheth, Warrington, WA3 4BG Telephone: 01925 763130 golf@leighgolf.fsnet.co.uk www.leighgolf.co.uk

Lymm Golf Club Whitbarrow Road, Lymm, WA13 9AN Telephone: 01925 752177 lymmgolfclub@btconnect.com www.lymm-golf-club.co.uk Macclesfield Golf Club The Hollins, Macclesfield, SK11 7EA Telephone: 01625 423227 Email enquiries via website www.maccgolfclub.co.uk

Malkins Bank Golf Course Malkins Bank, Sandbach, CW11 4XN Telephone: 01270 765931 malkins.bank@congleton.gov.uk www.congleton.gov.uk

Marple Golf Club Barnsfield Road, Hawk Green, Marple, Stockport, SK6 7EL Telephone: 0161 427 2311 secretary@marple-golf-club.co.uk www.marplegolfclub.co.uk Mellor & Townscliffe Golf Club Tarden, Gibb Lane, Mellor, Stockport, SK6 5NA Telephone: 0161 427 9700 secretary@mellorgolf.co.uk www.mellorgolf.co.uk

68

Cheshire Directory

Mere Golf & Country Club Chester Road, Mere, Knutsford, WA16 6LF Telephone: 01565 830155 enquiries@meregolf.co.uk www.meregolf.co.uk

Mersey Valley Golf Club Warrington Road, Bold Heath, Widnes, WA8 3XL Telephone: 0151 424 6060 Email enquiries via website www.merseyvalleygolfclub.co.uk

Mobberley Golf Club Barleyhurst Lane, Mobberley, Knutsford, WA16 7JZ Telephone: 01565 880188 enquiries@mobgolfclub.co.uk www.mobgolfclub.co.uk

Mollington Grange Golf Club Townfield Lane, Mollington, Chester, CH1 6NJ Telephone: 01244 851185 gail@mollingtongolfclub.co.uk www.mollingtongolfclub.co.uk

Moorend Golf Course & Driving Range Woodford Rd, Bramhall, Stockport, Cheshire, SK7 1QE Telephone: 0161 440 7788 info@moorendgolf.com www.moorendgolf.com

Mottram Hall Hotel Golf Club Wilmslow Road, Mottram St Andrew, Prestbury, SK10 4QT Telephone: 01625 828135 Email enquiries via website www.devere-hotels.com

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

Portal Golf & Country Club Cobblers Cross Lane, Tarporley, CW6 0DF Telephone: 01829 733933 Email enquiries via website www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk Portal Premier Golf Club Forest Road, Tarporley, CW6 0JA Telephone: 01829 733884 Email enquiries via website www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

Poulton Park Golf Club Dig Lane, Cinnamon Brow, WA2 0SH Telephone: 01925 812034 secretary@poultonparkgolfclub.co.uk www.poultonparkgolfclub.co.uk Prestbury Golf Club Macclefield Road, Prestbury, Macclesfield, SK10 4BJ Telephone: 01625 829388 office@prestburygolfclub.com www.prestburygolfclub.com

Pryors Hayes Golf Club Willington Rd, Oscroft, Tarvin, Nr Chester, CH3 8NL Telephone: 01829 741250 info@pryors-hayes.co.uk www.pryors-hayes.co.uk

Queens Park Golf Club Queens Park Drive, Crewe, SW2 7SB Telephone: Email enquiries via website www.gczcg.co.uk/queenspark

Reaseheath Golf Club Reaseheath College, Reaseheath, Nantwich, CW5 6DF Telephone: 01270 625131 enquiries@reaseheath.ac.uk www.reaseheath.ac.uk Reddish Vale Golf Club Southcliffe Road, Reddish, Stockport, SK5 7EE Telephone: 0161 480 2359 admin@rvgc.co.uk www.reddishvalegolfclub.co.uk

Ringway Golf Club Hale Mount, Hale Burns, Altrincham, WA15 8SW Telephone: 0161 904 9609 fiona@ringwaygolfclub.co.uk www.ringwaygolfclub.co.uk Romiley Golf Club Goosehouse Green, Romiley, Stockport, SK6 4LY Telephone: 0161 430 2392 office@romileygolfclub.org www.romileygolfclub.org

Runcorn Golf Club Clifton Road, Runcorn, WA7 4SU Telephone: 01928 572093 Email enquiries via website www.runcorngolfclub.co.uk

Sandbach Golf Club Middlewich Road, Sandbach, CW11 1FH Telephone: 01270 762117 sec@sandbachgolfclub.co.uk www.sandbachgolfclub.co.uk

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Cheshire Directory

Sandiway Golf Club Chester Road, Sandiway, CW8 2DJ Telephone: 01606 883247 information@sandiwaygolf.co.uk www.sandiwaygolf.co.uk

Shrigley Hall Hotel & C C Shrigley Park, Pott Shrigley, Macclesfield, SK10 5SB Telephone: 01625 575757 shrigleyhall.golf@barcelohotels.co.uk www.barcelo-hotels.co.uk

The Tytherington Golf Club Macclesfield, SK10 2JP Telephone: 01625 506000 Email enquiries via website www.theclubcompany.com

The Warrington Golf Club Hill Warren, Appleton, WA4 5HR Telephone: 01925 261620 duncan@warringtongolfclub.co.uk www.warringtongolfclub.co.uk

Stamford Golf Club Oakfield House, Huddersfield Road, Stalybridge, SK15 3PY Telephone: 01457 832126 Email n/a www.stamfordgolfclub.co.uk

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

Styal Golf Club Station Road, Styal, SK9 4JN Telephone: 01625 531359 gtraynor@styalgolf.co.uk www.styalgolf.co.uk

Vale Royal Abbey Golf Club Whitegate, Northwich, CW8 2BA Telephone: 01606 301291 enquiries@vra.co.uk www.vragc.co.uk

Sutton Hall Golf Club Aston Lane, Sutton Weaver, WA7 3ED Telephone: 01928 790747 info@suttonhallgolf.co.uk www.suttonhallgolf.co.uk

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

Stockport Golf Club Offerton Road, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5HL Telephone: 0161 427 2001 info@stockportgolf.co.uk www.stockportgolf.co.uk

Walton Hall Golf Club Warrington Road, Higher Walton, Warrington, WA4 5LU Telephone: 01925 266775 pro_shop@waltonhallgolfclub.co.uk www.waltonhallgolfclub.co.uk Werneth Low Golf Club Werneth Low Road, Gee Cross, Hyde, SK14 3AF Telephone: 0161 368 2503 admin@wernethlowgolf.co.uk www.wernethlowgolf.co.uk Widnes Golf Club Highfield Road, Widnes, WA8 7DT Telephone: 0151 424 2440 office@widnesgolfclub.co.uk www.widnes-golfclub.co.uk

Wilmslow Golf Club Great Warford, Mobberley, Knutsford, WA16 7AY Telephone: 01565 872148 info@wilmslowgolfclub.co.uk www.wilmslowgolfclub.co.uk Woodside Golf Club Knutsford Road, Holmes Chapel, CW4 8HJ Telephone: 01477 532388 info@woodsidegolf.co.uk www.woodsidegolf.co.uk

Wychwood Park Weston, Cheshire, CW2 5GP Telephone: 01270 820336 wychwood@deverevenues.co.uk www.deverevenues.co.uk

70

Greater Manchester INTRODUCTION

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. 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 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.

The shopping here is legendary. With exclusive independent boutiques in the funky Northern

71

Greater Manchester INTRODUCTION

M-6

M-61 Rochdale

Bury

M-66

M-62

Bolton Oldham

Wigan & Leigh

M-60 Salford

M-58

Tameside

M-602 Manchester

02 Trafford

M-62

M-67

05

04 M-60 01

01.

02.

03.

04.

05.

Cheadle Didsbury Hazel Grove Sale Withington

Stockport

03 M-56 M-6

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

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.

72

Contact Details Cheadle Golf Club Shiers Drive, Cheadle Cheshire, SK8 1HW

Telephone: 0161 428 9878 cheadlegolfclub@msn.com www.cheadlegolfclub.com 01. How to Find Exit M60 at Jct 2 towards A560/ Cheadle. At roundabout, take the 5th exit onto Stockport Rd/A560 heading to Cheadle. Turn left at Wilmslow Rd/A5149. Turn left at Shiers Drive.

CHEADLE Cheadle Golf Club was established in 1885 and is the second oldest golf club in Cheshire (the oldest is Royal Liverpool at Hoylake). It is well known as a very friendly club where new members and visitors are made welcome.

Cheadle is a challenging nine hole golf course that is suitable for all categories of golfers.

The clubhouse has a bar, lounge and snooker room. A wide range of social activities take place including socials, dinners, whist drives, and snooker competitions. Details of social events are posted on the notice board in the stud bar. Meals and bar snacks are available in the clubhouse.

The Club Professional is Anthony Millar, who is a fully qualified PGA Professional and a regular tournament competitor in the Northern Region. Anthony competed in The Open Championship at Troon in 2004.

Lessons are provided for beginners and all level of golfer.

An excellent range of golf equipment and clothing is available in the shop. Members can sign in guests to use clubhouse facilities, attend social events, or to play golf at reduced green fees. Cheadle Golf Club also features an extensive programme of golf competitions which take place every year.

Cheadle Golf Club Cheadle Road, Cheadle, Cheshire

Invites you to celebrate our 125th anniversary (Cheadle Golf Club rules & standard of dress apply at all times.)

Please ring or call at the Pro Shop to check availability Pro Shop: 0161 428 9878. Secretary: 0161 491 4452.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Snooker Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Custom fitting, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 9 holes, Par 32 • 2495 • 2356 • 2311 (33) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 4 4 3 4 3 4 3

296 168 296 411 97 431 161 351 145

A Round of Golf for £12.50

73

Contact Details Didsbury Golf Club Ford Lane, Northenden, Manchester, M22 4NQ

Club: 0161 998 9278 Pro: 0161 998 2811 golf@didsburygolfclub.com www.didsburygolfclub.com 02. How to Find From the M56, continue towards Manchester until M56 turns into A5103. Take the exit toward Northenden/B5166. Turn right at B5167/Wythenshawe Road, turn right at B5166/Church Road. Continue onto Ford Lane

Didsbury Didsbury Golf Club is an attractive and ‘easy walking’ 18-hole parkland course located alongside the River Mersey. Founded in 1891, Course Architects include Alistair MacKenzie (1921), with redesigns by Peter Alliss and Dave Thomas (1973). As well as being one of the busiest private member clubs in South Manchester , Didsbury GC is a popular venue for visiting parties with its relatively flat terrain and friendly atmosphere offering a good golfing challenge to all levels and handicaps.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Practice Area, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Conference Facilities Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6212 • 6010 • 5618 (72) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

3 4 5 3 4 3 4 4 5

166 436 519 152 297 138 377 386 462

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 5 4 4 4 4 4 3

362 182 531 313 427 389 338 362 156

Didsbury Golf Club is renowned for its friendly yet competitive atmosphere. It enjoys some of the best practice facilities in South

Manchester, together with professional tuition supervised by the England & Cheshire County PGA Coach, Peter Barber. Didsbury Golf Club offers its Members and Visitors alike a haven of tranquillity within the city boundaries.

In May 2009 Didsbury GC proudly opened two new greens on Holes 1 & 13, built to USGA specification and designed by leading UK agronomist Peter Jones. The 1st hole is 173 yards in length with a tree lined approach. Peter Jones designed a generous sized green for the first shot of the day, however 2 large riveted bunkers guarding the approach and run-offs into swales await those who are not quite warmed up!

Great reasons for Ladies to join our club • Active Ladies Section with equal opportunities • Didsbury GC offer Ladies the opportunity to join as Full Members and play 7 days a week • Ladies compete with Men in all Club Events • Currently 25% discount offer on 2010/11 Subscription for all new lady members Didsbury Golf Club offers some of the best Teaching and Practice Facilities in the South Manchester area. Group Coaching Classes for Ladies

Visit our website www.didsburygolfclub.com for more details, or call us on 0161 998 9278

74

Contact Details Hazel Grove Golf Club, The Club House, Hazel Grove, Stockport, SK7 6LU

Telephone: 0161 483 7272 secretary@hazelgrovegolfclub.com www.hazelgrovegolfclub.com 03. How to Find From the M56. Head onto M56 towards Manchester. Merge onto M60, at junction 1, take the A5145 exit to Stockport (West & Centre).

At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Travis Brow/A5145. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Heaton Lane heading to Manchester/ A6. Turn right at Wellington Road/ A6. Golf Club is on your left.

