The North West Golf Guide

Complimentary

February - March 2011

THE NORTH WEST

How to find...

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

Featured Course Lancaster Golf Club. Five minutes from the city centre, a million miles from the office

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

w w w. go lfg u id ep u b licat io n s. co m

Bask in glorious sunshine after your incredible victory

Event 2 of 9

Hesketh Golf Club Friday, 25th March 2011

Tea/ coffee & bacon roll on arrival, soup & sandwiches afterwards.

18 Holes on the Open Qualifying Course and Joint Amateur championship host course.

Nearest the pin, longest drive and amazing prize table.

The winning pair receive a 4 day trip to Spain.

Entry only £75 per pair (Discount for Members of Hesketh Golf Club)

ENTRY FORM

Send this entry form to: North West Golf Guide Ltd,

6 Keats Lane , Wincham Cheshire CW9 6PP

DATE

COURSE

PRICE PER PAIR*

25-03-2011

Hesketh Golf Club

£75

.................

Pleasington Golf Club

£75

.................

21-04-2011

Hazel Grove

17-06-2011

Preston Golf Club

20-05-2011

28-07-2011

19-08-2011

16-09-2011

06-10-2011

Mere Golf & CC

De Vere Herons Reach Clitheroe Golf Club Formby Hall

£75

£75

£95

£75

£75

£80

.................

.................

.................

Name:....................................................................................................................

Address:............................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................

E-mail Address:.................................................................................................

Daytime Telephone:........................................................................................

.................

Evening Telephone:.........................................................................................

.................

Name of Club:....................................................................................................

.................

Please indicate the event(s) you are interested in with a tick ✔

Golf Club Member? ..................................Handicap:..................................

(Discounts are available for members of the respective golf clubs)

Join us on The Golf Guide Tour for the chance to win a golf trip to the Costa del Sol. Format is Pairs better ball stableford, and the winners from each event are invited to the final on the Costa del Sol in November 2011, including a 3 night stay at the 4 star Tamisa Hotel Mijas incl Breakfast, return flights, all transfers and 3 competitive rounds of golf at Mijas, Santana and El Chaparral.

To enter call: 07885 748415, email: competitions@golfguidepublications.com or send us your entry via the form on the opposite page.

Hotel Tamisa Golf

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North West Golf Guide

Welcome Issue 6. February - March 2011

010 Featured Course 012 News & Features 038 Cheshire 070 Greater Manchester 080 Lancashire 100 Merseyside 120 Travel

Welcome to the North West Golf Guide Welcome to the sixth 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 Noth West Golf Guide is brought to you

by Golf Guide Publications using a formula which has proved a huge success on the Costa del Sol for the past 5 years and with recent additions in Ireland and Yorkshire, further regions will be added accross the UK over the next 2 years. 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 editions 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 & 2011.

The next issue will be available from all golf clubs, select golf shops, driving ranges and hotels from the start of February.

Happy golfing from all at the North West Golf Guide!

Cover Image & Above: Lancaster Golf Club Published bi-monthly under licsence by Terry Reid Sports Ltd: 07855 94672 terryr@golfguidepublications Publisher Golf Guide Publications Ltd Reg Office 112-114 Witton Street Northwich, Cheshire CW9 5NW Company No. 7110282 info@golfguidepublications.com www.golfguidepublications.com Paul Lambert: 07786 548629 paul@golfguidepublications.com Kenny Plumb: kenny@golfguidepublications.com John Walker: john@golfguidepublications.com Ray Davis: ray@golfguidepublications.com Printed by: Buxton Press Limited Palace Road, Buxton, Derbyshire, SK17 6AE Telephone: 01298 21 2000 sales@buxpress.co.uk Designed by: www.Qreative.es

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.

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North West Golf Guide

FEATURED COURSE

Lancaster Golf Club

Duels, racing stables, famous mistresses, Kings & Earls, a clubhouse and course of rare beauty.

Lancaster Golf Club was first formed on 11th May 1889. The original course was at Cockerham, some six miles away from the club’s present home. It was designed by George Lowe, who like most of the early golf Architects, came from Scotland.

He was employed at some of the greatest courses of his day, Carnoustie, St. Andrews, Hoylake & Lytham and St. Annes. Whilst he never acquired the reputation of his famous successor, James Braid, Lowe’s contribution to golf in the North West of England was considerable. The club’s present home, Ashton Hall, is awash with history, a fact which becomes immediately apparent as soon as the fourteenth-century Grade 1 listed

Clubhouse comes into view. The Pele Tower is one of a series, unique to this region, of fortified residences built to protect the owners against Border raiders from the North. This monumental construction of red sandstone with walls six feet thick now houses the men’s locker room. One of its earliest mistresses, Agnes de Washington, was a member of the family, which, much later, would produce George Washington, the first President of the United States. The outward appearance of the Pele Tower has changed little over the centuries but the remainder of Ashton Hall - Lancaster’s Clubhouse – reflects major rebuilding in the mid-nineteenth century. The effect of this reconstruction was to shift the focus of the

great house from west- to east-facing. It is still easy enough to envisage the old Jacobean entrance through the Green Court at what is now the rear of the Clubhouse (through which, incidentally, two kings, James I and Charles II entered the Hall in 1617 and 1651 respectively), but from 1856 the grand entrance was and remains on the east-facing side. The main areas of the modern Clubhouse, the Dining Room and the Mixed Lounge, also date from this period and contain many contemporary features. These include the folding wooden shutters used to wrap around the windows against the winter draughts; and the Italian white marble fireplace in the Lounge with its delicate carvings of flowers, birds and berries.

FEATURED COURSE

North West Golf Guide

tee and the 10th and 1st fairways, and most dramatically from the 9th tee where it swings into view around the left edge of the fairway.

A different kind of historical allusion is to be found outside, on the course itself. The rebuilding of 1856 was carried out by a new owner, Le Gendre Starkie, the Member of Parliament for Clitheroe, who bought the Ashton estate from the Duke of Hamilton. The Hamiltons had owned Ashton Hall since the late-seventeenth century and their tenure has come to be associated with the breeding of racehorses in general and with the St. Leger in particular. A local legend that the first running of the Classic was held there is –unfortunately – untrue. Since its foundation in 1776 the St. Leger has been run at Doncaster. But it is true that the long gallop at Ashton Hall was about one mile and six furlong, the St. Leger distance, and that the 9th Duke of Hamilton won the race on seven occasions with horses bred or based in Lancaster, including the 1809 winner called Ashton. It is still possible to glimpse parts of the original gallop, where it emerges from the woods to cross the Ladies 18th

The course itself, situated in the Old Deer Park, was designed by the legendary James Braid. Braid’s achievement was to construct a course in harmony with the existing landscape, not artificially created out of it. In addition he was presented with turf that was ideal for transforming into fairways, well drained on a rich loam sub-soil and closely cropped by generations of deer. The terrain does not swoop and rise dramatically, but within the broad contours, with the Park’s descent from north to south, and its wave effect movement from east to west, there are countless countervailing slopes, which Braid was able to adapt to his golfing purpose and pose a series of subtle problems for the golfers. He also had all the space he needed to fashion 18 holes without being constrained by the lie of the land.

Consequently, the course has an expansive feel about it, heightened by the nearby scenery and the panoramic views, which define its enviable location, between Morecambe Bay and the western edges of the Trough of Bowland, and within sight of the Lake District.

Braid was keen too, to preserve the series of woods and spinneys which for centuries had embellished the old Park, and through which he threaded his course. His grand design was to construct what amounts to two discreet nine-hole courses, each part-echoing and

part-challenging the other but, taken together, forming a perfectly harmonious whole. Each half begins from a tee located on the south side of Burrow Beck, the stream that winds across the course, from which the players drive into the Park, only returning across the Beck to reach the 9th and 18th greens. The first nine holes have views to the east, towards the Forest of Bowland. The inward half moves westward, with dramatic effect from the 11th green where, suddenly, the whole of the Lune Estuary is revealed and, on a clear day, the outline of Blackpool Tower. Lancaster plays host annually to events in the “Morecambe Bay Golf Festival” and recently was the venue for the Lancashire County Championship.

Signature Hole, is the par 3 18th, much admired in Braid’s day when it was 25yards shorter.

The problem he poses however remains the same, how best from a high tee, to carry a ravine of rough ground, water and sand, to the green below. The green is guarded on the left by an oak tree, which was already present when the course was constructed. Another six bunkers provide the putting area with more than adequate protection. One of them, built into the bank below the plateau green is, perhaps the most notorious on the course.

Like all good 18th holes its green lies under the Clubhouse windows. It’s not surprising that golf writers immediately singled out this hole as a gem, one that merits inclusion in any anthology of the best holes in Britain.

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North West Golf Guide

World Number One Holders of the Top Spot Although the top spot has changed hands 44 times since Bernhard Langer first took the position on April 6, 1986, since the creation of the Official World Golf Ranking (known as the Sony Ranking until 1997) only 13 players in all have held the coveted position of being officially the world’s number one golfer.

WORLD NEWS

WORLD NEWS

North West Golf Guide

Tiger Woods (pictured left) holds the record for the most consecutive weeks at number one (281, from June 12, 2005 to October 24, 2010), as well as the most total weeks in the position at 623. The thirteen holders, and the total number of weeks at number one, are as follows, as at January 9, 2011: Bernhard Langer Severiano Ballesteros Greg Norman Nick Faldo Ian Woosnam Fred Couples Nick Price Tom Lehman Ernie Els David Duval Vijay Singh Tiger Woods Lee Westwood

3 weeks 61 weeks 331 weeks 97 weeks 50 weeks 16 weeks 44 weeks 1 week 9 weeks 15 weeks 32 weeks 623 weeks 11 weeks

MOST TIMES AS NO. 1 As the top spot has alternated between players over the years, Greg Norman (pictured bottom right) has reached number one 11 separate times, Tiger Woods 10 times, Seve Ballesteros (pictured top right) 5 and Nick Faldo 4, with Ernie Els and Vijay Singh 3 times each.

SHORTEST TENURE Although several number ones - including Tiger Woods - have held the position for just one week before being displaced, only Tom Lehman among the twelve has been world number one for a single week in his career, in 1997.

YOUNGEST Tiger Woods was 21 years, 5 months and 2 weeks old when he first became world number one on June 15, 1997.

OLDEST Vijay Singh was 41 years, 6 months and 2 weeks old when he first became world number one on September 5, 2004, and 42 years, 3 months and 3 weeks old when he last held the position on June 11, 2005.

NATIONALITIES Of the twelve number ones, only four have been Americans, the position also having been held by a German, a Spaniard, an Australian, an Englishman, a Welshman, a Zimbabwean, a South African and a Fijian.

YEAR LONG HOLDERS Only three players have held the position for at least 52 successive weeks: Greg Norman,

Nick Faldo and Tiger Woods. The same three players are also the only ones to been world number one for a full calendar year: Nick Faldo throughout 1993, Greg Norman throughout 1996, and Tiger Woods throughout 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009.

In 2008, Tiger Woods achieved the remarkable feat of holding onto the number one position all year, despite not competing for more than six months after his June 16 playoff victory for the US Open against Rocco Mediate, as he underwent knee surgery and recuperation.

He was still world number one on February 25, 2009, when he resumed tournament golf at the Accenture Match Play Championship.

HIGHEST POINTS TOTAL Tiger Woods also holds the record for the highest ever average points total, when he reached 32.44 points (1459.64 points accumulated over 45 tournaments) on June 3, 2001, shortly before the 2001 US Open, at which point he was the first player ever to hold all four professional major championships simultaneously - the so-called ‘Tiger Slam’.

BIGGEST LEAD Just before that, on May 20, 2001, Tiger Woods had also built the biggest ever lead in the rankings, when his 32.33 average points was 19.40 ahead of the then world number two Phil Mickelson on 12.93 average points.

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North West Golf Guide

World news

Padraig Harrington Takes on new role Two-time Open champion Padraig Harrington has become the first “Working for Golf” ambassador for the sport’s ruling Royal and Ancient Club.

The 39-year-old Dubliner, who at Birkdale three years ago became the first European golfer to make a successful defence of the Claret Jug since James Braid in 1906, will be promoting the work of the St Andrewsbased governing body on his travels.

Chief Executive Peter Dawson said: “Padraig is a role model in the game and when he offered his time to support our golf development and rules education activities, we recognised the potential to reach the widest possible audience.

“His active involvement in golf’s bid to rejoin the Olympic Games was an important factor in our success in what is a key development for the future growth of the game.”

Harrington, along with Matteo Manassero, Michelle Wie and Suzann Pettersen, spoke at the bid presentation to the International Olympic Committee two years ago and golf will return to the Games in Brazil in 2016 after an absence of more than a century.

In his new role he will coach young people in R&A-funded golf development programmes, appear in Rules of Golf multimedia productions, promote the etiquette of the game, take part in biomechanical equipment testing sessions and support the work of the R&A Foundation.

“The R&A has been a constant feature of my development in the game, from playing in boys and amateur events through to winning The Open Championship,” he commented.

“I appreciate all the guidance and opportunities they provided along the way.

“I am delighted to have this opportunity to give something positive back to the game, particularly in those countries around the world where golf is still in its infancy, introducing boys and girls to golf so they can benefit from the values that the game teaches you.

“I am constantly amazed at how much the R&A do for the game worldwide from development to the rules, etiquette and other areas.

“The more I learnt the more I wanted to get involved in their work and, given that I play a global schedule, I am well-placed to assist on various projects around the world.”

In his first act as an ambassador Harrington announced the R&A’s continued support for grassroots development programmes in Ireland, worth more than £200,000 over the next three years.

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North West Golf Guide

Pick your team For the European Tour Fantasy Race The new European Tour Fantasy Race has just got underway, but it’s not too late to pick your team for a chance to win a golfing holiday to Dubai.

With its new format and fantastic prizes, the European Tour Fantasy Race promises plenty of excitement every week as your team of 15 look to accumulate as many points as possible.

There are weekly, monthly and ultimately end of season prizes to be won, including European Tour merchandise, clubs and balls from Titleist and for the overall winner, the ultimate prize of a golfing holiday to Dubai including two business class flights from any Emirates destination and a five night stay at the Atlantis, the Palm, the official hotel of the Dubai World Championship, and golf at Jumeirah Golf Estate.

The aim is still to accumulate as much prize money as possible throughout the season for your team of 15 players but with a few new rules. Entrants to the 2011 European Tour Fantasy Race will need to select a team of 15 players but in 2011 you will be only be permitted to make up to five changes to your team between events.

And a big difference is that any money won by “Sold” players while they were in your chosen 15 will still count to your team’s total earnings.

Lastly, Team changes can only be made on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. This will put emphasis on selecting form players for each week, trying to choose players who are likely to favour particular courses or events, without fear of their earnings dropping out of your team’s tally if you substitute them later in the season.

