
Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club
A legendary championship links course steeped in history, offering a true test of golf with its iconic pot bunkers and challenging coastal winds.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Firm fairways, fast greens

Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club
Best Time
Firm fairways, fast greens

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary championship links course steeped in history, offering a true test of golf with its iconic pot bunkers and challenging coastal winds.
"Playing here means walking history; it's an unforgettable experience for any serious golfer."

🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Visitor tee times are limited and book up fast. Plan your trip months in advance for this championship course!
👔 Clubhouse Dress Code
No shorts allowed in the clubhouse. Check the club's policy before your visit to avoid any issues.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Infamous Pot Bunkers
Throughout the course
These classic, deep pot bunkers are a signature of this challenging links course. They demand respect and precise shot-making.

Championship Links Challenge
The entire course
Experience a true test of golf with firm, fast fairways and unpredictable winds. Every hole echoes with golfing history.

Historic Clubhouse
Clubhouse
Immerse yourself in the rich history of this iconic venue. The clubhouse offers a welcoming atmosphere and a glimpse into golfing heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tee Time Well in Advance
Understand the Dress Code
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Visitor tee times are limited and book up fast. Plan your trip months in advance for this championship course!
👔 Clubhouse Dress Code
No shorts allowed in the clubhouse. Check the club's policy before your visit to avoid any issues.
💨 Prepare for Wind
Links golf means wind! Expect changeable conditions that will significantly impact your club selection.
💰 It's Pricey, But Worth It
Playing a championship course comes with a high price tag, but the experience is unforgettable.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Visitor tee times are limited and book up fast. Plan your trip months in advance for this championship course!
👔 Clubhouse Dress Code
No shorts allowed in the clubhouse. Check the club's policy before your visit to avoid any issues.
💨 Prepare for Wind
Links golf means wind! Expect changeable conditions that will significantly impact your club selection.
💰 It's Pricey, But Worth It
Playing a championship course comes with a high price tag, but the experience is unforgettable.
🚶♂️ Explore the Pro Shop
Even if you don't play, the pro shop offers souvenirs and a chance to see the club's offerings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the historic championship links experience at Royal Lytham & St Annes, praising its challenging layout and rich heritage. While the cost is high and the clubhouse dress code strict, the opportunity to play on such an iconic course is considered unforgettable by many. The welcoming staff and the unique character of the course are frequently highlighted positives.
"Anyone can go to the pro shop. Lots of Souvenirs to share with friends. Didn’t play the course. It was an unexpected stop that day. Its buildings are unique but are not as grand as it looks on pics. It’s 3 separate buildings. You have to go out to the driving range to see it entirely. Hard location to find. It is at a dead end in a neighborhood."
Lydia Keefer
"Classic links course littered with the famous and unforgiving pot bunkers. Played in the summer and the fairways were firm and fast. Greens were softer than the other links courses we have played this week. Still need to club down at least half and iron to account for the bounce. The Clubhouse is replete with history, make sure to check it out. Expensive, but worth it."
Brad Moffett
"Absolutely amazing experience, we played Monday afternoon of Open week. The staff (Elaine in booking, Phil in the clubhouse particularly) were warm and welcoming. We actually read the information they sent ahead of time so we knew to get the full experience we couldn’t wear shorts in the clubhouse. We asked about the first tee from the tips and he walked us over there, gave a little history lesson and we played from there.
I was so happy that I hit the ball the best I had in years, certainly worth a visit."
John McClelland
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The club is located at a dead end in a neighborhood, making it a bit tricky to find. Use GPS and follow signs for the golf club. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options might require further connections from nearby towns like Blackpool or Preston.
Some visitors have noted it can be a hard location to find as it's situated in a residential area. It's recommended to use a reliable GPS or mapping service and look for specific signage for the club.
The nearest major train station is in Blackpool, from where you can take a taxi or local bus service to St Annes. Lytham train station is also nearby, but may require a short taxi ride to the course.
Yes, you can visit the pro shop which is located within the clubhouse complex and offers souvenirs. However, access to other parts of the clubhouse might be restricted to members and playing guests.
There is parking available at the club for visitors and members. It can get busy during peak times or events, so arriving early is advisable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Playing this championship course is expensive, with visitor green fees being premium. Prices can vary significantly based on the season and day of the week. It's best to check the official club website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Absolutely. Tee times for visitors are essential and must be booked well in advance, often months ahead, especially for peak season play.
The club's operational hours, including the pro shop and clubhouse, generally align with daylight hours for golf. It's advisable to confirm specific opening times for the pro shop or clubhouse facilities when booking your tee time.