HAZEL GROVE The beautiful and well-appointed parkland course at Hazel Grove Golf Club is characterised by several natural water hazards. Add to these the planting of a further 6,500 trees during the reconstruction of 1990 to supplement the existing ones and you can see why careful course management is required by golfers of all levels. With true USGA specification greens, Hazel Grove provides an enjoyable test of golf all year round.

And afterwards, the spacious Swiss chalet style clubhouse provides the perfect place to sit with friends and partners musing over what might have been.

Signature Holes Hole 7, 488 yards: Par 5, SI 11 Slight dogleg left, so a driver off the tee with a draw will find you in the centre of the fairway.

The longer hitters may have a go in two. If so, try to favour the right hand side as an errant shot will put you in trees or bunkers. A great hole, whichever way you play it.

Hole 15, 280 yards: Par 4, SI 18 The signature hole. A short par 4 from an elevated tee offering a chance to drive the green.

However, out of bounds to the right and a pond to the left are waiting to catch the errant shot.

The challenge is set.

Facilities Lounge Bar, Spike Bar, Restaurant, Snooker Tables, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6234 • 5933 • 5249 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 5 4 3 4 5 4 3

351 164 524 376 161 377 480 332 176

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 3 5 3 4 4 4 4 4

514 162 481 203 371 262 324 309 366

Society Golf in Cheshire just doesn’t get any better than this!

• Limited number of memberships in all categories available now no joining fee.

Dr. Alister MacKenzie designed course, no temporary greens, a challenging parkland course with water.

• Large function room available for weddings, parties and conferences.

Ask about our MACKENZIE SOCIETY PACKAGE 2 MacKenzie golf courses and local overnight accommodation from just £79 pp* *pp sharing twin room, please ask for full details

EARLY BIRDIE SOCIETY OFFERS! 2011 Corporate & Large Society Golf Days Green Fees just £1,000 (60-80 players) 2011 Full Day Society Packages from just £40pp To book ring the Pro Shop (option 1):

0161 483 7272

75

Contact Details Sale Golf Club Sale lodge, Golf Road, Sale Cheshire M33 2XU

Telephone: 0161 973 1638 mail@salegolfclub.com www.salegolfclub.com 04. How to Find Exit M60 at Jct 6 and head for Sale, Old Hall Rd (A6144). After 0.3 mile turn left into Wythenshawe Rd (B5397). After 0.2 mile the road bends to the right. Turn left on this bend into New Hall Close and after 75 yds straight on at mini roundabout, onto Fairy Lane. Cross over the Motorway and next left at the roundabout onto Golf Rd. After 0.2 mile the clubhouse entrance is on the right.

Sale Golf Club, founded in 1913, is a well established parkland course with a standard scratch of 70. The lodge of Sale Old Hall circa 1830, is steeped in tradition and has a well-earned reputation for good food and hospitality.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Snooker Room, Putting Green, Practice Areas, Buggies, Trolleys, Custom fitting, Lessons, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6301 • 5944 • 5488 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

5 4 3 4 4 4 4 4 4

486 423 186 297 431 327 318 292 381

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 4 3 4 5 3 4

Sale

392 144 380 362 160 355 538 112 360

Famous for our ‘Open Champion’, Richard Burton, who was the last ‘Club Professional’ to win the Open Championship, we have been home to many great golfers including Joanne Morley, currently on the Ladies professional circuit.

Set in an idyllic rural location next to Trafford

Water Sports Centre, Sale Golf Club offers a gently undulating parkland course that presents an enjoyable challenge to both high and low handicap golfers. Providing ‘year round’ play, the course is maintained to the highest standards using the latest equipment.

Signature Hole: 4th, Par 4. “Bridle Path”. With the tee only a few feet from the river Mersey and the green right next to the bridle path, this hole demands accuracy, judgement and great nerve. A drive left of centre will leave a pitch to one of the smaller well bunkered greens on the course. A tough shot especially when the ground is firm in summer time.

76

Contact Details Withington Golf Club 243 Palatine Road, West Didsbury Manchester M20 2UE

Telephone: 0161 445 9544 secretary@withingtongolfclub.co.uk www.withingtongolfclub.co.uk Pro Shop: 0161 445 4861 stevemarrgolf@btinternet.com 05. How to Find Next to the M60 and M56, on the B5167 (Palatine Road) from Northenden to Manchester

Withington 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-

Withington

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 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

3 4 4 3 5 4 4 3 5

130 387 396 162 492 290 333 176 460

Hole Par Yards

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

Memberships available

No Joining Fee. Subscriptions frozen for 2010

Half Price Subscription for Ladies

There’s never been a better time for ladies to become a full member of Withington Golf Club. When two Ladies join at the same time, they pay just 50% each of the normal subscription.

Golf Societies in 2010

Golf Club

Book your Golf Society or Corporate Golf Day Monday to Thursday and receive free bacon sandwich & coffee on arrival. Please quote SGP10.

the way golf should be...

77

Greater Manchester Directory

Ashton-Under-Lyne Golf Club Gorsey Way, Hurst, Ashton-Under-Lyne, OL6 9HT Telephone: 0161 330 1537 info@ashtongolfclub.co.uk www.ashtongolfclub.co.uk

Blackley Golf Club Victoria Avenue, Manchester, M9 6HW0 Telephone: 0161 643 2980 office@blackleygolfclub.com www.blackleygolfclub.com

Bolton Golf Club Lostock Park, Bolton, BL6 4AJ Telephone: 01204 843067 secretary@boltongolfclub.co.uk www.boltongolfclub.co.uk

Brookdale Golf Club Medlock Road, Woodhouses, Failsworth, M35 9WQ Telephone: 0161 681 4534 Email enquiries via website www.brookdalegolf.co.uk

Bury Golf Club Unsworth Hall, Blackford Bridge, Bury, BL9 9TJ Telephone: 0161 766 4897 secretary@burygolfclub.com www.burygolfclub.com Castle Hawk Golf Club Chadwick Lane, Castleton, Rochdale, OL11 3BY Telephone: 01706 640841 Email enquiries via website www.castlehawk.co.uk

Bolton Old Links Golf Club Charley Old Road, Monsterrat, Bolton, BL1 5SU Telephone: 01204 842307 secretary@boltonoldlinksgolfclub.co.uk www.boltonoldlinksgolfclub.co.uk

Cheadle Golf Club Shiers Drive, Cheadle Road, Cheadle, SK8 1HW Telephone: 0161 428 2160 cheadlegolfclub@msn.com www.cheadlegolfclub.com

Brackley Municipal Golf Club Bullows Road, Little Hulton, Worsley, M38 9TR Telephone: 0161 790 6076 Email n/a Website n/a

Chorlton-Cum-Hardy Golf Club Barlow Hall, Barlow Hall Road, M21 7JJ Telephone: 0161 881 3139 chorltongolf@hotmail.com www.chorltoncumhardygolfclub.co.uk

Boysnope Park Golf Club Liverpool Road, Barton Moss, Eccles, Manchester, M30 7RF Telephone: 0161 707 6125 boysnope@btconnect.com www.boysnopegolfclub.co.uk

Breightmet Golf Club Red Bridge, Ainsworth, Bolton, BL2 5PA Telephone: 01204 527381 secretary@breightmetgolfclub.co.uk www.breightmetgolfclub.co.uk

Crompton & Royton Golf Club High Barn, Royton, Oldham, OL2 6RW Telephone: 0161 624 2154 secretary@cromptonandroytongolfclub.co.uk www.cromptonandroytongolfclub.co.uk

Davyhulme Park Golf Club Gleneagles Road, Davyhulme, M41 8SA Telephone: 0161 748 2260 info@davyhulmeparkgolfclub.co.uk www.davyhulmeparkgolfclub.co.uk Deane Golf Club Off Junction Road, Deane, Bolton, BL3 4NS Telephone: 01204 61944 sandy@deanegolfclub.com www.deanegolfclub.co.uk

Denton Golf Club Manchester Road, Denton, M34 2NU Telephone: 0161 336 3218 info@dentongolfclub.com www.dentongolfclub.com

Didsbury Golf Club Ford Lane, Northenden, Manchester, M22 4NQ Telephone: 0161 998 9278 golf@didsburygolfclub.com www.didsburygolfclub.com

Dunscar Golf Club Longsworth Lane, Bromley Cross, Bolton, BL7 9QY Telephone: 01204 598228 dunscargolfclub@uk2.net www.dunscargolfclub.co.uk

Ellesmere Golf Club Old Clough Lane, Worsley, Manchester, M28 7HZ Telephone: 0161 790 2122 honsec@ellesmeregolfclub.co.uk www.ellesmeregolfclub.co.uk

78

Greater Manchester Directory

Fairfield Golf & Sailing Club Booth Road, Audenshaw, Manchester, M34 5GA Telephone: 0161 370 1641 manager@fairfieldgolfclub.co.uk www.fairfieldgolfclub.co.uk

Flixton Golf Club Church Road, Flixton, Manchester, M41 6EP Telephone: 0161 748 2116 flixtongolfclub@mail.com www.flixtongolfclub.co.uk

Hazel Grove Golf Club Hazel Grove, Stockport, SK7 6LU Telephone: 0161 483 3217 secretary@hazelgrovegolfclub.com www.hazelgrovegolfclub.com

Manor Golf Club Kearsley, Bolton, BL4 8SF Telephone: 01204 701027 Email enquiries via website www.manorgolfclub.co.uk

Marland Golf Club Springfield Park, Bolton Road, Rochdale, OL11 4RE Telephone: 01706 49801 Email n/a www.spgc.org

Great Lever & Farnsworth Golf Club Plodder Lane, Farnworth, Bolton, BL4 0LQ Telephone: 01204 656493 Email enquiries via website www.greatleverfarnworthgolfclub.co.uk

Heaton Park Golf Club Heaton Park, Prestwich, Manchester, M25 5SW Telephone: 0161 654 9899 secretary@heatonparkgolfclub.co.uk www.heatonparkgolfclub.co.uk

Northenden Golf Club Palatine Road, Manchester, M22 4FR Telephone: 0161 998 4738 manager@northendengolfclub.com www.northendengolfclub.com

Haigh Hall Golf Club Haigh Hall Country Park, Haigh, Wigan, WN2 1PE Telephone: 01942 833337 secretray@haighhall-golfclub.co.uk haighhallgolfclub.users.btopenworld.com

Horwich Golf Club Victoria Road, Horwich, BL6 5PH Telephone: 01204 696980 Email n/a Website n/a

North Manchester Golf Club Rhodes House, Manchester Old Road, Middleton, Manchester, M24 4PE Telephone: 0161 634 9033 tee@nmgc.co.uk www.northmanchestergolfclub.co.uk

Greenmount Golf Club Greenmount, Bury, BL8 4LH Telephone: 01204 883712 secretary@greenmountgolfclub.co.uk www.greenmountgolfclub.co.uk

Hart Common Golf Club Wigan Road, Westhoughton, Bolton, BL5 2BX Telephone: 01942 818445 secretary@hartcommongolfclub.co.uk www.hartcommongolfclub.co.uk Harwood Golf Club Springfield, Roading Brook Road, Bolton, BL2 4JD Telephone: 01204 522878 info@harwoodgolfclub.co.uk www.harwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Hindley Hall Golf Club Hall Lane, Hindley, Wigan, WN2 2SQ Telephone: 01942 525020 Email enquiries via website www.hindleyhallgolfclub.co.uk

Lowes Park Golf Club Hilltop, Lowes Road, Bury, BL9 6SU Telephone: 0161 764 1231 secretary@lowesparkgc.co.uk www.lowesparkgolfclub.co.uk

Manchester Golf Club Hopwood Cottage, Rochdale Road, Middleton, Manchester, M24 2QP Telephone: 0161 643 3202 secretary@mangc.co.uk www.mangc.co.uk

Oldham Golf Club Lees New Road, Oldham, OL4 4EN Telephone: 0161 624 4986 info@oldhamgolfclub.com www.oldhamgolfclub.co.uk

Pennington Golf Club Pennington Country Park, Leigh, WN7 3PB Telephone: 01942 682852 info@penningtongolfclub.co.uk www.penningtongolfclub.co.uk

79

Greater Manchester Directory

Pike Fold Golf Club Hills Lane, Pole Lane, Unsworth, Bury, BL9 8QP Telephone: 0161 766 3561 Email enquiries via website www.pikefold.co.uk Prestwich Golf Club Hilton Lane, Prestwich, M25 9XB Telephone: 0161 773 2544 prestwichgolf@btconnect.com www.prestwichgolf.co.uk

Tunshill Golf Club Kiln Lane, Milnrow, Rochdale, OL16 3TS Telephone: 01706 342095 tunshillgolfclub@btconnect.com www.tunshillgolfclub.co.uk

