Why play

A different texture within the Golf Coast

Formby Golf Club was founded in 1884. Willie Park Jr established the original links in 1912, James Braid made alterations in 1922, Harry Colt followed in 1933 and Donald Steel remodelled the course after major coastal erosion in 1980.

That layered history is visible in the modern course: open linksland, pine-framed corridors and heathland influence sit together in one round. It adds variety to a Southport or Liverpool itinerary rather than repeating the character of Royal Birkdale or Hoylake.

Playing character

Placement matters more than brute force

Controlled ball flight and sensible positioning are central. On firmer sections, use the ground where it improves the margin for error; on tighter, tree-lined holes, favour the side that leaves the clearest next shot rather than automatically taking driver.

Approach play rewards distance control and a reliable short game. When the wind rises, simplify the target and avoid turning one positional mistake into a second forced recovery.

Course shape

A full championship layout with genuine variety

The current blue-tee card totals 7,128 yards, with a par of 72. Doglegs, blind shots, undulating greens and changing exposure mean the best line varies significantly across the round.

The official scorecard also shows how tee selection changes the experience materially, making sensible marker choice part of good visitor planning rather than an afterthought.

Visitor planning

Use the live booking route

Formby welcomes visiting golfers and publishes live tee-time availability. Current 2026 and 2027 seasonal rates are available through the club, with weekend access subject to member competitions and winter periods potentially affected by maintenance.

Visitors are asked to provide a recognised handicap certificate, with current published maximum handicaps of 28 for men and 36 for women. Caddies and trolley hire can be arranged through the club.

Stay · Play · Recover

Bridge Southport and Liverpool efficiently

Stay: either Southport or Liverpool can work; choose the base according to the other fixed tee times rather than hotel preference alone.

Play: pair Formby with Royal Birkdale, Hillside or Royal Liverpool for contrast across a compact corridor.

Recover: firm ground, coastal wind and walking over uneven terrain can accumulate fatigue quickly. Leave enough time for mobility, hydration and a lighter evening.