North West & Cumbria Golf Guide Issue 16

Complimentary

Issue 16 路 2014

How to find...

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

Featured Course Clitheroe Golf Club, considered to be one of the finest golf destinations in Lancashire

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

NORTH WEST & CUMBRIA

P A I R S

B E T T E R

B A L L

S T A B L E F O R D

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

28th March 2014

6th June 2014

Hesketh GC

Silloth on Solway

£50 per pair

£50 per pair

22nd August 2014

26th September 2014

Vale Royal Abbey

Bolton GC

£50 per pair

£50 per pair

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 2014 & February 2015, including a 3 night stay at the 4 star Tamisa Hotel Mijas incl Breakfast, return flights, all transfers and 3 competitive rounds of golf at Calanova, El Chaparral, and Cerrado del Aguila.

To enter any of the North West & Cumbria region competitions contact:

Telephone: 077865 48629 or email: competitions@golfguidepublications.com

WIN A T TO SPAI RIP THE FINN FOR EVERY E AL AT VENT

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Welcome Issue 16 路 2014

008 Featured Course 010 News & Features 042 Cheshire 072 Greater Manchester 084 Lancashire 100 Merseyside 120 Cumbria 126 Travel

Welcome to the North West & Cumbria Golf Guide Welcome to our latest edition of The North West & Cumbria Golf Guide, a must read for all Golfers. The North West & Cumbria 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 since its introduction to the UK two years ago.

In addition to The North West & Cumbria Golf Guide here, further editions have been added in Ireland, Yorkshire & North East and the South Central region - with plans to extend to further regions in the UK in the next 2 years.

together with any specific golf offers - some of which are exclusive to Golf Guide readers.

Cover Image & Above Clitheroe Golf Club

The Golf Guide is aimed at golfers of all levels from professionals to 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 2014.

Publisher Golf Guide Publications Ltd 6 Keats Lane, Wincham Cheshire, CW9 6PP Telephone: 077865 48629 info@golfguidepublications.com www.thegolfersguide.com

The magazine is split into 5 areas. Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Lancashire & Cumbria. These areas are colour coded, containing a map highlighting where each course can be found. A full golf course listing is also featured in the magazine, containing the telephone number & web site of every golf course in the North West of England.

This issue sees the launch of our Golf Guide Tour for 2014 - starting with the Open regional qualifier at Hesketh GC in March, followed

by Silloth GC & Vale Royal Abbey GC with the final event at Bolton GC in September.

The events will be pairs competitions with each winning pair receiving a 4 day trip to Spain in November 2014 or February 2015 including flights, accommodation & 3 x rounds of golf on top quality Spanish golf courses, together with other golf prizes on the day.

So please come along and experience the Tour in 2014 with your golfing friends.

So how does The Golf Guide work? It is an opportunity for golf clubs to showcase their course and facilities with superb photography and enough information to whet the appetite of any golfer or group of golfers who are planning a visit. Each golf course page features the clubs contact details

The next issue will be available from all golf clubs, select golf shops, driving ranges and hotels from early April, so please keep a close eye out for it. All that remains is to thank you for your continued support, and we hope to see you on The Golf Guide Tour soon.

Happy Golfing!

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

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

Paul Lambert Telephone: 07786 548629 paul@golfguidepublications.com Printed by Buxton Press Limited Palace Road, Buxton, Derbyshire, SK17 6AE Telephone: 01298 21 2000 sales@buxpress.co.uk Designed by Nick Senior www.nicksenior.com

/golfguidehq @golfguidehq

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

FEATURED COURSE

Considered to be one of the finest golf destinations in Lancashire, Clitheroe Golf Club has got a well earned reputation for excellence.

Clitheroe Golf Club was formed in November 1891 and moved to its present site when ninety six acres of land were purchased for ÂŁ5000 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 Club has hosted the Regional Open Qualifying since 2010 and will continue to do so until 2014. Designed by the legendary Scottish designer, James Braid, the course is a challenge to all levels of golfer with a premium on straight driving without being too demanding physically.

All of the greens have been reconstructed to meet USGA specifications.

Clitheroe is a beautiful 18 hole parkland golf course located in the heart of the Ribble Valley. The views from the course are quite spectacular, with Longridge Fell and Waddington Fell 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 3 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, this year, as well as the Regional Open

FEATURED COURSE

Qualifying the Club will host the Lancashire Ladies Championship and the men’s Northern Counties Seniors’ Championship.

Other facilities include, a halfway house, behind the 9th green, practice grounds, and an extensive driving range. A modern conference and meeting room overlooks the course with a collection of artefacts and a pictorial library of history of the Club.

Off the course, meanwhile, the club is rightly lauded for its fantastic catering. There is something to suit budget and all prices are negotiable.

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

If you are bringing a society or Captain’s outing to Clitheroe, you will be more than impressed with the quality of service extended to you.

Some brilliant bespoke finishing touches to suit your own needs will ensure your day will be that little bit extra special.

Contact Details Clitheroe Golf Club Whalley Road, Clitheroe Lancashire BB7 1PP Telephone: 01200 422292 Pro Shop: 01200 424242 secretary@clitheroegolfclub.com www.clitheroegolfclub.com

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

THE OPEN HOSPITALITY

Corporate Hospitality is Holding its Value

By Brett Tonkyn - Director, The Open Championship Hospitality Programme

In a climate where everyone – even the most buoyant of companies – are keeping a watchful eye on the bottom line, corporate hospitality remains a viable option for many organisations.

The nature of the beast has changed in recent years to mirror the economic landscape and companies are actively seeking more “bang for their buck”, to ensure that any spend of this nature brings measurable returns.

Corporate hospitality events must now be more imaginative, engaging and also represent good value. They must also recognise that clients are working to budget constraints but are not always willing to compromise on the offering.

We find that companies use corporate hospitality for a whole host of reasons – to cement relationships with existing clients or to

build relationships with prospective customers or even to reward staff or build morale.

Whatever the reason, there’s no doubting it’s effectiveness and when that hospitality takes place as an integral part of a world class event, the opportunities to make a return on investment are many.

This year The Open comes to Royal Liverpool and is expected to deliver a total economic benefit of £75m to the regional economy of Wirral and Liverpool. The headline figure includes a forecast economic impact of £30 million derived mostly from spending in the local economy by an anticipated 200,000 spectators and an estimated destination marketing benefit of £45 million gained through global television exposure of the week-long event.

THE OPEN HOSPITALITY

Apart from the general boost the event will give to the area’s economy – The Open’s Official Hospitality is also attracting a wide range of company bookings. Even in a climate where corporate hospitality budgets have been pared to the bone, The Open continues to prove a highly attractive option for businesses. The Championship held at Royal Lytham in 2012 broke previous records and the 2013 Open at Muirfield set a new record again. Bookings for The Open at Royal Liverpool are up on Muirfield and are expected to sell out in record time.

This trend shows beyond any doubt that even in challenging economic circumstances, golf is proving to be very apt to the business market.

We have always maintained that The Open should be “open for all” and have retained a price level that’s competitive and attractive to businesses of all sizes and golf fans alike.

While firms are still spending money, many have become very selective about what events to attend with clients and many companies are now opting for more informal hospitality.

In response to this we have produced new packages for this year, delivering great value and allowing companies of all sizes to entertain and experience award-winning hospitality at a global sporting event – The Open Championship.

Companies based in an area where an event like The Open takes place can also use it as great leverage with prospective clients to showcase the attributes of their region, so the value of a major sporting event like this continues long after the last round has been played. In the old days much business was conducted on the golf course and we like to think that just as much can now be done alongside it.

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

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REGIONAL NEWS

The Wards are the first joint winners of the competition in the seven years that Fuller’s and England Golf have run this event. The 2013 edition attracted a record entry, with over 700 votes cast and more stewards nominated than ever before.

The judges were joined by the 2012 winner, Yvonne James of Rugby Golf Club, to whittle down the entries to three finalists in each region. Each of these 12 were visited personally before the four regional winners were chosen, having been judged on their commitment, innovation and standard of service and presentation, together with that extra special something which sets them apart.

“What a gem you have here” Ian Woosnam 2012

Couple crowned Golf Stewards of the Year

Designed by renowned golf course architect Hawtree, Malkins Bank was opened in 1976. Located within a beautiful setting, with picturesque views over the Cheshire countryside. It has matured into a great test of golf with tree lined fairways and undulating features that border the Trent & Mersey Canal.

Raise your glasses please to Simon and Karen Ward – the first couple to be crowned Fuller’s London Pride Golf Stewards of the Year.

Simon Ward is no stranger to this event, having been the Northern winner in 2011 and a regional finalist in 2012. This year, for the first time, the Wilmslow members and visitors nominated him with Karen as a team to be reckoned with.

The husband-and-wife team from Wilmslow Golf Club in Cheshire were named as the 2013 winners of England’s top title for golf club stewards at the annual presentation lunch at The Counting House in London.

During the four years they’ve been at Wilmslow the couple have transformed the social scene with quiz nights, themed nights, tribute acts and 50s and 60s styled events which help to keep the club busy during the winter evenings.

The North Region winners claimed the national honour ahead of contenders from the country’s other three regions: South East winner Steve Warren of Eaton, Norwich; Midlands winner David Guest of Halesowen, Worcestershire; and South West winner, for the second year in succession, Anna Tyson of Dainton Park in Devon.

They’ve become increasingly involved with the committee structure with Karen joining the marketing team, and Simon chairing the social committee. They feed back the views of members and visitors and they’ve been able make a real difference to the running of the club.

“On December 2nd 2013 myself and fellow director, Kevin Read, completed the takeover of RM Estates Ltd, owners of Malkins Bank Golf Club. Ian Woosnam, who has been one of my best pals for 40 years, helped and supported us in achieving this dream.

As part of our team we have now bought on board Ian’s brother Gareth as course manager to plan and put in place our vision for the course so as to provide something special for the region and importantly be available and affordable to all. Woosie will visit the course throughout the year to check on the progress being made, advise on any further changes needed and talk to our members and guests.

Improvements to the course with a full refurbishment of bunkers including draining, re-turfing, re-shaping and putting in new sand has already started. The first nine holes of which are now complete and look fantastic.

Woosie has been very impressed by the work so far and keeps in regular touch with us from his home overseas”.

Tony Minshall – Director of Golf

They all received their trophies from England Golf chief executive, David Joy, and from Mark Roberts, Fuller’s trade marketing manager.

The Wards – who were described by the judges as working together like strawberries and cream – win a two-night stay in a Fuller’s Hotel, as well as advertising space to promote their club in the local Press, and a certificate and trophy.

The couple were overwhelmed when the result was announced and Simon commented: “This such an honour and we can’t thank our members enough for their support. This has come from our members – and if they’re happy, we’re happy!”

He went on: “We are the faces that members and visitors see, but it’s a team effort at Wilmslow, so thank you to the greenkeepers, the cleaners, the pro shop and office staff, the caterers and bar staff. Everyone plays their part in the experience for members and visitors.”

Karen added: “This isn’t just for us, it’s for the whole golf club and we are so proud to win and to be the first couple to win.”

Karen has improved the experience for societies and has been rewarded with an increase in repeat business and new enquiries.

Plans are already underway for the 2014 celebrations for the 125th anniversary of the club, with a summer ball and fun golf event.

And, profits are up 35 per cent since 2009.

The Wards’ skills were put under the spotlight in September when Wilmslow hosted England Golf and the Women’s County Finals – a high-profile, five-day tournament contested by teams from six regions. Players, officials and spectators – most of whom were not aware the couple were in contention for this title – were lavish in their praise.

Wilmslow captain Reg Maddock echoed their remarks: “Simon and Karen have helped to make my year so enjoyable and made my life so easy! They are really involved in the running of the club and are the eyes and ears of what goes on. This has brought my year to an absolutely wonderful climax.”

Pictured: Simon and Karen Ward at the presentation ceremony. © Gill Shaw.

WIN TICKETS TO THE OPEN It’s the biggest event on the golfing calendar and this year the prestigious Open Championship will be making its way to Royal Liverpool, attracting players – and visitors – from across the globe from 13 to 20 July. From 16 to 20 July you can enjoy this world class sporting event from the prime spot of the new Champion’s Club between the 5th and 16th holes at Royal Liverpool.

We have teamed up with The Open Hospitality to offer golf fans two tickets for Saturday 19 July, with breakfast on arrival, buffet style lunch, complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks. They can also relax in a private garden with a putting green and large outdoor screen showing all the action from the day’s play.

All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning is email: competition@golfguidepublications.com with your full name and answer to the following question: Who won The Open in 2013?

The competition closes on 31 May 2014, when a winner will be drawn at random and notified by email.

For further information about The Open Hospitality, call +44 (0) 844 371 0883 or email hospitality@TheOpen.com or visit www.TheOpen.com/hospitality

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

NEWS

Golf Gamebook Teams up with Volvo Golf GameBook, the free smartphone app featuring a golf community, live scoring, tournament manager and social chat, successfully teamed up with Volvo in South Africa to provide live scoring during the corporate Volvo World Golf Challenge – World Final 2013, followed by Pro-Am live scoring at the European Tour’s prestigious Volvo Golf Champions tournament.

Golf GameBook’s co-operation with Volvo commenced at the company’s high-profile corporate event for amateur golfers, which saw 74 players from 32 countries, compete in a 36hole, two-day event staged at Zimbali Country Club, near Durban.

Since its launch in 1988, Volvo’s annual global golf competition has engaged with more than one million people and is run in conjunction with, and alongside, the Volvo-sponsored European Tour event at Durban Country Club.

Competitors at last year’s Volvo World Golf Challenge – World Final 2013 also experienced Golf GameBook’s launch of a new multi-round scoring feature, which gives event organisers the ability to provide live, aggregated scoring over more than 18 holes.

After the completion of this year’s Volvo World Golf Challenge – World Final 2013, the 18 best-placed finishers went on to play alongside Ryder Cup heroes and other stars of the European Tour, including Thomas Björn, Colin Montgomerie, Padraig Harrington and Darren Clarke, in the Volvo Golf Champions Pro-Am at Durban Country Club.

experience on the golf course, was important to us.”

Mikko Rantanen, CEO of GameBook Inc, said: “Our co-operation with Volvo has been hugely successful and rewarding for both companies.

Volvo has clearly recognised the power and functionality of Golf GameBook and how it can bring a new, exciting and interactive element to customer engagement.

Per Ericsson, President of Volvo Event Management, said: “Golf GameBook helped make this week a successful one for Volvo in South Africa. Innovation and design is at the heart of our business and to give our golfing guests the opportunity to use a product like GameBook, that adds real value to their

GameBook offers a sophisticated, but easyto-use platform for any golfer, golf club or golf tournament organiser to set up live scoring for all types of golf event and is the only scoring app to offer social interactivity.

Founded by PGA professionals with the goal of making golf more relevant, fun and welcoming, Golf GameBook is the fastest-growing golf community in the world with more than 650,000 app downloads.

For further details visit: www.golfgamebook.com

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

The Oaks Mollington If you organise corporate or society golf days and want to be assured of excellent golf year round, you really should consider The Oaks Mollington.

The par 72, 6529 yard parkland layout is set in nearly 200 acres of Cheshire countryside and is accepted as one of the county’s best and most challenging.

Our signature hole, the 17th is an island green based upon the design of the world famous par 3 at Sawgrass, a challenge indeed. We also offer family tees making it both attractive to the novice golfer whilst still delivering a demanding test for the lower handicapper and professional.

Our facilities include a practice ground, short game area and putting greens, and if you need coaching, you can do no better than our Golf Academy which is run by The Oaks Director of Golf Alan Beattie, who joined us from the 5 Star resort Gleneagles, host of the 2014 Ryder Cup.

COURSE FEATURE

COURSE FEATURE

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

For your convenience we hire out golf cars, trolleys and all necessary equipment and offer both a bar and bistro serving delicious, fresh, locally sourced food, ideal for all pre and post match debates!

full member for one month allowing you to experience everything that The Oaks offers to its members. if we look after you well enough and you decide to join us we put your trial fee on your membership card!

Whether you are interested in visiting us as part of a society, corporate event, with friends paying a green fee, or joining us as a club member, we know you won’t be disappointed.

The Oaks is renowned for its hospitality and friendliness. Our professional society, hospitality and conference teams are known for creating the very best of bespoke events.

We offer a variety of membership packages including a flexible membership (£365 per annum) or for just £60 you can become a

If you want to be able to totally relax and enjoy your occasion, knowing that the team behind the scenes are as passionate about making it

as perfect as you want it to be, then there is no better place to come.

Take a look at our website or better still, come and visit us and see why we are so proud of what we do here. Whatever your reason for visiting us, you are assured of a warm and friendly welcome.

