Tee off in style on England’s Golf Coast
Looking to experience world-class golf in one of the most iconic golfing regions in the UK? England’s Golf Coast is the ultimate destination for your next England golf holiday. Home to three Open Championship venues and a host of top-ranked links courses, this stretch of coastline from Blackpool down to Wirral in the North West of England is steeped in golfing heritage and prestige.
From the legendary layouts of Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool, and Royal Lytham, to hidden gems like Formby and Hillside, the region offers an unforgettable mix of challenge, charm, and championship pedigree. Off the course, enjoy vibrant towns like Southport, Liverpool, and Blackpool, where great dining, entertainment, and classic seaside fun await.
Why book a golf break to England's Golf Coast?
- Experience some of the finest links golf in the world
- Play three Open Championship venues in one trip
- Tick off Ryder Cup and European Tour host courses
- Stay in quality accommodation, from boutique hotels to golf resorts
- Enjoy post-round nightlife and attractions in Liverpool
- Explore charming coastal towns like Southport and Blackpool
Play iconic links on England’s Golf Coast
Looking for legendary links, world-famous championship venues, and historic fairways steeped in tradition? England’s Golf Coast delivers one of the finest golf experiences in Europe. With more Open Championship venues than any other region, and 9 courses in England's top 50 courses according to Top 100 Golf Courses, this North West stretch is a dream destination for golfers.
Travel tips for visiting England’s Golf Coast
- Best time to visit: April to October, when the weather conditions are firm, daylight is long, and coastal breezes make every round memorable.
- Top tip: Late spring and early autumn offer great value, with fewer crowds and still-excellent playing conditions.
- Travel time: Approx. 1–2 hours by car from Manchester; 3–4 hours from London.
- Nearest stations: Southport, Liverpool Lime Street, and Blackpool North all provide easy rail access.
- Transport: Car hire is recommended to reach courses spread along the coast.
- Booking tip: Open Championship venues like Royal Birkdale and Royal Liverpool can book up fast, plan early, especially in summer.
Our favourite golf courses on England’s Golf Coast
Royal Birkdale Golf Club | Southport Architect: George Low Jr. | Par: 72 | Founded: 1889
One of the most celebrated courses in the world, ranked 25th in the UK by Top 100 Golf Courses and a regular Open Championship host, Royal Birkdale is pure links perfection. With towering dunes, immaculate turf, and iconic pot bunkers, it’s a must-play for golfers chasing major championship history.
Course tip: Walk the same fairways as legends like Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, and Jordan Spieth.
Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club | near Blackpool Architect: George Lowe & Harry Colt | Par: 70 | Founded: 1886
Another Open Championship gem, and one of the best golf courses in the North West, Royal Lytham is known for its fierce bunkering and unique setting, surrounded by red-brick houses rather than sea views. It’s hosted 11 Opens and countless amateur events and is ranked 20th in the UK by Top 100 Golf Courses.
Good to know: Accuracy off the tee is vital. Bring your A-game and a great sand wedge.
Royal Liverpool Golf Club | Hoylake, Liverpool Architect: Robert Chambers & George Morris | Par: 72 | Founded: 1869
Home to The Open Championship in 2023, Hoylake is steeped in prestige. Flat and exposed, it demands strategy and precision, especially when the wind picks up. The club has hosted the Open 13 times and remains a true test of traditional links golf.
Insider tip: Don’t miss the new par-3 17th, redesigned for The Open, a thrilling, short challenge.
Formby Golf Club | Southport Architect: Willie Park Jr. & James Braid | Par: 72 | Founded: 1884
A unique blend of links and heathland, Formby is a pure golfing experience. Nestled among pine trees and dunes, it offers natural beauty and strategic challenge. It’s a regular host of Amateur Championships and is highly regarded among purists, as well as being ranked 52nd in the UK by Top 100 Golf Courses.
Why play: A perfect balance of inland feel and coastal character, rare and memorable.
Hillside Golf Club | Southport Architect: Fred Hawtree | Par: 72 | Founded: 1911
Regarded as one of the best links not to host The Open, Hillside is a favourite of players and pundits alike, ranked 51st in the UK by Top 100 Golf Courses. The back nine is especially renowned for its routing through dramatic dunes and slick greens.
Course tip: Play it as part of a Southport triple, alongside Royal Birkdale and Formby.
Best golf in England's Golf Coast
Best-selling golf trips on England's Golf Coast
Where to play on your England Golf Coast holiday?
Where to stay in England’s Golf Coast
If you're planning a golf trip to England's Golf Coast, you're in for an unforgettable experience, both on and off the course. Whether you’re looking to stay in the heart of Southport, near Blackpool’s nightlife, or in the vibrant city of Liverpool, we’ve got top-rated options with great access to Open Championship venues and classic links layouts.
Best for scenic seaside breaks & classic links access Perfect for players who want golf, sea air, and town centre convenience.