For more information visit: www.europeantour.com

European Tour NEWS

ENTRY FORM

28th April 2011

Please indicate the event(s) you are interested in with a tick ✔ DATE

COURSE

PRICE PER PLAYER

25-04-2011

Caldy Golf Club

£24

.................

Pryor’s Hayes

£14

.................

12-05-2011

Heysham Golf Club

11-08-2011

Herons Reach

06-06-2011

£12 £12

................. .................

(Discounts are available for members of the respective golf clubs)

Name:....................................................................................................................

Address:............................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................

E-mail Address:.................................................................................................

Daytime Telephone:........................................................................................

Evening Telephone:.........................................................................................

Golf Club Member? ..................................Handicap:..................................

Caldy Golf Club 12th May 2011

HEYSHAM GOLF CLUB 6th June 2011

Pryor’s Hayes GOLF CLUB 11th August 2011

De Vere Herons Reach

Format: Pairs Better Ball Competitions

1st Prize Golf Spa Package for 2 at a De Vere Hotel

Prizes for 2nd, 3rd, Nearest pins & Longest drive from GOLFINO

PRIZE DRAWS AND VOUCHERS FOR ALL PLAYERS

Name of Club:....................................................................................................

Send this entry form to: North West Golf Guide Ltd,

Reg Office 112-114 Witton Street, Northwich, Cheshire CW9 5NW

To enter call: 07885 748415 Email: competitions@golfguidepublications.com

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North West Golf Guide

European Tour NEWS

José Maria Olazábal Named as 2012 Ryder Cup Captain

José Maria Olazábal has accepted an invitation from the Tournament Committee of The European Tour, ratified by The European Ryder Cup Players and Stakeholders Board, to captain the European team in The 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah Country Club, Medinah, Illinois, United States of America, from September 28-30, 2012.

Olazábal, who was born in Fuenterrabia, Spain, on February 5, 1966, becomes the 23rd golfer to captain a Ryder Cup team against the United States and the second Spaniard following Seve Ballesteros, the winning captain in 1997 when Europe triumphed 14 ½ - 13 ½ at Club de Golf Valderrama, Sotogrande, Spain.

Olazábal made the first of seven Ryder Cup appearances in 1987 when Europe created history by winning on American soil for the first time and he was also on the winning European team in 1997 and 2006 in a Ryder Cup playing career that spanned 19 years.

Olazábal and Ballesteros formed the most

successful partnership in Ryder Cup history in the fourballs and foursomes with 11 wins and two halved matches from 15 played, and with 18 wins and 20½ points, Olazábal stands fifth in the European lists for most matches won and most points won respectively.

were achieved under the captaincies of Tony Jacklin (1985, 1987), Bernard Gallacher (1995), Ballesteros (1997), Sam Torrance (2002), Bernhard Langer (2004), Ian Woosnam (2006) and Montgomerie (2010) with Jacklin being the captain when the match was tied in 1989.

Following Europe’s 14 ½ - 13 ½ win at The Celtic Manor Resort, City of Newport, Wales, Olazábal succeeds Colin Montgomerie as captain with the aim of retaining The Ryder Cup which Europe has won eight times and the United States seven times with one match tied since players from the Continent of Europe became eligible in 1979. Europe’s victories

Olazábal said: “The two Masters wins at Augusta National are the highlight of my playing career but this is my proudest moment. Golf has been my life and representing Europe in The Ryder Cup has given me so much enjoyment. So to be named the European Ryder Cup captain is something very special and I am looking forward to the next 20 months before we reach Medinah.

European Tour NEWS

“Without question The Ryder Cup has given me many memorable times especially with Seve from the moment we were first partners in 1987 and Europe won in America for the first time. We were unbeaten in 1989 and 1991 and we won our last match together in 1993.

“Seve was also our Captain at Valderrama in 1997 and that was especially significant because the match was played in Spain and on the Continent for the first time and, of course, we won. In all I’ve played under five Captains – Tony Jacklin, Bernard Gallacher, Mark James, Ian Woosnam and Seve – and the last in 2006 with Woosie was one to remember because we won 18 ½ - 9½. I played two fourball matches with Sergio (Garcia) and we won both and then I beat Phil Mickelson in the singles which was the last match I played.

“It was also a wonderful experience to be involved as a vice captain with Nick Faldo in 2008 and then again with Colin Montgomerie when we regained the Cup at Celtic Manor last year. I’ve learned a lot along the way and linked to my own experiences I look forward to drawing on all that knowledge with the aim, of course, to keeping the Cup in our possession. We all know The Ryder Cup is one of the most exciting and important competitions in the golfing calendar, and that it always inspires team members and spectators alike, but there is nothing like holding that trophy at the end of the week.

North West Golf Guide

of his right foot and two in his left, struck his first shots at the age of two at the Real Golf de San Sebastian, set in the lush foothills of the Pyrenees. He was drawn to the golf course because it was where his father, Gaspar, worked as the greenkeeper and his mother, Julia, as wardrobe mistress. It was on the practice range at Real Golf de San Sebastian in 1979 that Olazábal also met Sergio Gomez, who would go on to become his long-time friend and manager.

Olazábal turned professional in 1985 when he led from start to finish to win The European Tour Qualifying School at La Manga in his native Spain and he made an immediate impact by becoming The Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year in 1986 when he finished runner-up to Ballesteros in the then Order of Merit. He set new records with two wins on the way to earning three times what any other first-time Tour professional had earned with a stroke average of 70.69.

Aged seven, Olazábal won the Spanish Championship for under nines. Soon afterwards, Ballesteros broke through on The European Tour and Olazábal, although committed to studying at the public school in Fuenterrabia, knew that he wanted to aspire to such heights especially when three years later Ballesteros returned to his own home further along the Spanish coast with the famous silver claret jug following his 1979 Open Championship triumph.

Olazábal has won 23 times on The European Tour International Schedule with 30 wins in all worldwide and he became the second Spaniard to be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame when he joined his great friend Seve Ballesteros (inducted in 1999) in that illustrious group during a moving ceremony at St Augustine, Florida, in November, 2009.

Jesus Arruti, the club professional who spent marathon session after marathon session with Olazábal on the practice range, and Gomez, guided him through a meteoric amateur career during which he won the ‘triple crown’ of British Boys’ Championship, British Amateur Championship and British Youths’ Championship. He also captured the Spanish Amateur Open Championship in 1983 and 1984, the Italian Amateur Open Championship in 1983 and the Belgian International Youths’ Championship in 1984.

“I have spent a lot of my career in America and the fans there have always been fair to me. We want to keep the Cup, and that will be our priority, but I know that the American team will share with us the desire for this match to continue the fabulous tradition of The Ryder Cup with fair play and good sportsmanship the vital ingredients.

“I have accepted the captaincy but I think my desire to keep playing is known by everyone.

This is the first of four tournaments in succession I am playing on the Desert Swing of The European Tour International Schedule.

I am looking forward to competing again and giving myself the chance to win...

But I want to stress it is a great honour to become the European Ryder Cup captain and I will be committed to getting everything right in the build-up to the 2012 match.”

Olazábal, who won the Masters Tournament in 1994 and again in 1999 after recovering from rheumatoid polyarthritis in three joints

Medinah Country Club

Medinah Country Club’s Number 3 Championship Course, close to Chicago, has hosted three Major Championships – the US Open in 1949, 1975 and in 1990 when Olazábal finished tied eighth and the US PGA Championship in 1999 and 2006. It has also staged a US Senior Open. The course was designed by Scotsman Tom Bendelow and carved out of an oak tree forest in rolling terrain and opened in 1928. After the 1999 US PGA Championship Rees Jones, the renowned architect, undertook a modification project and the course played to more than 7,500 yards from the championship tees in the 2006 US PGA Championship.

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North West Golf Guide

European Tour NEWS

The 40th edition of The European Tour Official Guide The 40th edition of The European Tour Official Guide is now available for download, giving you all the stats and biographies from every player on Tour.

Whether you are the dedicated statistician or simply looking for more background to the players to help you select your European Tour Fantasy Race, this is the publication for you.

It contains all the results and details of the magnificent 2010 season, detailed player biographies and records, and hundreds of facts and statistics from The European Tour’s history.

It will be available to buy in hard copy shortly.

It contains all the results and details of the magnificent 2010 season, detailed player biographies and records, and hundreds of facts and statistics from The European Tour’s history.

It will be available to buy in hard copy shortly.

The 2011 Official Guide incorporates detailed biographies of every fully exempt player on The 2011 European Tour International Schedule and the leading players on the Official World Golf Ranking.

Other information is contained within the pages, including details on The Race to Dubai, all the facts and figures through the history of The European Tour and much, much more.

You can download the entire guide and save it permanently on your computer, enabling easy access to all this information at the touch of a button by simply clicking on the section headings on the front cover.

You need to be registered to My European Tour to access this publication, which can be done by visiting: www.europeantour.com

Home to the best leasing deals in the country At UK Car Line we offer a full range of leasing plans from all the major manufacturers.

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North West Golf Guide

player Profile

player Profile

North West Golf Guide

Rory McIlroy Profile of the Irish boy wonder Country: Northern Ireland DoB: 04 May 1989 Height: 5ft 10ins (1.78 metres) Interests: Manchester United FC, cars, tennis, movies, music Weblink: www.rorymcilroy.com Course Att: Lough Erne Tours: European Tour In the bag:

Teen prodigy Rory McIlroy has set the European Tour alight since turning pro on 18th September 2007. Hard-hitting Rory was always destined to become a professional golfer since the moment he recorded a 40-yard drive aged just two-years-old. His first hole in one came when he was just nine and he played in his first professional European Tour event as a 16-year-old in 2005 at The Forest of Arden.

His amazing amateur career saw him conquer Ireland and Europe, before becoming just the second person to top the World Amateur Rankings in 2007. Rory represented Europe in the winning Junior Ryder Cup team in 2004, before becoming the youngest winner of the prestigious West of Ireland and Irish Close Championships in 2005. The following year he successfully retained both Irish amateur titles and in August 2006 he won the European Amateur Championship.

Rory shot into the public eye with his superb opening three-under-par 68 in the 2007 Open Championship at Carnoustie, the only bogey-free round of the day. He went on to tie for 42nd position and accept the Silver Medal as leading amateur.

Rory went on to make the cut in his first professional event at the Quinn Direct British

Masters, and finished third in his second professional event, the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. These successes earned the golfing sensation enough money to virtually assure his place in the top 115.

Despite high expectations, Rory keeps a cool head on his young shoulders and lets his golf do the talking. In 2008 Rory exceeded his expectations by making it to the Volvo Masters at Valderrama and entering the elite of the top 100 in the Official World Golf Rankings.

At the beginning of the 2009 season Rory was beaten in a play-off for the UBS Hong Kong Open title - this performance elevated him into the top 50 in the Official World Golf Rankings which has assured him a coveted place in the 2009 Masters Tournament at Augusta in April.

Rory’s maiden victory came in the 2009 Dubai Desert Classic where he endured a nail-biting final hole and ultimately beat Justin Rose to the title by one shot. Rory finished in 2nd place in the inaugural European Tour Race To Dubai.

Rory made his mark in the USA in April 2010 when he won the Quail Hollow Championship on the PGA Tour shooting a course record 62 on the final day, beating Phi Mickelson by four shots.

DRIVER Driver: Titleist 910D2, 8.5 deg loft, ROMBAX 7VO5 Shaft, X-Flex. Grips Golf Pride New Decade Multicompound FAIRWAY WOODS Please note that a choice is always made between the 2-iron and the 5 wood, depending on the course/conditions. 3-Wood: Titleist 909 F2, 13.5 deg loft, Project X 76 gram, X-Flex 5-Wood: Titleist 906 F2, 18 deg loft, Fujikura Fit-on! 11 Pro 95, X-Flex. Grips Golf Pride New Decade Multicompound THE IRONS 3 iron to 9 iron: Titleist 710 MB’s, Project X Shafts, 6.5 Rifle. Grips Golf Pride New Decade Multicompound THE WEDGES PW: Titleist Vokey Spin Milled, 46 deg loft, Project X Shaft, 6.5 flex Mid Wedge: Titleist Vokey Spin Milled 54 deg loft, Project X Shaft, 6.5 flex Lob wedge: Titleist Vokey, Spin Milled, 60 deg loft, Project X Shaft, 6.5 flex Grips Golf Pride New Decade Multicompound THE PUTTER Scotty Cameron Fastback Prototype 33” in length GOLF BALL Titleist Pro V1X

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North West Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

Local golfing events Given International Status Two of Merseyside’s top amateur golf events will celebrate a world first next summer. Both the Southport and Ainsdale Bowl and the Formby Hare have been elevated to international status for 2011.

It means some of the sport’s leading amateur players will be heading to the Southport coast next year to try and boost their world ranking.

The events have always attracted the leading players from the region, but their new position in the world game will mean the field, likely to increase in size, will have an international flavour.

Approval was given by the amateur game’s governing body – the R&A – for the fixtures to count towards the World Amateur Ranking.

Both will be played over the weekend of May 21 and competitors must take part in both 36hole events to qualify for world ranking points.

Ian Sawyer, assistant secretary at Southport & Ainsdale, said: “The suggestion was made

by Formby. Each event is run independently but only competitors who play in both will qualify for world ranking points.

“Potentially, the standard and size of the fields will increase, although that could be to the detriment of local golfers. Last season we balloted out players with 0.4 handicaps.”

The two events are also part of the Northern Order of Merit programme, a scratch series that started in 1988 and which will have a new sponsor in 2011 in Cleveland Srixon.

Srixon is a part of the huge Japanese conglomerate Sumitomo Rubber Industries and recently acquired Cleveland Golf, the leading wedge brand.

Vouchers for the top three players at the end of the season have been increased to £500, £300 and £200 respectively.

The first of 30 fixtures tee off with the Crosby Challenge Plate at West Lancashire Golf Club in Crosby on April 3 and run until September 25 with the Pendle Witch at Clitheroe.

Local dates include: WEST LANCASHIRE: Crosby Challenge Plate, April 3 HILLSIDE: Pines Trophy, May 8 HESKETH: Henriques Trophy, May 15 SOUTHPORT & AINSDALE: Southport & Ainsdale Bowl , May 21 FORMBY: Formby Hare, May 22 WALLASEY: Frank Stableford Open, June 12 BROMBOROUGH: Bromborough Bowl, June 30 CALDY: Caldy Quart, July 21 ROYAL BIRKDALE: Birkdale Silver Goblet, August 7 GRANGE PARK: Grange Park Rose Bowl, August 14 CHILDWALL: Childwall Trophy, September 10

The Golf Guide Tour Society Day

The “TommyT” JUNIOR GOLF TOUR

& Short Game Skills Challenge

Morecambe Golf Club

NORTH WEST REGION

Tuesday 31st May 2011 A new National Junior Golf Tour, exclusive to Boys and Girls aged from 4-11 years, will stage it’s inaugural event in the North West region at the ‘award winning’ Pryors Hayes Golf Club on Tuesday 31st May. Competitors will play a 9, 6 or 4-hole tournament dependant on their age group with shortened tee positions. The format will be a gross Stableford competition within age groups.