The Oaks at Mollington Townfield Lane, Mollington, Chester, CH1 6NJ Telephone: 01244 852805 info@theoaksmollington.co.uk www.theoaksmollington.co.uk

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

ADVERTORIAL

Pre-nups Protect your wealth before you reach the eighteenth hole Pauline McNamara, Head of Family Law at Cassell Moore Solicitors, comments on how pre-marital agreements (or prenups) are becoming increasingly important when it comes to protecting your wealth.

A pre-marital agreement seeks to prescribe what should happen in the event of a relationship breakdown. It is an agreement which a couple may sign before getting married or entering into a civil partnership. It is regarded as a legitimate way to protect wealth and usually concerns assets that one or both of the partners own prior to the marriage.

At present a pre-marital agreement is not automatically upheld or enforced by the courts in the event of a divorce and/or disagreement.

However, the courts do take them seriously and consider them when looking at the circumstances of a case. The amount of weight attributed to them is centred on fairness.

In order for the agreement to be regarded as fair, there are various factors which will be considered by the court. These factors are as follows: Image ©TaylorMade®

• The agreement should be entered into at least 28 days prior to the date of the marriage • There should be a recording that the parties have understood the agreement • That the agreement is formally entered into • A lack of duress or improper pressure by the parties seeking to rely on the agreement • Whether the agreement is in fact contrary to public policy • Whether there was full and frank financial disclosure of information • Whether each party was properly legally and independently advised • The extent to which the parties themselves have attached importance to the agreement, and have acted upon it • Social, personal, religious and cultural considerations as well as the financial aspects In summary, the court should give effect to a pre-marital agreement which is freely entered

into by each party with a full appreciation of its implications unless in the circumstances prevailing it would be unfair to hold the parties to their agreement.

In my opinion, a pre-marital agreement is a legitimate and necessary wealth protection tool. I would recommend any party who is bringing wealth to a marriage to enter into such agreement to protect their future assets as a key part of their overall wealth management strategy and life plan.

Pauline McNamara has specialised in Family Law for over 25 years. She advises on all aspects of family law including divorce, financial ancillary relief, dissolution of partnership, cohabitation issues, pre-marital agreements, protection of wealth, injunctions and all issues relating to children.

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

Liverpool Law Firm Sponsor up and coming golfer Cassell Moore is proud to announce its sponsorship of 22 year old rising star of golf, Dominic Barnes.

The Liverpool based law firm, which has a leading sports department, will support Dominic in competing in a host of prestigious events throughout the 2014 season.

These include the English Men’s Amateur Championship, the British Open Qualifying and the Lytham Trophy – a tournament that sees competitors from across Europe taking part in the three day event.

Dominic’s talent was spotted early at aged 14 when he began to receive coaching from Cheshire Junior Golf. Despite the allure of stardom, Dom successfully divided his time between developing his ability on the golf course and achieving academic success in the classroom.

Having gained three A-Levels at age 18 he considered golf scholarships from American Universities before deciding to continue his studies in England at Sheffield Hallam University, where he was later awarded an honours degree in Real Estate.

In 2010, whilst still at university, Dom reached the final 64 of the English Amateur Championship and reduced his handicap from +1 to +3 (meaning that an additional three shots are added to his final score).

Having graduated from university, and with support from Cassell Moore, he is now looking to build on that success when the first major amateur tournament of the season gets underway in May next year.

Commenting on the sponsorship announcement Stephen Morris, Cassell Moore Managing Partner, said: “Dominic Barnes has a unique talent that we believe could see him achieve a long and sustained sporting career.

As a Liverpool headquartered law firm with a thriving sports department we’re keen to align ourselves with up and coming talent.

“A lot of law firms are involved in sports but most just deal with regulatory and disciplinary issues. What differentiates us is that we are both dealing with and acting for the sports people.

“As a multi-discipline law firm we cover all of their day to day legal issues and as importantly

their career management helping them to reach their full potential as both sports men and women and as people. Our stated aim is that they can step into the sporting arena safe in the knowledge that everything else is taken care of by us”.

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

New venues for the TommyT Junior Golf Tour

Club ends year with successful fundraiser

Wirall Golf Classic - Play The Open Course

The TommyT Junior Golf Tour was formed in 2011 by Pryors Hayes Golf Professional Roger Shutt to provide children aged 3-11 years the experience of playing competitive golf in a fun environment.

Members at Brookfield Golf Club at Hankelow have “chipped in “to raise over £7,800 last year to raise funds for charity

The Wirral Golf Classic, started only 4 years ago, is now established on the list of trips club golfers must make. Offering great value as well as the chance to play The 2014 Open Championship course Hoylake, the event attracted a record entry last year and is set for a further one this year. The tournament, being held on 15-19 September, involves four of Wirral’s magnificent coastal golf courses over a 72 hole amateur tournament, open to adult male & female golfers.

Initially events were staged in the North West region but in 2013 the Tour staged events nationwide with a great response from parents and juniors alike.

The money will be split between club captain Martin Stockton and lady captain Margaret Evans ’chosen charities which are Parkinson UK, Breast Cancer Care and the Spinal Injuries Association. In addition a defibrillator has been bought.

In 2014 we will be staging events at Pryors Hayes, Hartford, Brookfield, Grange Park, Heswall, Bull Bay, Nailcote Hall, Sunningdale Ladies, Queens Park (Bournemouth) and Hazlemere. A grand final is being organised in Spain during the half term holiday in October.

A club spokesman said “In November Martin and Margaret decided they wanted to give something back to the club itself so set a new challenge - to raise funds to purchase a defibrillator, for use at both the golf club and in the local area. “

The format of the TommyT Tour competitions is to place juniors within their age group category playing a gross competition from special tees based on their ability.

At the ‘Brookfield Golf Club Prize Presentation Evening’ on 30th November, members attending the event generously donated sufficient money, through a “£5 envelope” raffle and a golf trolley auction, to enable purchase of the defibrillator to be made.

Age group categories are 3-5, 6-7, 8-9 and 10-11.

Juniors without official handicaps can enter. We generally stage around 6 events and also run an Order of Merit league table. The Tour has now attracted prize sponsors including Joseph Heler Cheese, Devanet and Taylor Made.

For more information please visit www.tommytgolf.tel/ or contact Tour Organiser Roger Shutt on 07735 421306 or email golfstars@hotmail.co.uk

Following the Captains drive in and farewell event, cheques for £2,600 were presented to each of the charities - and staff at Brookfield Golf Club accepted that the clubs’ recent new captains, Jack Forbes and Lynne Sweeney, will raise funds for the Air Ambulance, MacMillan Nurses and The Samaritans, during 2014.

Caldy, former venue of the Seniors’ Championship, boasts stunning views from its cliffs across the River Dee to Wales; slightly further down the river, Heswall was the venue for The R&A’s Junior Championships in 2006 and stages the North of England Under-16 Championships each year; Wallasey, home of Stableford, and a former Open Qualifying venue enjoying beautiful views across the Mersey to Liverpool, and Royal Liverpool or Hoylake as it is known by golfers throughout the world.

With an entry fee of just £239, just over half the standard green fees, the event offers great value as well as great fun and has enjoyed 100% satisfaction rates in previous years. Golfers can play together in pairs and can also select their rest day.

Further information can be found on the website www.wirralgolfclassic.co.uk.

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

COURSE FEATURE

Birchwood Golf Club All change at the Challenging Championship Parkland Golf Course in Warrington, Cheshire with 2014 bringing in various changes to the golf course and a new membership scheme.

With golfers of all abilities looking to play at the golf club, Birchwood has decided to re configure the yardages to create what will be a first in the surrounding area, 4 measured golf courses of varying lengths.

The project will see 4 new tee areas built, 3 of which will be incorporated into a new shorter Ladies Golf Course. This will shorten the golf course by just under 200 yards which will provide a more friendly yet still competitive yardage for competition play.

Competition tee for the 13th Hole, which will provide a more demanding tee shot for a risk or reward golf hole lined with trees, water and wildlife.

With work starting in early 2014, the start of the main golfing season should see 4 golf courses in one, which Birchwood feel will give every player a chance to play off a length of course that suits the level of ability, maximising their enjoyment on a fantastic layout.

COURSE FEATURE

The structure of the golf course will see a shorter ladies golf course, a new shorter yellow tee course for general play under 600 yards from its current 6242 yardage. The existing yellow course will revert to a new white course, measuring 6262 yards with the Mens competition tees measuring a challenging 6626 yards and black in colour.

As well as the exciting course changes, Birchwood for 2014 has actually reduced membership rates. Full 7 day Membership is now only £695 a £100 reduction from 2013.

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

In a further bold move to attract younger golfers Birchwood has introduced an even lower reduced full membership category for players aged between 30-39 for just £595.

Even if you are under 30 years of age, the price is only £495 for full membership, with this becoming cheaper the younger you are as the rate decreases every 2 years of age.

2014 has never been a better time to get involved at Birchwood Golf Club either by playing the course as a visitor or Society, or by

becoming a member of this forward thinking Golf Club.

For further details, you can check out the Golf Clubs new website at www.birchwoodgolfclub. co.uk or contact the club on 01925 818819 or ring the Professional Shop and speak to Head PGA Golf Professional Carl Edwards on 01925 825216.

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

Two Clubs in One! Golfers at two Cheshire based clubs will have the opportunity to become members of both rather than just one! Pryors Hayes Golf Club has it all going on now, with the announcement that brothers Tim and Richard Barnes, proprietors of Hartford Golf Club, have taken over ownership of the Chester Club.

Staff and Members at Pryors Hayes appear to be happy with the news and plans are in place to make a number of positive improvements to this already well established venue.

The last 10 years have seen steady development at the club and further enrichment to the playing experience at Pryors Hayes will come from the combining the skills and experience of Head Green Keeper Hamish McConachie with those of Hartford’s Head, Andy Wyman (experience at St Anns Old Links and Carden Park) and Richard Barnes, whose expertise at Hartford has created a superb year round course. There are improvements to Greens, Tees and Bunkers planned.

Pryors is currently a very busy club with a strong membership base, and offers plenty of competitions (at least 4 per week) which are well supported and is also a super venue for Societies who are also welcome at weekends!

Hartford Golf Club itself boasts an impressive membership across all sectors and this has increased by almost 40% in the last year alone, this phenomenal growth has come from Hartford’s strong drive to get more people into golf by becoming heavily involved in activities supported by Golf England .This proactive approach has seen Adam Powell the Golf Pro at Hartford running Get into Golf sessions at the club, and has also seen the club hosting such

community events as Family Fun Days to get more and more local people through the doors, this ethos has encouraged positive expansion of the club and Tim and Richard are keen to apply the same level of services, activities and offers at Pryors Hayes so that both clubs will see increased memberships and play and mutually offer Value for Money with membership from as little as £10 per month and pay and play from £9.50.

Pryors Hayes has a very strong Juniors section run by Golf Pro Roger Shutt and the two clubs plan to build upon this together with ‘Developing Junior Golf’ a firm objective.

Providing exciting opportunities and

REGIONAL NEWS

competitions to Junior’s at both venues will ensure the continued growth of this sector nurturing the Golfers of the future.

Special Joint Promotions are also planned that will benefit the members and players of both clubs starting with Joint Membership offers.

Hartford is also keen to show off its state of the art fitting studio, fully equipped Training Suite with both Trackman and Foresight GC2 Launch Monitors together with its superb floodlit 26 bay Driving Range to members of Pryors Hayes and vice versa, the staff at Pryors Hayes are looking forward to showing off their impressive 18 hole golf course to Hartford’s players.

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Hartford’s Club Shop is one of the most well stocked Golf retail outlets in the North West, run by highly experienced and qualified Staff, who also offer a superb fitting service. This great facility will benefit Pryors Hayes members and Managers of both club shops look forward to offering a level of service that is unbeaten locally.

Off the course the facilities offered at both clubs include stylish Wedding and Function Suites and Conferencing Rooms. Tim and Richard plan to offer the very same high standards across the two venues and are preparing to make some improvements to the clubhouse at Pryors Hayes to provide even

better facilities to brides and grooms and the business customer. Golf Clubs are popular locations for weddings these days and both clubs aim to provide the best facilities in the area.

All in all this is a very positive outcome for both clubs and with the strong offering at Hartford supporting that of Pryors Hayes the future of both clubs is very rosy indeed.

Contact Details Pryors Hayes Golf Club Telelphone: 01829 741250 / 740140 info@pryors-hayes.co.uk www.pryorshayes.co.uk

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

New golf academy begins construction the academy will be also home to a range of specialist golfing services and coaches.

The specialists will include Kevin Duffy, the well renowned golf fitness professional; Tour X who offer customised golf club fitting; Lee Crombleholme, one of the European Tour’s leading mind coaches; Natalie Adams, the junior and ladies coaching development specialist and Andrew Murray BBC Commentator and former European tour winner.

Construction of the brand new golfing academy has begun at High Legh Park, one of Cheshire’s premier golfing venues.

The fantastic golfing academy is due for completion in Spring 2013. Not only will the development include a new driving range,

The initial breaking of the ground was carried out by High Legh Park owner, Andrew Vaughan, and Andrew ‘Chubby’ Chandler from ISM (International Sports Management) who have secured the naming rights for the new development.

Andrew Chandler commented, “High Legh Park is a very forward thinking organisation

and the Academy will be a real magnet for golfers from all over the North West. We are delighted to be part of the Academy and the plans that the club has to help grow the game of golf in the area.”

The Golf Academy is part of the long term vision for the club that has already seen the re-design of the existing 18 hole golf course and will also include the introduction of a new 9 hole short course and a small training course for learners and junior players.

To celebrate the beginning of the construction of the ISM Golf Academy the club are offering a limited number of memberships that will offer people 15 months for the price of 12 and no joining fee as well as additional benefits.

Anyone interested in securing these limited memberships needs to contact the club before the 1st April 2014 on 01565 830888.

The European Junior Golf Tour Golf Professionals, Roger Shutt and Rob Ashbrook, have teamed up to announce the launch of The European Junior Golf Tour (EJGT).

The Tours patrons are Joanne Morley (Former Solheim Cup Vice Captain) and Andrew Murray, Senior Tour Player and former European Open tour winner.

The EJGT provides a new competitive experience for juniors and youths to develop their game to new levels through a challenging schedule of nationwide tournaments played at some of the best courses in the UK.

A unique tour membership package is available offering exclusive access to key professionals in the golf industry from fitness specialists to current tour players.

Players will compete in their age groups 12-13, 14-15 and 16-17 years (age group placement is based on age as at 1st April 2014) for the full season. Handicap limits will apply. The competition format will be based on gross medal scores qualifying towards the annual Order of Merit, with additional nett prizes.

The Tour has also been offered an exclusive invite for a tour member to play in the prestigious Ian Poulter Invitational annual event at Woburn in July 2014. The Tour also encourages clubs and coaches to promote the scheme to ‘sponsor a junior’ to play on the Tour and represent their home club.

The EJGT will provide a natural progression path for young children playing on the nationwide TommyT Junior Tour (ages 3-11 years), now enjoying its 4th season!

Regional Venues: Notts (Hollinwell), Burnham and Berrow, Machynys, Abridge, Astbury Hall, The Buckinghamshire, Wychwood Park and St Annes Old Links.

The EJGT management team will ensure the events and activities will be professionally organised and managed to the highest possible standards.

For further info please contact our team on 01244 567660 or email info@europeanjgt.com Web: www.europeanjgt.com Mobile app: www. europeanjgt.tel/

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The leading 4 players of the ‘Race to Spain’ Order of Merit in 2014 will WIN a 2-night stay with 2 rounds of competition golf at the Tamisa Hotel on Mijas Golf, Costa del Sol, Spain 27-29th October 2014 (Flights not included)

Ladiesin2Golf Members £229 / Non-Members £249

Contact us now to book or for further details and a full itinerary Tel: 07735 421306 or Email: info@ladiesin2golf.co.uk www.ladiesin2golf.co.uk

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

GOLF LESSONS

New flightscope launch monitor clubfitting

Golf lesson vouchers make perfect gifts

Golf Lessons in Warrington at Poulton Park golf academy Poulton Park Golf Club in Warrington is now one of the North Wests premier short game facilities. As head coach with over 20 years experience, Freddy Valenti has built an indoor state of the art teaching studio with video analysis technology and flightscope ball tracking data to offer everything a pupil could want to improve their game.

We have a fantastic short game facility, 2 putting greens and use of the golf course for teaching. We now have in place the new Flightscope radar ball tracking system.

It can be used for lessons, clubfitting and practice training sessions. Have a look at www.flightscope.com for more info on this revolutionary new machine.

The golf course is a very testing 9 hole course with 18 different tees for when playing 18 holes. Membership is thriving but spaces available for £600 for full membership and great deals for 18-21 22-25 and 26-28 year olds.

Due to a Sport England Grant and Freddy’s own personal investment there has been nearly £100,000 put in over the last 4 years to make the facility the most attractive and possibly the only all year round short game specialist venue.

