Stay & play in the epicentre of England's Golf Coast
Located at the heart of England's Golf Coast, the vibrant seaside town of Southport is one of the country's finest golf destinations.
With three exceptional championship courses in the town itself, Royal Birkdale (Open Championship and Ryder Cup host), Hillside (host of the British Masters and English Open), and Southport & Ainsdale (former Ryder Cup host), it offers a truly unique concentration of elite links golf within walking distance.
Just a short drive away, you’ll find more standout courses, including Formby, and the iconic Open venues of Royal Liverpool and Royal Lytham & St Annes (around an hour), completing the legendary Royal trio alongside Birkdale. Whether you're chasing major championship pedigree or uncovering hidden gems, Southport delivers a classic golf experience that blends tradition, variety, and convenience, perfect for a UK golf holiday.
Why book a golf break to Southport?
- Visit England's golf coast, with three Open Championship & two Ryder Cup venues
- Play historic, world-class links courses with tournament pedigree
- Enjoy golf & nightlife with a lively town centre
- Pair premium layouts with hidden gems for great value
- Easily accessible by road or rail from across England
- Book now to earn loyalty Breakpoints & get money off your next trip
Golf breaks in Southport - England's Golf Coast
Southport is a name that commands instant respect among golfers. Positioned along the stunning Lancashire coastline, this historic town is home to some of the finest links golf in the world. With a rich tournament pedigree, dramatic seaside landscapes, and an unbeatable concentration of top 100-ranked courses, Southport offers a golf holiday that blends tradition, prestige, and unforgettable play.
Whether you’re ticking off Open Championship venues or exploring hidden gems of the northwest, Southport delivers the ultimate golf experience.
Travel tips for golfers visiting Southport:
- Best time to visit: May to September – for firm fairways, long daylight hours, and peak links conditions.
- Top tip: While there is a peak season, links courses hold up very well during the winter months, so playing during the off-season, like March, April, or October, can offer great value.
- Travel time: Around 1 hour by train from Manchester or Liverpool; 2.5 hours from London by train or car.
- Nearest stations: Southport Station (direct trains from Manchester & Liverpool); car hire available locally.
- Transport: Best explored by car for easy access to multiple courses, parking is available at all major clubs.
- Booking tip: Tee times at top courses like Royal Birkdale and Hillside fill up fast, plan early, especially for weekends and holidays.
There are so many courses to choose from in Southport. Here are some of our favourites:
Royal Birkdale Golf Club Architect: Frederick G. Hawtree | Par: 72 | Opened: 1889 Ranked as one of the top 5 golf courses in England by Top 100 Golf Courses and Home of The Open 2026
A ten-time Open Championship host and widely regarded as one of the best links courses in the world. Royal Birkdale features vast sand dunes, strategic bunkering, and fast, undulating greens. Its fair yet testing layout has made it a favourite of pros and amateurs alike.
Travel tip: Tee times are limited, book well in advance, especially during peak months.
Hillside Golf Club Architect: Fred Hawtree | Par: 72 | Established: 1911 Host of the British Masters and a regular Final Qualifying venue for The Open
A Final Open Qualifying venue and host of the British Masters, Hillside is famed for its incredible back nine, sculpted through towering dunes. With dramatic elevation changes and flawless conditioning, it’s a thrilling test of shot-making and imagination.
Insider tip: Play 36 with Southport & Ainsdale for a legendary local double-header.
Formby Golf Club Architect: Willie Park Jr. | Par: 72 | Founded: 1884 A stunning blend of links and woodland golf on the edge of a nature reserve
A beautifully unique mix of links and pine woodland, Formby offers a tranquil yet challenging round. The tight fairways and coastal winds demand accuracy, while the course’s natural beauty adds to its charm. Don’t miss the renowned Formby Ladies Course next door for a bonus round.
Good to know: Located inside a nature reserve, keep an eye out for red squirrels and rare birds!
Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club (S&A) Architect: James Braid | Par: 72 | Opened: 1906 Two-time Ryder Cup host and a celebrated links treasure
This classic James Braid design is a two-time Ryder Cup host. At Southport & Ainsdale, expect bold bunkering, tricky greens, and firm fairways that play fast and true. It’s a true test of traditional links golf with a storied history to match.
Course tip: The course plays toughest in the wind, club selection is key!
Hesketh Golf Club Architect: George Lowe & James Braid | Par: 72 | Established: 1885 The oldest golf club in Southport and a proud Open Qualifying venue
Southport’s oldest club, Hesketh combines links and inland features for a varied and enjoyable round. With a distinctive Victorian clubhouse and views across the Ribble Estuary, it offers a peaceful escape just minutes from the town centre.
Insider tip: Often less crowded than the headline names, great for a relaxed afternoon round.
Best-selling golf trips in Southport
Where to stay on your Southport golf holiday?
If you’re planning a golf trip to Southport, you’ll find an excellent selection of hotels and resorts to make your stay as comfortable and memorable as the courses themselves. With its mix of world-class golf, coastal charm, and modern comforts, Southport delivers the ideal blend of sport and relaxation.
From full-service golf resorts to elegant hotels near the seafront, Southport has accommodation options to suit every kind of golfer. And there’s no better way to start your round than with a hearty breakfast and fresh coastal air just outside your window.
Best for all-in-one golf & leisure retreats Perfect for those who want everything in one place, golf, spa, dining, and downtime.
- Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa | Customer rating: 4.5 A standout stay-and-play destination, Formby Hall offers everything you need for a seamless golf holiday. Play the championship 18-hole course or sharpen your game on the 9-hole Woodhey Dunes course. After your round, unwind in the award-winning spa, enjoy lakeside dining, or sip cocktails at the stylish Fairway Bar. Set among lush parkland and just minutes from Formby Beach, it’s ideal for couples, groups, or anyone after a premium golf escape.
"Fantastic place to stay when playing any courses in Merseyside. Covers all your needs at a great price." ~ Trusted customer
Best for stylish stays near the heart of town Ideal for golfers who want to combine time on the fairways with dining, nightlife, and the seaside atmosphere of Southport.
- Waterfront Southport Hotel | Customer rating: 4.4 Overlooking Marine Lake and adjacent to Southport’s iconic promenade, Waterfront Southport Hotel offers comfort, location, and views all in one. Modern, airy rooms, a fantastic restaurant, and easy access to local courses like Hillside and Southport & Ainsdale make this a favourite for weekend getaways or longer stays. It’s also just a short stroll to the pier, Lord Street shopping, and plenty of bars for celebrating (or commiserating) after your round.
"Great location for our group 10 minutes from two quality golf courses. Staff great and breakfast superb." ~ Trusted customer
- The Vincent Hotel | Customer rating: 4.4 Chic and contemporary, The Vincent Hotel brings boutique luxury to the heart of Southport. With sleek rooms, an acclaimed restaurant, and a buzzing cocktail bar, it’s a great choice for golfers who enjoy the finer things off the course. You’ll be just a short drive from Royal Birkdale and other top-ranked links courses, making this a sophisticated base for your golf adventure.
"Great hotel with friendly and helpful staff" ~ Trusted customer
Want a bit more variety? Try a customised Southport golf tour If you’d rather explore the full range of Southport’s legendary links, why not enjoy a tailor-made UK golf tour? With some of the best courses in the country all within 20 minutes of each other, it’s easy to mix and match rounds and accommodation to suit your style.
A golf tour allows you to:
- Play a variety of courses, including Royal Birkdale, Hillside, and Formby
- Choose accommodation to match your group’s vibe, from full-service resorts to chic city hotels
- Customise your itinerary based on how much golf, downtime, or sightseeing you want
- Add extras like spa treatments, wine tastings, or day trips to Liverpool and the Wirral
As the world’s No.1 golf tour operator, we’re here to help you build the perfect Southport golf escape, whether it’s a championship bucket-list trip, a relaxing long weekend, or a celebration with friends.
Check out our review of a golf tour in Southport here.
With so many world-class courses packed into one coastal stretch, you don’t need to travel far for a truly unforgettable golf experience. Whether it’s a championship round at Royal Birkdale or a hidden gem like Hesketh, you’re absolutely spoilt for choice.
Senior UK Travel Consultant
Golf travel tips for Southport
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Things to do in Southport
Beyond the fairways, Southport combines traditional charm with coastal elegance. With its Victorian boulevards, vibrant pier, and sweeping beaches, it’s the perfect base for a golf holiday that’s both relaxing and rewarding.
Popular golf holiday types in Southport
- Tournament experiences – Walk in the footsteps of legends by playing courses that have hosted The Open, Ryder Cup, and other major events. From Royal Birkdale to Hillside and Southport & Ainsdale, Southport offers the chance to tee off on historic fairways with serious championship pedigree, perfect for golfers seeking a taste of tour-level conditions.
- Weekend golf breaks – Just 45 minutes from Liverpool and under an hour from Manchester, Southport is perfectly placed for a weekend retreat. With so many top-tier courses so close together, you can play multiple rounds without long drives between them.
- Group golf tours – With golf, dining, and accommodation all within easy reach, Southport is a top choice for group tours. Tailored packages can include multiple courses, clubhouse lunches, and even transport so that you can focus on your swing.
- Midweek golf holidays – For those looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy great value, a midweek break in Southport is a smart choice. Courses are quieter, tee time availability is better, and many hotels offer special rates, ideal for a more relaxed pace of play.
- Golf & nightlife escapes – Pair daytime rounds with vibrant evenings out. After your game, head into Southport’s lively town centre or take a quick trip to Liverpool for buzzing bars, live music, and stylish restaurants. It’s the perfect way to balance competitive golf with social fun.
Beyond the fairways in Southport
- Lord Street - This elegant, tree-lined boulevard is filled with independent shops, stylish cafes, and Victorian arcades. It’s a lovely spot for post-round browsing or a relaxed afternoon tea.
- Southport Pier & Promenade - Stretch your legs along the UK’s second-longest pier, offering stunning views across the Irish Sea. The surrounding promenade features gardens, cafes, and a nostalgic penny arcade, great for a laid-back stroll.
- Formby Beach & Pinewoods - Just a short drive away, Formby is a hidden gem. Explore vast sandy beaches, dramatic dunes, and enchanting pine forests, home to red squirrels and scenic walking trails.
- British Lawnmower Museum - A quirky local attraction, this museum offers a surprisingly fascinating look at one of Britain’s best-loved inventions. A fun detour for a quick visit and a bit of trivia!
- The Atkinson - Located in the heart of Southport, this arts and cultural venue hosts galleries, theatre performances, and exhibitions. Perfect for a quiet afternoon or an evening out post-round.
- Local dining & nightlife - Southport has a growing food scene, from seafood bistros to elegant fine dining. And with plenty of lively pubs and bars, there’s no shortage of places to unwind with a drink and relive the day’s best shots
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- Trusted expertsOver 25 years’ experience sending more than 3.5 million golfers away
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