Friday, 6th May 2010

Prior to the tournament there will be a Short Game Skills Challenge competition.

Tour Organiser, Roger Shutt, an experienced Specialist Junior Golf Coach commented,

Pairs Betterball Competition

“More and more children aged under 12 are starting golf nowadays and unfortunately there aren’t enough tournaments for them to compete in against other children of the same age. We intend to run a series of similar events around the North West region before taking it to other areas to search for the best youngsters in the country!”

Includes 18 holes, coffee & bacon rolls Huge Prize Table

Teetimes from 9:30 a.m. available

Entry only £20 p.p.

Day

To enter call: 077865 48629 or email: competitions@golfguidepublications.com

Design © www.Qreative.es

ty Socie

Exclusive for Boys & Girls aged from 4-11 years Age Group Categories:- 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-11 years

For further information or to request an entry form please contact Roger Shutt Email: englishgolfstars@googlemail.com Telephone: 07735 421306 Web: www.golfstars.co.uk

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North West Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

Formby Hall Golfer Launched Challenge Tour season in India Tommy Fleetwood has swapped the icy grip of winter on Merseyside for the heat of India to launch his bid to join Europe’s elite golfers.

The Sefton golfer teed up in the opening event of the 2011 Challenge Tour – the Gujarat Kensville Challenge – which took place near Ahmedabad, in the Indian state of Gujarat.

It is the first time the Tour has visited the sub continent and will offer up a new challenge to the former England amateur international who only turned professional six months ago.

Fleetwood, who recently celebrated his 20th birthday, came close to winning his Tour card to join the top players on the European Tour but has had to settle for starting out on the next rung down. However the Challenge Tour offers a route onto the main tour for its most successful players and mirrors the format of

the top tier of European golf with four round events, halfway cuts and a variety of venues around the world including India and Kenya.

After a distinguished amateur career, which saw Fleetwood sign off in style by becoming English champion and the world number one in the amateur rankings, the Formby Hall attached player is tipped for stardom in the professional ranks.

But the player himself refuses to add to the burden of expectancy by insisting: “There is no hurry. I think it will be a good experience for me to have at least a year on the Challenge Tour.”

Fleetwood played just six Challenge Tour events after turning professional but won enough money to finish 48th in the order of merit and guarantee himself playing rights for 2011.

He came close to winning his first Challenge Tour event as an amateur, but three putted the final green at the English Open to finish runner-up.

He matched that feat as a pro at the M2M Russian Open, again missing out by just a single shot.

However the fact that Fleetwood found himself in contention for a maiden victory so soon has given him confidence for the season ahead.

“It was nice to be mentioned as a player who started events as one of the favourites to do well,” he said. “I can take a lot of confidence from the fact that people think I am capable of doing well.”

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North West Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

New owner tees off at High Legh Park

Didsbury link continues for Murray More than 20 years after winning the European Open at Walton Heath, Andrew Murray has admitted the only place he would have preferred to have celebrated was Didsbury Golf Club.

“I’m told the roof nearly came off when they heard the news,” he recalled. “I would have dearly loved to have been there.”

It was an emotional victory for Murray who had defied the pain of spondylitis – a form of arthritis – which had threatened to end his career. A subsequent operation eased the problem as he went on to broaden his horizons which included course design, player management and media work before launching his comeback four years ago on the European Senior Tour.

Murray, 55, has been made an honorary member of the Ford Lane club where he took his first swing as a lad of 10. Six years later he joined Brian Nield, the former Didsbury professional, as an assistant at Bramhall before embarking on an illustrious playing career.

He is attached to Portal but his roots run deep at Didsbury where his dad Frank and mum Barbara were members for 40 years and where his brother, Ian, has recently joined.

“I was junior captain and won the junior championship and I’ve always practised and coached there because that’s where our home was,” he said. And the family tradition continues at the club where his 21-year-old son Tom is a trainee assistant working for club professional Peter Barber – his dad’s best friend.

This year marks Murray’s 20th pro-am – the first 13 were staged at Didsbury – which has pumped nearly £300,000 into local charities.

High Legh Park Golf Club in Knutsford, Cheshire, has been bought out of receivership by a businessman who has pledged to transform its fortunes. The club, which was put in receivership by its previous owners in August last year, has been acquired

by Andrew Vaughan for an undisclosed sum. The Altrincham-born buyer says he has a long-term plan to invest and will move back to Cheshire to take a hands-on approach in developing the club’s future.

Mr Vaughan, the former owner of Silecroft Holiday Park in the Lake District, has already written to members to outline his blueprint for the club.

He said: “Whilst the club has undoubtedly suffered from a period of neglect, I believe it has the potential and the facilities which, with the right management and investment, can develop quickly into one of Cheshire’s premier golf venues.

“It is my intention to invest significantly in the Club and its facilities. The course will see immediate short term investment and, with the help of appointed experts, we will develop and implement a long term course development plan.”

High Legh Park Golf Club opened in 1998 and was designed by Manchester-born former Ryder Cup Captain Mark James. Mr Vaughan said he has already established a franchise agreement for the pro shop and golfing services with club professional Gavin Beddow.

He said: “Gavin has proved, at other courses in Cheshire, that he can introduce a wide range of quality golfing products to the pro shop and increase profitability for the course as a whole.”

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To enter call: 077865 48629 or email: competitions@golfguidepublications.com

You’d be a fool to miss it!

30

North West Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

Amateur Golf Tournament 19-23 September 2011

For more information call: 0044 (0)151 625 9994 Email: info@wirralgolfclassic.co.uk Web: www.wirralgolfclassic.co.uk

The Wirral Golf Classic, a 72 hole Stableford competition for amateurs, will be held for the second time in 2011 and will be staged 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 and Dee. THE COMPETITION All competitors will play each of the four courses, with one rest day during the week. The main competition is an aggregate Stableford with prizes for the top 20 players over the four rounds, including a separate category for ladies.

There will also be daily competitions. Players must be 18 years and older, with a maximum handicap of 24 for men and 36 for ladies, while the maximum number of strokes given is 18 for men and 27 for ladies, per round. All golfers must be members of a recognised golf club, or affiliated to their country’s governing body, and must present a current and active handicap certificate from their club on arrival (in accordance with CONGU Handicapping System).

OPTIONAL TEAM ELEMENT We are also offering a Team Competition for four players. Each player must enter individually but a team can be nominated

at the time of entry. However, there will be a draw for markers and times as players may not play in their teams. (There is no extra fee for this element of the event).

SOCIAL EVENTS A Welcome Drink Reception will be held at Thornton Hall on Monday 19 September and the Prize Giving and Drinks Reception will be held at Royal Liverpool Golf Club on Friday 23 September at 9.30pm.

OFF THE COURSE For non-golfers there are a wealth of places to go during the day, from art galleries to magnificent beaches and spas to designer boutiques, we have the lot. www.visitwirral.com REST DAY Each golfer will have one day’s rest, offering the opportunity to see some of Wirral’s other

attractions, or play one of the other courses.

There are courses at Bidston, Eastham Lodge, Leasowe and Prenton, as well as Wirral Ladies, formed by the wives of Royal Liverpool members over 100 years ago. Wirral Golf Classic entrants can play for just £15 (less than half price). Another option is “Wirral’s parkland jewel”, Bromborough Golf Club, host to the English Amateur Championship in 2005.

Mature woodland, gentle undulations and challenging holes provide a memorable day’s golf. Wirral Golf Classic entrants can play for £22.50 (a 50% reduction).

ENTRANCE FEES You can take part for the wonderfully inexpensive price of £199, just over half the cost if you were booking these courses on your own, if you book by 1 April. After this date, the cost increases to £219. All green fees, social events and prizes are included.

Leading experts in commercial and corporate law

Amateur Golf Tournament 19-23 September 2011 The Wirral Golf Classic, a 72 hole Stableford competition for amateurs, will be held for the second time in 2011 and will be staged 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 and Dee. Enjoy a wonderful week of golf with social events and prizes for just £199.

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8, Cunningham Court, Blackburn BB1 2QX Tel: 0845 136 4215 www.garrickslaw.co.uk

32

North West Golf Guide

Fashion NEWS

Natural Look Rainproof Jacket Art. 420152 Price: 160€ / 240CHF / £130 Material: 92% Polyester / 12% Elastane Colour: 82-Lt Grey Marl Available in sizes: 34-44

Superstretch Trousers Art. 460952 Price: 120€ / 180CHF / £95 Material: 97% Cotton/ 3% Elastane (Superstretch) Colour: 10-Optic White Available in sizes: 34-44

Fashion NEWS

North West Golf Guide

G+ by GOLFINO Spring/Summer 2011

G+ Women. Pacific-Blue Sporty-Chic In the G+ Pacific-Blue module, GOLFINO have combined the monochrome palette of black, white and marl with some of the loud colours associated with the 80s and 90s: acid-green and pacific-blue set the tone.

Casual wear with discreet high-tech functionality is represented by a hooded sweater made of a trendy, mixed-grey jersey material, which looks like a simple sweater from the outside but is thinly laminated on the inside – making it 100% waterproof. The thin hood can be tucked into the collar, while pleats lend the sweater the necessary touch for a feminine, sporty-chic look. The silicone laminate material innovation embodies the ever-present performance aspect and can be found throughout the entire module in soft stripes. The latest fashion trends,

such as pagoda shoulders, are included and given a sporty interpretation with puffed sleeves on the polo shirts and half-zip sweaters. The outerwear in this module also features functional Dry Comfort.

A further highlight is the extremely light and waterproof reversible jacket, which boasts powerful colours on one side and discreet shades of grey on the other. The Dry Comfort polo shirt with racerback design, integrated bra, numerous seams and mesh inserts for ventilation is a real eye-catcher in this module. The outfit is completed by a waterproof waistcoat with an extra-high collar and asymmetrical design, as well as the techno stretch capri in thermo cool in a jeans look with a pleated hem on the lower leg.

Slim cuts and sporty, playful ruffles set the overall look in G+ Women.

For more information visit: www.golfino.com

“Slim cuts and sporty, playful ruffles set the overall look in G+ Women.”

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North West Golf Guide

Fashion NEWS

Fashion NEWS

North West Golf Guide

Druh Belts & Buckles Take Golf Market by Storm Druh Belts & Buckles, a unique range of stylish belts and buckles, were only launched just over a year ago by Yorkshireman and former touring pro Simon Hurd but already they have taken the golf market by storm.

Hurdy, as he is known on Tour, has in the past been known for the distinctive and colourful pork pie hats he dons on the golf course, but not for much longer as the overwhelming success of Druh has now placed him firmly on the golf fashion map.

The immediate impact of the belts is according to Hurd down to the fact that they offer the discerning golfer an extensive selection of stylish handmade leather and snakeskin belts in sumptuous classic and chic casual styles and can be as outrageous or classical as the wearer wishes.

Druh Belts are available in leather and water snakeskin in a variety of colours ranging from funky pastels and eye-catching metallics and in different embossed styles from crocodile to ostrich effect for the more adventurous golfers whilst also catering for the more traditional golfer who prefers his belts in black, white, brown or blue. Druh’s interchangeable buckles all featuring the signature ‘db’ logo in brushed nickel, polished silver or gold, diamante and enamel mean each belt can be customised to the individual taste of the wearer.

A host of European pros such as David Howell, Graeme Storm and Simon Kahn can be seen

sporting Druh Belts & Buckles on tour whilst tour champions Robert Karlsson of Sweden, Dane Thomas Bjorn and Ireland’s Paul McGinley all act as brand ambassadors for Druh. World number one Lee Westwood of England has also recently joined the stable of Druh ambassadors that are loving and wearing Druh.

Druh has also proved a hit with the lady pros, so much so that the brand designed a range of signature flower buckles especially for girls.

The new range features a pretty flower motif encrusted with a sparkling diamante ‘db’ set off by a variety of enamel infills in pink, purple, red and yellow as well as the more traditional white and black. Now such characters as flamboyant American Christina Kim, Jimin Kang of South Korea, Sweden’s Sophie Gustafson and Becky Brewerton of Wales are all sporting a bit of Druh ‘flower power’ both on and off the course.

“I have always taken an interest in fashion both on and off the golf course, so it seemed a natural sideline for me to go into after I stopped playing golf,” says Hurd, always smart dresser with well-tailored attire.

“I have a particular passion for belts and traveling the world, I have always found it difficult to find stylish, good quality belts. So I

started designing my own and commissioned a local leather craftsman in Thailand to handmake them. So many friends and fellow golfers liked them that I decided it wouldn’t be a bad idea to start a business out of it.

“Golf gear is often perceived as rather staid and dull so I wanted to have a bit of fun designing belts and buckles that were a little bit funky, yet stylish, and certainly they have been an instant hit with pro golfers all over the world. And now it is the chance for all those amateurs out there to smarten up their golf look with one of my Druh belts!”

Before selling his Druh Belts & Buckles, Hurd was a regular on the Asian Tour after playing on The European Tour on and off for the last 10 years. In his last year of full time play in 2007, he was ranked 49th in the Order of Merit and is yet to claim his first win in the Far East.

Druh Belts & Buckles make the perfect present for anyone who has an eye for fashion or simply likes looking good.

Available through the internet at www. druhbeltsandbuckles.com at £89 for leather and £159 for snakeskin allows golfers to design their own unique belt by choosing their own belt and buckle combination.

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North West Golf Guide

Promotion

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Switch on and play as the Waterproof Golf Buddy World Platinum is Preloaded with over the 25,000 courses but has the capacity to store up to 40,000. Endorsed by Denis Pugh, one of the world’s leading Tour coaches, GolfBuddy World Platinum shows our proprietary Direct Overhead Imaged Layouts with distances to and from any point shown instantly by touching the TFT Ultra Bright Screen.

Record vital statistics such as fairways and greens hit, putting averages & sand saves and even records your score and works out your stableford points.

Finally, the Golf Buddy World Platinum’s class-leading 50 Channel True GPS reception ensures fantastic signal reliability in built up areas and under trees, gives a fast start-up and uses Automatic Course & Hole Recognition to instantly show which course and hole you’re playing.

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Promotion

North West Golf Guide

SHOTSAVER S320 GOLF GPS New 2011 “Preloaded” Model Now Includes Over 4000 Preloaded Golf Courses, Waterproof, Ultra Bright, Touchscreen, Lithium Battery... Just £189.99 + Free Taylormade Leather Case worth £19.99 + Free Caddie Bracket worth £29.99 + Free Silicon Skin worth £12.99 +Free Post. Available now from www.snoopergolf.co.uk.