Whittaker Golf Club Littleborough, OL5 0LH Telephone: 01706 378310 admin@whittakergolfclub.co.uk www.whittakergolfclub.co.uk

Rochdale Golf Club Edenfield Road, Bagslate, Rochdale, OL11 5YR Telephone: 01706 646024 Email enquiries via website www.rochdalegolfclub.co.uk

Valynette Golf Club Grimeford Road, Blackrod, Bolton, BL6 5LD, Telephone: 01257 480485 Email n/a Website n/a

William Wroe Golf Club Pennybridge Lane, Flixton, Manchester, M31 3DL Telephone: 0161 748 8680 info@traffordleisure.co.uk www.traffordleisure.co.uk

Regent Park (Bolton) Golf Club Links Road, Chorley New Road, Bolton, BL2 9XX Telephone: 01204 844170 regent.park@btopenworld.com www.regentparkgolfclub.co.uk

Saddleworth Golf Club Mountain Ash, Uppermill, Oldham, OL3 6LT Telephone: 01457 873653 secretary@saddleworthgolfclub.org.uk www.saddleworthgolfclub.org.uk

Sale Golf Club Sale Lodge, Golf Road, Sale, M33 2XU Telephone: 0161 973 3404 mail@salegolfclub.com www.salegolfclub.com

Stand Golf Club The Dales, Ashbourne Grove, Whitfield, Manchester, M45 7NL Telephone: 0161 766 2388 Email enquiries via website www.standgolfclub.co.uk Swinton Park Golf Club East Lancashire Road, Swinton, Manchester, M27 5LX Telephone: 0161 794 1785 info@spgolf.com www.spgolf.co.uk

Turton Golf Club Wood End Farm, off Hospital Road, Bromley Cross, Bolton, BL7 9QD Telephone: 01204 852235 info@turtongolfclub.com www.turtongolfclub.com

Wigan Golf Club Arley Hall, Haigh, Wigan, WN1 2UH Telephone: 01257 421360 info@wigangolfclub.co.uk www.wigangolfclub.co.uk

Walmersley Golf Club Garrett’s Close, Walmersley, Bury, BL9 6TE Telephone: 0161 764 1429 Email enquiries via website www.walmersleygolfclub.co.uk

Withington Golf Club 243 Palatine Road, West Didsbury, Manchester, M20 2UE Telephone: 0161 445 3912 secretary@withingtongolfclub.co.uk www.withingtongolfclub.co.uk

Westhoughton Golf Club Long Island, Westhoughton, Bolton, BL5 3BE Telephone: 01942 811085 Nonsec.wgc@btconnect.com www.westhoughtongolfclub.co.uk

Worsley Golf Club Stableford Avenue, Monton Green, Eccles, Manchester, M30 8AP Telephone: 0161 789 4202 secretary@worsleygolfclub.co.uk www.worsleygolfclub.co.uk

Werneth Golf Club Green Lane, Garden Surburb, Oldham, OL8 3AZ Telephone: 0161 624 1190 secretary@wernethgolfclub.co.uk www.wernethgolfclub.co.uk

Whitefield Golf Club Higher Lane, Whitefield, Manchester, M45 7EZ Telephone: 0161 351 2700 enquiries@whitefieldgolfclub.com www.whitefieldgolfclub.co.uk

Worsley (Marriott) Park Golf Club Worsley Park, Manchester, M28 2QT Telephone: 0161 975 2000 Email enquiries via website www.marriott.co.uk

80

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.

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 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.

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-on-Sea 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.

81

Lancashire INTRODUCTION

M-6

Area Map

Morcambe Lancaster

Fleetwood

Poulton-Le-Fylde

Colne

03 Nelson

02 05 11

Blackpool 12 Lytham

M-55

01

Burnley

09

07 04

Preston

Blackburn 08

M-65 Leyland 10 Eccleston

Chorley

06 M-61 M-6 Skelmersdale

01.

02.

03.

04.

05.

06.

07.

08.

09.

10.

11.

12.

Royal Lytham & St. Annes Blackpool North Shore Clitheroe Fairhaven Herons’ Reach Hurlston Hall Lytham Green Drive Pleasington Preston Shaw Hill Staining Lodge St. Annes Old Links

Accrington

82

Open Championship Course Royal Lytham & St. Annes

Royal Lytham & St. Annes Golf Club

Venue for The Open Championship in 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.

83

Open Championship Course Photographs by Alan C. Birch

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 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

Royal Lytham & St. Annes

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 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.

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Contact Details Blackpool North Shore Golf Club Ltd Devonshire Rd, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY2 ORD

Telephone: 01253 352054 office@blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com www.blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com 02. How to Find

Blackpool North Shore 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.

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 course when The Open has been held at Royal Lytham & St Annes. Currently it is the venue for the Lancashire PGA Championship.

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. 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.

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 promenade) - 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 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 5 4 4 4 3 4 3

436 400 524 367 429 385 175 303 196

Hole Par Yards

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

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Contact Details Clitheroe Golf Club Whalley Road, Clitheroe Lancashire BB7 1PP

Telephone: 01200 422292 Pro Shop: 01200 424242 secretary@clitheroegolfclub.com www.clitheroegolfclub.com 03. How to Find 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

The Open Championship Regional Qualifying Course 2010-2014 Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6504 • 6337 • 6124 • 5585 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

5 4 4 4 3 4 4 3 4

448 352 432 286 134 337 421 161 365

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 4 4 3 5

360 384 433 506 176 373 310 140 506

Clitheroe 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.

Clitheroe is a beautiful 18 hole parkland golf course located in the heart of the Ribble Valley. 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. To the east is Pendle Hill, scene of many witch trials so legend states. Clitheroe is a course of considerable prestige and regarded as one of the top 10 courses in Lancashire.

The County Championship has been hosted three times in the last 29 years and twice in the last 8 years. At national level, the Club has hosted the EGU County Champions Tournament and most recently the Schools Team Championship.

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.

by Michael Denker

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Contact Details Fairhaven Golf Club Oakwood Avenue, Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire, FY8 4JU Telephone: 01253 736 741 info@fairhavengolfclub.co.uk www.fairhavengolfclub.co.uk 04. How to Find

Fairhaven 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.

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.

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) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

5 3 5 4 3 4 4 4 4

510 177 500 436 179 366 335 387 351

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Venue for European Seniors Team Championship 2010 Five Nations Tournament 2011 The World Junior Open 2012 “Top 10 Open Championship Qualifying Courses” Golf World “A real hidden gem” Peter Allis Please contact the Secretary on 01253 736741 or email secretary@fairhavengolfclub.co.uk

3 5 4 4 4 5 4 3 5

181 483 349 345 364 485 471 146 497

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Contact Details Herons’ Reach Golf Club East Park Drive, Blackpool Lancashire, FY3 8LL

Telephone: 01253 838 866 Email enquiries via website www.devere.co.uk 05. How to Find Herons’ Reach is easy to find from the M6. Take junction 32 for the M55 and then exit at junction 4 for Blackpool North (A583). Beware of speed cameras on this 30mph dual carriageway. Follow the signs for Blackpool Zoo into South Park Drive and East Park Drive and keep an eye out for the hotel on the right.

Herons’ Reach Facilities Memberships Available, Society Golf, Corporate Golf Days, Professional Tuition, USGA Standard, Practice Facility, PGA Golf Academy, 17 Bay Floodlit Driving Range, Chipping and Putting Greens, Buggy and Trolley Hire Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6628 • 6205 • 5848 • 5289 (71) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 4 3 5 5 4 3 4

348 241 419 146 472 473 353 152 381

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 4 4 3 4 5

461 353 149 296 353 399 154 259 439

Set amongst 236 acres of Parkland and lakes and designed in 1994 by former Ryder Cup player and current BBC golf commentator Peter Alliss and former Ryder cup player and course architect Clive Clark. A true test of golf. A par 72 with narrow fairways and USGA specification greens with subtle breaks and borrows. The course also boasts 12 water features and has three tee colours to challenge every level of player. Located just 4 miles from Blackpool’s town centre and the famous Blackpool Tower can be seen at various points of the course – with the best view when playing the 14th hole. Herons’ Reach has held numerous PGA North Region Championship

events over the past decade, with previous winners such as Paul Eales and Phillip Archer.

It will also see a return of the championship in 2010.

Although just a Par 3, the course signature hole is the start of the final 3 holes that could make or break a great score. The 16th is 167 yards off the medal tees and normally played into the prevailing wind. There is out of bounds on the left and right and a lake that is situated down the entire left side of the hole. Two bunkers also guard the green, front right and mid left. The 40 yard long, undulating green slopes quite severely down towards the lake.

£100 a fourball 8 or more receive complimentary bacon rolls & tea or coffee on arrival. Pre payment required.

To book directly please call: 01253 832512 Please quote North West Golf Guide offer on booking to confirm all details

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Contact Details 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 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.

Hurlston Hall Classical golfing values underpin the philosophy of Hurlston Hall designer Donald Steel. His desire to blend his courses imperceptibly into the surrounding landscape is never more evident than here. The emphasis of this 18 hole, 135 acre, par 72 course is enjoyment. The strategic use of natural elevation, well placed traps and the finely sculptured contours of the greens present an inspiring challenge.

There is always the opportunity to card a personal best, however the slightest hint of a hook or slice could result in a battle for respectability. The beautifully manicured practice putting area and a driving range fully

equipped with Power Tee© capability provide the perfect pre-match limber up. To satisfy your undoubted appetite the clubhouse provides a diverse range of dining options with which to round out the perfect day of golf.

10th, Par 4. An extremely difficult par 4 with a pond down the right hand side of the fairway and then a pond in the middle of the fairway which you have to carry for your second shot.

The green has two tiers with a huge bunker on the right hand side. One to remember! 15th, Par 4. From the tee the views are rather special.

Down the gentle slope this fairway goes right and then left into the largest green on the course.

Facilities Spa, Leisure Club, Bar, Restaurant, Spike Bar, Bistro, Floodlit Driving Range, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6701 • 6540 • 6328 • 5882 (75) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 4 4 4 5 3 5 4

403 156 331 362 399 454 137 483 385

Hole Par Yards

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

WINTER PACKAGES FROM OCTOBER - MARCH 2011 For further information telephone: 01704 840400 Email:info@hurlstonhall.co.uk. – www.hurlstonhall.co.uk

Winter Packages available from £28.00 Societies Welcome Parties of 8 and over

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Contact Details Lytham Green Drive Golf Club Ballam Road, Lytham St Annes, FY8 4LE

Telephone: 01253 737390 secretary@lythamgreendrive.co.uk www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk 07. 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) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 4 4 5 3 4 4 4

383 382 329 348 510 177 335 336 392

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 4 4 4 4 5

Lytham Green Drive

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

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.

A few tee times are available in the following 2010 Open Competitions 08 August 10 August 22 August 31 August 01 September 03 September

Green Drive Trophy 36 Hole Medal (hcp limit 7) Junior Green Drive Trophy Charity Mixed Team (any combination) Gent’s Seniors Fourball Stableford Ladies’ Team of Four Gent’s Four Man Team Medal

Entry forms are available from our website: www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk For more information, contact the Secretary Manager on 01253 737390 Option 4

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Contact Details Pleasington Golf Club Pleasington, Blackburn Lancashire, BB2 5JF

Telephone: 01254 202 177 secretary-manager@pleasington-golf.co.uk www.pleasington-golf.co.uk 08. How to Find 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.

Pleasington Formed in October 1890, Pleasington is without doubt one of the best tests of golf in the North-West 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 140 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 Holes: Hole 6, Par 4. “Priory”. This fine golfing hole is full of interest and character.

One drives over rough ground to a sloping fairway. The green is guarded by deep bunkers in front and on both sides, whilst the ground slopes away behind. The approach shot must be well pitched up with plenty of stop. It is a difficult shot and one prone to disappointment.

“Twilight Special” £96 per 4 Ball after 3pm Offer valid August & September 2010

Contact the professional on 01254 201630 or the office on 01254 202177 www.pleasington-golf.co.uk

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Practice Ground, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6562 • 6402 • 6177 • 5807 (74) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 4 4 4 4 5 3 5

378 341 318 423 335 346 507 149 468

Hole Par Yards

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

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Contact Details Preston Golf Club Fulwood Old Hall, Fulwood Hall Lane Fulwood, Preston PR2 8DD Telephone: 01772 700011 Ext 1 secretary@prestongolfclub.com www.prestongolfclub.com 09. How to Find Leave M6 at junction J31 in direction PRESTON. From the roundabout leave at the 1st exit onto Preston New Road (A59). Enter the roundabout and turn right by leaving at the 2nd exit onto Blackpool Road (A5085).

