Best Golf Courses in North West England

Considering the sheer number of world-class golf courses in the UK, England’s North West coastline should be seriously applauded for its magnificent contribution. From former Open Championship venues to Ryder Cup host courses, the best of the best have graced the fairways at many of the courses in Southport, Hoylake and beyond.

Many of the links layouts in the North West date back into the 19th century, with tradition and heritage at the core of their courses, making for an unrivalled golfing experience. You can play all these superb golf courses yourself, following in the footsteps of golfing legends.

Read on to discover the courses our experts have played and consider the best in the North West of England or check out some of the best golf holiday deals in the North West >>.

The pedigree of Royal Birkdale Golf Club is beyond doubt, having hosted The Open 9 times, the Ryder Cup twice and a multitude of other championships including the Walker Cup and Women's British Open.

Ranked 15th in Golf Digest's 'World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses 2018' the magnificence of Royal Birkdale cannot be overstated, arguably the crown jewel of English golf, this course should be on every golfer's bucket list.

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"Playing into the 17th you appreciate how amazing Harrington's shot was to claim his 2nd Open. From start-to-finish, this is a great day of golf."
Sam (UK & Ireland Team: Handicap 1)

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This brilliant seaside layout is renowned for the quality of the course design, something which has been maintained and developed over the years.

A difficult test for all who grace the fairways, Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club is a brilliant destination for golfers looking to play a royal course and an Open Championship venue.

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"Get there early and visit the clubhouse to experience the history, you are bound to by a souvenir from the clubhouse too. It begins with a gentle par 3 but beware this is one of the toughest courses in the Country."
Gareth (UK & Ireland Team: Handicap 12)

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Formby is another course on our list located in the famous Southport area, as such its natural beauty parallels the likes of Royal Birkdale and other local neighbours.

Although flanked in some areas by pine trees, you will certainly still feel the sting if the wind picks up speed, it can be tricky to find the fast green from the rolling fairways.

More info on Formby Golf Club >>

"When the wind blows hard, the firm and fast greens are difficult to find, and the lengthy par-3s are some of the most challenging in the local area."
Paul (UK & Ireland Team: Handicap 1)

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Considering its location near some of the most renowned courses in the country, like Royal Birkdale, Hillside more than holds its own as one of the best in the North East.

Having hosted the European Tour for the British Masters in 2019, it's sure to impress with natural beauty and a magnificent design.

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"Every bit as good as the rankings, Hillside is a fantastic place to play and would certainly recommend it as a great golf tour."
Oliver (Marketing: Handicap 1)

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There are so many factors which make Southport and Ainsdale such a prestigious venue; from its two times hosting the Ryder Cup to the renowned James Braid design.

The seaside layout is a classic links course and requires some serious accuracy throughout.

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Since 1873, West Lancashire Golf Club has consistently proven itself as one of the best coastal links courses in the North West. Formerly chosen to host Open Championship Qualifying, many golfing greats have played the track and waxed lyrical on its design and beauty.

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As one of the oldest seaside courses in England, Royal Liverpool naturally has tonnes of history and heritage behind it; in 1871 the course was extended to 18 holes, paving the way for the royal title in the same year.

The course is rather unprotected which can cause conditions to feel more severe, although elites like Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods have won Open Championships here, so they must like it.

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"A great example of links golf. I think the opening tee-shot (the 3rd when they play The Open) is one of the toughest you'll face."
Rob (UK & Ireland Team: Handicap 16)

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Since Old Tom Morris designed the revered course at Wallasey, more golf course architects have added to its brilliance, including James Braid and Donald Steel. Often compared to its neighbour Royal Liverpool, Wallasey is definitely one of the best in the Southport area, providing an enjoyable experience to all golfers.

More info on Wallasey Golf Club >>

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Designed by James Braid and set in the stunning rural Cheshire, The Mere Golf Resort is an amazing golf venue in the North West. Despite seriously impressive facilities off the course, the golf is still the main attraction with winding fairways and beautiful natural hazards; you’ll have to be on your A game to score well here.

More info on The Mere >>

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Hesketh is one of the oldest in Southport and has long had an affiliation with Royal Birkdale, often hosting The Open Championship final qualifying event when the tournament is at Birkdale. With a contrasting front and back nine, this links style course will keep golfers of all abilities on their toes.

More info on Hesketh Golf Club >>

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Handicap: 14
Favourite Course: Twenty Ten at Celtic Manor
My 'Expert' areas: England, Scotland & Wales
Best trip I've done: Gleneagles
Where my next trip is to: Le Golf National

Give Tommy a call on 0800 043 6644 to arrange your next golf break.