The Waterproof Shotsaver S320 uses the latest GPS technology to provide you with accurate positional information anywhere on the golf course including distances to the front, back and middle of the green plus bunkers, fairways, streams, lakes plus many other hazards.

This stylish handheld incorporates the brightest LCD screen in the industry, making it easier to read in any conditions In addition the Shotsaver S320 incorporates touch screen technology and a built-in rechargeable lithium battery capable of guiding you round the golf course for up to 10hrs!

PRELOADED The Shotsaver S320 now comes preloaded with over 4000 Worldwide golf courses.

All golf courses are plotted on foot to ensure maximum accuracy and in the unlikely event that you can’t find your golf course on our list then please let us know and we will endeavour to have it plotted within 14 days.

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RECORD YOUR DISTANCES Many golfers don’t know exactly how far they hit each club and in golf knowing these distances is essential. Shotsaver gives you the ability to measure how far you hit each and every golf club so you can make the right club selection each and every time.

Simply record the position of your ball, take you shot and then record the position it lands. Shotsaver will provide you with details of the longest and shortest distances you hit each club plus will keep a running average.

ELECTRONIC SCORECARD 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 calulate your net score and Stableford score.

Shotsaver let’s you see your score at a glance, leaving you free to concentrate on your game.

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North West Golf Guide

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.

North West Golf Guide

Cheshire Introduction

M-6 M-62

Lymm

18 M-53

Runcorn 15

10

02

Ellesmere Port

08 16

M-56

05

19 21 06

17 Macclesfield

Northwich 20 Winsford

14 13

Congleton Sandbach

01

Crewe Nantwich

04

23 07

Malpas M-6 Whitchurch

01. Aldersey Green 02. Antrobus 03. Carden Park 04. Crewe 05. Delamere Forest 06. Eaton Golf Club 07. Gorstyhill 08. Hartford 09. Hazel Grove 10. Mere 11. Mottram Hall 12. Peover

11

12

Tarpley

03

Wimslow

22 Knutsford

Frodsham

Chester

09

M-56

Warrington

13. Portal 14. Pryors Hayes 15. Runcorn 16. Sandiway 17. Barcel贸 Shrigley Hall 18. The Warrington 19. Upton-by-Chester 20. Vale Royal 21. Vicars Cross 22. Wilmslow Golf Club 23. Wychwood Park

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Contact Details Aldersey Green Golf Club Aldersey, Nr. Chester CH3 9EH Telephone: 01829 782157 bradburygolf@aol.com

01. How to Find

Aldersey Green

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.

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 post-match 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.

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

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

Par

4 3 3 4 5 4 4 4 5

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

413 161 217 351 510 290 341 372 484

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

Contact Details

41

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.

Antrobus

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

Follow A559 towards Northwich.

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

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6220

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.

42

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

Carden Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

3 5 4 4 4 5 4 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

155 542 365 338 389 524 374 206 432

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 4 4 5 3 4 3 4

340 555 359 342 425 126 381 181 314

03. How to Find

43

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

Carden Park

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 3 5 4 4 4 3 5

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

383 285 138 479 373 305 358 120 515

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 5 4 4 3 4 5

369 387 177 501 287 341 115 317 456

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

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

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

44

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

04. How to Find

CREWE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 4 4 3 4 4 3 4

• YDS

Hole

Par

• YDS

305 422 421 329 148 363 317 145 371

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 4 5 4 4

410 382 284 483 174 322 540 393 414

Contact Details

45

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

Delamere Forest

05. 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).

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.

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

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

Par

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

1

4 420

10

4

323

2

5 428

11

5

492

3

4 399

12

3

145

4

3 206

13

4

302

5

4 424

14

4

364

6

3 131

15

4

295

7

5 438

16

3

188

8

4 411

17

4

356

9

4 321

18

5

458

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.

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.

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

46

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

Eaton GOLF CLUB

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

Easy access from M56 & M53.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6580 • 6414 • 5642 (73) Hole

Par

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

1

4 357

10

4

386

2

4 370

11

3

170

3

4 414

12

4

340

4

3 166

13

4

342

5

5 488

14

5

518

6

3 178

15

4

379

7

4 322

16

5

503

8

5 476

17

3

145

9

4 429

18

4

431

Contact Details

47

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

5 4 3 4 3 4 4 4 5

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

506 337 141 403 119 351 281 304 475

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

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.

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.

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.

Green fee rates from:

£15 Mon-Fri £20 Sat-Sun-B.Hol ...Set your game alight at Gorstyhill in 2010...

Great for Winter Golf

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

48

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.

Hartford

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

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

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

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

Facilities

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.

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

5 3 5 4 3 4 3 4 4

Yards

466 158 488 246 125 247 172 340 353

Hartford Golf Club Play cheshire’s best drained golf course with USGA greens and sand based fairways, Harford plays exceptionally well all winter Green fees

18 holes: Weekday £12.50 - Weekend £14.50 9 Holes: Weekday £8.50 - Weekend £10.50 driving range open 8am - 9 pm

Lessons and custom fitting available

Contact Details

49

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

09. How to Find

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

HAZEL GROVE

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

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

arguably the eleventh, both for its degree of difficulty and picturesque layout.

On the course, with true USGA specification greens HGGC is privileged to offer its members and visitors year round golf on full greens.

The par 5 third ranks amongst the best in Cheshire, while the best of the par 3’s is

The 15th, dominated by a large sweeping lake, which runs along the left edge of the fairway, across the front and left of the green, must take the signature honour. At 280 yards, this par 4 represents the ultimate risk or reward hole.

Equally, the eighteenth finishing hole with its MacKenzie tiered green and backdrop of the chalet-style clubhouse ranks with the best on the course where you can eat, drink and sit with friends and partners musing over what might have been.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 3 5 4 3 4 5 4 3

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

351 164 524 376 161 377 480 332 176

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.

EARLY BIRDIE SOCIETY OFFERS!

Only £60 per 4 ball Midweek Offer

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

50

Contact Details The Mere Golf Resort and Spa Chester Road, Mere, Knutsford Cheshire, WA16 6LJ Telephone: 01565 830 155 play@the-mere.co.uk www.the-mere.co.uk

10. 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.

Mere

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.

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.

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

The Open Championship Regional Qualifying Course 2009 - 2013

Membership applications invited

the experience 01565 830155 play@the-mere.co.uk · www.the-mere.co.uk

52

Contact Details Mottram Hall Wilmslow Road Mottram St Andrew Cheshire, SK10 4QT Telephone: 01625 828135 DMH.Sales@Devere-hotels.com www.devere.co.uk

11. How to Find

Mottram Hall

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.

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.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

5 4 3 4 4 4 3 4 5

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

485 364 158 377 414 347 190 376 490

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 3 4 4 4 4 3 4 5

545 193 405 453 361 343 209 445 520

Winter Society Packages From £20.00 Per Person - Groups Of 10 Or More Superb Drainage - Superb Winter Golf. Ring Golf Sales On (01625) 828135 For Full Details

Contact Details

53

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

12. How to Find

Peover

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 4 3 5 5 4 4 3

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

375 289 348 230 506 558 362 320 176

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 5 5 3 4 4 4

420 423 168 491 497 144 381 381 270

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

PORTAL

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

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

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

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

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

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

Championship Course 18 holes, Par 73 • 7058 • 6577 • 5928 Hole

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 5 5 3 4 4 4 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

275 321 557 524 197 344 383 387 340

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 5 4 3 4 3 4 4

425 411 507 382 125 379 176 379 392

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: North West Golf Guide

Contact our Golf Sales Team on 01829 734161

13. How to Find

55

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

PORTAL

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

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

Just 2 minutes from the hotel, the scenic 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

306 591 292 336 152 340 152 367 387

Hole Par

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 4 4 3 5 3 5

Yards

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

414 421 335 404 408 157 519 160 476

Winter Offer £80 per fourball Including bacon roll & coffee Quote: North West 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 14. How to Find

Pryors Hayes

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

Facilities Pro Shop, Marquee, Celebration Garden, Covered Video Teaching Bay, Short Game Area

Situated in the heart of rural Cheshire, this flat parkland golf course offers far more than meets the eye. Although short in length Pryors Hayes’ small greens and well designed layout provides a fair test for all levels of golfer.

Well renowned for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming nature, 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

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.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Golf’s in full swing at

Par

4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 3

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

437 444 178 382 407 328 117 370 155

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 Valid until 31st March 2011

WEEKDAYS

WEEKENDS

(Normally £60)

(Normally £80)

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

Contact Details

57

Runcorn Golf Club The Heath, Clifton Road, Runcorn, Cheshire WA7 4SU Telephone: 01928 574214 Email enquiries via website www.runcorngolfclub.co.uk 15. How to Find

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 3 4 4 3 4 5 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

368 159 377 346 175 330 539 192 331

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

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 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.

Signature Hole: 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

16. 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.

Sandiway

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.

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 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, it has recently been refurbished in the bar and lounge areas to provide a more comfortable and relaxing environment to complete the perfect golfing experience. The external style follows that of a traditional Cheshire farmhouse which has stunning views over the course. It is a clubhouse for golfers and the addition of disabled access facilities to cater for all has made it more inclusive.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70. SSS 72 • 6404 • 6019 • 5632 Hole

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Sandiway Golf Club

Par

4 5 3 5 4 3 4 4 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

385 499 169 478 361 150 391 326 393

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

4 Ball Winter Special

Packages

Available on any Tuesday from November to March

Any Tuesday between October 2010 and March 2011

18 holes GOLF + Coffee

‘Sandiway Oak’. 18 holes Golf 2 course meal Numbers 12-20 - £35pp

& Bacon Roll – 4 persons. £99 inclusive

18 holes of Golf. 2 course meal Numbers above 21 - £32pp

To book your places please contact Yvonne Bould on 01606 883247 Option 4 Or alternatively e-mail information@sandiwaygolf.co.uk

Contact Details

59

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

Barceló Shrigley Hall

Telephone: 01625 575626 shrigleyhall.golfretail@barcelo-hotels.co.uk www.barcelo-hotels.co.uk

17. 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

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.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6241 • 5984 • 5241 Hole

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 3 5 4 4 5 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

329 274 130 527 382 383 471 150 407

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

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.

Call 01625 575626 for March Offers

Society Winter Special. Coffee + bacon roll + 18 holes = £17.50. Until 28th Feb. Min. 12 people. Ref. SOCGG

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

The Warrington

18. 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.

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.

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.

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 4 4 5 3 4 4 3

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

407 353 327 352 471 158 332 348 148

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

Contact Details

61

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

UPTON BY CHESTER

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

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

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

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.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

3 4 4 3 4 3 4 4 5

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

147 400 268 141 324 171 398 254 506

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 5 4 3 5 3 4

130 358 432 477 390 191 499 233 309

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 Upton-by-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

Vale Royal Abbey

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 5 4 4 4 3 4 4 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

372 493 248 364 355 165 449 326 377

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 4 5 3 4 5

191 289 417 294 307 570 134 409 463

Open to winter golfers and societies for £40 per person (Minimum 12). To include Bacon Rolls, Tea/ Coffee, Two Course Meal. Available Monday, Wednesday and Friday. To book call 01606 301291 Valid from 1st November to 31st March 2011 cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers and subject to availability.

Contact Details

63

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

21. How to Find

Vicars Cross

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

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

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

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.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6446 • 6191 • 5641 Hole

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 5 4 5 4 4 4 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

311 513 371 508 358 411 403 161 254

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 5 3 4 5 3

336 393 335 155 533 172 387 460 130

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

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

64

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

22. How to Find

WILMSLOW

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Electric buggies available for hire.

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

Par

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

The Ideal Society, Charity & Corporate Venue

THE WILMSLOW GOLF CLUB

Hole

Par

Yards

357 426 489 389 359 163 451 416 124

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 4 4 3 5

346 318 400 484 147 407 397 158 480

2011 Open Competitions Sunday 22nd May - Mixed Open Friday 29th July The Wilmslow Crow (36 Hole Scratch Open)

A range of packages available to suit your needs Contact the General Managers Office 01565 872148 (Option 1)

4 4 5 4 4 3 5 4 3

Yards

Tuesday 2nd August - Junior Open Wednesday 17th August - Ladies Open Tuesday 4th October - Senior Men’s Open

www.wilmslowgolfclub.co.uk Great Warford, Mobberley, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 7AY · Email: info@wilmslowgolfclub.co.uk

Entry forms available to download from the web site

Contact Details

65

Wychwood Park Golf Club Weston, Crewe Cheshire, CW2 5GP Telephone: 0844 980 2323 wychwood@deverevenues.co.uk www.devere.co.uk

23. How to Find

Wychwood Park

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.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

5 3 4 4 4 3 5 4 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

524 139 332 440 365 175 519 347 369

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

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.

