The Best UK Golf Breaks in the North of England

The North of England is home to a number of high-quality golf courses - mixing some classics with ambitious modern layouts. So if you’re looking for a change from driving straight past and onto Scotland, here are some of the very best:

Formby

Although Formby was originally designed by Willie Park Junior, it was updated and made famous by Harry Colt. Set against the dramatic Lancashire coastline, the course can get particularly challenging when the wind steps up, though thankfully many of the holes are protected by a fine lining of pine trees. The sheer amount of rough, heather and sand here means that you need to be on the very top of your game to score well - concentration and accuracy are essential if you’re planning to visit here on a golf break in the UK.

The Hunting Course

The Hunting Course at Slaley Hall is an official PGA European Tour venue and was England’s entry to host the 2010 Ryder Cup...A statement of its quality. Incorporating moorland, parkland and forest features, you’ll need to shape your shots and hit all your clubs well. The views and ambience are lovely so when you’re struggling to find your form, you’ll still have fun at one of the prettiest locations for a UK golf break.

The Nicklaus Course, Carden Park

As the name suggests, this course has the guaranteed mark of quality, being designed by the great Jack Nicklaus. In typical Nicklaus fashion, the course is clearly laid out and challenging but always fair. Watch out for the many hazards designed to trip up the greedy and always be aware of the option to play the “safe” line. Despite only being opened in 1998, Carden Park is already considered one of the best spots for a golf holiday in the UK and has hosted the PGA Seniors Tour on a number of occasions.

Royal Birkdale

If you only plan on playing one course in the North during your golf holiday in the UK, choose Royal Birkdale. Royal Birkdale has been voted the best course in Britain and is high up on the list of the finest in the world. It has hosted two Ryder Cups, The Women’s British Open, the Walker and Curtis Cups and the Open Championship on nine separate occasions. The course is an outstanding links that is universally regarded as being tough but fair. Challenging and with some outstanding views, Royal Birkdale is a must-play for any golfer who takes their game seriously.

Take your proofs (just in case) and enjoy. A UK golf holiday in the North of England is easy to get to and offers surprisingly good value and some fabulous courses and sights.