Lessons start from just £22 and a practice session on the short game area is just £5 with balls provided if necessary. Call Freddy or Matt now to book on 01925 825220 or email freddy@myprogolfer.co.uk

For more info visit www.poultonparkgolfclub. co.uk or www.valentigolf.com

We have some great green fee offers for as little as £6 for 9 holes in the winter.

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Franchises available Excellent terms If you would like to start a Golf Guide in your region, contact us now.

Paul Lambert Telephone: 07786 548629 paul@golfguidepublications.com

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

COURSE FEATURE

Shaw Hill Golf & Spa Hotel Swing by for a special spa sensation At Shaw Hill we have an excellent fully equipped Leisure Club which is suitable for all.

Enjoy a little pampering with a Spa Day/Break or simply relax by the pool in the jacuzzi or train for a marathon! - The choice is yours...

COURSE FEATURE

Facilities Boasting an 18 metre swimming pool, fully equipped gym, fitness classes, tanning machines, sauna, steam room, spa days, jacuzzi, beauty salon and hairdressing salon. It’s all available under one roof. Vouchers can be bought for gifts.

Why join us?

All new members have an initial health assessment and a personal programme is agreed - also all members enjoy 10% off all purchases in the Hotel, be it a simple snack or a wedding reception - 10% will de deducted off the bill.

How to join We have several membership options see attached tariff or telephone 01257 226821 or use our contact form or e-mail leisure@shaw-hill.co.uk Corporate membership We have special deals for members of the NHS, Police, Fire and Prison service and can offer corporate memberships for any other business that may wish to introduce

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

a loyalty scheme for staff. Please ask contact us on 01257 269221 for details.

Payments can be made in full or by direct debit - just ask for details Fitness classes All fitness classes are included in your membership price - see attached timetable.

Beauty Salon Le Visage Beauty Salon offers a wide range of extensive treatment menu. Their carefully selected products include Decleor, Jessica, Jane, Iredale, St Tropez and CACI, All treatments must be booked direct with the salon (Please note we advise you book at least two/three weeks in advance) either click here to see the web-site or ring 01257 261816 to make your booking. They can accommodate small groups.

Hairdressers Why not visit our onsite hair SalonAppointments must be booked in advance of arrival direct with the Salon on 01257 273528

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

New pro-am gets the ‘green’ light PGA North will break new ground when they stage the Campey Pro-Greenkeeper Challenge at Lancashire club Hart Common on April 8. The event was instigated by professional Steve Parry and owner Peter Roberts who were keen to showcase the redesigned course at Westhoughton which has been described as a hidden gem.

“We’d originally planned a demo day but when Peter approached Campey Turf Care Systems they agreed to sponsor an event,” said Parry. “We’ve already had a lot of interest so hopefully it will become an annual fixture.”

Ian Campbell, boss of the Macclesfieldbased company which also services football grounds, will demonstrate his state-of-theart machines while his 15-year-old son Liam represents him in the competition. “He’s a better player than me,” he admitted.

“And I’m sure the day will be a success.”

Teams comprise one professional and an amateur and there’s a £3,600 prize-fund based on a full field of 60.

Steve Parry

Upton Golf Club Words from their new pro, Nick Sargent and support as they have pulled out all the stops to help me, but unfortunately Christmas has put a lot of things behind schedule.

I would just like to say hello to all at Upton Golf Club and to briefly introduce myself. I am also the pro at Eastham Lodge GC, and with my team of professionals I am running both venues. My future plans are to provide the Members of Upton Golf Club with the best service possible.

On takeover I have been slightly hampered as I have not been able to get the necessary insurance for my stock, until the security of the shop has been upgraded, the stocking process will be completed early next week. I must thank Mike Brown and the board for their help

On completion of the security work I will stock the shop with a full range of top quality Golf products, at very competitive prices. I would request that members speak to myself and my staff, especially in these early days to make me aware of the sort of items and Brands that you would like to see in the shop. Please let me know if you see anything that you see cheaper elsewhere, if given the chance I will match prices were I can. I will only carry top quality products. If I have an opportunity to purchase items at a reduced price, due to their quality, condition or “old model”, that stock will be clearly marked. I do have many contacts in the industry and will source good deals whenever I can and pass those savings on to my customers.

I have already arranged for early spring that equipment will be fitted into the swing

room, in order for it to become a teaching and club fitting studio. This is a fantastic piece of equipment, and will be a huge aid to coaching and club fitting. Manufacturers will publicise and spread the word, which will be excellent advertising for your club.

I have been a P.G.A. qualified for 14 years, and have been in the golf trade for 21, and have built a good reputation as a Golf Coach. I have trained three assistant pros who have all now qualified and my newest recruit Hannah, who you will see in the shop, is starting her official P.G.A. training soon and currently plays golf for Cheshire. I have coached many members from all the Chester Clubs, as they obviously were happy with my methods.

Golf is not only my job, it’s my passion and my hobby. I’m here to help you in any way I can so please come into the shop to see me and let me know what you expect from me, don’t worry I have broad shoulders.

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

COURSE FEATURE

Hesketh Golf Club The Olympics and ‘The Golf Prize of Nations’ The Olympic Torch Relay visited Southport on Friday 1st June 2012 but for the members of Hesketh Golf Club that week saw the realisation of an older Olympic dream. Just two days earlier, in a Bonham’s Auction in Chester, the club had purchased Hitler’s ‘The Golf Prize of Nations’.

The 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin are remembered for the manner in which the host nation attempted to hijack this great sporting festival, as an instrument for propaganda. Black American Jesse Owens, with four gold medals, rather stymied this attempt. An attempt to salvage some sporting pride was later made at ‘The Golf Prize of Nations’ played in BadenBaden in association with the Olympics.

It was a four round two-man team stroke event for a trophy donated by Hitler. The trophy is an impressive silver-gilt salver inlaid with eight large amber discs, a true German stone. The English team, selected by the English Golf Union, was Yorkshireman Tom Thirsk and

Hesketh’s Arnold Bentley. After three rounds the German team enjoyed a three-stroke lead and Foreign Minister von Ribbentrop, who was representing Hitler at the championship, rashly notified him of an imminent home victory. Hitler immediately set out for BadenBaden to enjoy the German triumph and to present his trophy. However, in the final round the English team were able to take a four shot winning lead.

Ribbentrop then raced off by car to intercept Hitler and to convey the bad tidings. Hitler was furious at being denied the opportunity to celebrate a German victory and ordered his chauffeur to turn the car around and

COURSE FEATURE

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Festival Week

return to Berlin. Hitler’s ‘Golf Prize of Nations’ golf tournament had not gone according to the promoters’ plan and, in Germany, records of the event appear to have been conveniently air-brushed out.

The presentation did go ahead and the salver became the property of the English Golf Union.

After Arnold Bentley’s death his son, Robert, generously presented all his father’s golf trophies, including his commemorative salver and individual medal from Baden-Baden, to Hesketh, and these have been on permanent display in the club’s Bentley Room for some years. Curiously a small potted fir tree was presented to each of the winning team; Bentley’s was planted and still flourishes on a sandhill, behind the flagstaff. It became known as the Hitler tree and during the war years members are reputed to have relieved themselves against it as they departed in the ‘black out’.

What of the team trophy – The Golf Prize of Nations? The property of the English Golf Union, it was presented to the Golfers’ Club in London, probably in recognition of the contribution it had made to golf and particularly in the provision of administrative accommodation. After the war this club was hit by declining membership and became a proprietary club. The club did not survive and its assets went into private hands.

Members of Hesketh have long believed that their clubhouse was probably the most appropriate destination for this trophy and eventually it was offered for sale at auction in

2012 to coincide with that year’s Olympics.

Fortunately one of Arnold Bentley’s close golfing friends at Hesketh was Derek Holden, a man some twenty years his junior. Derek is now the Club President and he was able to mobilise members to pledge sufficient funds to purchase the trophy.

The hammer went down on Hesketh’s bid and the club’s Olympic dream had been realised.

After a short period, while satisfactory display and security measures were taken, members and visitors alike are now able to view one of the world’s most historic pieces of sporting memorabilia, taking in Golf, the Olympics and World War II. With the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics receiving more and more publicity, golf will also be on everyone’s lips as, for the first time since 1904, this ancient sport will be included in the Olympic programme.

As a consequence of this, Hesketh has already received a visit from America’s TV Golf Channel who spent a full day at the club, filming the club and clubhouse and interviewing both Derek and Robert Bentley. With the TV ‘Golf Channel’ reputed to be accessible in over 80 million homes in the United States alone and something like 120 million worldwide, can Hesketh Golf Club expect a substantial increase in green-fee income - we can only wait and see!

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

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

Visitors are extremely welcome at Hesketh where they are sure of receiving a very warm reception from everyone at the Club.

The Club is renowned for its friendliness towards visitors from the moment they enter the clubhouse or the well stocked Pro Shop, until they leave, having enjoyed their round of golf and the Club’s hospitality.

Individuals, groups or societies are all guaranteed a challenging but extremely enjoyable golfing experience. The bar and catering facilities are fully up to date but set in a very traditional context as would be expected of a club with such a long and proud history.

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

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

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

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

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

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

REGIONAL NEWS

PGA Golf Academy Caters for All For some the term academy evokes images of elitism. For others is reek’s of excellence.

Members of both camps however are likely to subscribe to the fact that you have to be at the top of your division to attend one, whatever its area of speciality. In the case of the latter the Golf Academy at Formby Hall makes nonsense of that notion.

Although fully equipped with some of the finest golf academy facilities in the region, Formby Hall does not ignore those at the other end of the golfing spectrum who are looking to improve their skills and enjoy their golf as much as possible.

Mark Williams, Golf Manager at Formby Hall firmly believes that you can have great facilities but to really engage and inspire your students then you have to assemble the best team.

“To help deliver the variety of coaching options expected in a modern forward thinking facility it is essential to have a dedicated team of PGA professionals in place that live for the game as much as our customers do” commented Williams.

The current teaching staff line up at Formby Hall have collectively over 65 years of experience of helping golfers get the most out of their game. Guided by Williams, the team now includes PGA qualified professionals Richie Marsden, Alan Bradshaw, new team member Paul Platt and PGA Assistant Dave Goscombe.

As the newest addition to the PGA Golf Academy, Paul has strong links to the area having developed his golf as an amateur at Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club. Since qualifying as a PGA professional, his coaching career has taken to him to positions both in the UK and in more recently Italy. He has developed his awareness and understanding of modern day teaching techniques and worked with all types of golfers from complete beginners to tournament professionals.

“I am genuinely excited to have returned back to the UK and work alongside Mark Williams and the rest of the team at what I consider to be the one of the best teaching facilities in the UK” commented Platt, “My coaching philosophy

is simple – To maximise the potential of every pupil, I believe every golfer can make progress with a tailored improvement programme”.

As the New Year edges closer and your thoughts turn towards the new season now is the ideal time to start preparing your pre-season training program. To help make sure that you start next season refreshed, improved and ready to shoot lower scores we have launched our new Golf Assessment Session (GAS). Designed to help you discover which parts of your game you need to focus on the most, this session includes video analysis, trackman measuring, putting, short and long game review, club suitability check and our 5 point screen to help us identify any potential physical limitations. On completion of the session we will have formulated a training program to help you get the most out of your practice time. As an introductory offer we are offering the assessment session to our club members for only £20.

Since its opening its doors in 2008 the PGA Golf Academy at Formby Hall has been demanding golfers attention. Not only because of its facilities which include a 26 bay driving range, short game area, Leisure Club, 9 hole course, putting school and high tech teaching studio, but also the success it has bred with the young golfers coming through the resort.

Formby hall has introduced hundreds of children to the game over the last 5 years.

Coaching programmes include evening & weekend classes, summers camps, residential golf schools, fitness training and school sessions, they have even hosted a clinic hosted by 18 time major winner Jack Nicklaus and European Tour winner Tommy Fleetwood.

Adding to the academy structure, the Harold Swash putting school has seen its list of satisfied clients grow, their list of students visiting the resort include Thomas Bjorn, Henrik Strenson, Eduardo Mollinari, David Horsey, Chris wood, Simon Khan, Oli Fisher and Richie Ramsay.

The very reason Formby Hall is breeding this success is down to the fantastic facilities that attract golfers there to work on their game.

Its comfortable and welcoming surroundings lend themselves to learning, golfers can get

in the productive frame of mind knowing that everything they need is in one place. That is also supported by the national and regional county teams signing up to train there over the winter break. Lancashire and Cheshire men’s teams, Lancashire ladies and the England teams have squad have all booked there training schedules in at Formby Hall.

Terry Casey, England squad manager, Father of US Tour Player Paul Casey was delighted with the service and facilities at the PGA Golf Academy during his recent week stay and said “I must congratulate them on the whole set-up at Formby Hall I was very much impressed with everything. We used the short game facility, which is good, but mainly we used the par 3 course and this proved just fantastic. All the coaches and players were impressed, the firmness of the greens was impressive and they were still receptive. Its no wonder Tommy Fleetwood spends a good deal of time there.

The design is excellent and the range of shot options it presents can hardly be improved.”

We have also launched our own golf academy twitter page @FHgolfacademy please follow us for news and tips from the academy.

For more information on our current lesson offers and packages please call the Golf Shop on 01704 875699 to speak to one of the coaches or email golfmanager@formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk

TRAVEL

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

Advance booking is essential.

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

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

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

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cheshire Introduction

Photos courtesy VisitBritain

©Britainonview / Adrian Houston

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

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

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

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

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

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

©Britainonview / Rod Edwards

©Britainonview / Rod Edwards

©Britainonview / Adrian Houston

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cheshire Introduction

M-6 M-62 01

15

M-56

Warrington

M-53

Lymm 08

Runcorn

09

11

Knutsford

Frodsham

Ellesmere Port

Wimslow

21

17

13

07

Macclesfield

Northwich M-56

19 05

12 18 20 Chester

16

06

10 Winsford

14

Congleton

Tarporley

04

Sandbach

Crewe

03

Nantwich 02

Malpas

M-6 Whitchurch

01. Birchwood 02. Brookfield 03. Crewe 04. Carden Park 05. Delamere Forest 06. Eaton Golf Club 07. Hartford 08. High Legh 09. Hooton 10. Knights Grange 11. The Mere

12. The Oaks 13. Peover 14. Portal 15. Poulton Park 16. Pryors Hayes 17. The Tytherington 18. Upton by Chester 19. Vale Royal 20. Vicars Cross 21. Wilmslow

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Contact Details

44

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

01. How to Find

BIRCHWOOD

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

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

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

Birchwood Golf Club is located next door to Carphone Warehouse.

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

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

REDUCED MEMBERSHIP RATES FOR 2014

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

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

Birchwood Golf Club

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

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 353

10

3

179

2

5 557

11

5

521

3

4 461

12

4

163

4

3 191

13

4

293

5

4 378

14

4

415

6

4 355

15

4

461

7

3 141

16

4

457

8

5 532

17

3

211

9

4 433

18

5

495

GOLF SOCIETIES 2014 WINTER GREEN FEES FROM £12.50pp

FULL MEMBERSHIP NOW ONLY £695

SUMMER SOCIETIES AVAILABLE MON-SAT

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

Facilities

www.birchwoodgolfclub.co.uk

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

Email: carledwardsgolf@hotmail.co.uk

Contact Details

45

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

02. How to Find

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

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

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

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

PAR

BROOKFIELD

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

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 366

10

5

474

2

5 450

11

4

434

3

4 392

12

3

161

4

3 192

13

4

374

5

4 329

14

3

174

6

3 205

15

4

366

7

4 330

16

3

168

8

5 594

17

4

431

9

3 206

18

5

482

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

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

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

After a successful 2013 with membership growth of 25 percent this vibrant club still has places available. Known for it’s friendly atmosphere and helpful staff Brookfield Golf Club is a jewel in the Cheshire countryside. The best value for money golf available.

Societies always welcome Why not try our winter packages starting from just £15.00 For details on membership and society bookings please call Robert Ashbrook on 01270812991 or email wragolf@hotmail.co.uk

Contact Details

46

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

Facilities

CARDEN PARK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

3 5 4 4 4 5 4 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

155 542 365 338 389 524 374 206 432

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 4 4 5 3 4 3 4

340 555 359 342 425 126 381 181 314

03. How to Find

47

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

CARDEN PARK

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 3 5 4 4 4 3 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

383 285 138 479 373 305 358 120 515

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 5 4 4 3 4 5

369 387 177 501 287 341 115 317 456

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

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

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

Visit our new website www.thegolfersguide.co.uk

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Contact Details

49

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 4 3 4 4 3 4

CREWE

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

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

305 422 421 329 148 363 317 145 371

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 4 5 4 4

410 382 284 483 174 322 540 393 414

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

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

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

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

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

Contact Details

50

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 J & S Accessories. Take the next right turn at the Abbey Arms Public House. DFGC is about a mile on the right hand side of the road (opposite the entrance to Delamere Forest and the Station).