66

North West Golf Guide

Cheshire Directory

Alder Root Golf Club Alder Root Lane, Winwick Warrington, WA2 8RZ Telephone: 01925 291919 enquiries@alderrootgolfclub.com www.alderrootgolfclub.com

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

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

Alderley Edge Golf Club Brook Lane, Alderley Edge SK9 7RU Telephone: 0162 585583 office@aegc.co.uk www.aegc.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

North West Golf Guide

Cheshire Directory

Houldsworth Golf Club Houldsworth Street, Reddish, Stockport, SK5 6BN Telephone: 0161 442 9611 houldsworthsecretary@hotmail.co.uk www.houldsworthgolfclub.co.uk Eaton Golf Club Guy Lane, Waverton, Chester, CH3 7PH Telephone: 01244 335885 info@eatongolfclub.co.uk www.eatongolfclub.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Leigh Golf Club Kenyon Hall, Culcheth, Warrington, WA3 4BG Telephone: 01925 763130 golf@leighgolf.fsnet.co.uk www.leighgolf.co.uk

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

Lymm Golf Club Whitbarrow Road, Lymm, WA13 9AN Telephone: 01925 752177 lymmgolfclub@btconnect.com www.lymm-golf-club.co.uk

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

Helsby Golf Club Tower’s Lane, Helsby, Warrington, WA6 0JB Telephone: 01928 722021 secretary@helsbygolfclub.org www.helsbygolfclub.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mellor & Townscliffe Golf Club Tarden, Gibb Lane, Mellor, Stockport, SK6 5NA Telephone: 0161 427 9700 secretary@mellorgolf.co.uk www.mellorgolf.co.uk

67

68

North West Golf Guide

Cheshire Directory

Queens Park Golf Club Queens Park Drive, Crewe, SW2 7SB Telephone: Email enquiries via website www.gczcg.co.uk/queenspark Mere Golf & Country Club Chester Road, Mere, Knutsford, WA16 6LF Telephone: 01565 830155 enquiries@meregolf.co.uk www.meregolf.co.uk

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

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

Portal Golf & Country Club Cobblers Cross Lane, Tarporley, CW6 0DF Telephone: 01829 733933 Email enquiries via website www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk Mobberley Golf Club Barleyhurst Lane, Mobberley, Knutsford, WA16 7JZ Telephone: 01565 880188 enquiries@mobgolfclub.co.uk www.mobgolfclub.co.uk

Portal Premier Golf Club Forest Road, Tarporley, CW6 0JA Telephone: 01829 733884 Email enquiries via website www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

Ringway Golf Club Hale Mount, Hale Burns, Altrincham, WA15 8SW Telephone: 0161 904 9609 fiona@ringwaygolfclub.co.uk www.ringwaygolfclub.co.uk

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

Poulton Park Golf Club Dig Lane, Cinnamon Brow, WA2 0SH Telephone: 01925 812034 secretary@poultonparkgolfclub.co.uk www.poultonparkgolfclub.co.uk

Romiley Golf Club Goosehouse Green, Romiley, Stockport, SK6 4LY Telephone: 0161 430 2392 office@romileygolfclub.org www.romileygolfclub.org

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

Prestbury Golf Club Macclefield Road, Prestbury, Macclesfield, SK10 4BJ Telephone: 01625 829388 office@prestburygolfclub.com www.prestburygolfclub.com Runcorn Golf Club Clifton Road, Runcorn, WA7 4SU Telephone: 01928 572093 Email enquiries via website www.runcorngolfclub.co.uk

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

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

North West Golf Guide

Cheshire Directory

The Tytherington Golf Club Macclesfield, SK10 2JP Telephone: 01625 506000 Email enquiries via website www.theclubcompany.com Sandiway Golf Club Chester Road, Sandiway, CW8 2DJ Telephone: 01606 883247 information@sandiwaygolf.co.uk www.sandiwaygolf.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 The Warrington Golf Club Hill Warren, Appleton, WA4 5HR Telephone: 01925 261620 duncan@warringtongolfclub.co.uk www.warringtongolfclub.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 Stamford Golf Club Oakfield House, Huddersfield Road, Stalybridge, SK15 3PY Telephone: 01457 832126 Email n/a www.stamfordgolfclub.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

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

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

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

Woodside Golf Club Knutsford Road, Holmes Chapel, CW4 8HJ Telephone: 01477 532388 info@woodsidegolf.co.uk www.woodsidegolf.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

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

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North West Golf Guide

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

North West Golf Guide

Greater Manchester Introduction

M-6

M-61 Rochdale

03

Bury

M-66

M-62

Bolton

Oldham

Wigan & Leigh

M-60 05

Salford

M-58

Tameside

M-602 Manchester

M-67

02 Trafford

M-62

01. Cheadle 02. Didsbury 03. Harwood 04. Hazel Grove 05. Heaton Park 06. Sale

06 M-60 01

Stockport

04 M-56 M-6

funky Northern Quarter, prestigious designer stores lining the handsome King Street and every conceivable type of market, you can shop to suit any budget. The is also the large indoor “Trafford Centre�, which has 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.

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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

CHEADLE

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

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.

Par

4 3 4 4 3 4 3 4 3

Yards

296 168 296 411 97 431 161 351 145

A Round of Golf for £12.50

Contact Details

73

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

Didsbury

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

3 4 5 3 4 3 4 4 5

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

166 436 519 152 297 138 377 386 462

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 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.

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!

Enjoy a days golf at Didsbury Golf Club • Ideal South Manchester golfing venue • Easy access from M60 and M56 • Food & Beverage facilities open all day • See website for competitive Membership details & Open Events Didsbury Golf Club offers some of the best Teaching and Practice Facilities in the South Manchester area. Group Coaching Classes available for Ladies

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

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Contact Details Harwood Golf Club Roading Brook Road, Harwood Bolton BL2 4JD Telephone: 01204 522878 secretary@harwoodgolfclub.co.uk www.harwoodgolfclub.co.uk

03. How to Find

Harwood

From Bolton: Take the A676 road (signposted Burnley). At Bradshaw church keep straight on through the village. Climb the hill for approximately 1 mile and turn left into Roading Brook Road. The entrance is approximately 250 yards on the left.

From Bury: Follow the signs for Bolton (A58) and bear right at Ainsworth Road. Follow this for approximately 3 miles through Ainsworth Village. Bear right towards Harwood and turn right into Roading Brook Road. The entrance is approximately 250 yards on the left.

Harwood Golf Club is a testing 18 hole course set just on the outskirts of Bolton, Lancashire. As well as combining a challenging game with excellent views and facilities, the course is steeped in local history.

A warm welcome awaits regular and new visitors to our beautiful course and clubhouse with views over the Pennines, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire and North Wales. Founded in 1926 as a 9-hole course, it was extended to 18 holes in 1998. Improvements and refinements since then have given us a course that we are justifiably proud of, further changes are

planned for the future that will continue the improvement over the coming years.

Our course whilst not long has a good mix of long and short holes and provides as fine a test of golf as any in the area to both high and low handicap golfers.

Signature Holes Hole 4, Par 3, 192 yards (white tee) Scenic par 3 with views of Winter Hill behind the green, however concentration needed to hit the well guarded green.

Ponds right and left will catch any shot not hit true: Stroke Index 5 gives some idea of the difficulties this hole gives.

Facilities Bar, restaurant; putting green, buggy hire, snooker room, proshop, brand new washrooms and locker room

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 5915 • 5651 • 5237 Hole

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

3 4 4 3 4 5 4 4 4

• YDS

Hole

Par

• YDS

158 273 291 178 394 475 257 335 409

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 5 5 3 3 4

143 329 403 346 474 544 197 139 306

Spring and Summer Society Specials 18 Holes, bacon roll/coffee £23.00 pp 27 holes , bacon roll/coffee, soup & sandwiches + golfers meal £32.00 pp.

20 players – we provide nearest the pin + longest drive prizes We tailor make other packages 2 players per society enter our Society Shield Competition in Autumn 2011.

Memberships available 7 day Ladies and gents from £369 pa.

Contact Details

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Heaton Park Golf Centre Middleton Road, Prestwich Manchester M25 2SW Telephone: 0161 654 9899 hpbookings@macktrading.net www.mackgolf.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/ heatonparkgolfcentre

Heaton Park

04. How to Find Just off junction 19, M60

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Pro-shop, Hire Equipment, Trolleys, Buggies (seasonal), The First Tee Junior Teaching Academy, and Lessons

The Heaton Park Golf Course is a picturesque Championship standard golf course, situated in the scenic grounds of Heaton Park. Designed by five times Open Champion J. H. Taylor it was opened to the public in 1912 and has been the host venue for many prestigious events, both professional and amateur i.e. 1983 PGA club Prof Championship, 1984 ladies PGA tour event, Junior Nick Faldo Series Qualifiers 2005 - 2009.

Par-3 Pitch & Putt Course 18 holes, Par- 54

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 5755 • 5579 • 5129 Hole

2011 Special Offers

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 5 4 4 4 3 5 4 3

• YDS

Hole

Par

• YDS

284 455 412 333 360 132 452 367 144

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 4 4 4 3 4 4

332 187 380 299 262 393 224 279 284

The main course at the Golf Centre (The Championship Course) is a parkland course, boasting spectacular views over the Pennines and surrounding countryside and offers several imposing tee shots. Three lakes in

the park play a prominent part in every round, especially on the 193 yard 11th hole.

Being a long par-3 and signature hole to the course, J. H. Taylor designed a challenge for all golfers across a deep water filled ravine, to a raised plateau green. Indeed, former Open Champion, Henry Cotton once described this hole as “the toughest par-3 in England”.

Peter Allis described the 15th hole as one of the most scenic holes he’d ever seen.

Our most recent visiting golf legend was the Golden Bear himself, Jack Nicklaus, when he hosted a golf masterclass on our First Tee Academy in May 2010.

Heaton Park Golf Centre

Play Free at Heaton Park Golf Centre Have you visited us yet?

Season Tickets: Reduced Prices for New Season Ticket Holders

Golf Open Day Thursday 24th March 2011

Golf Societies in 2011: Organiser plays free with groups of 12 or more Two free places for a second booking in the same season.

An opportunity to come and play our enjoyable golf course.

Green Fee Special: 4 for 3 or 3 for 2.

Expires 30/4/11. Excludes Bank Holidays Just cut out this voucher and redeem in the Pro-shop.

The experience is more than just golf.

Please quote NWGG1103 when enquiring.

For information and booking call 0161 654 9899 or email hpbookings@macktrading.net

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Contact Details Sale Golf Club Sale lodge, Golf Road, Sale Cheshire M33 2XU Telephone: 0161 973 1638 mail@salegolfclub.com www.salegolfclub.com

05. How to Find

Sale

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 wellearned reputation for good food and hospitality.

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.

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.

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.

Set in an idyllic rural location next to Trafford Water Sports Centre, Sale Golf Club offers

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

5 4 3 4 4 4 4 4 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

486 423 186 297 431 327 318 292 381

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 4 3 4 5 3 4

392 144 380 362 160 355 538 112 360

North West Golf Guide

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

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

Davyhulme Park Golf Club Gleneagles Road, Davyhulme, M41 8SA Telephone: 0161 748 2260 info@davyhulmeparkgolfclub.co.uk www.davyhulmeparkgolfclub.co.uk

Bury Golf Club Unsworth Hall, Blackford Bridge, Bury, BL9 9TJ Telephone: 0161 766 4897 secretary@burygolfclub.com www.burygolfclub.com

Deane Golf Club Off Junction Road, Deane, Bolton, BL3 4NS Telephone: 01204 61944 sandy@deanegolfclub.com www.deanegolfclub.co.uk

Castle Hawk Golf Club Chadwick Lane, Castleton, Rochdale, OL11 3BY Telephone: 01706 640841 Email enquiries via website www.castlehawk.co.uk Bolton Golf Club Lostock Park, Bolton, BL6 4AJ Telephone: 01204 843067 secretary@boltongolfclub.co.uk www.boltongolfclub.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

Denton Golf Club Manchester Road, Denton, M34 2NU Telephone: 0161 336 3218 info@dentongolfclub.com www.dentongolfclub.com Cheadle Golf Club Shiers Drive, Cheadle Road, Cheadle, SK8 1HW Telephone: 0161 428 2160 cheadlegolfclub@msn.com www.cheadlegolfclub.com

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

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

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

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

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North West Golf Guide

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

Manor Golf Club Kearsley, Bolton, BL4 8SF Telephone: 01204 701027 Email enquiries via website www.manorgolfclub.co.uk Harwood Golf Club Springfield, Roading Brook Road, Bolton, BL2 4JD Telephone: 01204 522878 info@harwoodgolfclub.co.uk www.harwoodgolfclub.co.uk

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

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

Flixton Golf Club Church Road, Flixton, Manchester, M41 6EP Telephone: 0161 748 2116 flixtongolfclub@mail.com www.flixtongolfclub.co.uk Great Lever & Farnsworth Golf Club Plodder Lane, Farnworth, Bolton, BL4 0LQ Telephone: 01204 656493 Email enquiries via website www.greatleverfarnworthgolfclub.co.uk

Hindley Hall Golf Club Hall Lane, Hindley, Wigan, WN2 2SQ Telephone: 01942 255131 Email enquiries via website www.hindleyhallgolfclub.co.uk Greenmount Golf Club Greenmount, Bury, BL8 4LH Telephone: 01204 883712 secretary@greenmountgolfclub.co.uk www.greenmountgolfclub.co.uk

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

Haigh Hall Golf Club Haigh Hall Country Park, Haigh, Wigan, WN2 1PE Telephone: 01942 255991 secretray@haighhall-golfclub.co.uk haighhallgolfclub.users.btopenworld.com

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

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

Oldham Golf Club Lees New Road, Oldham, OL4 4EN Telephone: 0161 624 4986 info@oldhamgolfclub.com www.oldhamgolfclub.co.uk Hart Common Golf Club Wigan Road, Westhoughton, Bolton, BL5 2BX Telephone: 01942 818445 secretary@hartcommongolfclub.co.uk www.hartcommongolfclub.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

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

North West Golf Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stand Golf Club The Dales, Ashbourne Grove, Whitfield, Manchester, M45 7NL Telephone: 0161 766 2388 Email enquiries via website www.standgolfclub.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

Swinton Park Golf Club East Lancashire Road, Swinton, Manchester, M27 5LX Telephone: 0161 794 1785 info@spgolf.com www.spgolf.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

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North West Golf Guide

Lancashire Introduction

Lancashire

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

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-onSea and the Ribble Estuary adjacent to Lytham make a safe haven for more than 250,000 migrating birds that flock here in winter.

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

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

North West Golf Guide

Lancashire Introduction

M-6

Area Map 09 Morecambe Lancaster 05 07

Fleetwood

Poulton-Le-Fylde

Colne

03 Nelson

02 Blackpool 12 04 13 Lytham

M-55

01

Burnley

11

08 04

Preston

Blackburn 10

M-65 Leyland

Eccleston

Chorley

06 M-61 M-6 Skelmersdale

01. Royal Lytham & St. Annes 02. Blackpool North Shore 03. Clitheroe 04. Herons’ Reach 05. Heysham 06. Hurlston Hall 07. Lancaster 08. Lytham Green Drive 09. Morecambe 10. Pleasington 11. Preston 12. Stanley Park 13. St. Annes Old Links

Accrington

81

82

North West Golf Guide

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.

North West Golf Guide

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

Royal Lytham & St. Annes

Lytham knew that it would be the one course where Tiger Woods would not have a big advantage because of the distance he hits, as there are relatively few holes where you can carry the trouble. Tiger could not tame it”.

It is renowned as a course on which it is hard to scramble a good score, after all, there are 200 bunkers peppering the fairways and

surrounding the greens. It may not be the longest of courses but it is one where careful thought and accurate shots are required.

As Darwin wrote, ‘hit your ball to the right place and the way to the hole is open to you, but hit your ball to the wrong place and every kind of punishment, whether immediate or ultimate, will ensue’.

Contact Details 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.

83

84

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

Blackpool North Shore

Telephone: 01253 352054 office@blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com www.blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com

02. How to Find From Blackpool: Make your way on to the Promenade and head North.

Go past the Tower and North Pier - two miles down there is a roundabout (the only one on the promenadae) continue along the Queens Promenade heading north and take the 7th right into Shaftesbury Avenue (Castle Casino on the corner). Go to the top of this road (about ½ mile) crossing all junctions, and turn left at the T junction into Devonshire Road. BNSGC is the first on the left BEFORE you go down the hill.

Just 500 yards from the North Promenade, this links course is relatively flat compared to most as it uses natures elements to make the rolling fairways and large greens testing to all handicappers. It has been used as an Open Championship qualifying course on more than one occasion and is a real gem of the north. The renowned H S Colt designed the course in 1920 with very few changes being made since to this entertaining track.

