Golf clubs

Nestling between two busy seaside resorts, the Royal Lytham and St. Annes Golf Course is one of the most unique courses in the rotation of the British Open. It is a links in every sense of the word, with sandy soil and the wind blowing in from the Irish Sea. Open to the elements, the trees on the course permanently lean sideways, with the wind often proving a formidable competitor in the homeward five holes of the course.

Unusually, the course is set amongst a Victorian housing estate, and occupies a limited piece of land, with red-brick houses in plain view. Located nearby are the St. Annes train station with the railway line running adjacent to the first nine holes of the course.

Ten Open Championships, two Ryder Cups and many other major tournaments have been held at this esteemed club. Careful thought and accuracy are required on what can be a punishing links, but this impressive course is a must for all serious golfers.

Royal Lytham hosted the British Open in 2012 and hosts the Walker Cup in 2015.