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 1921, an event held at the club on a further seven occasions, most recently in 2004. In 1967, Delamere forest was one of the two qualifying courses for the Open Championship when it was held at Hoylake.

At that time Maurice Bembridge posted the professional course record of 63, which stands to this day. Despite the word ‘forest’ in its title, Delamere is a natural heath land course.

Certainly trees are part of the strategy on

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

The course provides a good but fair test for golfers of all abilities, combining challenging par 4s and 5s with strong par 3s where reaching the traditionally fast and sloping greens is only part of the enjoyment. Being constructed on a sandy base excellent drainage helps to ensure that golfers enjoy normal tees and greens throughout the year. Fowler’s design has ensured that each hole is both picturesque and thought provoking, making a visit to Delamere a memorable occasion for all the right reasons.

Casual Golfers, Societies & Groups - All Welcome.

Sample our excellent course and facilities.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6348 • 6101 • 5524 H OLE

PAR

YARDS

H OLE

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

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

Email: delamerepro@btconnect.com

Contact Details

51

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.

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

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

PAR

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

1

4 357

10

4

386

2

4 370

11

3

170

3

4 414

12

4

340

4

3 166

13

4

342

5

5 488

14

5

518

6

3 178

15

4

379

7

4 322

16

5

503

8

5 476

17

3

145

9

4 429

18

4

431

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

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

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

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

COME AND TRY EATON you won’t be disappointed.

Eaton Golf Club Spring Membership Join us for the run up to the 2014 golfing season for just £150.

Once a member, you will be able to participate in all the activities and competitions at the Club until the 30 April 2014.

A discounted rate will be available should you choose to continue with your membership.

Further details are available by visiting www.eatongolfclub.co.uk

Contact Details

52

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

07. How to Find

HARTFORD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 ball SPECIAL OFFER

PAR

5 3 5 4 3 4 3 4 4

YARDS

466 158 488 246 125 247 172 340 353

Simply telephone 01606 871162 to book in advance, quoting NWGG. Fill in your details below and bring the completed voucher with you on the day. Offer ends 31/3/2014.

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

Email:..............................................................................................................

Free coffee & bacon roll for each player.

Weekdays: 9 holes = £30. 18 holes = £40.

Weekends: 9 holes = £40. 18 holes = £50.

Golf course always open. 14 months membership for price of 12.

Discounts at Pryors Hayes and for Golf Societies.

Contact Details

53

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

HIGH LEGH PARK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summer golf packages starting from £20 per head including coffee and bacon roll.

April till September 2014. Bookings of minimum 10 persons

Call 01565 830888 “I must mention that the food we enjoyed was excellent, reasonably priced and beautifully served to the extent where we had cause to drag your cook out of kitchen and give him a standing ovation, seemingly much to his embarrassment”…

P Stockton - The Old Altrinchamian Golf Society

Contact Details

54

Hooton Golf Club Chester Road, Childer Thornton South Wirral, CH66 1QF Telephone: 0151 339 7689 golf@brioleisure.org www.brioleisure.org

09. How to Find

HOOTON

From M53: Follow M53 toward Ellesmere Port/Birkenhead. At junction 5, take the A41 exit to Birkenhead/ Queensferry. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto New Chester Rd/A41. Continue to follow A41

Hooton Golf Club is regarded as one of the finest municipal courses within the Cheshire area, with 18 holes to test any golfer.

The course is naturally free draining, which allows it to remain open all year round, and boasts tricky fairways, well guarded greens and a wealth of natural hazards which will punish any stray shots! The closing 4 holes are a great test of ability whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer. It is here where you will find Hooton Golf Clubs signature hole, the 17th - a par 3 measuring 189 yards. With thick surrounding woodland and a ditch running across the length of the

green, you will understand why it is one of the most talked about par 3’s in the area.

If you’re new to the game or you simply want to improve your swing and stroke play, our Golf Professionals are available for private tuition using ‘Swing Analysis Technology’ with instant playback. We also have a gym and squash court available to help improve your all round fitness levels.

The Hooton Suite has great views out on to the 18th green with a fully licensed bar and a great menu. The function suite is also available for private functions, meetings and conferences.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Buggies, Indoor Teaching Room, Club Hire, Lessons, Well-stocked Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6296 • 5969 • 5474 (73) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 4 4 3 3 4 4 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

409 475 372 311 178 158 259 393 498

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 3 4 3 4 4 3 5

355 490 178 283 176 368 417 173 476

Contact Details

55

Knights Grange Sports Complex Grange Lane, Winsford Cheshire, CW7 2PT Telephone: 01606 552780 golf@brioleisure.org www.brioleisure.org

KNIGHTS GRANGE

10. How to Find From M6: At junction 18, take the A54 exit to Northwich//Holmes Chapel. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Holmes Chapel Rd/A54. Continue to follow A54. Turn right onto Newton Bank/A54. Continue to follow A54.

Go through 3 roundabouts. Turn right onto Grange Lane and continue on this road until it comes to Knights Grange Golf Course at the end.

Knights Grange Golf Course is set in the middle of the beautiful Cheshire countryside and sets an exciting challenge for golfers of all abilities.

The front 9 holes opened in the early 80s and provide a gentle introduction to the course.

Although mainly flat, strategically placed bunkers, trees, ditches and rough, along with tight fairways and well-guarded greens provide a good challenge for all golfers. The 7th and 8th holes are lined with thick woodland on the right hand side – unforgiving of wayward drives!

Facilities Bar, Putting Green, Trolleys, Club Hire, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes Par 66 • 5921 (70) • 5270 • 5137 (70) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

3 4 3 5 4 3 4 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

154 357 189 461 341 167 380 431 365

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 3 4 4 3 4 4 3

133 327 158 404 382 226 303 328 164

The back 9 is where the course really opens up providing ample opportunities for long drives and approach shots, all while taking in

breathtaking views! This part of the course offers a much tougher challenge. Elevated sections coupled with well thought out ditches and bunker placements and water hazards provide a true golfing test. Our signature hole is at the highest point of the back nine the 14th tee. This has panoramic views as far as the eye can see and is sure to help golfers steel themselves for the challenging finish.

There is a fully licensed bar with provision for catering, perfect for private hire functions and corporate events. With staff providing a warm and friendly welcome and doing everything they can to ensure you have the best day possible!

Visit our new website www.thegolfersguide.co.uk

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Contact Details

57

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

11. How to Find

THE MERE

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

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

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

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

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

The Open Championship Regional Qualifying Course 2009 - 2013

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

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

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

The last four holes are particularly memorable.

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

Contact Details

58

The Oaks at Mollington Townfield Lane, Mollington Chester, CH1 6NJ Telephone: 01244 852805 info@theoaksmollington.co.uk www.theoaksmollington.co.uk

12. How to Find

THE OAKS

From Chester: Take the A540 for Hoylake and the Wirral. After driving over the canal bridge you will pass the Mollington Banastre Hotel on your left and then Mollington Grange Retail Park on your right. Take the next turn to your right, signposted for Mollington, and the entrance to the golf club will be found immediately (100 yds) on the right.

We offer a modern open access facility, and want to play an important role in the lifestyle of our members, guests and visitors. The Oaks is known for its warm and friendly welcome from everyone involved with the club and we look forward to welcoming you.

The re-furbished contemporary clubhouse allows golfers and friends of the club to relax in comfortable surroundings that have a touch of elegance. Pull up a chair in the Club bar and enjoy the big sports event of the day or settle in the Main bar with its panoramic views over the course and enjoy any of the fine meals that are on offer in the restaurant.

The course is a par 72, 6478 yard parkland layout accepted as one of the county’s best, staging events for the EuroPro Tour in both 2005 and 2006.

The course has since added family tees making it accessible to the novice golfer whilst still delivering a demanding test for the lower handicapper and professional.

The club currently has one of the fastest growing memberships in the country, whilst The Oaks offers great value green fees seven days per week, and is the perfect venue for corporate and society golf days.

Facilities Bar and restaurant, Elegant clubhouse, Practice ground, short game area and putting greens, Golf academy, Golf cars, trolleys and equipment hire

Course Information 18 holes Par 72 • 6478 • 6097 • 5030 (73) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 4 4 5 3 5 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

352 189 351 291 504 159 642 394 437

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 4 3 5 4 4 3 4

447 531 345 164 490 384 269 146 383

Contact Details

59

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

13. 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 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 3 5 5 4 4 3

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

375 289 348 230 506 558 362 320 176

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 5 5 3 4 4 4

420 423 168 491 497 144 381 381 270

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

www.peovergolfclub.co.uk Offers updated every 2 weeks

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.

Contact Details

60

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

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

PORTAL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 5 5 3 4 4 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

275 321 557 524 197 344 383 387 340

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 5 4 3 4 3 4 4

425 411 507 382 125 379 176 379 392

14. How to Find

61

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

PORTAL

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 5 4 4 3 4 3 4 4

YARDS

306 591 292 336 152 340 152 367 387

HOLE PAR

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 4 4 3 5 3 5

YARDS

414 421 335 404 408 157 519 160 476

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

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

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

Contact Details

62

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

15. How to Find

POULTON PARK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

FREE GOLF UNTIL APRIL 2014 LESS THAN £10 PER WEEK FOR FULL MEMBERSHIP OFFER ALSO APPLIES TO LADIES, JUNIORS, INTERMEDIATE (18-28) & SENIORS RATES DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR GROUP MEMBERSHIPS

PAR

4 3 4 4 4 3 4 5 3

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

250 190 429 340 313 193 417 515 177

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 5 4 4 3 4 4 3

314 144 520 386 289 182 348 440 203

SHARPEN YOUR SHORT GAME

2-4-1 VOUCHER

VISITING PARTIES & GOLF SOCIETIES

FOR £2.50 PER HOUR PRACTICE OFF GRASS AT OUR SUPERB SHORT GAME AREAS

PRESENT THIS ADVERT TO THE PRO SHOP AND TWO GOLFERS PLAY FOR THE PRICE OF ONE

18 HOLES & BREAKFAST ONLY £18.95pp

• PUTTING GREEN • 3 BUNKERS • CHIPPING GREEN • ALL WEATHER GREEN WHY NOT HAVE A LESSON WITH FREDDY VALENTI, CHESHIRE’S SHORT GAME GURU, FROM AS LITTLE AS £20

GRAB A POWER HOUR 9 HOLES FOR JUST £6.50 BEFORE WORK, LUNCHTIME OR AFTER WORK- GET ROUND QUICK AND GET ON WITH YOUR DAY!

WEEKEND DATES AVAILABLE FOR FURTHER DETAILS Contact our professional on 01925 825220 freddy@myprogolfer.co.uk www.poultonparkgolfclub.co.uk

Contact Details

63

Pryors Hayes Golf Club Willington Road, Oscroft, Tarvin Chester, CH3 8NL Tel : 01829 741250 / 740140 Fax: 01829 749077 info@pryors-hayes.co.uk www.pryorshayes.co.uk 16. 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 WINNER OF GOLF CLUB OF THE YEAR 2010.

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.

WINNER OF BEST CLUB FOR SOCIETIES 2009.

WINNER OF BEST CLUB IN THE NORTH 2009.

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 3

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

445 478 223 434 448 336 122 380 163

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 4 3 4 3 5 4

361 333 398 352 163 313 181 494 337

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact Details

64

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

THE TYTHERINGTON CLUB

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

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

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

By Rail, 5 minutes from Macclesfield Railway Station.

By Air, 30 minutes from Manchester Airport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 3 4 3 4 4 4 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

438 489 147 392 185 352 296 318 468

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 5 3 4 4 5 4 4

382 199 512 139 427 395 523 407 382

Membership from £2.50 a day including complimentary health and fitness access.

No joining fee.

Why not try the course for £12.50 quoting ‘MEMBTGG’ on booking.

T&C’s apply

Contact Details

65

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

3 4 4 3 4 3 4 4 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

147 400 268 141 324 171 398 254 506

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 5 4 3 5 3 4

130 358 432 477 390 191 499 233 309

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

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

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

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

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

Special Spring Visitor Offer (Feb/March) Late Availability Tee Times @ £15.00 per round Please contact The Professional Shop 01244 381183 and quote: Golf Guide Offer

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.

Contact Details

66

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

VALE ROYAL ABBEY

19. 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 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 4 4 4 3 4 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

372 493 248 364 355 165 449 326 377

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 4 5 3 4 5

191 289 417 294 307 570 134 409 463

A UNIQUE & BREATHTAKING GOLF EXPERIENCE

Memberships applications invited.

Visitors & Societies welcome.

We offer a range of packages to suit your needs.

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

www.vra.co.uk

events@vra.co.uk

Contact Details

67

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

20. 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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 4 5 4 4 4 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

311 513 371 508 358 411 403 161 254

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 5 3 4 5 3

336 393 335 155 533 172 387 460 130

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

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

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

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

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

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

VISIT VICARS CROSS IN OUR 75TH YEAR - YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED Please take a look at our website www.vicarscrossgolf. co.uk for details of special winter green fees, membership offers and our 2014 Open Competitions.

Contact Details

68

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

21. 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 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

The Ideal Society, Charity & Corporate Venue A range of packages available to suit your needs

THE WILMSLOW GOLF CLUB

PAR

4 4 5 4 4 3 5 4 3

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

357 426 489 389 359 163 451 416 124

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 4 4 3 5

346 318 400 484 147 407 397 158 480

WINTER CROW SPECIALS From November 2013 to March 2014

Green fees £35 per person £99 for 3 ball £120 for 4 ball

Contact the General Managers Office 01565 872148 (Option 1)

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

SOCIETY PACKAGES AVAILABLE – CALL FOR DETAILS

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70

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cheshire Directory

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cheshire Directory

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Greater Manchester Introduction

Photos courtesy VisitBritain

©Britainonview / Pawel Libera

72

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

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

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

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

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

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

©Britainonview / - Britain on View

©Britainonview / Grant Pritchard

©Britainonview / - Britain on View

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

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Greater Manchester Introduction

M-6

M-61 Rochdale

M-66

Bury

M-62

01 Oldham

Wigan & Leigh

02

M-60 Salford

07

M-58

04 05

Tameside

M-602 Manchester

M-67 03 Trafford

M-62

06 M-60 Stockport

M-56 M-6

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

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

73

Contact Details

74

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

01. How to Find

BOLTON

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 3 4 4 4 4 4

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

289 349 395 165 415 328 358 335 412

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 3 5 4 4 4

165 422 420 301 155 481 397 384 403

Contact Details

76

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

02. How to Find

HINDLEY HALL

Leave M61 JUNCTION 6 at roundabout.

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

Club is on the right after 1 mile.

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

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

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

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

added, trees planted and drainage improved.

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

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

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

Course Information

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 5 3 4 3 4 4 4

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

361 190 480 133 415 151 404 266 358

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 4 3 4 4 3 4 4

515 418 375 196 450 297 161 340 416

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

New members welcome - no joining fee.

Contact Details

77

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

03. How to Find

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 4 3 4 5 4 3 4

NORTHENDEN

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

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

442 486 389 142 347 581 395 161 349

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 5 4 3 5 4 4

351 345 209 541 326 173 508 390 325

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

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

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

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

Play AWAY Membership Play AWAY membership is designed for existing golfers who are already members of another golf club and who hold their active HOME handicaps at that club.

Play AWAY membership offers you the chance to play at NGC and enjoy all the clubs’ facilities, alongside other members, all for an affordable membership fee.

Play AWAY Members can now play at NGC for an annual membership fee of just £499 or less if two of more people join together.

Winter Warmer Package Includes bacon bap, 18 holes, followed by soup and sandwiches. £35 weekdays and £40 on Sundays.

Contact Details

78

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

04. How to Find

PRESTWICH

Directions from Manchester: Leave the city centre on the A56 sign posted for Bury.

Continue on the A56 for approximately 3.5 miles until you reach a sign for the A6044. Turn Left following the signs for Swinton. Prestwich Golf Club is approximately 1/2 mile on the left.

Prestwich Golf Club is the closest golf course to Manchester City Centre and is easily accessible from anywhere in the North West of England being close to the M60 Manchester orbital motorway.

Formerly instituted in March 1908 there has been substantial developments of the course over the years and although comparatively short by modern standards this beautiful parkland course with no two holes the same, offers natural hazards and undulation providing a challenge to golfers of all levels. With a rich history and bright future, this hidden gem of a course prides itself on its reputation

for the friendliness to visitors & societies both on the course and in the clubhouse.

PGA Professional Mark Pearson who offers both advice and banter in equal measure frequently escorts visitors to the first tee. Every effort is made to make your visit as interesting and enjoyable as possible. You wont be disappointed.

Signature Hole: 11. ‘Paradise, Par 4 338 yards.

The Fairway which rises and falls whilst turning slightly to the left with an approach to the green which is protected by a very tight opening through the trees. “Out of Bounds” along the left of the fairway coupled with a lateral water hazard.

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

Continue on the A6044 for 2 miles.