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

Since 1920 the course has hosted the Great Britain match with the Rest of the World in 1963, the PGA Penfold Tournament in 1967 and a number of occasions has been a qualifying

The green at the closing hole, just over 400 yards, is approached through a narrow neck of fairway and has bunkers to protect it on each side.

Signature Holes The three par-five holes are all in excess of 500 yards, with the 10th green being closely guarded by a pond. There are many testing par-4s which use the undulations to good effect and the par-3s all play long off the back tees.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 5 4 4 4 3 4 3

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

436 400 524 367 429 385 175 303 196

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 4 5 4 3 4

533 435 178 296 341 537 309 172 415

SEASIDER SPECIAL

BlackPool North Shore

SILVER PACKAGE

£16 p.p.

From £30 18 HOLES OF GOLF

Book Online

GOLF SOCIETY SPECIALS

SUNDAY SWINGER

BRONZE PACKAGE

GOLD PACKAGE - 27 HOLES OF GOLF

18 HOLES £19

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From £45

(Subject to availability)

18 HOLES OF GOLF

Book Online

SOUP & SANDWICHES

Monday - Friday (Subject to availability)

3 COURSE MEAL

Coffee & bacon rolls on arrival, soup & sandwiches + 3 course evening meal

Contact Details

85

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

Clitheroe

From Preston Clitheroe Golf Club is situated just off the A59 1mile to the west of Clitheroe. When proceeding from Preston take the first exit to Clitheroe by turning left at the roundabout.

Take the first road on the left and the Club will be seen on your right.

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

5 4 4 4 3 4 4 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

448 352 432 286 134 337 421 161 365

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 is a beautiful 18 hole parkland golf course located in the heart of the Ribble Valley.

The Club hosted the Regional Open Qualifying for the first time in 2010 and will continue to do so until 2014. Designed by the legendary Scottish designer, James Braid, the course

has been on its present site since 1932. The course is a challenge to all levels of golfer with a premium on straight driving without being too demanding physically. The views from the course are quite spectacular, with Longridge Fells and Waddington providing the backdrop to Stonyhurst College and Mitton Church.

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.

Winter offer Until March 2011

£20 per person

86

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

04. How to Find

Herons’ Reach

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.

Facilities 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.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 4 3 5 5 4 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

348 241 419 146 472 473 353 152 381

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

February / March Offer Bacon roll & coffee on arrival Free warm up basket Championship round of golf £20 p.p. Minimum two players required Quote North West Golf Guide upon booking. Full pre-payment required.

Contact Details

87

Heysham Golf Club Trumacar Park, Middleton Road Heysham, LA3 3JH Telephone: 01524 851011 secretary@heyshamgolfclub.co.uk www.heyshamgolfclub.co.uk

05. How to Find

Heysham

From M6: Leave the M6 at junction 34 and take the A683 to Lancaster/ Lonsdale/Morecambe/Heysham.

Turn right at Caton Rd/A683 (signs for Heysham). Continue onto Greyhound Bridge Rd/A589, keep left at the fork.

At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on Morecambe Rd/A589.

At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit onto A683. At roundabout, take first exit onto Middleton Road.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, 6 bay driving range, State of the art professional teaching building, Practice putting greens, Chipping & pitching practice greens, Well stocked golf shop, Golf buggies available for hire

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6355 • 6090 • 5637 (73) Hole

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 3 5 3 4 4 4 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

434 321 144 503 166 432 381 335 331

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 5 3 5 4 3 4 4

416 143 475 194 443 402 150 332 428

Heysham Golf Club is a parkland course situated at the extreme west of the Morecambe/ Heysham boundary close to the coast and covers an area of approx. 130 acres and is within easy reach of the M6 motorway.

Long holes and open fairways characterise our course together with the introduction of a number of water features to complement the extended 6360 yard par 70.

The elevated part of the course has stunning views across Morecambe Bay to the Lakeland Hills in the North and the Pennines to the East.

Heysham Golf Club has an active membership

with mens, ladies and junior teams in many local and club competitions.

The Art Deco Clubhouse has panoramic views of the course from all the lounges and is host to a licensed bar and games room.

With a floodlit driving range, state of the art training facilities and practice areas, it makes Heysham Golf Club the ideal place to spend time golfing and socialising.

For more information, and to find out about our Open Competitions for 2011, please visit our website at: www.heyshamgolfclub.co.uk

Winter 2010-11 Monday-Friday: £25.00 per person Saturday: £32.50 per person Both options include coffee and bacon bun on arrival, 18 holes of golf followed by a delicious 2 course meal.

All prices apply to a minimum party of 8 persons

HEYSHAM GOLF CLUB C E L E B R AT I N G 1 0 0 Y E A R S

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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

Hurlston Hall

From M6, exit at junction 26 onto M58 Skelmersdale/Liverpool. Exit junction 3 to St Helens/Southport. At roundabout take 3rd exit onto A570/ Rainford Road heading to Southport/ Ormskirk. Turn left at A577/Park Road. Turn left at A577/Church Street. Continue onto A570/Southport Road, turn right at Hurlston Lane.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 3 4 4 4 5 3 5 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

403 156 331 362 399 454 137 483 385

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 5

408 523 181 358 343 407 156 359 483

WINTER PACKAGES UNTIL 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

Contact Details

89

Lancaster Golf Club Ashton Hall, Ashton-with-Stodday Lancaster, Lancashire LA2 0AJ Telephone: 01524 751247 enquiries@lancastergc.co.uk www.lancastergc.co.uk

07. How to Find

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Dormy House(sleeps 18), Snooker Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6512 • 6269 • 5791 Hole

Par

• YDS

Hole

Par

• YDS

1

4 415

10

4

390

2

5 486

11

5

476

3

4 422

12

4

385

4

3 156

13

3

141

5

4 352

14

5

496

6

3 166

15

4

391

7

4 347

16

4

296

8

4 385

17

4

426

9

4 373

18

3

166

Lancaster

From M6, junction 33.

At Junction 33, exit toward Lancaster(South) / A6.

Proceed through traffic lights at Galgate and continue on A6 past Lancaster University.

At Traffic lights (Boot & Shoe public house & Booths supermarket) turn left along Ashford Road.

At next roundabout turn left onto Ashton Road (A588).

Continue along Ashton Road, Lancaster Golf Club is 1 mile on the right.

Designed by James Braid, the renowned golf course architect, Lancaster Golf Club has built a reputation of being one of the finest courses in the north west of England.

Stunning views of the Lakeland hills, Trough of Bowland and the Lune estuary add to the enjoyment of the “Lancaster experience.”

With two loops of 9 holes and a par of 71 Lancaster is a fair test of golf for both the accomplished & intermediate golfer. Lancaster has recently hosted the Lancashire County Championship and is a popular venue for the annual Pro-Am held in June. Enjoy the impressive grade 1 listed clubhouse that dates

back to the 14th century and hosts a Dormy house that caters for up to 18 guests, all in ensuite rooms. Residential golf packages, weddings and functions can be booked at the golf club.

The Caterers, Bowland Village Inns, provide 1st class cuisine using fresh local produce.

Hole 18, Par 3, ‘Ashton Home’, 178 yards Much admired in Braid’s day when it was 25 yards shorter. However the problem remains the same. How best from a high tee, to carry a ravine of rough, water and sand, to the green below which lies under the Clubhouse windows.

It’s not surprising that this gem merits inclusion in any anthology of the best holes in Britain.

Five minutes from the city centre... ...a million miles from the office.

18 & 27 hole golf packages for societies.

Residential Dormy Packages.

Membership available for 2011 season.

TEL: 01524 751247

Lancaster Golf Club

90

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

Lytham Green Drive

Telephone: 01253 737390 secretary@lythamgreendrive.co.uk www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk

08. How to Find Exit the M55 motorway at junction 4, signposted North Shore and A583.

Keep left and move into the inside lane. Go straight over the roundabout (pass a B & Q store on the right), at the first set of traffic lights turn right, then immediately left down Peel Road.

Continue until you reach a T-junction, turn right onto Ballam Road, and the club is 1½ miles on the left.

Laid out by 1902 Open Champion, Alex Herd, and re-designed by James Steer in the 1940’s, at first sight Lytham Green Drive is a pleasant tree-lined course, which although within a mile of the Irish Sea still retains parkland characteristics.

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.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6305 • 6159 (69) • 5750 (74) Hole

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 4 4 5 3 4 4 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

383 382 329 348 510 177 335 336 392

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 4 4 4 4 5

450 343 336 152 442 142 397 200 505

Junior Girls’ Green Drive Trophy MONDAY 1 AUGUST 2011 Shotgun Start 10:00. Entry: £10 per person Stroke Play Competition for Under 20 Hcp & Stableford Competition for 20-35 Hcp The Competition will be run in conjunction with the Lancashire Ladies’ Golf Association.

1913

Entry forms for this Competition and all other Open Competitions may be dowloaded from our website www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk

Contact Details

91

Morecambe Golf Club Limited The Clubhouse, Bare Morecambe, Lancashire, LA4 6AJ Telephone: 01524 412841 secretary@morecambegolfclub.com www.morecambegolfclub.com

09. How to Find

Morecambe Golf Club is a private members club situated on the north-west tip of the Lancashire coast. The course is just over a mile from the centre of the popular coastal resort of Morecambe, over-looking magnificent Morecambe Bay and 3 miles from the historic city of Lancaster.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Lounges, Snooker Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Wheelchair access

Course Information 18 holes, Par 67 • 5791 • 5551 • 5391 (72) Hole

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 3 4 3 4 4 4 4

MOReCAMBE

From M6: Leave the M6 at junction 34 and head into Lancaster on the A683.

Follow the signs for Morecambe and carry straight on through two large roundabouts. At the 3rd “shrimp” roundabout(Toby Pub) bear right onto Broadway. Keep straight on until you reach the promenade at the Broadway Hotel. Turn right onto promenade for half a mile until you see the clubhouse elevated on your right.

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

330 432 136 422 187 361 379 343 360

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 3 4 4 4 3 4 4

191 314 174 356 389 406 161 333 277

Morecambe Golf Club

Play Golf on this superb Alister MacKenzie designed course

Justifiably recognised as the gateway to the English Lake District, Morecambe offers the ideal stopping off point for visitors to this picturesque corner of the British Isles.

As a golfing destination, Morecambe Golf Club has gained an enviable reputation for both the quality of its clubhouse facilities

and 18 hole golf course offering visiting golfers a wholehearted welcome. Time after time visitors comment that “...they never realised this little gem of a course existed!”

4th, Par 4, 440 yards (competition tee) Morecambe’s signature hole. A testing double “dog-leg” with out-of-bounds all the way down the left. A good drive will carry the corner to give a better line into the green but hit it too well and two sand traps await.

The green is very tight, sandwiched between the out-of-bounds and a steep bank. Four hungry bunkers collect any unfortunate kicks from the right hand banking.

WINTER OPENS

WINTER PACKAGES

£25.00 per pair includes twos sweep 9.00 – 12.30

Parties of 8+ 1st October 2010 – 30th April 2011 FROM £27.50pp

FRIDAY, 25TH FEBRUARY 2011 FRIDAY, 25TH MARCH 2011 Please book with the Professional on 01524 415596

SEASIDE SPECIAL £80 per 4 BALL Subject to Availability

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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

10. How to Find

Pleasington

From M65 Junction 3 Follow signs to Blackburn. Turn right at traffic lights. Follow A674 for 1 mile. Take lane on left signposted to Pleasington Priory and Railway Station.

Pleasington Golf Club is located on left hand side, at 400 yards.

Formed in October 1890, Pleasington is without doubt one of the best tests of golf in the NorthWest of England, with a superb layout, being part heathland in character with some heather.

This beautiful and picturesque golf course is within 2 miles of exit 3 of the M65 Motorway in Pleasington, a rural village area on the outskirts of Blackburn, with magnificent country views.

The course is a regular venue for County matches and has hosted numerous prestigious competitions. These include top class amateur events and The Open Regional Qualifying returning annually again to Pleasington for 6 years from 2004. Pleasington can cater for

the small, medium or large visiting party. Set in 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.

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

W inter S pecial

£25 per person Including coffee and bacon roll Contact the professional on 01254 201630 or the office on 01254 202177 www.pleasington-golf.co.uk

Par

4 4 4 4 4 4 5 3 5

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

378 341 318 423 335 346 507 149 468

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 4

169 531 156 449 379 352 147 353 376

Contact Details

93

Preston Golf Club Fulwood Old Hall, Fulwood Hall Lane Fulwood, Preston PR2 8DD Telephone: 01772 700011 Ext 1 secretary@prestongolfclub.com www.prestongolfclub.com

11. How to Find

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

Preston

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

3 4 4 4 4 5 5 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

137 340 420 430 332 508 491 162 310

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

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

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 Stanley Park Golf Course North Park Drive, Blackpool Lancs FY3 8LS Telephone: 01253 302613 spbookings@macktrading.net www.mackgolf.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/ stanleyparkgolfcourse-blackpool Twitter: www.twitter.com/stanleyparkgolf

Stanley Park

12. How to Find From M55 Head onto M55 toward Blackpool/ Fleetwood/Preston (North) At junction 4, take the A583 exit to Blackpool/N’Shore At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Preston New Rd/A583 heading to Blackpool/N’Shore Turn right at S Park Dr/A587

Stanley Park Golf Course is a picturesque Championship standard golf course situated in the scenic grounds of Stanley Park. The course was opened in 1925 having been designed by the famous golf course architect Dr Alister MacKenzie who also designed such well known Courses as Royal Melbourne, Cypress Point and Augusta National, home to the US Masters.

The course is an undulating parkland layout with a variety of natural hazards, dykes and grassy swales to negotiate as well as carefully placed bunkers. It is a Course that requires thought as well as skill to be able to walk off the 18th with a good score.

The course has always been run as a municipal facility and the private members club attached to the course provides clubhouse facilities.

Signature Holes Hole 1, Par 4, ‘Saddle Entry’, 416 yards.

The first is often described as the most difficult starting hole on the Fylde. The tee shot is over a grassy pit to a sloping fairway.

The ideal line is up the left edge as everything will run to the right here but beware the OB which runs all the way up the left of this hole. The approach is a long uphill shot to a “Classic MacKenzie” two-tier green protected by bunkers left and right.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Buggies, Lessons, Golf shop, Hire Equipment, Junior Academy

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6130 • 5781 • 5188 (71) Hole

2011 Special Offers

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Stanley Park Golf Club

Par

4 3 5 4 3 4 4 4 5

• YDS

Hole

Par

• YDS

399 185 467 274 150 427 414 312 466

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 4 4 3 4 4

124 317 346 404 428 350 139 253 326

Play Free at Stanley Park Golf Course Have you visited us yet?

1st April / Golf Open Day

Golf Societies in 2011: Organiser plays free with groups of 16 or more Two free places for a second booking in the same season.

