David McKevitt, Product Manager UK Tours
Nothing tastes sweeter than a cold pint after a long day on the course (except perhaps if it’s a victory one). I might even go so far as to say no golf break is complete without some decent 19th holes. I’ve put together my guide to the best golf venues across Bournemouth, Southport & England's Golf Coast and Blackpool, where you can be sure of great rounds both on and off the course. So, especially if you’re the group organiser for this year, read on!
If you’re looking for a really lively time then Bournemouth could be the destination for you. To get the best out of a golf break here I would definitely recommend a tour. Take in golfing gems like Ferndown, Broadstone and the Isle of Purbeck during the day, and partake in the nightlife at one of the great value hotels near the centre of Bournemouth. My tips are The Horse & Jockey if you fancy a more traditional pub, any of the bars in Christchurch town centre if you want a more lively time, or my personal favourite, why not enjoy a night at the dog track in nearby Poole. With Bournemouth Tours starting from only £99 per person for 1 nights’ dinner, B&B and 2 rounds (with 1 in 8 free) it’s a great value option for groups. Click here to see all Bournemouth Tours.
For some world-class golf combined with high quality après golf, a tour of England’s Golf Coast ticks all the boxes. Not only do you have the option of playing the golfing gems of Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool and Royal Lytham & St Anne’s (host to the Open in 2012), but also some sublime links courses including Southport & Ainsdale, Hesketh, West Lancashire and Hillside. With the golf sorted, you’re spoilt for choice of where to stay and partake in your 19th hole:
Southport – home to many an A-list footballer (look out for them out on the course as well as out on the town), Southport has many thriving restaurants, bars and clubs. Choose to stay in the Scarisbrick Hotel 3* and have the choice of 4 bars onsite including a Sports Bar and a traditional pub (breaks from £150 playing Hesketh and Mossock all).
Blackpool – not a night out for the faint hearted! See the famous Blackpool lights and visit the numerous bars, clubs and restaurants for a truly unique experience. You can stay at the Hilton Blackpool 4*, which is within walking distance to the town centre, from only £119 playing Blackpool North Shore and Knott End.
If you prefer to have your golf onsite, my 2 recommendations are De Vere Heron’s Reach 4* (10 mins from central Blackpool) with breaks from £85 or the renowned Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa 4*(from £79). In my opinion this is by far the best resort course I have ever played in England. Expect a superb challenge of golf, great accommodation and Southport a mere 5 mins drive away. Liverpool is also just down the road. Famous the world over, and the European Capital for Culture 2008, a trip to Liverpool is a must for both the food and the nightlife. It will only take you 20 minutes to arrive in central Liverpool from Formby.
So there you have it - fantastic golf and nightlife, all for great value. In my opinion the perfect options for that group golf break. The only problem now is deciding where to go!
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