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

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 65 • 4799 • 4603 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Green Fees £15 (Monday - Friday). £20 (Saturday - Sunday) Fourball Offer £40(Monday - Friday). £50 (Saturday - Sunday) Visit: www.prestwichgolf.co.uk Email: info@prestwichgolf.co.uk or call: 0161 773 1404

PAR

4 4 4 3 4 3 4 3 4

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

257 323 328 162 423 179 257 203 369

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 3 4 3 4 4 3

209 338 282 182 319 149 369 316 134

Contact Details

79

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

05. How to Find

SWINTON PARK

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

5 5 3 4 4 4 5 3 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

479 495 156 413 446 405 467 167 513

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 4 4 4 3 5

358 448 298 199 369 398 390 175 485

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

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

“Your gateway to an exlusive world of affordable leisure and relaxation” Visit us online at www.swintonparkgolfclub.co.uk for all the latest news & offers /Swinton-Park-GC

@SwintonParkGC

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

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

Contact Details

80

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

WITHINGTON

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Open Events 2014

Summer Golf Package

Gents Open - Sunday 18th May 4-Ball Better Ball Stableford

Soup & Sandwich Lunch 18 holes of Golf 3 Course Evening Meal £40.00 Please quote SGP14

Seniors Open - Monday 9th June 4-Ball Better Ball Stableford Seniors Mixed Open - Tuesday 1st July Greensome Withington Salver - Sunday 10th August Mixed Open Greensome

PAR

3 4 4 3 5 4 4 3 5

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

130 387 396 162 492 290 333 176 460

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 4 4 5 4 4

147 316 314 343 446 302 550 411 417

Young Player Membership 21 – 24 : £256 25 – 27 : £426 28 – 30 : £640 31 – 34 : £682 2 for 1 New Lady Members Junior Girls join free

Contact Details

81

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

07. How to Find

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 3 5 5 3 4 3

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

409 360 434 166 529 515 169 399 180

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 5 3 4 4 4 5

389 188 311 522 153 406 389 284 504

WORSLEY PARK

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

Entrance is on the left hand side.

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

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

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

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

WARM UP YOUR WINTER! GOLF WINTER WARMER PACKAGE FROM £37 PER PERSON Includes arrival tea and coffee, bacon rolls, 18 holes on our Worsley Park championship course followed by chef’s dish of the day. Call 0161 975 2043 and quote: GWW13 Offer and tee times subject to availability. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer/voucher.

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

Offer available between 1st November 2013 and 31st March 2014. Buggies available at £20 per buggy.

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

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

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North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Greater Manchester Directory

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Horwich Golf Club Telephone: 01204 696980 Website n/a

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

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

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

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Greater Manchester Directory

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Valynette Golf Club Telephone: 01257 480485 Website n/a

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

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

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

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

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

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84

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Lancashire Introduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Lancashire Introduction

M-6

02 Morecambe Lancaster

07

Fleetwood

Poulton-Le-Fylde

Colne

04 Nelson

03 M-55

Blackpool

Burnley 01

05

Preston

08

Blackburn 09

Lytham

M-65 Leyland 10 Eccleston

Chorley

06 M-61 M-6 Skelmersdale

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

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

Accrington

85

ROYAL LYTHAM & ST. ANNES

86

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

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

Over the next four years he repositioned some of the greens and tees added numerous bunkers and lengthened the course. It is not a conventionally beautiful golf course, surrounded as it is by suburban housing and flanked by a railway line, but it has a charm

ROYAL LYTHAM & ST. ANNES

87

Photographs by Alan C. Birch

Contact Details Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club Links Gate, Lytham St Annes FY8 3LQ Telephone: 01253 724206 bookings@royallytham.org www.royallytham.org 01. How to Find From the M55 direction of Airport Progress Way to Squires Gate Land (A5230) At 3rd set of Traffic Lights turn left for Lytham St Annes you are now on the A584 proceed past Pontins Holiday Centre, at the 3rd set of traffic lights (St Thomas Road) turn left over railway bridge, Royal Lytham situated on your right at next junction.

Handicaps Handicap Certificates must be produced and permitted handicaps are 21 (Men and Boys) and 30 (Ladies and Girls). Juniors must be accompanied by an Adult.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 7118 • 6731 (71) • 6360 (71) • 5854 (75)

all of its own. It is a Links course that is a long way from the sea yet close enough for the sea breeze to have an effect on one’s game and was aptly described by Bernard Darwin, the leading golf writer of the thirties, as ‘a beast of a course, but a just beast’. He went on to say that ‘no one could fail to be impressed by its difficulties, which sets a golfer just about as ruthless as an examination as any course of my acquaintance’.

Ryder Cup Captain Mark James wrote “ And Lytham was set up magnificently in 2001 (for the Open Championship), perfect for the world’s premier golfing event. I do not think they could have prepared that course better. It was a perfect combination of width of fairways, length of rough and pace and quality of greens. It should be used as a

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

It is renowned as a course on which it is hard to scramble a good score, after all, there are 200 bunkers peppering the fairways and surrounding the greens. It may not be the longest of courses but it is one where careful thought and accurate shots are required.

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

Contact Details

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Bentham Golf Club Robin Lane, High Bentham Lancaster, LA2 7AG Telephone: 01524 262455 golf@benthamgolfclub.co.uk www.benthamgolfclub.co.uk

02. How to Find

BENTHAM

Bentham Golf Club is remarkably accessible, only 20 minutes from J 34 or J 36 on the M6, or if travelling from the Yorkshire Dales, only 5 minutes from the A65 to the centre of Bentham where the golf course is well sign posted.

Facilities

Bentham Golf Club is a picturesque 18 hole Golf course situated in the Three Peaks area of North Yorkshire which is famous for its wonderful scenery. The stunning views from the course provide a welcome distraction for players who are struggling with their game.

Previously described as the Augusta of the Dales, Bentham offers a challenge to golfers of all abilities. The views on the golf course of Ingleborough, Pen-y-Ghent and Whernside are a sight to behold on a clear day, with a breathtaking background of the Lake District Fells. The course has been under new ownership of the Marshall Family since 2009

and has a bright future ahead of it following many improvements over the last few years.

One of these changes includes ‘The Bunker’, our new state-of-the-art teaching room featuring the latest video software to analyse every aspect of your game. The Bunker is the only one of these rooms with all this amazing technology in the area so it’s well worth a visit to see how it can transform your game.

Many visitors have commented on the outstanding quality of the greens and even more of them discovered that it is the friendliest of clubs, offering a warm welcome to new members and visitors alike.

18 hole course, Pro Shop, Clubhouse/ Function Room with patio overlooking 18th green, Changing rooms with showers, Buggy hire (April September), Trolley hire, Electric trolley hire, Indoor teaching studio, Putting Green, Practice area Coming Soon Covered Practice range All weather buggy tracks

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6033 • 5682 • 5484 (73) H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 387

10

4

394

2

5 512

11

4

296

3

4 267

12

5

509

4

4 361

13

4

326

5

5 488

14

3

169

6

3 148

15

4

350

7

4 398

16

4

343

8

3 141

17

3

147

9

4 381

18

4

416

Contact Details

89

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

BLACKPOOL NORTH SHORE

Telephone: 01253 352054 office@bnsgc.com www.bnsgc.com www.facebook.com/BNSGC www.twitter.com/BNSGC1904 03. How to Find From Blackpool: Make your way on to the Promenade and head North.

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

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Buggies, Lessons, Pro shop, Golf Teaching Academy, Sky Sports, WIFI, Function Room, Practice Ground, Buggy Storage Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6431 • 5878 • 5657 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 5 4 4 4 3 4 3

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

436 400 524 367 429 385 175 303 196

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 4 5 4 3 4

533 435 178 296 341 537 309 172 415

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

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

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

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

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

Please ring for details of golf society packages starting at £19pp

Visit our new website www.thegolfersguide.co.uk

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Contact Details

91

Clitheroe Golf Club Whalley Road, Clitheroe Lancashire BB7 1PP Telephone: 01200 422292 Pro Shop: 01200 424242 secretary@clitheroegolfclub.com www.clitheroegolfclub.com 04. How to Find

CLITHEROE

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

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

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

Regional Qualifying Course 2010-2014 Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6531 • 6379 • 6159 • 5632 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

5 4 4 4 3 4 4 3 4

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

466 361 444 293 140 345 441 168 391

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 4 4 3 5

372 417 447 518 182 398 317 151 528

Clitheroe Golf Club was formed in November 1891 and moved to its present site when ninety six acres of land were purchased for £5,000 at Barrow Gardens in 1932. The generosity of the Southworth family made possible the erection of a fine clubhouse building, as well as the establishment of a full 18 hole course rather than the 9 holes originally planned.

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.

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.

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

CLITHEROE GOLF CLUB OPEN COMPETITIONS 2014. Telephone: 01200 422292 Online booking & entry forms can be downloaded from our website www.clitheroegolfclub.com MARCH OPEN FOURBALL SENIORS MIXED OPEN GENTS OPEN 4 BBB LADIES OPEN TEAM EVENT SENIORS OPEN 4 BBB MENS OPEN TEAM EVENT MIXED OPEN 4 BBB SENIORS OPEN 4 BBB JAMES BRAID MENS SINGLES GENTS OPEN FOURBALL

30th MARCH 9th APRIL 11th MAY 15th MAY 21st MAY 1st JUNE 8th JUNE 8th JULY 12th JULY 27th JULY

£30 per pair £40 per pair £40 per pair £64 per team £40 per pair £100 per team £35 per team £40 per pair £25 each £40 per pair

SIR MICHAEL BONALLACK MIXED OPEN TEAM EVENT JUNIOR OPEN LADIES OPEN TEAM EVENT GENTS OPEN TEAM EVENT SENIORS 4 MAN TEAM EVENT PENDLE WITCH 36 HOLE AUTUMN 4 BBB LADIES OPEN TURKEY SHOOT

30th JULY 24th AUG 26th AUG 31st AUG 7 th SEPT 17th SEPT 21st SEPT 12th OCT 5th NOV

£15 each £80 per team £8 each £64 per team £100 per team £80 per team £25 each £40.00 per pair £10.00 each

Contact Details

92

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

05. How to Find

FAIRHAVEN

From the M6, exit junction 32 to M55/ Blackpool. Leave M55 at junction 4, take the A583 exit. At roundabout, take the 1st exit onto A583/Preston New Rd, at the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Lytham Saint Annes Way. At 2nd roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto School Road. Turn left at B5261 onto Common Edge Road at lights. At next traffic lights turn right at B5261 onto Blackpool Rd. Turn left, immediately after zebra crossing, at Forest Drive.

Turn 1st left at Oakwood Ave. Turn 1st right into Fairhaven Golf Club.

Recognised by the hierarchy of golf as one of the best courses in Northern England, Fairhaven has much to offer visiting golfers, whatever their handicap. Fairhaven is not only a beautiful place to play golf but fully lives up to its designation as a ‘Championship’ course originally designed by James Braid. Professional golf at Fairhaven started back in 1934 when the course played host to the ‘Penfold’ Tournament.

The course is an unusual blend of links and parkland which is relatively flat. This makes it not too strenuous to walk around and allows complete vision of each hole from tee to green.

It is consistently maintained and presented to

the highest standard, presenting a fair challenge to golfers of all abilities, featuring the ‘risk & reward’ elements of negotiating the 118 deep revetted bunkers for which Fairhaven is famous.

1st, Par 5. Listed and described in ‘Golf World’ as one of the top ten opening holes in Great Britain & Ireland. In many ways this past Open Championship final qualifying course’s opener is the perfect par 5. 18th, Par 5. A classic finishing hole, it can reward the brave and punish the nervous. For long hitters a good line is over the right edge of the left-hand bunkers.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Driving Range, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Function/Meeting Rooms

Course Information 18 holes, Par 73 • 7015 (72) • 6787 • 6562 • 6002 (75) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

5 3 5 4 3 4 4 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

510 177 500 436 179 366 335 387 351

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 5 4 4 4 5 4 3 5

181 483 349 345 364 485 471 146 497

Looking for a special venue for your golf day – look no further!

Special rates for groups of 4 to 12 golfers & Captains Away Days Contact Lindzi for further information and to arrange your special day Tel: 01253 736741 | Email: info@fairhavengolfclub.co.uk | Web: www.fairhavengolfclub.co.uk

Contact Details

93

Hurlston Hall Golf & Country Club Hurlston Lane, Scarisbrick, Lancashire, L40 8HB Telephone: 01704 840 400 info@hurlstonhall.co.uk www.hurlstonhall.co.uk

06. How to Find

Facilities Spa, Leisure Club, Bar, Restaurant, Spike Bar, Bistro, Floodlit Driving Range, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop, Bowling Green

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6585 • 6328 • 5882 (75) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 4 4 4 5 3 5 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

403 156 331 362 399 454 137 483 385

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 5

408 523 181 358 343 407 156 359 483

HURLSTON HALL

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

Designed by the famous Donald Steel, this young course has matured way beyond its years.

If you choose to play cautiously or aggressively, your round at Hurlston is bound to be enjoyable.

Additional bunkers placed expertly by Open Championship designers Mackenzie and Ebert mean whether you are an amateur or experienced golfer, you will find you are faced with ‘risk and reward’ shots on many of the 18 holes.

Pre-round warm-ups have been catered for with the 15 bay power-tee equipped driving range and putting green, and the pro-shop staff are always on hand to help you with any items you may need to re-stock with before your round.

The presence of water is never far away, which is ready to swallow up any wayward shots. However a personal best can be reached by treating the lakes, ponds and streams with the respect they deserve.

Before you leave try to take in the spectacular sunsets from the spike bar, which have to be seen to be believed, and the friendly staff will ensure that you do not make your journey home with an empty stomach!

20th Year Celebrations at Hurlston Hall!

SPECIAL OFFER FOR MAY 2014

£20 per person when you play in a fourball in May 2014

SUMMER 2014 GOLF SOCIETY SPECIALS Coffee & Bacon Roll, 18 Holes Golf & 1 Course Meal ONLY £30.00 per person

For further information telephone: 01704 840400 Email:info@hurlstonhall.co.uk. – www.hurlstonhall.co.uk

Coffee & Bacon Roll, 18 Holes Golf & 2 Course Meal ONLY £33.00 per person Minimum of 12 players, available on Mondays & Tuesdays

Contact Details

94

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

07. How to Find

LANCASTER

From M6, junction 33. At Junction 33, exit toward Lancaster(South) / A6. Proceed through traffic lights at Galgate and continue on A6 past Lancaster University. At Traffic lights (Boot & Shoe public house & Booths supermarket) turn left along Ashford Road. At next roundabout turn left onto Ashton Road (A588). Continue along Ashton Road, Lancaster Golf Club is 1 mile on the right.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6512 • 6269 • 5791 H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 415

10

4

390

2

5 486

11

5

476

3

4 422

12

4

385

4

3 156

13

3

141

5

4 352

14

5

496

6

3 166

15

4

391

7

4 347

16

4

296

8

4 385

17

4

426

9

4 373

18

3

166

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

18 & 27 hole golf packages for societies.

Residential Dormy Packages.

Membership available for the 2014 season.

TEL: 01524 751247

Lancaster Golf Club

Contact Details

95

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

LYTHAM GREEN DRIVE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 4 5 3 4 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

383 382 329 348 510 177 335 336 392

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 4 4 4 4 5

450 343 336 152 442 142 397 200 505

The greens are small by modern standards, and very well bunkered. This parkland course also has links-like undulating fairways that can fool the eye when it comes to judging distance.

Despite its modest length, the course demands a wide variety of golf shots and will make you use just about every club in your bag, with its assortment of different challenges and

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.

July Open Week Tuesday 1 July – Seniors 4BBB – already Full Wednesday 2 July – Ladies team of 4 - £40 per team Friday 4 July – Men’s 4 Man Team - £60 per team Sunday 6 July – Mixed Open (2 gents 2 ladies ) £60 per team Visit www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk Click on Open Competition tab

1913

Contact Details

96

Pleasington Golf Club Pleasington, Blackburn Lancashire, BB2 5JF Telephone: 01254 202 177 secretary-manager@pleasington-golf.co.uk www.pleasington-golf.co.uk

09. How to Find

PLEASINGTON

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

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

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

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

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

6 years from 2004. Pleasington can cater for the small, medium or large visiting party.

Set in 142 acres of rolling wooded countryside and with many holes in individual valleys, this most picturesque of courses offers a tough challenge of golf, even to the best golfers.

Signature Hole: Hole 7, Par 5 “Mill” A wonderful par 5; drive it on the top fairway and leave yourself a difficult second shot or drive the ball down onto the lower fairway and give yourself a chance of a birdie or even an eagle. It is a hole that the more you play the better you get to know it’s marvellous design.