Green Fee Special: 4 for 3 or 3 for 2 Just cut out this voucher and redeem in the Pro-shop.

Please quote SPGG when enquiring

An opportunity to come and play our enjoyable golf course.

The experience is more than just golf.

For information and booking call 01253 302613 or email spbookings@macktrading.net

Contact Details

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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

St. Annes Old Links

13. 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 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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 3 4 5 5 4 4 3

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

332 389 163 404 533 509 432 354 157

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

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.

Winter 4 Ball Special £160 including Breakfast or Dish of the Day 11.00am-12noon Winter Society £45 per person 31 Mar 2011 includes Hot Drink on arrival and 2 course Meal after play

Winter Golf Ticket £400 Until 25 Mar 2011 Monday to Friday Pro-rata cost for other dates

St Annes Old Links Golf Club

Green Fees £40 Until 31 Mar 2011 When booking, please quote reference GG4

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

The travelling golfers ideal companion is also available online

w w w. go l fg u i d e p u b l i cat i o n s . co m

North West Golf Guide

Lancashire Directory

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bacup Golf Club Maden Road, Bankside Lane, Bacup, OL13 8HN 01706 873170 secretary@bacupgolfclub.co.uk www.bacupgolfclub.com Baxenden & District Golf Club Wooley Lane, Baxenden, Accrington, BB5 2EA 01254 234555 baxgolf@hotmail.com www.baxendengolf.co.uk Beacon Park Golf Club Beacon Lane, Dalton, Up Holland, WN8 7RU 01695 627500 proshop@beaconparkgolf.com www.beaconparkgolf.com Blackburn Golf Club Bearwood Brow, Blackburn, BB2 7AX 01254 51122 info@blackburngolfclub.com www.blackburngolfclub.com

Fishwick Hall Golf Club Glenluce Drive, Farringdon Park, Preston, PR1 5TD 01772 798300 fishwickhallgolfclub@supanet.co.uk www.fishwickhallgolfclub.co.uk 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 Garstang Country Hotel & Golf Club Bowgreave, Garstang, PR3 1YE 01995 600100 reception@ghgc.co.uk www.garstanghotelandgolf.com

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

Gathurst Golf Club Miles Lane, Shevington, Wigan, WN6 8EW 01257 252861 secretary@gathurstgolfclub.ltd.uk www.gathurstgolfclub.co.uk

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North West Golf Guide

Lancashire Directory

Ghyll Golf Club Ghyll Brow, Barnoldswick, Colne, BB8 6JH 01282 842466 webmaster@ghyllgolfclub.co.uk www.ghyllgolfclub.co.uk Great Harwood Golf Club Harwood Bar, Great Harwood, BB6 7TE 01254 884391 Email n/a www.greatharwoodgolfclub.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

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

Lancaster Golf Club Ashton Hall, Ashton-With-Stodday, Lancaster, LA2 0AJ 01524 751247 enquiries@lancastergc.co.uk www.lancastergc.co.uk

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

Lansil Golf Club Caton Road, Lancaster, LA4 3PE 01524 39269 secretary@lansilgolfclub.org.uk www.lansilgolfclub.org.uk Herons Reach Golf Club East Park Drive, Blackpool, FY3 8LL 01253 832505 golf@devere.co.uk www.devere.co.uk

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

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, L40 8HB 01704 840400 info@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

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

North West Golf Guide

Lancashire Directory

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

Standish Court Golf Club Rectory Lane, Standish, Wigan, WN6 0XD 01257 425777 golfprostu@hotmail.com www.standishgolf.co.uk Rossendale Golf Club Ewood Lane, Head Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 6LH 01706 831339 admin@rossendalegolfclub.net www.rossendalegolfclub.net

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

St. Annes Old Links Highbury Road, Lytham St Annes, FY8 2LD 01253 723597 secretary@stannesoldlinks.com www.stannesoldlinks.com Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club Links Gate, Lytham St Annes, FY8 3LQ 01253 724206 bookings@royallytham.org www.royallytham.org

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

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

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

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

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North West Golf Guide

Merseyside Introduction

Merseyside Merseyside comprises of the boroughs of Liverpool, Knowsley, Wirral, Sefton and St Helens, and as the name suggests straddles the River Mersey. The county has been the birthplace of many famous names throughout its history, with Liverpool’s bustling port at its heart Merseyside was always a cosmopolitan place for both artist and artisan.

From TV legends Cilla Black and Tom Baker, to sporting heroes like Wayne Rooney and Stephen Gerrard, the area has long been a cultural hotbed and no-one typifies this more than its biggest export: The Beatles. To this day a source for much of the area’s tourism,

The Beatles went from humble beginnings at The Cavern Club to global acclaim in the 60’s and many favourite spots for tourists today owe their fame to The Fab Four: the original Cavern was demolished in the 70’s but an exact replica was built in 1984 even using some of the bricks from its predecessor and this houses The Beatles museum; Strawberry Fields cemetery also lies within the city.

Historically Merseyside has grown from a rural community to a bustling urban sprawl, and much of this growth is down to the county’s docks. The city of Liverpool, Birkenhead and Bootle docks were all

massively enriched by the slave-trade in the 18th century and by ship-building until more recent times, as well as being the first step on the road to America in the 19th and early 20th centuries: the ill-fated Titanic was constructed in Liverpool’s ship-yards.

With Liverpool’s Capital of Culture status the area has seen large investment recently, which can only add to its draw for tourists; although a county that can boast the biggest band in history, two of the nation’s biggest football clubs, the world’s largest Anglican cathedral, Tate Liverpool and Wayne Rooney probably needs little help.

North West Golf Guide

Merseyside Introduction

Area Map 10 Southport 01 11 13

07

08 M-58

M-6

12

Ashton-in-Makerfield

Crosby

03 St. Helens

Knowsley

Bootle

09

Newton-le-Willows

06

M-62

Prescot Wallasey 14

M-57

Liverpool

04

M-6

Birkenhead 02

Widnes

05

Ellesmere Port M-53

01. Royal Birkdale 02. Royal Liverpool 03. Ashton in Makerfield 04. Blundells Hill 05. Caldy 06. Eccleston Park 07. Formby

08. Formby Hall 09. Haydock Park 10. Hesketh 11. Hillside 12. Houghwood 13. Southport & Ainsdale 14. Wirral Ladies

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North West Golf Guide

Open Championship Course Royal Birkdale

Royal Birkdale Golf Club Royal Birkdale, one of Britain’s finest golf clubs has been voted the No 1 course in England and is among the best in the World. Having previously hosted two Ryder Cups, the Walker and Curtis Cups, the Women’s British Open and on nine occasions the Open Championship, they will be hosting the RICOH Women’s British Open again in 2010.

North West Golf Guide

Open Championship Course Photographs by Alan C. Birch

Royal Birkdale

The stunning coastal resort of Southport is host to the finest links courses in England. This is the home of Royal Birkdale, for many golfers, quite simply, the best of all the great golf courses to have staged The Open Championship. Among the many great courses along the Northwest coast, Royal Birkdale stands out as a perfect example of links golf. It is currently voted by Golf Monthly as the best course in England and the 4th best course in the British Isle and in a survey commissioned by Planet Golf for Golfing Digest it was listed as the 18th best courses outside of the United States.

The growing stature of the club was acknowledged in 1951 when the King gave his permission for the club to be known as The Royal Birkdale Golf Club. The course has been the stage for many great golf championships including the Amateur Championship, the Walker Cup, the Curtis Cup, the Ryder Cup and the Women’s British Open. On nine occasions the greatest championship, The Open, has been played here, the most recent in 2008. In 2005, the club was the venue for both the Amateur Championship and the Women’s British Open which Royal Birkdale will host again in 2010.

The Club was formed in 1889, starting life as a nine hole course. In 1897 the decision was taken to move to Birkdale Hills where an 18 hole course was constructed. The course underwent considerable changes in the mid 1930’s when the current Clubhouse was built. There was further restructuring in the 1960’s and in the early 1990’s all of the greens were reconstructed and redesigned.

In preparation for the Open Championship in 2008 and as a part of the Club’s on going improvement there have been some significant alterations carried out from 2005 to 2007 which have enabled the Club to retain its position as one of the finest links courses.

The Championship Course now measures 7.180 yards. Visitors generally play the yellow tees which at 6.381 yards is a test in itself even for the most accomplished golfer. The wind, whistling down the fairways when it comes from the sea, adds to the challenge.

Each hole runs through a landscape of high dunes, the fairways are flat and fair and from the tee there is generally a clear view of the task ahead. Each hole is memorable, from The Open Championship tee the 13th measure 498 yards, one of the longest par 4s in championship golf.

Even in the early days, the Birkdale Club was forward-thinking, with the members voting in favour of allowing ladies to use the links from 1889. Indeed, one of the first tournaments held was the 1909 Ladies’ British Open Match play Championship.

Visitors to the course can walk in the footsteps of many of golf’s legends, among them Open Winners, Peter Thomson, a double winner at Royal Birkdale, Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, Johnny Miller and Tom Watson. On the 16th hole, a plaque commemorates Arnold Palmer’s great shot in appalling weather conditions, on the way to his Open win 1961.

The clubhouse was designed to resemble an Ocean Liner cruising through the sand hills of Birkdale. It too has undergone significant changes over the years but it has retained its distinctive art-deco style. The balconies and handrails have been replaced with enormous bay window in providing spectacular views of the 18th green and it is the only place to be on the last afternoon of The Open.

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.

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North West Golf Guide

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.

North West Golf Guide

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 to haunt

Royal Liverpool

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.

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

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

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.

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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

Ashton-in-Makerfield

www.ashton-in-makerfieldgolfclub.co.uk 03. How to Find From The North M6 exit at junction 24. Turn right at top of slip road. At next set of lights (Ashton Cross) turn 180° left into the Golf Club drive.

From The South & East M6 exit at Junction 23. Follow signs for Ashton / Wigan. Pass entrance to Haydock Park Race course. At the next set of lights turn left onto theA58 to St Helens. Through the next set of lights over the M6 & at the next set of lights (Ashton Cross) turn 180° left into the Golf Club.

Ashton-in-Makerfield Golf Club is a great 18 hole course, famous not only for its welcome to first time visitors, but for its striking panoramic views towards Manchester and beyond. The inward nine holes are particularly demanding (especially on a windy day) with some difficult driving holes through heavily wooded areas. Special care should be taken on the 5th, 11th and 16th holes.

The course was founded by long time cricketing pals Tom Mayall and Andrew Molyneux, and celebrated its Centenary back in 2002.

Ashton-in-Makerfield Golf Club has certainly taken giant steps in the quest to produce a

top quality golf course, with excellent facilities and staff to deliver those aspirations.

Facilities The developments range from 2 new holes being designed and constructed to enable the club to play 18 holes during a United Utilities pipeline project, a Professional who ‘went back to school’ and achieved full playing privileges on the Senior European Tour and a Manager with almost 30 years County playing experience.

All of this adding to the existing assets of a vibrant Club which welcomes Societies, visitors, wedding and anniversary functions and provides a wide range of entertainments.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6205 • 5918 • 5306 Hole

Par

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

1

4 373

10

4

365

2

4 416

11

4

450

3

5 494

12

4

349

4

3 197

13

3

177

5

4 383

14

4

368

6

4 378

15

3

165

7

3 157

16

4

456

8

4 380

17

5

496

9

4 304

18

4

297

Golf Society Packages Available 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

Contact Details

107

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 5

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

337 462 147 400 351 285 131 433 494

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Contact us for our latest Winter Deals 0151 430 0100

108

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

Caldy

Exit Jct. 2 from the M53 and follow the Upton By-pass (A5027) onto Frankby Road (B5139) before turning left onto Hillbark Road (B5140). Turn right onto Montgomery Hill (B5141), this road leads onto Caldy Road (B5140).

Then turn left onto Croft Drive East and left again onto Links Hey Road.

Playing at Caldy is one of the most rewarding golfing experiences one can enjoy on the beautiful Wirral Peninsula. Golfers from the UK and abroad are always welcome to share the Club’s challenging course, vast Practice Ground and Excellent Clubhouse facilities.

From the often breezy cliff top holes, breathtaking views can be enjoyed over the River Dee Estuary towards the three Hilbre Islands and the mountains and coastline of Wales. In contrast, the heathland inner holes offer a more tranquil rural vista towards Thurstaston Hill and adjacent farmland. This glorious combination of links

and inland holes make for a memorable game for golfers of all standards.

Hole 3. Par 4, “Sands of Dee” A superb dog-leg right. The fairway sweeps around two sets of bunkers well placed to catch both short and long hitters. A good tee shot will leave a demanding approach to a well guarded green and a stunning backdrop over the Dee Estuary.

Hole 6. Par 4, “Donga” An extremely challenging hole, the last one along the cliff edge. Rough 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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

1907

Winter Warmer

Par

4 3 4 4 5 4 5 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

369 152 346 331 532 376 479 142 404

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 5 4 4 4 4 4 3 5

179 509 425 337 368 334 401 145 495

Until 31st March (Mondays and Thursdays) 18 holes and an all day breakfast only £29.50 pp When booking please quote reference GGWW

Contact Details

109

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 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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 5 4 3 5 4 5 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

421 472 328 165 511 390 481 190 433

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

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.

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 redevelopment, 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-of-the 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

110

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

Formby

From the Motorway Network at the junction of the M57/M58 take the signposts to Formby. On the A565 from Liverpool turn left at the 2nd roundabout (with BP station) towards Formby Golf Club, Formby Point and Freshfield station.

Immediately after the station turn right into Golf Road and enter the club through the automatic barrier.

Set in the 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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 4 5 4 3 4 4 5 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

394 372 449 310 153 385 368 480 444

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 4 4 3 5 4

178 376 385 370 417 393 115 486 380

Until 3rd APRIL 2011 £180 per Tee Time 9.38am - 11am Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Wednesday 10am - 11am £200 per Tee Time 10am - 11am Sunday only Based on whether 2, 3 or 4 people play. To include a soup and sandwich lunch and one round of golf.

Winter Rates GREAT DEALS for 2011

GENTLEMAN’S DORMY £45 PER PERSON, PER NIGHT TO INCLUDE BED AND BREAKFAST Green fee dependant upon time of year. Sleeps up to 10 people.

Four twin rooms & two single rooms.

Contact Details

111

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 3 5 4 4 3 5 4 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

342 171 476 340 437 178 492 373 352

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 5 4 3 4 5

292 373 446 190 558 446 145 341 510

Formby Hall

From M62: Exit towards M57/ Southport. Turn left at A5036/Dunnings Bridge Road. Turn right at A5207/ Copy Lane. Take 2nd right at A5207/ Northern Perimeter Rd, turn right at Lydiate Lane and right again at A565/ Park View. At roundabout, take 3rd exit onto Southport Old Road.

