Garstang Hotel & Golf Club

GOLF in England’s north-west is dominated by links classics such as Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool, Royal Lytham and Hillside, but venture inland slightly and there are some great parkland courses that represent unbelievable value for money. Garstang is one of them. Built less than 20 years ago, this remarkably mature and testing layout is home to some of the county’s best inland greens and excellent drainage that makes it playable throughout the year. Situated only 30 minutes from Blackpool, Preston and Lancaster, it is ideally located for visiting parties, and, thanks to a large Best Western hotel which is on site, it offers travelling golfers a handy play-and-stay venue. The course itself was designed by PGA captain and master professional Richard Bradbeer in 1992 and meanders along the River Calder and Wyre, offering superb views. Not overly long and quite open, it seems on paper like a walkover, but that is far from the truth as its fast, undulating greens and low par of 68 offer lots of protection.  Take advantage of some of their great-value play-and-stay packages this winter.

The course itself was designed by PGA captain and master professional Richard Bradbeer in 1992 and meanders along the River Calder and Wyre, offering superb views.

Top Holes, by Will Barnes, 2009 PGA Cup team member

River Wyre: 6th - 440 yards, par 4 With the River Calder hugging the left of this dog-leg hole, a drive down the right of the fairway is the safest play.  And don’t be tempted to clear the river as the rise will shorten your drive. An accurate approach is required to avoid the bunkers but don’t over-club as the more water – the River Wyre, making its first appearance – frames the green.  Aquaduct: 14th - 380 yards, par 4 A unique and picturesque hole with the Wyre running down the left and Lancaster canal aquaduct behind the green.  Not a long hole so take a solid drive down the right as the best option as left will take you perilously close to the river with no reward for the gamble.  A pitch to the green should be all that’s left for a chance of a birdie but beware the large bunker short. Hotel: 18th - 465 yards, par 4 A wide fairway and forgiving rough greets you on the longest par 4 on the course. Indeed, for many, this will be a three-shotter. The green is well-protected, and was once recognised as the biggest in Lancashire, so accuracy is vital with your approach.