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Contact us or visit our website for the latest news & offers www.pleasington-golf.co.uk Professional: 01254 201630 Office: 01254 202177

PAR

4 4 4 4 4 4 5 3 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

378 341 318 423 335 346 507 149 468

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 4

169 531 156 449 379 352 147 353 376

Contact Details

97

SHAW HILL GOLF & SPA HOTEL

Shaw Hill Hotel, Golf & Country Club Preston Road, Whittle le Woods Chorley, Lancashire, PR6 7PP Main Hotel: 01257 269221 ext 201 Pro Shop: 01257 279222 Daily Course Info line: 01257 226822 golf@shaw-hill.co.uk www.shaw-hill.co.uk 10. How to Find From M6: Leave the motorway at Junction 28 and follow the signs for Chorley A6, at the traffic lights (The Hayrick Pub) turn right on to the A49 following the signs for Wigan. Turn left after Leyland Golf Club following signs for M61 down ‘Dawson Lane’ (BUCKSHAW DEVELOPMENT) go straight at the first roundabout and turn left at the traffic lights, keep on the road until it eventually stops at a T Junction (A6) turn right towards Chorley and SHAW HILL 20 yards on the right.

The wonderful Georgian Manor House now lovingly restored and owned by the Stokes family, is a breathtaking sight, one which dominates the landscape as you make your way around the challenging and undulating par 72 course laid out on luxurious, undulating and verdant parkland.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6283 • 5965 • 5417 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 4 5 4 3 4 4 5

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

257 212 366 478 331 156 310 464 525

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 4 4 3 5 4

476 337 198 358 402 377 143 498 395

The course was designed by Laurence Allamby, a young golf professional who had studied Golf Architecture and Course Design under the world famous course architect Dr. Alistair McKenzie. Whatever you do don’t rush straight off afterwards. Vardons restaurant and the VP bar in the hotel are great places to eat and

drink with fine cuisine, extensive wine cellar and a delightful atmosphere.

A Corporate Golf Day at Shaw Hill is a favourite way to unwind and network. Our professional team can arrange a full Corporate Golfing Day that is guaranteed to keep your guests talking for months to come.

Signature hole Finishing off your round with the with the beautiful backdrop of the stunning Georgian mansion, the 18th is a challenging par 4. Drive to clear the lake and set up an approach shot to the green which is well guarded by bunkers.

Captains Days Out from £45.00 per person Quote Golf to get 10% off any of our society packages.

Friday & Sunday Driver £85.00 per person Save £10.00 if you book a party in April, May, June for reduced rate of £75.00 per person.

Choose from either free pint or bacon barms on arrival. ‘Quote golf monthly’

Special Offers Book before 31/03/14

Society & Corporate Events from £37.50 Membership now open

98

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Lancashire Directory

Accrington & District Golf Club Telephone: 01254 350112 www.accringtongolfclub.com

Chorley Golf Club Telephone: 01257 480263 www.chorleygolfclub.co.uk

Gathurst Golf Club Telephone: 01257 252861 www.gathurstgolfclub.co.uk

Ashton & Lea Golf Club Telephone: 01772 735282 www.ashtonleagolfclub.co.uk

Clitheroe Golf Club Telephone: 01200 422292 www.clitheroegolfclub.com

Ghyll Golf Club Telephone: 01282 842466 www.ghyllgolfclub.co.uk

Bacup Golf Club Telephone: 01706 873170 www.bacupgolfclub.com

Colne Golf Club Telephone: 01282 863391 www.colnegolfclub.com

Great Harwood Golf Club Telephone: 01254 884391 www.greatharwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Baxenden & District Golf Club Telephone: 01254 234555 www.baxendengolf.co.uk

Darwen Golf Club Telephone: 01254 701287 www.darwengolfclub.com

Green Haworth Golf Club Telephone: 01254 237580 www.greenhaworthgolfclub.co.uk

Beacon Park Golf Club Telephone: 01695 627500 www.beaconparkgolf.com

Dean Wood Golf Club Telephone: 01695 622219 www.deanwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Herons Reach Golf Club Telephone: 01253 832505 www.devere.co.uk

Bentham Golf Club Telephone: 01524 262455 www.benthamgolfclub.co.uk

Duxbury Park Golf Club Telephone: 01257 265380 www.glendale-golf.com

Heysham Golf Club Telephone: 01524 851011 www.heyshamgolfclub.co.uk

Blackburn Golf Club Telephone: 01254 51122 www.blackburngolfclub.com

Fairhaven Golf Club Telephone: 01253 736741 www.farhavengolfclub.co.uk

Hurlston Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01704 840400 www.hurlstonhall.co.uk

Blackpool North Shore Golf Club Telephone: 01253 351017 www.blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com

Fishwick Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01772 798300 www.fishwickhallgolfclub.co.uk

Knott End Golf Club Telephone: 01253 811365 www.knottendgolfclub.com

Burnley Golf Club Telephone: 01282 421045 www.burnleygolfclub.org.uk

Fleetwood Golf Club Telephone: 01253 773573 www.fleetwoodgolf.co.uk

Lancaster Golf Club Telephone: 01524 751247 www.lancastergc.co.uk

Charnock Richard Golf Club Telephone: 01257 470707 www.crgcc.co.uk

Garstang Country Hotel & Golf Club Telephone: 01995 600100 www.garstanghotelandgolf.com

Lansil Golf Club Telephone: 01524 39269 www.lansilgolfclub.org.uk

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Lancashire Directory

Lobden Golf Club Telephone: 01706 343228 www.lobdengolfclub.co.uk

Penwortham Golf Club Telephone: 01772 744630 www.penworthamgc.co.uk

Standish Court Golf Club Telephone: 01257 425777 www.standishgolf.co.uk

Leyland Golf Club Telephone: 01772 436457 www.leylandgolfclub.co.uk

Pleasington Golf Club Telephone: 01254 202177 www.pleasington-golf.co.uk

Stanley Park Golf Course Telephone: 01253 302613 www.mackgolf.co.uk

Longridge Golf Club Telephone: 01772 783291 www.longridgegolfclub.co.uk

Poulton-Le-Fylde Golf Club Telephone: 01253 892444 www.poultonlefyldegolfclub.co.uk

St. Annes Old Links Telephone: 01253 723597 www.stannesoldlinks.com

Lytham Green Drive Golf Club Telephone: 01253 737390 www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk

Preston Golf Club Telephone: 01772 700011 www.prestongolfclub.com

Stonyhurst Park Golf Club Telephone: 01254 826478 www.stonyhurstpark.co.uk

Lytham St Annes Mini Links Complex Telephone: 01772 895289 www.LythamStAnnesMiniLinks.com

Rishton Golf Club Telephone: 01254 884442 www.rishtongolfclub.co.uk

Towneley Golf Club Telephone: 01282 451636 www.towneleygolfclub.co.uk

Marsden Park Golf Club Telephone: 01282 661912 www.marsdenparkgolfclub.co.uk

Rossendale Golf Club Telephone: 01706 831339 www.rossendalegolfclub.net

Whalley Golf Club Telephone: 01254 822236 www.whalleygolfclub.com

Morecambe Golf Club Telephone: 01524 418050 www.morecambegolfclub.com

Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club Telephone: 01253 724206 www.royallytham.org

Wilpshire Golf Club Telephone: 01254 248260 www.wilpshiregolfclub.co.uk

Mytton Fold Golf Club Telephone: 01254 240662 www.myttonfold.co.uk

Shaw Hill Hotel G & C C Telephone: 01257 269221 www.shaw-hill.co.uk

Nelson Golf Club Telephone: 01282 611834 www.nelsongolfclub.com

Silverdale (Carnforth) Golf Club Telephone: 01524 701300 www.silverdalegolfclub.co.uk

Ormskirk Golf Club Telephone: 01695 572112 www.ormskirkgolfclub.com

Staininglodge Golf Course Telephone: 01253 891336 www.staininglodge.co.uk

99

100

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Merseyside Introduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Merseyside Introduction

10 Southport 01

13

5/6

07 M-58

14

M-6

12

Crosby

Ashton-in-Makerfield 03

Knowsley

Bootle

Prescot Wallasey 15

St. Helens

Widnes

04

11

Ellesmere Port M-53

01. Royal Birkdale 02. Royal Liverpool 03. Ashton in Makerfield 04. Caldy 05. Formby 06. Formby Ladies 07. Formby Hall 08. Haydock Park

09. Grange Park 10. Hesketh 11. Heswall 12. Houghwood 13. Southport & Ainsdale 14. West Lancashire 15. Wirral Ladies

M-62 M-6

Birkenhead 02

Newton-le-Willows

09

M-57

Liverpool

08

101

ROYAL BIRKDALE

102

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

Looking ahead The Ricoh Women’s British Open Championship returns again in 2014.

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

The Club was formed in 1889, starting life as a nine hole course. In 1897 the decision was taken to move to Birkdale Hills where an 18 hole course was constructed. The course underwent considerable changes in the mid 1930’s when the current Clubhouse

was built. There was further restructuring in the 1960’s and in the early 1990’s all of the greens were reconstructed and redesigned.

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

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

The growing stature of the club was acknowledged in 1951 when the King gave his permission for the club to be known as The

ROYAL BIRKDALE

103

Photographs by Alan C. Birch

Contact Details Royal Birkdale Golf Club Waterloo Road, Birkdale, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 2LX Telephone: 01704 568857 secretary@royalbirkdale.com www.royalbirkdale.com 01. How to Find The club is one and half miles south of Southport town centre on the A565 Waterloo Road between Southport and Ainsdale.Drivers approaching from the North should use the M6, exit at Junction 29, Leyland, to the A582, A59 and A565.

Drivers from the South, via the M6, M62, M57 and A5147. Traffic from Central Lancashire should use the M58, exit at Junction 3, Rainford, to the A570. Traffic from Wales and the Wirral should use the M53, Queensway Tunnel to the A565.

Requirements Handicap Certificates will be required from all visiting golfers. Reservations must be made in advance by telephone, letter, fax or email to the Secretary’s Office.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6817 • 6381 • 5793 (75)

Royal Birkdale Golf Club. The course has been the stage for many great golf championships including the Amateur Championship, the Walker Cup, the Curtis Cup, the Ryder Cup and the Women’s British Open. On nine occasions the greatest championship, The Open, has been played here, the most recent in 2008. In 2005, the club was the venue for both the Amateur Championship and the Women’s British Open which Royal Birkdale will host again in 2014.

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

Each hole runs through a landscape of high dunes, the fairways are flat and fair and from the tee there is generally a clear view of the task ahead. Each hole is memorable, from The Open Championship

tee the 13th measure 498 yards, one of the longest par 4s in championship golf.

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

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

ROYAL LIVERPOOL

104

Royal Liverpool Golf Club The Hoylake links can be, by turns, beautiful, uplifting, awe inspiring and, on occasion, soul-destroying.

They were created to be a demanding test of golf and remain so, and they lie at the very heart of the history and development of golf in Great Britain. It has been the host for both The Walker & Curtis Cups in the past together with 11 Open Championships. Host to The Ricoh Women’s British Open for the first time in 2012 and looks forward to The Open Championship returning again in 2014.

Built in 1869, on what was then the racecourse of the Liverpool Hunt Club, Hoylake is the oldest of all the English seaside courses with the exception of Westward Ho! in Devon, which was established just a few years earlier. Robert Chambers and George Morris were commissioned to lay out the original Hoylake course, which was extended to 18 holes in 1871. This was also the year in which the Club was granted its Royal designation thanks to the patronage of His Royal Highness The Duke of Connaught.

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

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

In 1885 the links hosted the first Amateur Championship; in 1902 the first international match between England and Scotland, later to become the Home Internationals; and, in 1921, the first international match between Great Britain and the United States of America, which we now know as The Walker Cup. In fact, it is Royal Liverpool Golf Club’s contribution to the amateur game that has set it apart from all other clubs in England.

Although, at the end of the nineteenth century, it was the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews that took on the role of the governing body in golf as the game developed, it was at Hoylake that the rules of

ROYAL LIVERPOOL

105

Contact Details Royal Liverpool Golf Club Meols Drive, Hoylake Wirral CH47 4AL Telephone: 0151 632 3101 bookings@royal-liverpool-golf.com www.royal-liverpool-golf.com 02. How to Find The club is situated on Meols Drive (A540) between Hoylake and West Kirby, 10 minutes from Junction 2 of the M53 and less than 1 hour from Manchester Airport. Leave M53 at Junction 2, follow A551 to Moreton and then A553 to Hoylake. Continue straight ahead at the roundabout in Hoylake (railway station is on the left) and the Club is 300 yards along Meols Drive on the right.

Handicaps All visitors are expected to be competent golfers who hold a current Club or Society handicap. As the Links provide a difficult test of golf, maximum handicaps allowed for visitors are: Men - 21, Ladies - 32. Proof of playing ability is required prior to play.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7350 • 6933 • 6466 • 5896 (74)

amateur status were laid down. Ironically it was John Ball, who was to become the Club’s greatest player, who almost fell foul of them.

In 1878, when he was just sixteen years old, Ball had finished tied for 4th place in the Open Championship with Bob Martin of St Andrews.

Although Ball lost the play-off for fourth place the following day there was still a money prize due to him from the purse. The sum involved was only one pound but John Morris advised the young John Ball to put the money in his pocket. It was this incident, recalled seven years later, that came back to haunt Ball when he wanted to enter the Amateur Championship. Ball had accepted prize money and therefore was technically a “professional”.

The rules were, however, diplomatically but conveniently adjusted to enable Ball to play.

John Ball’s influence on amateur golf, together with that of Harold Hilton who was also a Hoylake player, cannot be over emphasised.

Between them they dominated the amateur game of that era and the pair was also a major influence on the professional game, each of them winning the Open Championship as amateurs. John Ball won the Amateur Championship eight times between l888 and l9l2 and was runner-up twice. He won the Open Championship in l890, the first Englishman and the first amateur to do so, and also took the amateur title the same year.

Harold Hilton’s record was just as impressive.

He won the Open twice, in l892 (the first year the Open was played over 72 holes) and again five years later, making him the only amateur apart from John Ball and Bobby Jones to win the title. His victory at Hoylake

in 1897 was marked 100 years later by the creation of a new, annual Harold Hilton Medal tournament open to amateur golfers aged 30 or more and handicap 5 or less.

Hilton also won the Amateur Championship four times, was runner-up on three occasions and won the US Amateur Championship in 1911, the year in which he also held the British title. The man was obviously no slacker - in the same year he still found time to become the first editor of the new Golf Monthly magazine.

No history of Hoylake would be complete without mention of the legendary Bobby Jones. In 1930 the club was privileged to host his winning of the Open Championship, a victory that would become the second leg of his remarkable Grand Slam - the winning in the same year of the Amateur and Open Championships of both Great Britain and the United States. Shortly afterwards, a mere twenty-eight years old, Bobby Jones found himself with no golfing peaks left to conquer and he retired from the game.

Much time has passed since then, but the Hoylake links, despite their at first glance flat and benign appearance, are still very much among the toughest and most demanding tests of golf. Work is currently ongoing and almost finished on the links to improve the playability of the same for players of all standards. This work is being carried out under the direction of the eminent Architect Dr. Martin Hawtree.

In July 2006 the fabled mighty winds did not blow. But there was no denying that another mighty champion was born... in the shape of one Eldrick “Tiger” Woods.

Contact Details

106

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

ASHTON-IN-MAKERFIELD

Telephone: 01942 727267 secretary@ashton-in-makerfieldgolfclub.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 70 • 6205 • 5918 • 5306 H OLE

PAR

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

1

4 373

10

4

365

2

4 416

11

4

450

3

5 494

12

4

349

4

3 197

13

3

177

5

4 383

14

4

368

6

4 378

15

3

165

7

3 157

16

4

456

8

4 380

17

5

496

9

4 304

18

4

297

Golf Society Packages Available Tailored to your requirements

Winter Warmer Deal

Bacon / Coffee on arrival, 18 Holes Golf, Soup and Main Course Dinner ALL FOR £25 PER PLAYER

Monday 4 Ball Offer ONLY £60 PER 4 BALL

Limited Membership now available

For more information please contact The Manager, Garry Lacy on 01942 719330

Contact Details

107

Caldy Golf Club Limited Links Hey Road, Caldy, Wirral Merseyside, CH48 1NB Telephone: 0151 625 5660 golf@caldygolfclub.co.uk www.caldygolfclub.co.uk

04. How to Find

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6714 • 6336 • 5823 (70) • 5798 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 4 4 5 4 5 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

369 152 346 331 532 384 479 142 404

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 5 4 4 4 4 4 3 5

179 509 425 337 372 334 401 145 495

CALDY

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hole 6. Par 4, “Donga”.

An extremely challenging hole, the last one along the cliff edge. Rough on the right and out of bounds on the left over the cliff make the tee shot tight.