Leave Blackpool Road (A5085) and turn right into Sir Tom Finney Way (B6241). Turn left into Watling Street Road. Turn right into Duchy Avenue.

Turn right into Fulwood Hall Lane.

Proceed along Fulwood Hall Lane, past Preston Barracks on the right.

Turn left into Preston Golf Club.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Function/Conference Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Video room for all players, Junior academy with after school classes and holiday activities Course Information

18 holes, Par 71 • 6312 • 6029 • 5378 (73) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

3 4 4 4 4 5 5 3 4

137 340 420 430 332 508 491 162 310

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 4 3 4 4 5 4

351 342 117 301 186 326 409 500 377

Preston Preston Golf Club, a must play Lancashire gem, is situated in the Fulwood District of Preston. It was established in 1892 and modified by famous designers such as James Braid, Harry Vardon, Alistair Mackenzie and Sandy Herd over the years. It is a very testing parkland course where water hazards, treelined fairways and about 75 bunkers provide many challenges to play to your handicap.

Added to this are excellent dining and drinking facilities in the Clubhouse, a very well-stocked pro’ shop and a 16 bay, 250 yard flood-lit driving range where you can warm up before beginning your round.

Summer Opening Times: Mon-Fri: 08.30am-9pm Sat-Sun: 08.30am-5pm

Signature Hole The 17th is a truly remarkable hole and a real test of the golfing brain. An elevated tee provides excellent views of the first 300 yards.

With the fairway bending left to right and sloping gently the same way, care must be taken to find the left of the fairway to avoid being blocked out.

Most golfers can swing their entire bag at the second shot, but “long hitters” be warned, water is looming! Once past the fairway cross bunker there is 198 yards to the green. Lay up or go for it?

Winter Opening Times: Mon-Fri: 9am-9pm Sat-Sun: 9am-4pm

SPECIAL OFFER (QUOT E NWGSPEC) 100 balls £3.50 Unlimited Balls £7.00 The Range. Preston Golf Club Fulwood Hall Lane, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 8DD (01772) 700011 Opt2

www.prestongolfclub.com

THE RANGE Preston Golf Club

Golf Academy & Driving Range

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Contact Details Shawhill Hotel, Golf and Country Club Whittle-le-Woods, Near Chorley Lancashire, PR6 7PP Telephone: 01257 279222 info@shaw-hill.co.uk www.shaw-hill.co.uk 10. How to Find From M6 Junction 28.

At junction 28, take the B5256 exit to Leyland/A49. Turn right at Leyland Way/B5256 (signs for Chorley/ A6). Turn right at Wigan Road/ A49. Turn left at Dawson Lane/ B5248. Turn right at Preston Road/ A6. Take the 2nd right onto Shaw Hill Drive, then 1st left onto Parkside Drive. Turn right at ShawHill.

SHAW HILL 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.

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.

Signature Hole Hole 8. Par 4, 464 yards (white tees) The feature hole is a long sweeping dog leg to the right and the longest par 4 on the course.

The ‘tiger line’ from the back tee is to drive over the trees on the right with a long carry over the hidden brook. An accurate second is then required to a narrow green avoiding the two green side bunkers and the lake to the right.

Only the longest hitters will make this green in two and to walk away with a par will be an achievement in itself!!

Facilities Hotel, Spa, Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Practice Ground, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6283 • 5965 • 5417 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 4 5 4 3 4 4 5

250 178 357 464 324 148 302 433 506

SOCIETY GOLF PACKAGES. from JUST £35.00 Quote NWGG

Enjoy two rounds on our championship course, one night’s stay, use of our Spa, Sauna, Pool & Steam Room + a 3 Course Dinner on the night of your stay.

All from just £75.00pp* *Terms & Conditions Apply.

Prices valid until October 2010. Quote NWGG

An award winning restaurant, spa, leisure and hotel complex with one of the region’s finest Championship parkland courses.

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 4 4 3 5 4

441 332 181 348 381 357 131 486 346

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Contact Details Staining Lodge Golf Course Chain Lane, Staining Blackpool, FY3 0DE

Telephone: 01253 891336 enquiries@staininglodge.co.uk www.staininglodge.co.uk 11. How to Find From the M55. Turn off at junction 4. Follow signs for Blackpool along Preston New Road.

Turn right at the second set of lights. Follow Mythop Lane for half a mile then turn sharp left into Chain Lane. After half a mile the Golf Course is on your right.

Staining Lodge Designed by golf course architect David Griffiths, Staining Lodge Golf Course was launched as an 18 hole golf course in August, 2009. The previous nine hole 80 acre course doubled in size to become a 6,500 yard, 18 hole par 72 course. Set in 160 acres Staining Lodge is the largest pay and play course in the Fylde area.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Driving range, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6492 • 6159 • 5451 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 3 4 5 3 4 4 4

377 473 165 339 501 181 347 377 374

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 3 5 4 3 4 5 4

409 419 154 478 269 156 357 456 327

Proprietors Alison and Peter Wigglesworth are excited to see the completion of the project: “We started planning the development in 2003 and always planned to build an 18-hole golf course. The first nine was launched July 2006 and it’s great to see three years on the

realisation of our dream. It has been hard work but incredibly rewarding.”

The course has golf pros offering lessons, golf carts, hire clubs and trolleys, available to hire from the pro shop.

The Clubhouse Staining Lodge clubhouse is an elegant and modern space with a bar and restaurant serving a variety of beverages and hot and cold food using fresh local produce. The clubhouse makes an ideal setting for a wedding reception, family celebration or any other event which requires a pleasant environment.

Green Fees: Weekday Adults £18 • OAP £17 • Weekend £20 Society / Group discounts available: Weekend Package: Bacon Barm, Coffee/Tea, 18 holes of golf = £22.50 Soup & Sandwiches, 18 holes of golf = £23.95 2 course meal, 18 holes of golf = £28.50 3 course meal, 18 holes of golf = £31.50 Tailor your own package, prices on request • Reduced rates Monday to Friday

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Contact Details St Anne’s Old Links Golf Club Ltd Highbury Road East, St Anne’s On Sea Lancashire FY8 2LD Telephone: 01253 723 597 secretary@stannesoldlinks.com www.stannesoldlinks.com 12. How to Find From the M55 direction of Airport Progress Way to Squires Gate Lane (A5230) At 3rd set of Traffic Lights turn left for Lytham St Annes you are now on the A584. Take the 3rd road on the left (Highbury Road), over the Railway Bridge, Old Links Golf Club is situated immediately on your left.

Facilities

St. Annes Old Links Since 1901, St Annes Old Links Golf Club has offered the purest of links experiences, its fairways nestled between dunes and subject to the unpredictable weather. As early as 1910, Golf Gossip spoke of the club’s “atmosphere of hospitality” - and little has changed to this day. The quintessential links course has seen action as an Open Qualifying Course for Royal Lytham since 1926 and has also staged tournaments such as the English Ladies Amateur Championship.

Golfers of all levels will be put to the test by the westerly winds, as well as four ponds which influence six of the course’s holes. St

Annes Old Links is a demanding course and as traditional and historic as they come. The Professional shop at St Annes Old Links Golf Club is widely regarded as one of the best stocked golf outlets in the North West.

Every hole has its own characteristics, of which the par 3, 9th is perhaps the best known. Bobby Jones, when playing here (and winning) in the 1926 Open, was so impressed with this hole that, according to reports of the day, took detailed measurements in order to reproduce a hole of similar nature in America. The green is 46 yards long and 15 yards at its widest point, surrounded by sand dunes and 8 pot bunkers.

Summer 4 Ball Special £200 including Breakfast or Dish of the Day 11.00am-12noon Summer Society Full Day £70 per person including Coffee & Biscuits on arrival 9 holes golf, Golfers Lunch, 18 holes golf, 3 course Dinner after play. Min Nos 12 golfers.

Friday rate £80 per person.

Clubhouse with restaurant, bars, snooker and full conference facilities.

Large practice ground, chipping and putting green, Golf Shop and Studio, Buggies and Trollies for hire.

The Open Championship Final Qualifying Course 2012 Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6684 • 6410 • 6177 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 3 4 5 5 4 4 3

332 389 163 404 533 509 432 354 157

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 4 4 3 5 5

312 328 398 189 363 367 166 526 488

Summer Society Half Day £60 per person including Hot drink on arrival, 18 holes and 3 course Dinner after play.

Minimum numbers 12 golfers

St Annes Old Links Golf Club

Green Fees: Mon-Thurs £50 am / £45 pm Friday £55am / £50 pm Day Ticket: Mon-Thurs £60. Friday £65 When booking, please quote reference GG2

St Anne’s Old Links Golf Club Ltd. Highbury Road East, St Anne’s On Sea, Lancashire FY8 2LD · Tel: 01253 723 597 · secretary@stannesoldlinks.com · www.stannesoldlinks.com

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Lancashire Directory

Accrington & District Golf Club West End, Oswaldtwistle, Accrington, BB5 4LS 01254 232734 info@accringtongolfclub.com www.accringtongolfclub.com

Blackpool Park Golf Club North Park Drive, Blackpool, FY3 8LS 01253 397916 secretary@blackpoolparkgc.co.uk www.blackpoolparkgc.co.uk

Darwen Golf Club Winter Hill, Darwen, BB3 0LB 01254 701287 admin@darwengolfclub.com www.darwengolfclub.com

Ashton & Lea Golf Club Tudor Avenue, Blackpool Road, Lea, Preston, PR4 0XA 01772 726480 info@ashtonleagolfclub.co.uk www.ashtonleagolfclub.co.uk

Charnock Richard Golf Club Preston Road, Charnock Richard, near Chorley, PR8 5LE 01257 470707 Email n/a www.crgcc.co.uk

Duxbury Park Golf Club Duxbury Hall Road, Duxbury Park, Chorley, PR7 4AS 01257 265380 customerservice@glendale-services.co.uk www.glendale-golf.com

Bacup Golf Club Maden Road, Bankside Lane, Bacup, OL13 8HN 01706 873170 secretary@bacupgolfclub.co.uk www.bacupgolfclub.com

Burnley Golf Club Glen View, Burnley, BB11 3RW 01282 421045 Email n/a www.burnleygolfclub.org.uk

Dean Wood Golf Club Lafford Lane, Up Holland, Skelmersdale, WN8 0QZ 01695 622219 secretary@deanwoodgolfclub.co.uk www.deanwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Baxenden & District Golf Club Wooley Lane, Baxenden, Accrington, BB5 2EA 01254 234555 baxgolf@hotmail.com www.baxendengolf.co.uk

Chorley Golf Club Hall O’ Th’ Hill, Heath Charnock, Chorley, PR6 9HX 01257 480263 secretary@chorleygolfclub.freeserve.co.uk www.chorleygolfclub.co.uk

Fairhaven Golf Club Lytham Hall Park, Ansdell, Lytham St Annes, FY8 4JU 01253 736741 secretary@fairhavengolfclub.co.uk www.farhavengolfclub.co.uk

Blackburn Golf Club Bearwood Brow, Blackburn, BB2 7AX 01254 51122 info@blackburngolfclub.com www.blackburngolfclub.com

Clitheroe Golf Club Whalley Road, Clitheroe, BB7 1PP 01200 422618 secretary@clitheroegolfclub.com www.clitheroegolfclub.com

Fleetwood Golf Club Golf House, Princes Way, Fleetwood, FY7 8AF 01253 773573 secretary@fleetwoodgolf.co.uk www.fleetwoodgolf.co.uk

Blackpool North Shore Golf Club Devonshire Road, Blackpool, FY2 0RD 01253 351017 office@blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com www.blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com

Colne Golf Club Law Farm, Skipton Old Road, Colne, BB8 7EB 01282 863391 colnegolfclub@hotmail.co.uk www.colnegolfclub.com

Beacon Park Golf Club Beacon Lane, Dalton, Up Holland, WN8 7RU 01695 627500 proshop@beaconparkgolf.com www.beaconparkgolf.com

Fishwick Hall Golf Club Glenluce Drive, Farringdon Park, Preston, PR1 5TD 01772 798300 fishwickhallgolfclub@supanet.co.uk www.fishwickhallgolfclub.co.uk

Garstang Country Hotel & Golf Club Bowgreave, Garstang, PR3 1YE 01995 600100 reception@ghgc.co.uk www.garstanghotelandgolf.com Gathurst Golf Club Miles Lane, Shevington, Wigan, WN6 8EW 01257 252861 secretary@gathurstgolfclub.ltd.uk www.gathurstgolfclub.co.uk