While the course itself is more relaxed, the clubhouse has a strict dress code. Shorts are not permitted inside the clubhouse. Golf attire is expected on the course.
Discounts are rare for visitors on this championship course. Some packages or off-season rates might be available, but generally, expect to pay the full visitor green fee. Playing as a guest of a member offers a different cost structure.
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
It's a classic links course renowned for its challenging pot bunkers and undulating fairways. The wind is a significant factor, making it a true test of golf. Fairways can be firm and fast, especially in summer.
Caddies are typically available but must be booked in advance. Given the challenging nature of the course and the wind, a caddie can be invaluable for navigating the holes effectively.
This historic club has hosted numerous Open Championships and other major tournaments. Playing here means walking in the footsteps of golfing legends, adding a unique historical dimension to the experience.
Facilities include a pro shop, practice areas (driving range), locker rooms, and a clubhouse with dining and bar services. The clubhouse itself is steeped in history.
While it's a championship course, beginners can play, but it will be a very challenging experience. The pot bunkers and wind require a good level of skill. It's more suited to experienced golfers looking for a significant test.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The clubhouse offers food and beverages, typically serving classic club fare. Expect good quality food, beer, and service, as noted by visitors.
Access to the main dining areas of the clubhouse might be restricted to members and playing guests. However, the pro shop area might offer some refreshments, or you could inquire about bar access.
Yes, the town of St Annes-on-Sea offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs within a short drive or taxi ride from the golf club, providing more dining choices.
As expected from a prestigious golf club, prices for food and drinks are on the higher side, reflecting the quality and location.
For larger groups or during peak times, making a reservation for dining in the clubhouse is recommended. For casual drinks or snacks, it might not be necessary.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic pot bunkers, the sweeping fairways against the coastal backdrop, and the historic clubhouse. The unique architecture of the three separate buildings, especially when viewed from the driving range, also makes for interesting shots.
Yes, you can take photos while playing the course. However, be mindful of other players and the pace of play. The clubhouse also offers opportunities for historical photos.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. Professional or commercial photography might require special permission from the club. Always be respectful of the club's rules and other guests.
Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) can provide beautiful, dramatic lighting for links golf photography, highlighting the textures of the course and the bunkers.
While a full aerial view is best captured from above, certain elevated points on the course or the driving range area can offer expansive vistas of the layout.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your family enjoys golf, then it's a fantastic opportunity to experience a world-class course. Otherwise, consider focusing on the nearby coastal attractions or other family-friendly activities in the St Annes or Blackpool area. The golf course itself is a challenging environment, and younger children might not fully appreciate the historical significance or the intricacies of the game.
💰 Budget Travelers
For those on a tighter budget, consider visiting the pro shop for souvenirs as a more affordable way to engage with the club. Alternatively, exploring the surrounding coastal areas or other public golf courses in the region might offer a more budget-conscious golfing experience. The true value here lies in the prestige and history, which comes at a cost.
🏌️♂️ Serious Golfers
Key advice for serious golfers:
* Book well in advance: Tee times are scarce and highly sought after.
* Study the course: Familiarize yourself with the layout and the infamous pot bunkers.
* Embrace the challenge: This is a true test of links golf; enjoy the experience and the history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Links: A Golfer's Guide
Playing here means embracing the history and tradition of the game. Each hole has a story, and walking the fairways where legends have competed can be a profound experience. This historical significance can sometimes be a distraction from one's own game, but it's also a core part of the pleasure of playing such an iconic venue. For those seeking the ultimate links challenge, Royal Lytham & St Annes delivers an unforgettable round.
Key considerations for golfers:
* Wind: Be prepared for strong, changeable winds that can drastically alter club selection and shot trajectory.
* Bunkers: Treat every bunker with respect; they are strategically placed and can easily derail a hole.
* Course Management: Think strategically about each shot, considering the wind, the bounce, and the hazards. It's not a course for brute force alone.
Beyond the Fairway: The Clubhouse and Pro Shop
The pro shop is a popular spot for souvenirs, allowing friends and family to share in the experience of a visit, even if they didn't play the course. While the buildings might not be as visually imposing as some modern golf resorts, their historical significance and the quality of the amenities, including food and service, are consistently praised.
Visitor tips for the clubhouse:
* Dress Code: Remember that shorts are not permitted inside the clubhouse. Adhere to the club's dress code to ensure a smooth entry.
* Explore: Take time to appreciate the historical elements within the clubhouse. It's a key part of the overall experience.
* Souvenirs: The pro shop is a great place to pick up mementos of your visit.
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