GOLF PACKAGES Sunday 13th July - Monday 21st July

HOSPITALITY PACKAGES FOR THE OPEN Sunday 13th July - Monday 21st July

SILVER PACKAGE - £105.00 PER PERSON 18 holes of golf, 3 course dinner

PREMIUM PACKAGE - £25.00 PER PERSON Car parking at Caldy Golf Club, Breakfast on arrival Transport to and from The Open

GOLD PACKAGE - £115.00 PER PERSON Breakfast on arrival, 18 holes of golf, 3 course dinner PLATINUM PACKAGE - £130.00 PER PERSON Breakfast on arrival, 18 holes of golf 3 course dinner after golf, Caldy branded gift set

1907

When booking please quote ref: GGWW13

www.caldygolfclub.co.uk

DELUXE PACKAGE - £55.00 PER PERSON Car parking at Caldy Golf Club Breakfast on arrival, Transport to and from The Open 3 course dinner on arrival back at caldy For other offers please visit our website When booking please quote ref: GGWW13

Contact Details

108

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

05. How to Find

FORMBY

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

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

Set in the links between the arable land of the Lancashire plain and the Irish sea, Formby is blessed with the combination of sand dunes and towering pine forest as the backdrop to this great course.

The natural terrain ensures that accuracy is always at a premium.

Heather and unforgiving rough protect the well bunkered course and caution is definitely required whether playing off the tee or approaching the quick and true greens. The course voted 77 in the world by golf course architects is challenging, idyllic and an unforgettable course of contrasts.

Formby has always supported the highest standards in amateur golf and the Amateur Championship has been held here on four occasions, the most recent being in 2009.

The winner then, Matteo Mannassero is the youngest ever winner of the championship at 16 years of age and has now gone onto win 4 professional titles. The Open championship has also used Formby as a qualifying venue in 1924, 1971 and 1996.

Hole 12, Par 4, 385 yards (yellow tee) Regarded as one of the best holes on the course. There is a large bunker on the left side of the green and the main trouble is short.

Facilities 2 bars, restaurant, Dormy accommodation, snooker room, putting green, chipping area, practice ground, trolleys, lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7031 • 6725 • 6489 • 6048 (70) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Visit our website for the latest news & offers: www.formbygolfclub.co.uk

PAR

4 4 5 4 3 4 4 5 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

394 372 449 310 153 385 368 470 444

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 4 4 4 3 5 4

178 376 385 370 411 393 120 477 384

Contact Details

109

Formby Ladies Golf Club Golf Road, Formby Liverpool, L37 1YH Telephone: 01704 873493 secretary@formbyladiesgolfclub.co.uk www.formbyladiesgolfclub.co.uk

06. How to Find

Formby Ladies Golf Club is situated at the heart of ‘England’s Golf Coast’ set amongst a magnificent tract of sand hills and pine forest. Founded in 1896, we believe Formby Ladies’ is the only truly independent Ladies Golf Club in Britain. The Course is part of the Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve managed by Natural England.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71, SSS 72 • 5374 yards H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 3 4 3 4 4 5 4

FORMBY LADIES

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

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

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

261 417 129 287 122 412 251 428 322

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

5 4 3 4 4 4 3 4 4

422 307 158 385 301 374 128 324 346

Formby Ladies Golf Club is able to offer week days and weekend tee times on both Saturday and Sunday and is delighted to welcome both male and female visitors. Many visitors return year after year to play the course with friends, in societies or in our extremely popular Open

Competitions. Over the years we have hosted many prestigious competitions at County, National and International level including the British Girls Home Internationals, the British Men’s Seniors and the British Women’s Seniors.

With challenging fairways, heathery rough and greens well protected by pot bunkers, Formby Ladies provides visitors with a unique experience. Open Champion Greg Norman said of Formby Ladies ‘Over a hundred years old and still your course can stand the test of time. What a beautiful course.

It clearly shows that courses do not have to be 7000 yards plus to be formidable’.

Visit our website for the latest news & offers: www.formbyladiesgolfclub.co.uk

Contact Details

110

Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa Southport Old Road, Southport Merseyside L37 OAB Telephone: 01704 875699 Email enquiries via website www.formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk

07. How to Find

FORMBY HALL

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

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

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

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

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

in 2009 staged its first EuroPro Tour event.

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

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

Facilities 4 star Hotel & Spa, Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar, 9 hole par 3 course, PGA Golf Academy, Driving Range, Putting Greens, Short Game Area, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Club Fitting, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7081 • 6833 • 6462 • 5577 (73) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 5 4 4 3 5 4 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

342 171 476 340 437 178 492 373 352

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 3 5 4 3 4 5

292 373 446 190 558 446 145 341 510

Contact Details

111

Grange Park Golf Club Prescot Road, Toll Bar, St. Helens, Merseyside, WA10 3AD Telephone: 01744 26318 Email enquiries via website www.grangeparkgolfclub.co.uk

08. How to Find

GRANGE PARK

Grange Park Golf Club is situated a mile from St. Helens town centre.

Please ensure you search for Grange Park Golf Club and Prescot Road (A58) on any satellite navigations systems, or use post code WA10 3AD.

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

Course Information

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 3 5 5 4 3 4

Our Clubhouse is an ideal resting place after your round, where you will find our bar and catering staff willing to serve you.

Grange Park Golf Club is a traditional parkland course set in the industrial town of St Helens, but you wouldn’t know it; neither would you realise that the Club was established in 1891.

Grange Park Golf Club can cater for any society soirée and we will tailor our package to suit your needs.

At 6496 yards from the medal tees, it’s a true test of golfing skill. The course’s main defence are the greens, which are regularly amongst the best in the country and the views from our the highest points are stunning.

18 holes, Par 72 • 6496 • 6278 • 5557 (73) H OLE

If you have played Grange Park you will need little or no persuasion regarding the merits of our Championship Course.

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

348 354 362 208 489 499 350 153 444

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 4 5 3 5 3 4 4

320 453 463 504 186 492 160 349 362

18 holes of golf plus full English breakfast = £25 per person Valid until the end of March 2014

Venue for the 2014 Lancashire Amateur Championship

Chosen as the venue for the 2014 Lancashire Amateur Championship in May - 23rd, 24th and 25th - come and play this gem of a course and enjoy a unique parkland challenge.

Contact Details

112

Haydock Park Golf Club Golborne Park, Newton Lane Newton-Le-Willows Merseyside WA12 0HX Telephone: 01925 228525 secretary@haydockparkgc.co.uk www.haydockparkgc.co.uk 09. How to Find

HAYDOCK PARK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6073 • 5826 • 5390 • 5097 H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 5 3 5 4 4 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

404 166 484 110 503 317 303 170 424

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 4 4 5 4 4 3

354 370 140 434 282 493 320 369 183

Winter Golf Package Includes coffee & bacon; 18 holes; 2 course Chef Special £25.00 per head, Monday to Friday (excl Tuesdays) November to end of March 2014 Bookings of minimum 4 persons

Haydock Park Golf Club Newton-Le-Willows, Merseyside, WA12 0HX

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

Hesketh Golf Club in Southport is set amidst the towering Victorian villas of Southport’s premier residential area - Hesketh Park, & is the town’s oldest golf club, founded in 1885. Standing alone on the crest of a tall sandhill, the clubhouse dominates the golf course, and the surrounding district.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Indoor Teaching Facility, Chipping Area, Practice Ground, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6703 • 6239 • 5639 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 3 4 3 4 4 5 4 4

HESKETH

Hesketh is at Cockle Dick’s Lane which is off Cambridge Road. Cambridge Road is the A565, the main road between Southport and Preston.

The turn off to Cockle Dick’s Lane is almost 2 miles North of Southport Town Centre along the A565.

To get to Southport from the M6, take J26 exit and continue along M58 until the Southport exit.

Follow the A577 and then the A570 through Ormskirk to Southport.

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

383 158 444 183 372 450 516 349 439

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 3 4 5 4 4 3 5 5

340 186 422 515 392 382 187 505 480

The course is at the northern end of southwest Lancashire`s sand dune system, which is the home of so many great golf courses.

Professional championship golf has been played on these famous old links from the club`s earliest days, and the course has been regularly used as a final qualifying course

HESKETH GOLF CLUB

when The Open is played at Royal Birkdale. The course sets a unique challenge with half of the holes threaded through tall sand dunes; whilst the other holes border the Ribble estuary.

15th, Par 4. A blind tee shot over a large sand dune looks imposing. The ideal line is the church spire. With large sand dunes covered in rough on the right and left a straight tee shot is a must. An accurate approach shot is then needed to avoid the pot bunker which guards the right side of the green.16th.

Without doubt the most picturesque par 3 on the course. A long iron is usually needed to a green surrounded by bunkers and sand dunes.

Contact Details

114

Heswall Golf Club Cottage Lane, Gayton Wirral, CH60 8PB Telephone: 0151 342 1237 secretary@heswallgolfclub.com www.heswallgolfclub.com

11. How to Find

HESWALL

Exit Jct. 4 from the M53 and take the 2nd turning on the left marked “Heswall 4 miles”. Follow the A5137 to the roundabout, where you will see the Devon Doorway pub on the right. Bear right and follow the signs for “Gayton / Heswall Golf Club”.

Situated on the Wirral Peninsula, nestled between North Wales and the English Golf Coasts, Heswall Golf Club is a distinguished and beautiful 18 hole, 6,882 yard parkland course.

It is within easy reach of the cities of Manchester, Liverpool and Chester with breathtaking views of the Welsh hills from the banks of the Dee Estuary, overlooking one of the United Kingdom’s premier RSPB World Bird Sanctuaries, providing an unrivalled and peaceful environment for any golfer to enjoy this wonderful venue.

The course presents a variety of challenges for short and long handicap players and has been the venue for a number of national

championships in recent years. The club has a very active playing membership and in recent years, has hosted the Wirral Classic and a number of county, national and international fixtures.

Whether you are visiting Heswall Golf Club as an individual visitor or as a guest of a member, with a society or corporate event, our recently renovated clubhouse will provide you with a place for unparalleled relaxation as you enjoy a drink, snack or full restaurant facility whilst taking in the fantastic panoramic views of the course and Dee Estuary from the comfort of our open glass fronted extended patio.

Facilities Lounge, Bar, Catering Facilities, Putting Green, Indoor Teaching Facility, Trolleys, Buggies, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 6882 • 6624 • 6272 • 5773 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 4 4 3 5 4 3 4 5

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

421 393 351 209 545 335 158 330 511

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 5 4 3 4 3 5 4

431 350 509 450 136 460 183 518 334

Heswall Golf Club Over a Century of Challenges

Visiting Parties and Societies welcome - contact General Manager Graham Capewell to discuss your requirements.

Please visit our website: www.heswallgolfclub.com for latest details and offers.

Contact Details

115

Houghwood Golf Billinge Hill, Crank Road, St Helens, WA11 8RL Telephone: 01744 89 44 44 office@houghwoodgolf.co.uk www.houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk

12. How to Find

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Function/Conference Room, Putting Green, Buggies, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6374 • 5990 • 5341 16th, Par 3. 204 yards (white tee) “Little Cinder”. The view from the tee is worth the green fee alone. A 50ft drop in elevation from tee to green & unpredictable wind directions make club selection here a little tricky. A large undulating green which is protected by a large left hand side bunker accepts a well struck tee shot with anything from a 3 wood to a wedge and two putts gives the golfer a great sense of achievement.

HOUGHWOOD

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

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

At par 71 and 6374 yards for men, and 5341 yards for ladies, it provides a stimulating and enjoyable test for golfers of all handicaps.

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

The specially designed stone clubhouse

WEEKDAY SUMMER GOLF DEALS Without Buggies 4 Ball: £80 - 3 Ball: £60 - 2 Ball: £40 With Buggies 4 Ball: £120 - 3 Ball: £100 - 2 Ball: £60 GOLF – BAR – RESTAURANT Open to Non Members

01744 894444 office@houghwoodgolf.co.uk www.houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk

compliments the parkland surroundings and features a spacious Spike bar and terrace overlooking the 18th green.

Houghwood provides quality facilities, friendly, professional service and superb value for money.

Corporate Golf: Whether a corporate member or visitor to Houghwood we aim to offer a personal service with a professional approach.

With our superb venue and convenient location we can ensure that your corporate golf not only promotes your business but is enjoyed and remembered by colleagues and clents alike.

Societies Welcome.

Contact Details

116

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

SOUTHPORT & AINSDALE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

3 5 4 4 4 4 5 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

185 504 385 313 400 372 478 147 447

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

3 4 4 3 4 4 5 4 4

158 426 407 145 380 333 490 430 339

Open Competitions now available to book online – Gents, Ladies and Seniors Visit www.sandagolfclub.co.uk/competition.php

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

Contact Details

117

The West Lancashire Golf Club Hall Road West, Blundellsands Liverpool, L23 8SZ

THE WEST LANCASHIRE

Telephone: 0151 924 1076 golf@westlancashiregolf.co.uk www.westlancashiregolf.co.uk

14. How to Find From M6. At junction 21A, exit onto M62 toward Liverpool/Warrington (N)/ Southport/M57. At junction 6, exit onto M57 toward Docks/Prescot/Southport.

Turn left onto Dunnings Bridge Rd/A5036.

Turn right onto Copy Ln/A5207. Turn left onto Quarry Rd/A565. Go through 1 roundabout. Turn right onto Coronation Rd/B5193. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Cooks Rd. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Manor. Turn left onto Hall Rd E. Turn right, destination will be on the left Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Putting Green, Trolleys, Indoor Teaching Room, Lessons, Pro shop

Imaginative and varied in layout, the course has so much more to offer than simply a wonderful experience of classic links with stunning views of the Mersey Estuary, and the Welsh Mountains.

Final Qualifying Course 2012 Course Information 18 holes, Par 72 • 7055 • 6772 • 6239 (70) • 5834 (74) H OLE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PAR

4 5 3 4 5 3 4 4 4

The West Lancashire Golf Club was founded in 1873 and is among the ten oldest golf clubs in England, and boasts one of the most natural and testing links in the British Isles.

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

436 489 159 411 478 156 358 446 403

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 5 3 4 4 4 5 3 4

358 561 179 371 447 395 530 167 428

Monday 30th March 2014 Gentlemen’s Spring Open - 4BBB Entry Fee: £75 per pair Includes a two course meal after play

Our recently refurbished modern clubhouse offers state of the art facilities. In its comfortable bars, dining rooms and lounges you can relax after your round on the links and

Wednesday 11th June 2014 Ladies Open Four lady team event Entry Fee: £80 per team

take in the spectacular views while enjoying a drink and sampling our excellent food.

At West Lancashire we are proud of our history and challenging championship links where visitors are most welcome throughout the year. We look forward to welcoming you for a round in the near future.

Signature Hole Hole 14, ‘Bell’. Par 4, 447 yards (Blue Tee) The most difficult hole on the course. The tee shot needs to be in the order of 300 yards to give an unobstructed view of the green. If you cannot see the green, play short and left. No bunkers around this green, you will see why.

Sunday 3 August 2014 Mixed Open Team Event Entry Fee £120 per team Includes a two course meal after play

Entries via the website: www.westlancashiregolf.co.uk

Contact Details

118

Wirral Ladies’ Golf Club 93 Bidston Road, Prenton, Wirral, CH43 6TS Telephone: 0151 652 1255 wirral.ladies@btconnect.com www.wirral-ladies-golf-club.co.uk

15. How to Find

WIRRAL LADIES’

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

Facilities

Wirral Ladies’ is a delightful, undulating heathland course combining heather, gorse and natural woodland. At around 5,000 yards this compact course can be played in a little over three hours, making it a perfect venue for a half day outing, corporate day or for those with limited time to spare.

This historic venue was originally created in 1894 for the wives and families of Royal Liverpool members. The course was designed by local lad Harry Hilton, twice a winner of the Open including at his home club Royal Liverpool in 1897. His clever design offers a subtle challenge which is about so much more than how far

you can hit the ball. The course was recently given a four star review and described as “a short but fine test of golf” in a national golf publication. The course occupies the highest land on the Wirral Peninsula with sandstone bedrock and this geological feature, together with the considerable investment made by the club in drainage improvements, means that the course drains quickly after heavy rain and the full greens are normally in use all year round.

The recently refurbished locker and bathroom areas have improved facilities for members and visitors alike and a warm welcome awaits in the clubhouse bar and dining room.

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

The Clubhouse has a well known reputation for delicious home made cakes and confectionary; lunches, daily specials and afternoon teas are also available.