From Liverpool: (14 miles) Head West on A580 towards A59/Byrom Street.

Turn left at Leeds Street. Turn right at A565/Great Howard Street. Turn right at A565/ The By-pass. Take 3rd exit at roundabout to Southport Old Road.

Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa, opened in 1996, is one of the newest golf facilities on England’s Golf Coast but has already built an enviable reputation, for its two golf courses, its state-of-the-art PGA National Golf Academy and its luxurious 4-star hotel. Hewn from marshland, six miles south of Southport and at the heart of England’s Golf Coast.

Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa features a fine 18-hole course and a challenging 9-hole course which is ideal for experienced golfers and beginners alike. The 18-hole course hosted two events on the Challenge Tour, the 2004 ADT English Seniors’ Open, and

in 2009 staged its first EuroPro Tour event.

Formby Hall’s 18-hole lay-out features a series of testing holes protected by water and well-placed-bunkers. Water, in fact, can be found on 16 out of the 18 holes.

The 16th is a picturesque yet extremely testing par 3, with a 170-yard carry over water, and 6 well placed greenside bunkers waiting to catch any errant tee shot leaves very little margin for error, and a Par-3 on the card is true reward for selecting the right club. The Resort enjoyed a £15 million development in 2008 which has resulted in the completion of a stylish new 4-star 62-bedroom hotel and luxury Spa.

Winter Warmer Bacon Rolls, 18 Holes, 1 Course meal

£120 per golfer Mid week until 31/3/11 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

112

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

Haydock Park

From M6, Junction 23 Exit junction 23 towards St Helens/ LiverpoolA580. Road merges onto E Lancashire Rd/A49 (signs for Manchester/A580). At the roundabout, take the 4th exit onto A580 heading towards M6/St Helens, turn left at Newton Lane, golf club is on your left.

Founded in 1877, Haydock Park Golf Club is a well-established golf course situated near Haydock Park Racecourse. It is a mature parkland course of just over 6,000 yards.

The course was designed by the famous golf course architect James Braid.

Haydock Park is one of the North West’s premier golf clubs; it’s tree-lined fairways and well bunkered greens make scoring well a real challenge, for both high and low handicappers. We welome visitors every day during the week except Tuesdays (Ladies Only) and weekends. The Club is an excellent friendly venue for a day’s golf offering superb

catering and clubhouse decor. Being very convenient to the M6/A580 junction, the Club is readily accessible from all directions.

Signature Hole Rated by many members as the feature hole on the course, the par 4, 6th has a daunting drive down a funnel of trees from a magnificent three tiered tee. With out of bounds all the way down the right and two bunkers placed perfectly to catch the slightest fade a drive to the left center is ideal as this fairway also slopes from left to right. A very large and high cross bunker 29 yards from the green makes distance judgement difficult.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6073 • 5226 • 5390 • 5097 Hole

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 3 5 3 5 4 4 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

404 166 484 110 503 317 303 170 424

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 4 4 5 4 4 3

354 370 140 434 282 493 320 369 183

WINTER WARMER (Until March) Coffee & Bacon, 18 holes followed by 2 course chef special - only £25 per person (Parties of 8 minimum)

HAYDOCK PARK

Contact Details

113

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 3 4 3 4 4 4 4 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

363 158 317 155 360 438 433 377 411

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 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.

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.

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.

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

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)

Until 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)

114

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

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.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 5 4 3 5 4 3 4 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

386 493 340 175 482 344 143 365 376

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

Contact Details

115

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

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

HOUGHWOOD

Leave M6 at Junction 23 - Follow signs for A580 Liverpool At 3rd set of lights turn right onto A571 to Wigan (Waterside Inn on your right) Follow this road to Billinge till you reach a mini roundabout. Turn left into Rainford Road Proceed for approx 1 mile till you approach a right fork on a left hand bend (Gores Lane). Take this fork to a T junction. Turn right into Crank Road, go over a hump back bridge and start to climb the hill. The golf course is now on your right hand side The entrance is located on the right between a stone barn and a bungalow.

Houghwood was constructed during 1994/95, amidst some 132 acres, and has magnificent panoramic views over the Lancashire plain and the Welsh hills which makes Houghwood an interesting course to play.

At par 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.

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.

The large greens built to USGA specification are probably the finest in the area and a permanant track allows the use of the large fleet of buggies and trolleys the whole year round.

The specially designed stone clubhouse

Midweek Winter Deal Tee Times from £14 per person GOLF – BAR – RESTAURANT Open to Non Members

Call 01744 894444

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.

116

Contact Details Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club Bradshaws Lane, Ainsdale, Southport, PR8 3LG

Southport & Ainsdale

Telephone: 01704 578000 Email enquiries via website www.sandagolfclub.co.uk

13. How to Find From M6, exit junction 26, take the M58 to Liverpool/Southport. Exit at junction 3 to A570/St Helens/ Southport. Turn left at A577/Park Rd, then left at A577/Church Street, continue onto A570 Southport Rd. Turn left at A5147. Turn right at Carr Moss Lane. Continue onto Segars Lane. At roundabout take 3rd exit onto A565/Liverpool Rd. Turn left at Bradshaws Lane.

Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club is a true championship links course, with first class facilities to match. The course is set amongst the dunes on the North West coastline and is another of course designer, James Braid’s great creations.

The club has hosted two Ryder Cup matches in 1933 and 1937 and a number of other prestigious championships including The British Ladies Open and The British Amateur.

It remains a final qualifying course for The Open Championship and it has been voted by one golf magazine as among the top 50 courses in Great Britain.

The course is a magnificent test of golf, especially with the sea breeze, profusion of heather and gorse combining to provide you with a challenging and immensely enjoyable experience.

Hole 16, Par 5. “Gumbleys”. Certainly the feature hole on the course. A straight tee shot is required towards the sleepers some 300 yards away. A good drive leaves a blind second shot over a 20ft high bank of sleepers. On reaching the brow of the hill, you will see a long narrow green in front of a high links dune. This very picturesque hole demands respect, offering a birdie opportunity – but many cards have been wrecked here.

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

3 5 4 4 4 4 5 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

185 504 385 313 400 372 478 147 447

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 3 4 4 5 4 4

158 426 407 145 380 333 490 430 339

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

Contact Details

117

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

14. How to Find

Wirral Ladies’

Exit the M53 at junction 3 and follow the signs for Birkenhead. Follow Woodchurch Road (A552) and turn left onto Storeton Road (B5151) which merges into Ingestre Road then Talbot Road and finally Bidston Road.

Facilities 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.

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.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 68 • 5185 • 4948 (69) Hole

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Par

4 3 4 4 4 4 4 3 4

Yards

Hole

Par

Yards

378 123 347 291 344 355 331 132 265

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

At around 5,000 yards, Wirral Ladies is a compact golf course, and with a round taking

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.

Offer valid until end March 2011

Winter Warmer from £22 18 Holes of Golf Bacon roll & Coffee £22

18 Holes of Golf Golfers brunch / Full breakfast £25

Contact the Pro Shop on 0151 652 2468 for offers

118

North West Golf Guide

Merseyside Directory

Bowring Golf Club Bowring Park, Roby Road, Huyton, Liverpool, Merseyside, L36 4HD Telephone: 0151 489 1901 Email enquiries via website www.bowringgolfclub.com Ashton-In-Makerfield Golf Club Garswood Park, Liverpool Road, Ashton-In-Makerfield, WN4 0YT Telephone: 01942 727267 secretary@ashton-in-makerfieldgolfclub.co.uk www.ashton-in-makerfieldgolfclub.co.uk

Brackenwood Golf Club Brackenwood Park, Bebington, Wirral, Merseyside, L63 2LY Telephone: 0151 608 3093 secretary@brackenwoodgolf.co.uk www.brackenwoodgolf.co.uk

Aintree Golf Centre Melling Road, Aintree, Liverpool, Merseyside, L9 5AS Telephone: 0151 523 5157 Email enquiries via website www.aintree.co.uk

Bromborough Golf Club Raby Hall Road, Bromborough, Merseyside, CH63 0NW Telephone: 0151 334 4499 enquiries@bromboroughgolfclub.org.uk www.bromboroughgolfclub.org.uk

Allerton Park Golf Club Allerton Manor Golf Estate, Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 3JT Telephone: 0151 428 7490 Email n/a Website n/a

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

Arrowe Park Golf Club Woodchurch, Birkenhead, Merseyside, CH49 5LW Telephone: 0151 677 1527 webmaster@arroweparkgolfclub.co.uk www.arroweparkgolfclub.com

Caldy Golf Club Links Hey Road, Caldy, Wirral, Merseyside, CH48 1NB Telephone: 0151 625 1818 secretarycaldygc@btconnect.com www.caldygolfclub.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

Bidston Golf Club Bidston Link Road, Wallasey, Merseyside, L44 2HR Telephone: 0151 630 6650 info@bidstongolf.co.uk www.bidstongolf.co.uk

Childwall Golf Club Naylors Road, Gateacre, Liverpool, Merseyside, L27 2YB Telephone: 0151 487 9871 Email enquiries via website www.childwallgolfclub.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

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 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

Haydock Park Golf Club Newton Lane, Newton le Willows, Merseyside, WA12 0HX Telephone: 01925 226944 secretary@haydockparkgc.co.uk www.haydockparkgc.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

Hesketh Golf Club Cockle Dicks Lane, Off Cambridge Road, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 9QQ Telephone: 01704 536897 secretary@heskethgolfclub.co.uk www.heskethgolfclub.co.uk

North West Golf Guide

Merseyside Directory

Heswall Golf Club Cottage Lane, Gayton, Heswall, Merseyside, L60 8PB Telephone: 0151 342 7431 secretary@heswallgolfclub.com www.heswallgolfclub.com

Liverpool Municipal Golf Club Ingoe Lane, Kirkby, Liverpool, L32 4SS Telephone: 0151 546 5435 paul.thomas@liverpool.gov.uk www.liverpool.gov.uk

Southport Old Links Golf Club Moss Lane, Churchtown, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 7QS Telephone: 01704 228207 secretary@southportoldlinksgolfclub.co.uk www.southportoldlinksgolfclub.co.uk

Prenton Golf Club Golf Links Road, Prenton, Birkenhead, Merseyside, L42 8LW Telephone: 0151 608 1636 Email enquiries via website www.prentongolfclub.co.uk

Wallasey Golf Club Bayswater Road, Wallasey, Merseyside, L45 8LA Telephone: 0151 638 3888 wallaseygc@aol.com www.wallaseygolfclub.com

Hillside Golf Club Hastings Road, Hillside, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 2LU Telephone: 01704 568360 secretary@hillside-golfclub.co.uk www.hillside-golfclub.co.uk

Warren (Wallasey) Golf Club Grove Road, Wallasey, Merseyside, L45 0JA Telephone: 0151 639 5730 Email enquiries via website www.wirral.gov.uk Royal Birkdale Golf Club Waterloo Road, Birkdale, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 2LX Telephone: 01704 568857 secretary@royalbirkdale.com www.royalbirkdale.com

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

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

Hoylake Municipal Golf Club Carr Lane, Municipal Links, Hoylake, Merseyside, L47 4BG Telephone: 0151 632 6823 Email n/a www.hoylakegolfclub.com

Sherdley Park Golf Club Sherdley Road, St Helens, Merseyside, WA9 5DE Telephone: 01744 815516 Email n/a www.sherdleyparkgolfclub.co.uk

West Lancashire Golf Club Hall Road West, Blundellsands, Liverpool, L23 8SZ Telephone: 0151 924 5662 golf@westlancashiregolf.co.uk www.westlancashiregolf.co.uk

Leasowe Golf Club Leasowe Road, Moreton, Merseyside, L46 3RD Telephone: 0151 678 5460 secretary@leasowegolfclub.co.uk www.leasowegolfclub.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

Lee Park Golf Club Childwall Valley Road, Gateacre, Liverpool, L27 3YA Telephone: 0151 498 4666 office@leepark.co.uk www.leepark.co.uk

Southport Municipal Golf Club Park Road West, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 0JR Telephone: 01704 535286 Email n/a Website n/a

Woolton Golf Club Speke Road, Woolton, Liverpool, Merseyside, L25 7TZ Telephone: 0151 486 2298 golf@wooltongolf.co.uk www.wooltongolfclub.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

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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 the geographical & political oddity Gibraltar, with visits to see the Barbary Apes and abundant military history. This great diversity means that it has something to offer just about everyone, with enough entertainment and variety to please all types of 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 until 15th March 2011

New Course: 2 players + shared buggy = €140

Alhaurín Golf

(10% discount online)

& HO T EL RE S ORT

Designed by

Seve Ballesteros

Golf is not expensive Hotel accommodation + Breakfast + Green Fee only 54 euro per person Check conditions in the hotel.

Bookings made before 30th March 2011

Contact us now!

Telephone: +34 952 595 800 Email: reservasgolf@alhauringolf.com

Book on-line, save money and time!

www.alhauringolf.com

Golf & Country Club

Call: +34 956 613 030 (Ext. 1033) info@sanroqueclub.com · www.sanroqueclub.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

â‚Ź249

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

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Costa Del Sol News

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

Variety is the Spice of Life

With 35 different nationalities of members, and 36 holes to play golf on, Atalaya Golf & Country Club extends a warm welcome to new and exisiting members, guests and visitors from all over the world.

Atalaya Old Course is a classical parkland layout formed by a series of superb, wide-open fairways.

Atalaya New Course requires players to plot their way through a natural enclave with stunning views.

Atalaya Golf & Country Club · Ctra. de Benahavís, Km 0.7. 29688 Estepona · Costa del Sol · Spain Tel.: (+34) 952 882 812 · Fax: (+34) 952 887 897 · info@atalaya-golf.com · www.atalaya-golf.com

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Costa Del Sol News

Volvo World Match Play Returns to Finca Cortesin, Spain

The Volvo World Match Play Championship returns to Finca Cortesin in Spain after a one year break with a revised format, ensuring even more top class match play jousting between the leading players.

The field size has increased from 16 to 24 players and will once again feature the round-robin group stages that worked so well in 2009. On that occasion it was Englishman Ross Fisher who landed the prestigious title, defeating American Anthony Kim in the final.

Prior to 2009 the Volvo World Match Play was held at Wentworth Club from 1964 through to 2007, with a list of champions reading like a who’s-who of golfing greats.

The Volvo World Match Play Championship

returns to Finca Cortesin in Spain after a one year break with a revised format, ensuring even more top class match play jousting between the leading players.

The field size has increased from 16 to 24 players and will once again feature the round-robin group stages that worked so well in 2009. On that occasion it was Englishman Ross Fisher who landed the prestigious title, defeating American Anthony Kim in the final. Prior to 2009 the Volvo World Match Play was held at Wentworth Club from 1964 through to 2007, with a list of champions reading like a who’s-who of golfing greats.

For more information visit: www.europeantour.com