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Lancashire Directory

Ghyll Golf Club Ghyll Brow, Barnoldswick, Colne, BB8 6JH 01282 842466 webmaster@ghyllgolfclub.co.uk www.ghyllgolfclub.co.uk

Ingol Golf Club Tanterton Hall Road, Ingol, Preston, PR7 7BY 01772 734556 Email n/a www.ingolgolfclub.co.uk

Longridge Golf Club Fell Barn, Jeffrey Hill, Longridge, Preston, PR3 2TU 01772 783291 secretary@longridgegolfclub.co.uk www.longridgegolfclub.co.uk

Knott End Golf Club Wyreside, Poulton-Le-Fylde, FY6 0AA 01253 810254 louise@knottendgolfclub.com www.knottendgolfclub.com

Lytham Green Drive Golf Club Ballam Road, Lytham, FY8 4LE 01253 737390 secretary@lythamgreendrive.co.uk www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk

Lansil Golf Club Caton Road, Lancaster, LA4 3PE 01524 39269 secretary@lansilgolfclub.org.uk www.lansilgolfclub.org.uk

Marsden Park Golf Club Townhouse Road, Nelson, BB9 8DG 01282 661912 Email n/a www.marsdenparkgolfclub.co.uk

Heysham Golf Club Trumacar Park, Middleton Road, Heysham, Morecambe, LA23 3JH 01524 851011 secretary@heyshamgolfclub.co.uk www.heyshamgolfclub.co.uk

Lobden Golf Club Whitworth, Lancashire 01706 343228 golf@lobdengolfclub.co.uk www.lobdengolfclub.co.uk

Mytton Fold Golf Club Whalley Rd, Langho, Blackburn, BB6 8AB 01254 240662 golfshop@myttonfold.co.uk www.myttonfold.co.uk

Hurlston Hall Golf Club Hurlston Lane, Southport Road, Scarisbrick, LA40 8JD 01704 840400 membership@hurlstonhall.co.uk www.hurlstonhall.co.uk

Leyland Golf Club Wigan Road, Leyland, PR5 2UD 01772 436457 manager@leylandgolfclub.co.uk www.leylandgolfclub.co.uk

Great Harwood Golf Club Harwood Bar, Great Harwood, BB6 7TE 01254 884391 Email n/a www.greatharwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Green Haworth Golf Club Green Haworth, Accrington, BB5 3SL 01254 237580 enquiries@greenhaworthgolfclub.co.uk www.greenhaworthgolfclub.co.uk

Herons Reach Golf Club East Park Drive, Blackpool, FY3 8LL 01253 832505 golf@devere.co.uk www.devere.co.uk

Lancaster Golf Club Ashton Hall, Ashton-WithStodday, Lancaster, LA2 0AJ 01524 752090 enquiries@lancastergc.co.uk www.lancastergc.co.uk

Morecambe Golf Club Bare, Morecambe, LA4 6AJ 01524 418050 secretary@morecambegolfclub.com www.morecambegolfclub.com

Nelson Golf Club Kings Causeway, Brierfieid, Nelson, BB9 0EU 01282 614583 info@nelsongolfclub.com www.nelsongolfclub.com

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Lancashire Directory

Ormskirk Golf Club Cranes Lane, Lathom, Ormskirk, L40 5UJ 01695 572112 mail@ormskirkgolfclub.com www.ormskirkgolfclub.com

Penwortham Golf Club Blundell Lane, Penwortham, Preston, PR1 0AX 01772 744630 secretary@penworthamgc.co.uk www.penworthamgc.co.uk

Pleasington Golf Club Pleasington, Blackburn, BB2 5JF 01254 202177 secretarymanager@pleasingtongolf.co.uk www.pleasington-golf.co.uk Poulton-Le-Fylde Golf Club Myrtle Farm, Breck Road, Poulton-Le-Fylde, FY6 7HJ 01253 892444 greenwood-golf@hotmail.co.uk www.poultonlefyldegolfclub.co.uk

Preston Golf Club Fulwood Hall Lane, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 4DD 01772 700011 secretary@prestongolfclub.com www.prestongolfclub.com Rishton Golf Club Eachill Links, Hawthorn Drive, Rishton, BB1 4HG 01254 884442 Rishtongolfclub.co.uk www.rishtongolfclub.co.uk

Rossendale Golf Club Ewood Lane, Head Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 6LH 01706 831339 admin@rossendalegolfclub.net www.rossendalegolfclub.net

Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club Links Gate, Lytham St Annes, FY8 3LQ 01253 724206 bookings@royallytham.org www.royallytham.org

Standish Court Golf Club Rectory Lane, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0XD 01257 425777 golfprostu@hotmail.com www.standishgolf.co.uk

St. Annes Old Links Highbury Road, Lytham St Annes, FY8 2LD 01253 723597 secretary@stannesoldlinks.com www.stannesoldlinks.com Stonyhurst Park Golf Club Stonyhurst, Hurst Green, Blackburn, BB6 9QB 01254 826478 Email n/a www.stonyhurstpark.co.uk

Shaw Hill Hotel G & C C Preston Road, Whittle-Le-Woods, Chorley, PR6 7PP 01257 269221 info@shaw-hill.co.uk www.shaw-hill.co.uk

Towneley Golf Club Towneley Park, Todmorden Road, Burnley, BB11 3ED 01282 451636 secretary@towneleygolfclub.co.uk www.towneleygolfclub.co.uk

Staininglodge Golf Course Chain Lane, Staining, Blackpool, FY3 0DE 01253 891336 enquiries@staininglodge.co.uk www.staininglodge.co.uk

Wilpshire Golf Club 72 Whalley Road, Wilpshire, Blackburn, BB1 9LF 01254 248260 admin@wilpshiregolfclub.co.uk www.wilpshiregolfclub.co.uk

Silverdale (Carnforth) Golf Club Redbridge Lane, Silverdale, Carnforth, LA5 0SP 01524 701300 info@silverdalegolfclub.co.uk www.silverdalegolfclub.co.uk

Whalley Golf Club Long Leese Barn, Clerkhill, Whalley, Blackburn, BB7 9DR 01254 822236 secretary@whalleygolfclub.com www.whalleygolfclub.com

98

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 illfated 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.

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Merseyside INTRODUCTION

Area Map 10 Southport 01 11 13

07

08 M-58

M-6

12

Ashton-in-Makerfield

Crosby

03

04

M-6

Birkenhead 02

Widnes

05

Ellesmere Port M-53

01.

02.

03.

04.

05.

06.

07.

08.

Royal Birkdale Royal Liverpool Ashton in Makerfield Blundells Hill Caldy Eccleston Park Formby Formby Hall

09.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

Haydock Park Hesketh Hillside Houghwood Sothport & Ainsdale West Derby Wirral Ladies

M-62

Prescot M-57

Liverpool

15

Newton-le-Willows

06 14

Wallasey

St. Helens

Knowsley

Bootle

09

100

Open Championship Course Royal Birkdale

Royal Birkdale

Golf Club

Founded toward the end of the 19th Century, Royal Birkdale is one of Britain’s finest golf clubs. It has recently been voted the best course in the country and is arguably one of the best to be found anywhere in the world.

101

Open Championship Course Photographs by Alan C. Birch

The first important event to be staged here was the English Ladies Championship in 1935 – the same year the iconic clubhouse was built – and it hosted the first of its nine men’s Open Championships in 1954.

Australian Peter Thompson won then, and again in 1965, to be followed down the years

by Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, Johnny Miller, Tom Watson, Ian Baker-Finch, Mark O’Meara and most recently, Padraig Harrington just two summers ago.

It has hosted all of the major events including Curtis and Walker Cups and The Ryder Cup (twice) but it was not until 1982 that the Women’s British Open paid its first visit to this famous links. That year the Champion was Marta Figueras-Dotti, an amateur from Spain, and the most recent of the five Birkdale Women’s Open Champions was this years Yani Tseng from Taiwan. Korean Jeong Jang won in 2005, and big-hitting Swede Sophie Gustafson won here in 2000 but, with respect to all of the winners, its most popular and memorable Champion was back in 1986 – the second time the club hosted the Women’s British Open – when Laura Davies powered her way to victory, winning by four shots from FiguerasDotti. The following year she went on to claim the US Open at Plainfield, New Jersey, to become Europe’s first professional British and American Open double winner.

Royal Birkdale

Laura’s exploits on the course are well-known to all, having won over 70 tournaments including four Majors in her glittering career.

Currently at the top of the European rankings, unfortunately Laura was unable to relive her 1986 triumph at this years Open. However she was kind enough to give us a unique insight into tackling this great course.

The links have undergone many changes over the centuries and the course that Laura prevailed upon has changed quite considerably since 1986. Acres of silver birch trees, which used to sit on top of the great sand dunes, were cleared to create what many observers consider to be Britain’s best viewing course, with vast natural amphitheatres encompassing virtually every hole. The effect was to make the place more exposed – a more authentic and classic links.

In the mid 1990s the club took drastic action against meadow grass, compaction and thatching, by replacing the sub-soil beneath the greens and reseeding them. Many were recontoured and Royal Birkdale’s new greens became the best surfaces on the Open rota.

In preparation for the 2008 Open Championship the course was “toughened up” by the construction of a new tiered green for the extended 17th hole, six new

tees to add length and the addition of 20 new bunkers – mostly fairway – to reward accuracy off the tee and combat the everlonger modern drivers!

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.

102

Open Championship Course Royal Birkdale

Laura Davies

Hole by Hole Guide to Royal Birkdale Hole 1. Par 4. 430 yards. 2005 rating - 2 The opening hole at Royal Birkdale was a fairly easy par-five back in 1986 but is now much more difficult as it is the longest parfour on the course. It is a left-hand dog-leg that requires a drive avoiding the big mound on the left – known locally as ‘Jutland’ – that has a deep bunker in its face. Too far right though and you could go out-of-bounds as well as having your view of the green blocked by another mound down the right side. A good drive will still leave a demanding second shot for those attempting to get there in two.

Hole 2. Par 4. 410 yards. 2005 rating - 6 The second is a pretty hole that I managed to eagle in 1986 but two new bunkers added for the 2008 Open on the right side of the fairway mean that much greater care is now needed from the tee to get the ball onto the fairway.

The feature is the siting of the green which is surrounded by bunkers and banks, creating a tight target beyond the fairway bunker 30 yards out.

Hole 3. Par 4. 373 yards. 2005 rating - 4 The key to the third is an accurate drive avoiding the bunkers in the landing area. From the fairway the relatively flat green should easily be hit but any wayward approach will leave a tough recovery shot from the recontoured surround and you could struggle to make par rather.

Hole 4. Par 3. 175 yards. 2005 rating - 8 I have always thought that Birkdale has the toughest set of par-threes in British golf, especially when the notorious cross-winds are strong. The first par-three on the course is the longest of the short holes and a bold tee shot is needed from the protected tee to reach the green safely. Anything off-line or short will miss the target so club selection is critical here.

Hole 5. Par 4. 338 yards. 2005 rating - 11 The fifth – the shortest of the par-fours – is a right-hand dog-leg with no obvious dangers from the tee except deep rough down both sides. Good position on the fairway is needed for the approach shot because it must be

well struck. The long, narrow green is almost completely surrounded by bunkers and the front-to-back slope combined with the difficult borrows more than make up for the hole’s lack of length.

Hole 6. Par 5. 478 yards. 2005 rating - 18 The first par-five is generally regarded as one of Royal Birkdale’s finest holes and presents a great birdie chance. Your drive must avoid the bunkers either side of the fairway if you’re hoping for a chance to go for the green in two, and you can’t be too far right or you’ll have a blind shot in. The long green is protected well by bunkers in front and dunes all around and

103

Open Championship Course Photographs by Alan C. Birch

Royal Birkdale

has tricky contours that make long putts very difficult. The sensible approach might be to lay up and pitch close to the pin for a birdie attempt.

The angle and slope of the green makes for difficult pin positions and the one we all dread is back right where the rough seems to come right up to the putting surface.

Hole 8. Par 4. 413 yards. 2005 rating - 1 A great chance to let rip from the elevated tee but beware – the remodelled fairway bunkering can easily catch you out if you’re not on line and this hole played the hardest when the Women’s Open was last here five years ago. A nice long draw will leave a long second to a green protected by deep bunkers both sides – classic links. The green is large but there are few easy pin positions because it slopes front-to-back and has many deceptive borrows.

Hole 12. Par 3. 149 yards. 2005 rating - 7 I consider the short twelfth at Birkdale to be one of the best par-threes in Britain. It is a very attractive hole, cradled in dunes near to the sea, but the deep bunkers and the close proximity of the dunes can cause problems. The green looks quite inviting from the tee but is never that easy to hit, especially in high wind.