Course Information 18 holes, Par 68 • 5180 • 4954 (70) H OLE

PAR

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

4 3 4 4 4 4 4 3 4

YARDS

H OLE

PAR

YARDS

378 120 344 292 343 357 330 132 261

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

4 4 3 4 4 4 4 3 4

274 322 173 422 343 352 256 163 318

Offer valid from 01/10/13 to 31/03/14

WINTER WARMER £22.50 weekday, £27.50 weekend includes 18 holes and a bacon sandwich and hot drink

BOOK VIA PRO SHOP: 0151 652 2468 Membership now open for ladies’, men & juniors - no joining fee. Society enquiries welcome

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Merseyside Directory

Ashton-In-Makerfield Golf Club Telephone: 01942 727267 www.ashton-in-makerfieldgolfclub.co.uk

Formby Golf Club Telephone: 01704 873090 www.formbygolfclub.co.uk

Prenton Golf Club Telephone: 0151 608 1636 www.prentongolfclub.co.uk

Aintree Golf Centre Telephone: 0151 523 5157 www.aintree.co.uk

Formby Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01704 875 699 www.formbyhallgolfclub.co.uk

Royal Birkdale Golf Club Telephone: 01704 568857 www.royalbirkdale.com

Allerton Park Golf Club Telephone: 0151 428 7490 Website n/a

Formby Ladies Golf Club Telephone: 01704 873 493 www.formbyladiesgolfclub.co.uk

Royal Liverpool Golf Club (Hoylake) Telephone: 0151 632 6737 www.royal-liverpool-golf.com

Arrowe Park Golf Club Telephone: 0151 677 1527 www.arroweparkgolfclub.com

Grange Park (St Helens) Golf Club Telephone: 01744 28785 www.grangeparkgolfclub.co.uk

Sherdley Park Golf Club Telephone: 01744 815516 www.sherdleyparkgolfclub.co.uk

The Bidston Golf Club Ltd. Telephone: 0151 638 3412 www.bidstongolf.co.uk

Haydock Park Golf Club Telephone: 01925 228525 www.haydockparkgc.co.uk

Southport and Ainsdale Golf Club Telephone: 01704 577316 www.sandagolfclub.co.uk

Blundells Hill Golf Club Telephone: 0151 4300100 www.blundellshill.co.uk

Hesketh Golf Club Telephone: 01704 536897 www.heskethgolfclub.co.uk

Southport Municipal Golf Club Telephone: 01704 535286 Website n/a

Bootle Golf Club Telephone: 0151 928 1371 Website n/a

Heswall Golf Club Telephone: 0151 342 7431 www.heswallgolfclub.com

Southport Old Links Golf Club Telephone: 01704 228207 www.southportoldlinksgolfclub.co.uk

Bowring Golf Club Telephone: 0151 480 8685 www.mackgolf.co.uk

Hillside Golf Club Telephone: 01704 568360 www.hillside-golfclub.co.uk

The North West National Golf & Country Club Telephone: 01744 885808 www.thenorthwestnational.co.uk

Brackenwood Golf Club Telephone: 0151 608 3093 www.brackenwoodgolf.co.uk

Houghwood Golf Club Telephone: 01744 89 47 54 www.houghwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Wallasey Golf Club Telephone: 0151 638 3888 www.wallaseygolfclub.com

Bromborough Golf Club Telephone: 0151 334 4499 www.bromboroughgolfclub.org.uk

Hoylake Municipal Golf Club Telephone: 0151 632 6823 www.hoylakegolfclub.com

Warren (Wallasey) Golf Club Telephone: 0151 639 5730 www.wirral.gov.uk

Caldy Golf Club Telephone: 0151 625 1818 www.caldygolfclub.co.uk

Huyton and Prescot Golf Club Telephone: 0151 489 2022 www.huytonandprescotgolf.co.uk

West Derby Golf Club Telephone: 0151 220 5478 www.westderbygc.co.uk

Childwall Golf Club Telephone: 0151 487 9871 www.childwallgolfclub.co.uk

Leasowe Golf Club Telephone: 0151 678 5460 www.leasowegolfclub.co.uk

West Lancashire Golf Club Telephone: 0151 924 5662 www.westlancashiregolf.co.uk

Eastham Lodge Golf Club Telephone: 0151 327 3008 www.easthamlodgegolfclub.co.uk

Lee Park Golf Club Telephone: 0151 498 4666 www.leepark.co.uk

Wirral Ladies Golf Club Telephone: 0151 652 2468 www.wirral-ladies-golf-club.co.uk

Eccleston Park Golf Club Telephone: 0151 493 0033 www.ecclestonepark@crown-golf.co.uk

Liverpool Municipal Golf Club Telephone: 0151 546 5435 www.liverpool.gov.uk

Woolton Golf Club Telephone: 0151 486 2298 www.wooltongolfclub.com

Formby Golf Centre Telephone: 01704 875 952 www.redteegolf.co.uk

Mossock Hall Golf Club Telephone: 01695 421717 www.mossockhallgolfclub.co.uk

119

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cumbria Introduction

Photos courtesy VisitBritain

©Britainonview / Rod Edwards

120

Cumbria The County of Cumbria includes the old counties of Cumberland, Westmorland, and part of North Lancashire.

Much of its appeal stems from the magnificent Lake District National Park and a range of steely mountains that stand guard over a veritable treasure trove of crowd-pleasing attractions.

riding, walking, heritage sites, attractions, gardens and stunning coastal scenery.

England’s second largest county – and its least populated – has a sense of wonder unequalled elsewhere thanks to its inspirational landscape, which can smile, brood or blaze depending on the season.

Cumbria is especially famous as the home of Beatrix Potter and Lake District has been the inspiration for generations of poets, the most famous of which is Wordsworth.

This unique County has something to suit everybody’s taste - great outdoor pursuits including waters sports, climbing, horse

This dazzling region covering almost 900 square miles contains no less than 16 ‘great’ lakes, as well as tarns, glacier-gouged valleys, chocolate-box villages – and even some marvellous beaches. It also boasts England’s five highest mountains and the country’s deepest lake. Cumbria and the Lake District is one of the great golfing areas of England, offering quality courses for the discriminating golfer in magnificent settings.

©Britainonview / Rod Edwards

©Britainonview / - Britain on View

©Britainonview / - Britain on View

Very few places in Britain can hope to compete with the undeniable beauty and romance offered by the county of Cumbria.

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cumbria Introduction

01. Furness 02. Silloth on Solway 03. Ulverston

A7

02

A69

Carlisle

A595

A596

M6

A595

A66 A66 M6

A591 A685 A595 A6 Windemere

M6 A590 A65 03 01

“Cumbria and the Lake District is one of the great golfing areas of England, offering quality courses for the discriminating golfer in magnificent settings.�

121

Contact Details

122

Furness Golf Club Central Drive, Walney Island Barrow in Furness Cumbria LA14 2LN Telephone: 01229 471232 furnessgolfclub@btconnect www.furnessgolfclub.co.uk

01. How to Find

FURNESS

The club is situated on Walney Island in the South of Cumbria. For visitors coming from the M6 leave at Junction 36 following the signs from Barrow and South Lakes along the A590. On reaching Barrow follow the signs to Walney Island, stay in the left hand lane over the bridge to Walney and go straight across the traffic lights.

The club is 500 yards on the right.

With its stunning backdrop of the Lakeland Hills and spectacular views across the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man, Furness offers a true links experience you cannot afford to miss.

Opened in 1872, it’s England’s 6th oldest golf club and one of the hidden gems of Cumbria located on the Furness Peninsula.

It offers a fair but challenging test of golf for all abilities, there’s something for everyone, from the big hitter to the player who prides himself on the gentler touch.

Furness is becoming ever more popular with golfers from outside Cumbria and visitors are assured of a friendly welcome at all times.

Signature Hole: The 188 yard downhill par three 10th played from an elevated tee is closely guarded by a ring of bunkers on three sides of the green and a wartime gunners tower on the steep bank to the left. Anything short will find sand: anything over hit, more sand, so club selection is crucial.

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, practice area, putting green, trolleys, shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6222 • 5959 • 5367 H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

5 533

10

3

188

2

3 156

11

4

434

3

4 299

12

4

337

4

4 332

13

4

410

5

5 539

14

4

373

6

3 139

15

4

315

7

4 407

16

4

262

8

4 373

17

4

383

9

4 397

18

4

345

Winter fourball Offer £68.00 per 4 ball Includes Coffee & Bacon Bun and 18 holes of Golf Available January to March 2014

Contact Details

123

Silloth Golf Club The Club House, Station Road Silloth, Wigton, CA7 4BL Telephone: 01697 331304 office@sillothgolfclub.co.uk www.sillothgolfclub.co.uk

SILLOTH ON SOLWAY

02. How to Find Location travelling from the South. M6 Junction 41. B5305 to Wigton. BB5302 to Silloth Location travelling from the North/ East. M6 Junction43. A69 Carlisle.

A595/A596 to Wigton. B5302 Silloth.

Approx travelling time from the M6 45 minutes.

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

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6641 • 6408 • 6151 • 5806 Visitors play from Yellow Tees H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 371

10

4

283

2

4 311

11

4

402

3

4 352

12

3

191

4

4 352

13

5

450

5

5 499

14

5

462

6

3 172

15

4

390

7

4 363

16

3

169

8

4 348

17

5

488

9

3 121

18

4

427

Situated on the north west coast of Cumbria, Silloth on Solway Golf Club is blessed with stunning views of the Galloway Hills to the north, and south to the Lakeland fells and the distant Isle of Man.

invite courageous fairway woods and crisp iron shots. Greens are subtle, firm, fast, and deadly true. The links has been used as an open qualifying course and will host the English Amateur Championship in 2012.

The Championship links of over 6,641 yards has been laid out over the sand-hills west of town, touched by some of the great classical golf architects, but mostly moulded by Nature herself. Hazards consist of heather and bent; whin and broom; heroic bunkers and sandy wastes. Fairways are always wider than they seem from the tee, and having been laid with springy Cumberland turf,

Hole 13, ‘Hogs Back’, Par 5, 468 yards This ‘short’ par 5 is thought to be Silloth’s signature hole. The drive across heather and gorse is to a flat fairway. The second is through a narrow gully to an elevated ridge, which falls away sharply to heather on the right and left. The angled slope up to the plateau green deflects all but the most accurate approaches.

A four is a delight; a five is an invariable relief.

For more details contact the office on 016973 31304 or visit our website www.sillothgolfclub.co.uk

Contact Details

124

Ulverston Golf Club Bardsea Park, Ulverston, LA12 9QJ Telephone: 01229 582824 enquiries@ulverstongolf.co.uk www.ulverstongolf.co.uk

03. How to Find

ULVERSTON

The Club is situated close to the delightful village of Bardsea in the south of Cumbria. For visitors coming from the M6 leave at Junction 36 following the signs for Barrow and South Lakes along the A590. Follow the A590 to Ulverston upon which you should turn left on the A5087, 300 yards after Booths Supermarket situated by the Shell garage. After a few miles take the right turning just after you pass the Manjushri Institute.

The club is 400 yards up on the right.

With spectacular views over Morecambe Bay, and the Lakeland Fells in the background, Ulverston Golf Club is lucky enough to boast one of the most picturesque golf courses in Cumbria. Set in the Furness Hills, it is surprisingly quite flat and easy on the legs, although it measures a considerable 6261 yards with a par of 71 from tee to pin over eighteen holes, so stamina is a useful quality to have.

20 14 O P E N S

It is set on mature, undulating, partwooded parkland, and was redesigned by H.S. Colt, a World renowned leading golf course architect and part of the famous triumvirate of course designers, so visitors

are assured of a most enjoyable, challenging and hopefully rewarding round of golf.

Signature Hole: Hole 18, Par 4 ‘Conishead’ The final tee is close to the highest point on the course and offers splendid views. The Old Man of Coniston can be seen in the north, Conishead priory to the east, with Morecambe Bay and Blackpool Tower to the south. This dogleg right requires a good drive with sufficient carry to reach a plateau beyond the marker post. Any shot right of the trees could be OB. The second shot is just as difficult to a severely sloping green, with a pair of bunkers on the right, which often gather in the short ball played to the pin.

MEN’S 4 BALL OPEN – SATURDAY 3RD MAY - £28 PER PAIR W G MARTIN MEMORIAL OPEN 36 HOLE SCRATCH – SUNDAY 11TH MAY - £22 OXLEY ‘MIXED’ OPEN – SUNDAY 25TH MAY – £28 PER COUPLE JUNIOR OPEN FOR THE BARDSEA CUP – FRIDAY 30TH MAY – £5 LADIES OPEN – TUESDAY 10TH JUNE – £30 PER TEAM ALTHAM OPEN – SATURDAY 14TH JUNE – £12 JOHNSTON TROPHY OPEN – SUNDAY 6TH JULY – £28 PER PAIR CAPTAIN’S AM/AM CHARITY TEAM OPEN – SUNDAY 27TH JULY – £50 PER TEAM H DEARDEN ‘MIXED’ OPEN – SUNDAY 3RD AUGUST – £28 PER COUPLE BOB BAKER ‘SENIORS’ 4 BALL OPEN – WEDNESDAY 6TH AUGUST – £28 PER PAIR LADIES CHARITY OPEN – WEDNESDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER – £20 PER PAIR MEN’S ‘SENIORS’ 4BALL OPEN – THURSDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER – £28 PER PAIR 4 MAN TEAM OPEN – WEDNESDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER – £56 PER TEAM STAINTON JUBILEE ‘MIXED TEAM’ OPEN – SUNDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER – £56 PER TEAM MEN’S ‘SENIORS’ 4BALL OPEN – THURSDAY 2ND OCTOBER – £28 PER PAIR

Facilities Bar, Restaurant, Meeting Room, Extensive Practice Areas, 4 Bay Driving Range, Swing Room, Putting Green, Trolleys, Lessons, Pro shop

Course Information 18 holes, Par 71 • 6261 • 6060 • 5720 (74) H OLE

PAR

• YDS

H OLE

PAR

• YDS

1

4 341

10

3

139

2

4 315

11

5

523

3

4 414

12

4

351

4

5 505

13

5

484

5

3 153

14

3

188

6

4 408

15

4

390

7

4 368

16

4

352

8

3 161

17

4

379

9

4 358

18

4

432

Ulverston Golf Club

North West & Cumbria Golf Guide

Cumbria Directory

Alston Moor Tel: 01434 381354 www.alstonmoorgolfclub.org.uk

Furness Tel: 01229 471232 www.furnessgolfclub.co.uk

Silloth on Solway Tel: 01697 331304 www.sillothgolfclub.co.uk

Appleby Tel: 01768 351432 www.applebygolfclub.co.uk

Grange Fell Tel: 01539 558513 Website n/a

Silverdale Tel: 01524 702074 www.silverdalegolfclub.co.uk

Barrow Tel: 01229 831358 www.barrowgolfclub.co.uk

Grange-over-Sands Tel: 01539 533754 www.grangegolfclub.co.uk

St Bees Tel: 01946 824300 www.stbeesgolfclub.org.uk

Brampton Tel: 01697 72255 www.bramptongolfclub.com

Kendal Tel: 01539 733708 www.kendalgolfclub.co.uk

Stoney Holme Tel: 01228 33208 www.carlisleleisure.co.uk

Brayton Park Tel: 01697 322517 www.braytonpark.net

Keswick Tel: 01768 779324 www.keswickgolfclub.com

The Eden Tel: 01228 573003 www.edengolf.co.uk

Carlisle Tel: 01228 513029 www.carlislegolfclub.org

Kirkby Lonsdale Tel: 01524 276365 www.kirkbylonsdalegolf.co.uk

Ulverston Tel: 01229 582824 enquirires@ulverstongolf.co.uk

Carus Green Tel: 01539 721097 www.carusgreen.co.uk

Maryport Tel: 01900 812605 www.maryportgolfclub.co.uk

Whitehaven Tel: 01946 591177 www.whitehavengolfclub.com

Casterton Tel: 01524 271592 www.castertongolf.co.uk

Penrith Tel: 01768 891919 www.penrithgolfclub.co.uk

Windermere Tel: 01539 443123 www.windermeregolfclub.co.uk

Cockermouth Tel: 01768 776941 www.cockermouthgolf.co.uk

Seascale Tel: 01946 728202 www.seascalegolfclub.co.uk

Workington Tel: 01900 603460 www.workingtongolfclub.com

Dalston Hall Tel: 01228 710165 www.dalstonhallholidaypark.co.uk

Sedbergh Tel: 01539 621551 www.sedberghgolfclub.com

Dunnerholme Tel: 01229 462675 www.thedunnerholmegolfclub.co.uk

Silecroft Tel: 01229 770467 www.silecroftgolfclub.co.uk

125

www.puenteromano.com

www.marbellaclub.com

Stay in either hotel and enjoy free green fees in our Marbella Club Golf Resort, Spain

For further information on facilities and special packages, please visit our sites: www.puenteromano.com - www.marbellaclub.com - www.marbellaclubgolf.com - www.elhigueralgolf.com Or please contact Marbella Club Golf Resort via e-mail: reserv.golf@marbellaclub.com or telephone: (+34) 952 880 608

Costa del Sol November 2014 & February 2015 3 nights B&B Tamisa Hotel 3 rounds of golf Transfers Gala dinner Daily and overall prizes Goody bags Price: ÂŁ225 per person + flights

To join The Golf Guide on the Costa del Sol contact:

Telephone: +44 077865 48629 or Email: competitions@golfguidepublications.com