- Waterfront Southport Hotel | Southport | Customer rating: 4.4 A stylish, modern hotel overlooking Southport Marine Lake and just minutes from Royal Birkdale, Hillside, and Southport & Ainsdale. The hotel features elegant rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, and is within walking distance to shops and restaurants in town.
“Very good hotel, excellent location, would stay again.” – Trusted customer
- The Vincent Hotel | Southport | Customer rating: 4.4 This boutique hotel in central Southport offers a sleek and contemporary stay with a lively bar, high-end dining, and a cool atmosphere. Great for golfers who want to mix luxury with location, just a short drive to Formby, Royal Birkdale, and more.
“Great hotel with friendly and helpful staff” – Trusted customer
Best for championship golf & resort-style retreats Ideal for golfers who want to play iconic courses and unwind in comfort.
- Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa | Southport | Customer rating: 4.5 A modern golf resort surrounded by woodland and open countryside, Formby Hall is home to the Championship Old Course, a well-regarded layout with fast greens and strong conditioning. With a full-service spa, leisure club, and award-winning restaurant, it’s a fantastic all-in-one golf and wellness retreat.
“Fantastic place to stay when playing any courses in Merseyside. Covers all your needs at a great price.” – Trusted customer
- Village Hotel Blackpool & Herons’ Reach Golf Club | Blackpool | Customer rating: 4.2 Located just minutes from the coast, this resort features a challenging 18-hole parkland course at Herons’ Reach, with water hazards and elevated greens. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a gym, indoor pool, and on-site dining, perfect for relaxing after your round or heading into town for nightlife.
“Great place with very helpful staff and all in one easy place.” – Trusted customer
Best for city & links golf Perfect for golfers who want to play great courses & explore local culture and nightlife
- Delta Hotels by Marriott Liverpool | City Centre Located in the heart of Liverpool, this upscale hotel is perfect for golfers to enjoy amazing courses like Royal Liverpool. Enjoy modern rooms, excellent dining, and quick access to the city’s lively cultural and nightlife scene.
Want to experience more? Try a custom Golf Coast tour
If you’re looking to explore multiple championship venues in one trip, consider booking a tailor-made UK golf tour across England’s Golf Coast. With legendary links, parkland gems, and a wide choice of hotels, it’s easy to craft a trip that suits your style and schedule.
Why choose a Golf Coast tour?
- Combine must-play courses like Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool, and Formby
- Stay in varied accommodations, from boutique hotels to spa resorts
- Customise your route with golf, city breaks, or cultural day trips
As the World's no.1 rated golf tour operator, we’ll take care of everything, so you can focus on the golf.
Golf travel tips for England's Golf Coast
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Explore historic towns & seaside charm on England’s Golf Coast
Beyond its legendary links, England’s Golf Coast offers a rich mix of culture, coastline, and character, perfect for golfers and non-golfers alike. From Victorian seaside towns to vibrant cities and scenic sand dunes, this iconic golfing region is packed with charm and plenty to explore between rounds.
Popular golf holiday types on England’s Golf Coast
- Golf & nightlife breaks - Tee off at world-class courses, then head into Southport or Liverpool for a night of live music, local pubs, and buzzing nightlife. With centrally located hotels like The Vincent and Hilton Liverpool, it’s easy to balance birdies and beers.
- Weekend golf getaways - With excellent rail and road connections from across the UK, England’s Golf Coast is ideal for a short break. Stay in Southport for easy access to 5+ Top 100 courses, or enjoy a quick escape to Liverpool for a city-and-links combo.
- Group golf tours - This region is perfect for group trips and those wanting to tick off multiple Open venues in one go. Enjoy courses like Royal Birkdale, Hillside, Formby, and more, plus transport and evening meals at coastal pubs or city restaurants.
- Midweek value golf holidays - Beat the crowds and get the best tee times with a midweek stay. Resorts like Formby Hall and Village Blackpool often offer midweek rates with added extras like spa access or complimentary drinks.
Beyond the fairways on England’s Golf Coast
- Southport Pier & Promenade – The second-longest pier in the UK, perfect for a post-round stroll or seaside ice cream. Southport is full of arcades, boutiques, and beach views.
- Liverpool’s Albert Dock – A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with museums, galleries, bars, and restaurants. A great cultural counterbalance to your time on the course.
- Crosby Beach & the Iron Men – Home to Antony Gormley’s famous ‘Another Place’ sculptures. An easy visit before or after a round at West Lancashire or Wallasey.
- Blackpool Tower & Seafront – For classic British charm and seaside fun. Enjoy fish and chips, amusement arcades, or even catch a show after your game at Herons’ Reach.
- Formby Pinewoods & Dunes – Adjacent to Formby Golf Club, this National Trust site is perfect for peaceful walks, red squirrel spotting, and sunset views.
- Historic pubs & dining – Dine on local seafood in Southport, sip craft beer in Liverpool’s Baltic Triangle, or enjoy classic pub meals near Royal Lytham. The region offers everything from gastro pubs to city cocktail bars.
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