Hole 7. Par 3. 145 yards. 2005 rating - 10 The par-three seventh with its characteristic doughnut-shaped bunker seems like a nice and easy follow-up to the demanding sixth and I recall a nice birdie here in my final round in 1986. However, it’s quite a challenge when played from the longer tee and if the wind is up, it can be hard to avoid the numerous bunkers and stay on the upturned-saucer green.

Hole 9. Par 4. 397 yards. 2005 rating - 5 The ninth is another tough hole, a dog-leg with a blind drive to a fairway that has been moved even further to the left since we played it in 1986. It is important that you find the short stuff though because the second shot needs to be accurate and the right length. The green is slightly elevated and club selection is again crucial because short shots will be bunkered and anything long is over the back and in trouble.

Hole 10. Par 4. 360 yards. 2005 rating - 14 Your drive on the big dog-leg tenth again must be well-placed to avoid the bunkers on the left and those down the right, including a new one far right. From the middle of the fairway though it is quite straightforward to get on the green, the main feature of which is a ridge. It also slopes back toward the apron so a bold shot is needed again to have a good chance of birdie.

Hole 11. Par 4. 352 yards. 2005 rating - 15 The elevated tee on the eleventh makes you feel like hitting a big drive but this relatively straightforward hole has been made more demanding by the tightening of the fairway and the addition of a new bunker on the left.

Hole 13. Par 4. 430 yards. 2005 rating - 3 The thirteenth has always been a testing hole but it is now even more difficult due to the carefully reworked bunkers around the landing area for the drive and there is also a dangerous ditch on the left which can claim anything off line. The shot in to the green needs to be long and accurate to avoid the greenside bunkers. This hole is the same length as the first and just as tough – par will be a good score here.

Hole 14. Par 3. 163 yards. 2005 rating - 9 The last par-three is close to the clubhouse and practice area so normally gathers a good crowd. It is played from an elevated tee which is protected from the wind and the target looks large but is very open and exposed to the elements. This, and the deep bunkers in the newly-shaped surround, make it quite hard to find the correct part of the green for a birdie attempt. As with all of the short holes at Royal Birkdale, club selection is absolutely critical.

Hole 15. Par 5. 499 yards. 2005 rating - 17 The par-five fifteenth looks quite different to the way it did in the 80s– the trees down the right and behind the green have long gone and there are now 15 bunkers to be negotiated along its way. These narrow the landing area but a good drive safely on the fairway should pave the way for a long second over the cluster of fairway bunkers towards the green to set up

a birdie, or eagle, opportunity. However, with more bunkers guarding the front of the tricky green the percentage shot is a lay-up to leave a short pitch up to the flag.

Hole 16. Par 4. 358 yards. 2005 rating - 12 This shortish slight dog-leg right is an exacting hole that needs a long carry over rough ground, avoiding the bunkers on the corner.

An accurate drive will leave a fairly simple second over lots of bunkers to the large, elevated green. The surround is littered with deep bunkers and hollows so it is imperative the green is not missed or par will be tough to make.

Hole 17. Par 5. 516 yards. 2005 rating - 13 The penultimate hole is another classic as we head back towards the clubhouse over the final stretch. The drive must split the two dunes and avoid the new bunkers on the right side of the fairway – a slight draw would be perfect.

Any drive pitching on the fairway usually gets some run on this hole and will give you a chance to reach the newly-remodelled, twotier green tucked into the dunes. This hole is now the longest in the Championship and the green is much further back than it used to be so again a lay-up and pitch in could be the sensible play to avoid ruining a good score.

Hole 18. Par 5. 472 yards. 2005 rating - 16 We’ve now arrived at one of the most famous finishing holes in golf with the gleaming white clubhouse waiting in the distance. From the right-hand tee, up in the dunes and bushes, the obvious driving hazard is the bunker splitting the fairway. The tendency is to push the ball out to the right which leaves a harder line in to the green than the preferred left side, from where you have every chance to get on in two and finish with a birdie. The green is not the most demanding on the course but it is guarded by three bunkers which leave a very narrow entrance to it, so once again, laying up short can often be the best play unless you’re in the perfect position.

104

Open Championship Course ROYAL LIVERPOOL

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.

105

Open Championship Course Photographs by Alan C. Birch

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 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

ROYAL LIVERPOOL

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 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

Royal Liverpool Golf 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 International 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.

106

Contact Details Ashton-in-Makerfield Golf Club (Established 1902) Garswood Park, Ashton in Makerfield Wigan, WN4 0YT 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.

Ashton-in-Makerfield 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. 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.

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.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6205 • 5918 • 5306 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 5 3 4 4 3 4 4

362 404 480 184 371 366 145 368 292

Golf Society Packages Available All tailored to your requirements

WINTER WARMER DEAL

BACON / COFFEE ON ARRIVAL. SOUP FOLLOWED

BY MAIN COURSE. 18 HOLES OF GOLF.

ALL FOR £22.00 Per Player Monday 4 Ball offer ONLY £60 per 4 ball

LIMITED Memberships now available.

For full information please contact the manager, Garry Lacy: 01942 719330

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 4 3 4 5 4

340 383 337 165 356 153 444 484 284

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Contact Details Blundells Hill Golf Club Blundells Lane, Rainhill, Prescot Merseyside, L35 6NA Telephone: 0151 430 0100 enquiries@blundellshill.co.uk www.blundellshill.co.uk 04. How to Find Take the Junction 7 exit from the M62 and head towards Rainhill and Prescot, along the A57.

Turn left into Mill Lane, immediately after the Texaco Garage, and follow the road for approximately half a mile (passing the Manor Farm on the left and Hall Lane, also on the left). After Hall Lane, take the next left into Blundells Lane.

Blundells Hill Golf Club is situated approximately 300 yards on the left, just behind the trees.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6366 • 5863 • 5526 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 5

337 462 147 400 351 285 131 433 494

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 4 3 4 3 5

499 319 149 325 377 161 348 174 471

Blundells Hill Opened in 1994 the course is set in mature parkland with views that take’s one’s breath away on a clear day. The elevated clubhouse overlooks a panoramic vista stretching from the hills of Frodsham to the Welsh mountains.

The course caters for all abilities, though accuracy is paramount; a real thinker’s delight. Many fairways are tree-lined and the greenside bunkers can pose a serious obstacle.

The competition tees offer a real challenge as do the five par-3’s which if the wind blows, can play havoc with club selection. The water features add hesitation, as do the large and undulating greens.

Many courses leave the impression of sameness in respect to the holes, but not so here. This is a beautiful course accommodating all golfing abilities with one’s first visit unlikely to be one’s last.

Signature Hole Hole 12, “Beauty”, Par 3, 149 yards (yellow tee) The Beauty is the signature hole of the course, a Par 3 with no compromise. With the green guarded by a pond, and burn running around the front of the green, as well as two bunkers, it makes this hole that little bit harder when you also have to clear the pond in front of the tee.

Miss the green at your peril.

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Contact Details Caldy Golf Club Limited Links Hey Road, Caldy, Wirral Merseyside, CH48 1NB Telephone: 0151 625 5660 golfcaldygc@btconnect.com www.caldygolfclub.co.uk 05. How to Find 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.

Caldy 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 and out of bounds over the cliff on the left make the tee shot tight.

Facilities 2 Lounges, Bar, Restaurant, Snooker Room, Putting Green, Practice Range, Buggies, Trolleys, Club Hire, Pro Shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6707 • 6324 • 5792 (70) • 5798 (74) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 4 4 5 4 5 3 4

369 152 346 331 532 376 479 142 404

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 5 4 4 4 4 4 3 5

179 509 425 337 368 334 401 145 495

Summer Mondays Only 1st April - 31st October Full round and all day breakfast 4 balls only £160.00 per 4 ball

1907

Summer Sunday Afternoon 1st April - 31st October (restricted times) Full round £160.00 per 4 ball tee time

Winter Warmer 1st November - 31st March (Mondays and Thursdays) 18 holes and an all day breakfast only £27.50 pp

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Contact Details Eccleston Park Golf Club Rainhill Road, Rainhill Prescot, Merseyside L35 4PG

Telephone: 0151 493 0033 Fax: 0151 493 0044 ecclestonpark@crown-golf.co.uk www.ecclestonparkgolf.co.uk 06. How to Find From The North: From the A58 take the B5413 at the traffic lights signposted ‘Thatto Heath’. Follow the road through Thatto Heath and Nutgrove. Go across the mini roundabout, the road curves to the left and Eccleston Park Golf Club is on the right hand side 150 yards on.

From The South: Take M62 and exit at Junction 7. Then take the exit for St Helens, at the second roundabout take the 1st exit onto Elton Head Road, at the end of this road you will come to a T junction, turn right and the golf club is on the left hand side after 200yds.

Facilities

Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6477 • 6222 • 5977 (74) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 4 3 5 4 5 3 4

421 472 328 165 511 390 481 190 433

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 5 4 3 3 4

311 370 401 140 560 375 167 176 331

Eccleston Park Eccleston Park is an 18 hole parkland course providing the perfect location for golf and events of all kinds, and offers excellent value for money. After significant re-development, the course is now a testing 6477 yard par 71. It is reasonably flat and therefore easy going on all golfers, especially the more senior player. The water features and fairway bunkers make this course a challenging test for golfers of all abilities.

The 7th hole has been extended to a par 5 measuring 491 yards, and the 18th has been reshaped and lengthened to make a dog-leg par 4 closing hole. The former 19th

century clubhouse has been redeveloped to combine the original welcoming character of yesteryear, with all the advantages of state-ofthe art facilities for functions and conferences.

Adjacent to the course is the woodland trust, an area set aside for people to get out and enjoy the woodlands that surround the course.

Our signature hole is probably the 15th. A scenic par 4 dogleg left where you have the choice off the tee to either lay up with a long iron or to take on the water and drive over the corner. 16th. A tough par 3 usually played into the prevailing wind making club selection important.

Contact the club for our latest offer of the month. Telephone 0151 493 0044

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Contact Details Formby Golf Club Golf Road, Freshfield Liverpool, L37 1LQ

Telephone: 01704 872164 teetimes@formbygolfclub.co.uk www.formbygolfclub.co.uk 07. How to Find 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.

Formby Set in the sand dunes and pinewoods of Formby the terrain ensures that accuracy is always at a premium. Heather protects much of the rough and caution is definitely required whether playing off the tee or in approaching the well protected greens. This is a course of contrasts.

Formby has always regarded itself as a top amateur course though it has been used for the Open Championship on 3 occasions (1924, 1971 and 1996). The Amateur Championship has been held here on four occasions, the most recent being 2009. The winner Matteo Manassero is the youngest ever winner of the championship at 16 years of age.

Hole 7, Par 4, 368 yards (yellow tee) This is such a great hole but needs some thought. To hit a good approach to this sloping green your tee shot ideally needs to be central at the top of the hill. With your approach we’d advise trying to leave yourself below the flag stick giving you an uphill putt.

Hole 12, Par 4, 385 yards (yellow tee) Regarded as one of the best holes on the course.

A left of centre tee shot will leave a good angle to approach the green. There is a large bunker on the left side of the green and the main trouble is short, so make sure you take enough club to allow you a possible birdie opportunity.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Accommodation, Snooker Room, Putting Green, Practice Ground, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7028 • 6698 • 6505 • 6052 (70) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 5 4 3 4 4 5 4

394 372 449 310 153 385 368 480 444

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 4 4 3 5 4

A truly memorable golfing experience

178 376 385 370 417 393 115 486 380

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Contact Details Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa Southport Old Road, Southport Merseyside L37 OAB

Telephone: 01704 875699 Email enquiries via website www.formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk 08. How to Find 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.

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) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 5 4 4 3 5 4 4

342 171 476 340 437 178 492 373 352

Hole Par Yards

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

Formby Hall 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 wellplaced-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.

4 Ball on the Old Course from £100* *Sunset rate after 4 pm. Quote code GNW4B.

For further information or to make a booking enquiry call 01704 875 699 to speak to a member of our golf events team Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa, Southport Old Road, Formby, Merseyside L37 0AB www.formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk

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Contact Details Haydock Park Golf Club Golborne Park, Newton Lane Newton-Le-Willows Merseyside WA12 0HX

Telephone: 01925 226 944 secretary@haydockparkgc.co.uk www.haydockparkgc.co.uk 09. How to Find 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.

Haydock Park 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 71 • 6073 • 5226 • 5390 • 5097 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 5 3 5 4 4 3 4

404 166 484 110 503 317 303 170 424

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

OPEN competitions

Thursday 12th August

Ladies Team of 3 Open

Sunday 29th August

Charity Mixed Open

Friday 24th September

Gents Seniors Open

HAYDOCK PARK

4 4 3 4 4 5 4 4 3

354 370 140 434 282 493 320 369 183

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Contact Details 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 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.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6764 • 6691 • 6115 • 5639 (74) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 4 3 4 4 4 4 4

363 158 317 155 360 438 433 377 411

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 5 4 4 3 5 4

298 163 380 466 375 358 174 479 450

Hesketh 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.

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 is regularly used as a final qualifying course 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.

Winter Special (Minimum 4 players)

From 1st November 2010 to 31st March 2011 (Excluding weekends, Christmas & New Year weeks)

18 holes followed by Soup & Sandwich inc: (9.00am-10.30am Tee Time) Coffee and Bacon roll inc: (10.30am-12.00pm Tee Time) £35.00 per person.

Chefs Specials also available 1 course £7.50 - 2 courses £10.00 (Pre-bookable for parties over 12)

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Contact Details Hillside Golf Club The Clubhouse, Hastings Road, Hillside, Southport, PR8 2LU

Telephone: 01704 567169 secretary@hillside-golfclub.co.uk www.hillside-golfclub.co.uk 11. How to Find Hillside Golf Club is located to the south of Southport Town Centre, just off the A565 (Waterloo Road).

From the M6 turn off at Junction 26 onto the M58. Follow the A570 Southport signs off the M58.

From the A570, follow the A565 south, then turn off onto Hastings Road by Hillside Train Station.

Hillside A round of golf at Hillside is a truly memorable experience and many visitors consider the course equal to anything the Open Championship venues have to offer. To sample links golf at its finest, ensure Hillside is on your schedule.

From the white tees the course at Hillside measures just over 7,000 yards meandering through majestic sandhills and tranquil pinewoods. From the blue tees the course is a more manageable 6,558 yards.

Many of the holes have elevated tees with fantastic views over the Irish Sea. After

playing the course, Greg Norman wrote to the Club saying that “The back nine were the best in Britain”, while Jack Nicklaus described the course as “A wild looking links”.

11th, Par 5. Many regard this as Hillside’s signature hole, certainly the view from the tee is worth lingering over, on a clear day the fells of the Lake District can be seen to the North. But it’s also a stern test that’s often played into the wind.

16th, Par 3. This is one of the best par 3’s you will play in England. It’s quite a long way but is often played down wind. A Mackenzie splits the green into two tiers - no bunkers required!

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Driving range, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7029 • 6558 • 6160 • 5888 (75) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 4 3 5 4 3 4 4

386 493 340 175 482 344 143 365 376

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 5 4 4 4 4 3 5 4

135 493 357 336 344 359 149 491 392

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Contact Details Houghwood Golf Billinge Hill, Crank Road, St Helens, WA11 8RL

Telephone: 01744 89 44 44 houghwoodgolf@btinternet.com www.houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk 12. How to Find 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.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Function/ Conference Room, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6283 • 5870 • 5341 (71)

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 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 70 and 6283 yards for men, and 5341 yards par 71 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.

Midweek Summer Deal 4 Ball with Buggies £100 GOLF – BAR – RESTAURANT Open to Non Members

Call 01744 894444

The specially designed stone clubhouse 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.

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Contact Details Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club Bradshaws Lane, Ainsdale, Southport, PR8 3LG Telephone: 01704 578000 Email enquiries via website www.sandagolfclub.co.uk 13. How to Find

Southport & Ainsdale 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.

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.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6768 • 6339 (71) • 5912 • 5676 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

3 5 4 4 4 4 5 3 4

185 504 385 313 400 372 478 147 447

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 3 4 4 5 4 4

Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club. Bradshaws Lane, Ainsdale, Southport, PR8 3LG. Telephone: 01704 578000. www.sandagolfclub.co.uk

158 426 407 145 380 333 490 430 339

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Contact Details West Derby Golf Club Yew Tree Lane, West Derby Liverpool L12 9HQ

Telephone: 0151 220 5478 pmilne@westderbygc.freeserve.co.uk www.westderbygc.co.uk 14. How to Find From M62. Take M62 exit towards M57/Southport/Prescot. Exit M57 at junction 2 to St Helens/Prescot/ A57. At Liverpool Rd N, take the 3rd exit onto Liverpool Rd/A57 heading to Liverpool. Continue onto Princess Drive, Turn left at Yew Tree Lane, club is on your right.

West Derby West Derby Golf Club was founded in 1896 by a group of residents intent on forming the first inland golf ‘links’ in South-West Lancashire. In 1923 the process began to increase the course from 9 to 18 holes.

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

If you seek a challenging test of golf on a beautiful, mature parkland course set in a leafy suburb of Liverpool with lush fairways and well kept greens, then look no further.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6275 • 6087 • 5463 Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 4 4 4 5 5 3 5 3

285 312 338 373 279 517 126 478 150

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 3 5 4 4 4

536 428 183 413 124 489 386 313 357

At 6,275 yards the par 72 course includes 4 par 5’s and 4 par 3 holes. It is a true test for low and high handicap golfers, alike. To score well you need to be straight and accurate.

Hole 13, Par 4. “Three Sisters”. A dog leg to the right requiring a well hit drive which will open up your second to the green. A good second shot will need to be long enough to avoid the bunkers short and those surrounding the green as well as the tall trees (The Three Sisters) guarding the left of the approach.

Hole 18, Par 4. “Safely Home”. Many players have arrived at the 18th tee only to have their score dashed, by going O.B. on the right, or carving it left into the trees. A good drive will avoid all the trouble and leave a short to mid iron to an elevated green. Bunkers guard the front left and right.

To find out more about our Summer Packages, Flexible Fairway Pass (10 rnds £175 or 5 rnds £95), or any other aspect of West Derby Golf Club please contact Paul Milne (Secretary/Manager) 0151 254 1034 Or alternatively visit our website www.westderbygc.co.uk

Est. 1896

118

Contact Details 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 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.

Wirral Ladies’ Wirral Ladies is a historic venue originally created for the wives and families of Royal Liverpool members. The course was designed by local lad Harry Hilton, a winner in the Open Championship at Muirfield in 1892, winning again at his home club Royal Liverpool in 1897. Hilton’s clever design offers a subtle test of golf which is about so much more than how far you can hit the ball. The course rewards thoughtful play - be cautious and you will score, but only by combining caution with boldness will you score well.

At around 5,000 yards, Wirral Ladies is a compact golf course, and with a round taking

Facilities

on average a little over three hours, it is perfect for a half day outing, corporate days, or those with limited time to spare. Playing across a gently undulating heathland course with heather, gorse and natural woodland, the golfer will have their game tested and enjoy a walk in a traditional natural setting.

It is hard to single out a “signature hole” but the 15th, a par 4 dog-leg left with the green set amongst woodland, reflects the character of the course. To get a 4 requires a carrying drive to that part of the fairway which leaves you with a clear sight of the green. The green itself is elevated and sloped away at the rear.

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 • 5185 • 4948 (69) Hole Par Yards

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 4 4 4 4 4 3 4

378 123 347 291 344 355 331 132 265

Hole Par Yards

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 4 4 4 4 3 4

276 320 173 422 342 350 257 163 316

Summer Sizzler only £22 18 Holes of Golf Bacon roll or Sandwich Coffee, Tea or Soft Drink

Offer valid until end October

Contact the Pro Shop on 0151 652 2468 to book

Playing Golf in Spain?

The travelling golfers ideal companion is available online

120

Merseyside Directory

Ashton-In-Makerfield Golf Club Garswood Park, Liverpool Road, Ashton-In-Makerfield, WN4 0YT Telephone: 01942 727267 secretary@aston-in-makerfieldgolfclub.co.uk www.ashton-in-makerfieldgolfclub.co.uk Aintree Golf Centre Melling Road, Aintree, Liverpool, Merseyside, L9 5AS Telephone: 0151 523 5157 Email enquiries via website www.aintree.co.uk

Allerton Park Golf Club Allerton Manor Golf Estate, Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 3JT Telephone: 0151 428 7490 Email n/a Website n/a

Arrowe Park Golf Club Woodchurch, Birkenhead, Merseyside, CH49 5LW Telephone: 0151 677 1527 webmaster@arroweparkgolfclub.co.uk www.arroweparkgolfclub.com Bidston Golf Club Bidston Link Road, Wallasey, Merseyside, L44 2HR Telephone: 0151 630 6650 info@bidstongolf.co.uk www.bidstongolf.co.uk

Blundells Hill Golf Club Blundells Lane, Rainhill, Merseyside, L35 6NA Telephone: 0151 4300100 enquiries@blundellshill.co.uk www.blundellshill.co.uk

Bootle Golf Club 2 Dunnings Bridge Road, Bootle, Merseyside, L30 2PP Telephone: 0151 928 1371 Email n/a Website n/a

Bowring Golf Club Bowring Park, Roby Road, Huyton, Liverpool, Merseyside, L36 4HD Telephone: 0151 489 1901 Email enquiries via website www.bowringgolfclub.com

Brackenwood Golf Club Brackenwood Park, Bebington, Wirral, Wirral, Merseyside, L63 2LY Telephone: 0151 608 3093 secretary@brackenwoodgolf.co.uk www.brackenwoodgolf.co.uk

Bromborough Golf Club Raby Hall Road, Bromborough, Merseyside, CH63 0NW Telephone: 0151 334 4499 enquiries@bromboroughgolfclub.org.uk www.bromboroughgolfclub.org.uk

Caldy Golf Club Links Hey Road, Caldy, Wirral, Merseyside, CH48 1NB Telephone: 0151 625 1818 secretarycaldygc@btconnect.com www.caldygolfclub.co.uk

Childwall Golf Club Naylors Road, Gateacre, Liverpool, Merseyside, L27 2YB Telephone: 0151 487 9871 Email enquiries via website www.childwallgolfclub.co.uk

Eastham Lodge Golf Club 117 Ferry Road, Eastham, Wirral, Merseyside, L62 0AP Telephone: 0151 327 3008 easthamlodge.g.c@btinternet.com www.easthamlodgegolfclub.co.uk

Eccleston Park Golf Club Rainhill Road Rainhill, Prescot, Merseyside, L35 4PG Telephone: 0151 493 0033 ecclestonparkgolf.co.uk www.ecclestonepark@crown-golf.co.uk

Formby Golf Club Golf Road, Formby, Merseyside, L37 1LQ Telephone: 01704 873090 info@formbygolfclub.co.uk www.formbygolfclub.co.uk

Formby Hall Golf Club Southport Old Road, Formby, Merseyside, L37 0AB Telephone: 01704 875 699 Email enquiries via website www.formbyhallgolfclub.co.uk

Formby Ladies Golf Club Golf Road, Formby, Liverpool, Merseyside, L37 1YH Telephone: 01704 873 493 secretary@formbyladiesgolfclub.co.uk www.formbyladiesgolfclub.co.uk Grange Park (St Helens) Golf Club Prescot Road, St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 3AD Telephone: 01744 28785 secretary@grangeparkgolfclub.co.uk www.grangeparkgolfclub.co.uk

Haydock Park Golf Club Newton Lane, Newton le Willows, Merseyside, WA12 0HX Telephone: 01925 226944 secretary@haydockparkgc.co.uk www.haydockparkgc.co.uk

Hesketh Golf Club Cockle Dicks Lane, Off Cambridge Road, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 9QQ Telephone: 01704 536897 secretary@heskethgolfclub.co.uk www.heskethgolfclub.co.uk

121

Merseyside Directory

Heswall Golf Club Cottage Lane, Gayton, Heswall, Merseyside, L60 8PB Telephone: 0151 342 7431 secretary@heswallgolfclub.com www.heswallgolfclub.com

Hillside Golf Club Hastings Road, Hillside, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 2LU Telephone: 01704 568360 secretary@hillside-golfclub.co.uk www.hillside-golfclub.co.uk

Houghwood Golf Club Billinge Hill, Crank Road, Crank, St Helens, WA11 8RL Telephone: 01744 89 47 54 enquiries@houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk www.houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk Hoylake Municipal Golf Club Carr Lane, Municipal Links, Hoylake, Merseyside, L47 4BG Telephone: 0151 632 6823 Email n/a www.hoylakegolfclub.com

Huyton and Prescot Golf Club Hurst Park, Huyton Lane, Huyton, Liverpool, L36 1UA Telephone: 0151 489 2022 secretary@huytonandprescotgolf.co.uk www.huytonandprescotgolf.co.uk Leasowe Golf Club Leasowe Road, Moreton, Merseyside, L46 3RD Telephone: 0151 678 5460 secretary@leasowegolfclub.co.uk www.leasowegolfclub.co.uk Lee Park Golf Club Childwall Valley Road, Gateacre, Liverpool, L27 3YA Telephone: 0151 498 4666 office@leepark.co.uk www.leepark.co.uk

Liverpool Municipal Golf Club Ingoe Lane, Kirkby, Liverpool, L32 4SS Telephone: 0151 546 5435 paul.thomas@liverpool.gov.uk www.liverpool.gov.uk

Prenton Golf Club Golf Links Road, Prenton, Birkenhead, Merseyside, L42 8LW Telephone: 0151 608 1636 Email enquiries via website www.prentongolfclub.co.uk

Royal Birkdale Golf Club Waterloo Road, Birkdale, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 2LX Telephone: 01704 568857 secretary@royalbirkdale.com www.royalbirkdale.com

Southport Old Links Golf Club Moss Lane, Churchtown, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 7QS Telephone: 01704 228207 secretary@southportoldlinksgolfclub.co.uk www.southportoldlinksgolfclub.co.uk Wallasey Golf Club Bayswater Road, Wallasey, Merseyside, L45 8LA Telephone: 0151 638 3888 wallaseygc@aol.com www.wallaseygolfclub.com

Warren (Wallasey) Golf Club Grove Road, Wallasey, Merseyside, L45 0JA Telephone: 0151 639 5730 Email enquiries via website www.wirral.gov.uk

Royal Liverpool Golf Club (Hoylake) Meols Drive, Hoylake, Merseyside, CH47 4AL Telephone: 0151 632 6737 secretary@royal-liverpool-golf.com www.royal-liverpool-golf.com

West Derby Golf Club Yew Tree Lane, West Derby, Liverpool, L12 9HQ Telephone: 0151 220 5478 pmilne@westderbygc.freeserve.co.uk www.westderbygc.co.uk

Southport and Ainsdale Golf Club Bradshaws Lane, Ainsdale, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 3LG Telephone: 01704 577316 secretary@sandagolfclub.co.uk www.sandagolfclub.co.uk

Wirral Ladies Golf Club 93 Bidston Road, Oxton, Birkenhead, Merseyside, L43 6TS Telephone: 0151 652 2468 wirral.ladies@btconnect.com www.wirral-ladies-golf-club.co.uk

Sherdley Park Golf Club Sherdley Road, St Helens, Merseyside, WA9 5DE Telephone: 01744 815516 Email n/a www.sherdleyparkgolfclub.co.uk

Southport Municipal Golf Club Park Road West, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 0JR Telephone: 01704 535286 Email n/a Website n/a

West Lancashire Golf Club Hall Road West, Blundellsands, Liverpool, L23 8SZ Telephone: 0151 924 5662 golf@westlancashiregolf.co.uk www.westlancashiregolf.co.uk

Woolton Golf Club Speke Road, Woolton, Liverpool, Merseyside, L25 7TZ Telephone: 0151 486 2298 golf@wooltongolf.co.uk www.wooltongolfclub.com

122

Travel Spain > Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol Spain

The Costa del Sol lies in the province of Andalucia in the south of Spain. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. This ‘Sun Coast’ runs for 150 km from Malaga to Estepona, with skies predominantly blue all year round and brilliant sunshine.

Costa del Sol offers a series of large beaches, coves hidden amongst cliffs, famous leisure marinas such as ‘Puerto Banus’ and tranquil fishing ports.

In the provincial capital, Malaga, stands the military fortress of the Alcazaba, built by the Moors in the 11th century. At the far end of the Costa del Sol is that geographical and political oddity Gibraltar, with excursions to see the famous Barbary Apes and abundant military history. The Costa del Sol’s great diversity means that it has something to offer for just about everyone, with enough entertainment and variety to please all types of holiday visitor.

The Mediterranean sea is warm and safe and the hills and high mountains shelter the coastline, these elements allow for an all year micro climate making it the perfect location for golf. Known to many as the ‘Costa del Golf ’ due to the outstanding choice of luxury golf courses set along this coastline, with over 50 to choose from you will have to keep returning to experience them all.

Special Offer Valid: 1st Jun - 30th Sep & 1st Nov - 31st Dec 2010

Alhaurin Golf & Hotel Resort Designed by

2 players + shared buggy = €140 (10% discount online)

Seve Ballesteros

www.alhauringolf.com Golf is not expensive 2 Green Fees + Buggy 92 euros Until 30/09/10

Book on-line, save money and time! reservasgolf@alhauringolf.com Telephone: +34 952 595 800

Golf & Country Club

Call: +34 956 613 030 (Ext. 1033) info@sanroqueclub.com · www.sanroqueclub.com

Summer Green Fees. Until 30th September 2010 18 Holes 9 Holes Twilight

Golf Green Fee €42.00 €25.00 €29.40

Buggy Rental €25.00 €12.50 € 17.50

Weekly Ticket: €199 per person including 1/2 buggy Special Offers for July & August 2010: Buggy 18 Holes = €15 2 Green Fees + Shared buggy = €99 Super Twilight (5 Holes) From 18:30 Hrs. €20 per person including buggy

Urb. Elviria, Ctra. Cádiz-Málaga, km 192.

Tel: (+34) 952 831 036 - Fax: (+34) 952 834 797 caddymaster@santamariagolfclub.com - www.santamariagolfclub.com

Costa del Sol Golf Holidays

Hotel Tamisa Golf

Incredible Offer Hotel & Golf Package for 3 days stay Bed & Breakfast sharing twin or double room with terrace and golf views.

2 rounds of golf at the following courses: Mijas Golf, Los Lagos, Los Olivos or Calanova Golf.

All with free transfers from Airport and Golf Courses included free of charge.

Amazing Price

€249

Per person Including all taxes (min 4 persons)

Avaiability from October 2010 to April 2011.

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

Hassle Free Golf Trips with GolfClubsXpress Transport your Golf Clubs quickly and safely to your golf break in England, Spain, Portugal, France, Ireland, Scotland or Wales with GolfClubsXpress.

Opening Offer

Using our custom carrier, we will take a massive 27 Kilos of your clubs, shoes, balls, waterproofs etc from your home, office or Golf Club to your golf destination.

Our award winning Couriers use the latest technology so you can track your clubs all the way out and back.

No more struggling with Golf Clubs through airports - no more worries about lost or damaged clubs - check in online at home and be a “Walk on Walk Off” passenger on your Golf Trip.

Whether you are a couple on a golf break to Spain, a Golf Society playing in France or a company on a Corporate Golf event in Portugal, GolfClubsXpress will take the stress out of transporting your golf clubs.

Save money taking your golf clubs away with GolfClubsXpress - with no clubs to carry you can take fewer cars to the airport and not hire larger, or more cars than you really need.

No Credit Card Surcharges or Hidden Fees.

GolfClubsXpress - A Premium Service at a Fair Price

Xpress Your

Golf Clubs

£

4 nights from

€239 : Including t u t B ffe · Breakfas tal · Car Ren

Welcome to a world limited only by your imagination

54.95 Return

Design by www.Qreative.es

From Just

BOOK

Tel. (+44) (0)1604 505030 · www.xpressyour.com

Reserve now 4 nights from €239 and discover all the benefits of Fuerte Destinos Vacation Club.

OFFER CONDITIONS: This offer is valid for travelling from 1st September to 26th October 2010.

It is subsidized by Fuerte Destinos SL, designed for married couples aged between 30 and 60 with a joint annual income in excess of €50.000. Attendance with partner to a 90-minute sales presentation about Fuerte Destinos Vacation Club is obligatory.

The offer consists of 4 nights accommodation in a double room at Fuerte Estepona Suites 4* (Estepona, Costa del Sol) or Fuerte Rompido Suites 4* (Huelva, Costa de la Luz). It includes a Europcar car rental for the duration of the stay and breakfast buffet for two at the hotel’s restaurant. The car is a Group B , with unlimited mileage, and includes collision damage, theft waiver and airport surcharge. It does not include extra charges and fuel.

The offer is not transferable and is subject to availability. If you do not fulfill the qualification requirements or you don’t attend the sales presentation with your partner, we will proceed to charge your credit card the full price of this package.

PAYMENT CONDITIONS: The cost of this offer will be charged in full to your credit card at the time of booking.

CANCELLATION AND ALTERATION CONDITIONS: We recommend booking your flights before confirming your stay as reservations are non refundable. If you wish to reschedule your travel dates, an administration fee of €50 will incur.

Telephone: +34 902 15 10 05 info@fuertedestinos.com www.fuertedestinations.com

126

News North West Golf Guide

The secret is out!

Or at least so it seems to some

With doom and gloom around every corner it’s refreshing to hear some positive news coming out of Los Arqueros Estates and their on site real estate business in Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club. On the Costa del Sol we meet lots of people involved in the property market but none as positive as Ian Cooper, Managing Director of Los Arqueros Estates.

“We are finding great deals right now in Los Arqueros. UK vendors are cashing in their property and taking advantage of the weak pound and this is driving sales. At the same time, buyers who have been sitting on the fence are now pushing the button to buy.”

So apparently confidence is back, we asked Ian who is buying? “As Los Arqueros was first developed by a Swedish company it has always been popular with Swedish clients and still is. Taylor Woodrow’s involvement over the past 14 years has meant the UK market has also been strong here and now we have seen a number of Dutch and Russian clients buying recently.”

And why? “Well that’s easy, excellent all round value. A community which is consolidated, safe, well established and 100% legal.”

Anyone not familiar with Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club in Benahavis are in for a pleasant surprise. Firstly its location is amazing, offering stunning sea views towards the Mediterranean, with a backdrop of La Zagaleta and Sierra Bermeja and all just a few minutes away from the beach, Marbella and Puerto Banus.

It not all about Seve Ballesteros’ 18-hole golf course either. As Ian points out, “a short drive away is the white village of Benahavis named the gastronomic corner of Andalucia with dozens of great restaurants. Added to this you can find a host of other sports activities and professional instruction all on site.”

Ian has chosen to specialize in selling properties in Los Arqueros Golf and Country Club, with his properties ranging in price

from €159.000 to just over €3.95 million. This allows a wide range of people the opportunity to experience a fabulous lifestyle and to enjoy all the facilities this development has to offer.

For more information contact Ian at Los Arqueros Estates on 669 430 252 / 952 764 067 or email info@losarquerosesates.com

2 bed - 2 bath

2 bed - 2 bath

2 bed - 2 bath

Los Balcones - Ref:165

La Torre - Ref:325

La Finca - Ref:328

Located within the exclusive Los Balcones development this stunning 2 bed apartment benefits from some of the best sea views on the coast.

Presented in first class condition including all furniture and plasma TV’s.

Southwest facing & frontline golf this reduced priced 2 bed first floor apartment is presented in excellent condition with stunning views over the golf course and lake.

Includes underground parking, hot & cold AC and cream marble flooring throughout.

This ground floor property is located in near the club house which offers a host of amenties & services including Golf, Tennis, Squash, Paddle, Gym, and Restaurant/Bar. Only 10 minutes from the beach, Puerto Banus & Marbella.

€220,000

€199,000

€199,000

2 bed - 2 bath

2 bed - 2 bath

2 bed - 2 bath

Las Terrazas - Ref:97

Los Naranjos - Ref:171

Las Jacarandas - Ref:167

This penthouse property is located in an elevated position, built by Taylor Woodrow this project benefits from exceptional views to the Southwest offering vistas to the mountains, golf and Mediterranean sea beyond.

This Los Naranjos apartment is located on the first floor and benefits from stunning sea views. Comprising of 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lounge, kitchen, utility and good size terrace. Offers great value for money in todays market.

Sought after garden apartment in the exclusive Las Jacarandas urbanisation. Complete with underground parking and storeroom.

Great in door space with an ample terrace and garden.

€295,000

€210,000

€195,000

00 34 669 430 252 info@losarquerosestates.com www.losarquerosestates.com Los Arqueros Estates S.L., Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club, 29679 Benahavís, Spain

www.losarqueroslife.com

golden mile properties www.lasolanadenagueles.com

luxury properties www.iancooperestates.com

Play and Stay

Don’t just play... Play and stay for only €80 per person per night!

(Excluding July - August)

1 Green Fee + 1 Single Room €80 per day*

2 Green Fees + Buggy + 1 Twin Room €150 per day*

(Bed, Breakfast & Dinner included)

(Buggy, Bed, Breakfast & Dinner included)

Ctra. de Benahavís, Km 0.7 · 29688 Estepona · Marbella · Costa del Sol · Spain For Reservations Tel: (+34) 952 882 812 · Fax: (+34) 952 887 897 E-mail: info@atalaya-golf.com · Web: www.atalaya-golf.com Malaga Airport << 40 mins >> Atalaya Golf << 40 mins >> Gibraltar Airport