Delamere Forest Golf Club

Delamere Forest Golf Club (Delamere, Cheshire, England)

Tucked away on the edge of Cheshire’s ancient Delamere Forest, Delamere Forest Golf Club is a heathland masterpiece that captivates golfers with its blend of natural beauty and strategic challenge. Established in 1910 and crafted by renowned architect Herbert Fowler, the course weaves through rolling hills, heather, and gorse, offering a fair yet formidable test. As you stand on the tee, the serene Cheshire countryside unfolds, with distant views that inspire and fairways that demand precision.

Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply savoring the tranquility, Delamere invites you to walk in the footsteps of golfing greats, from county champions to Open qualifiers, in a setting that feels both timeless and exhilarating.

Key Details

• Location: Station Road, Delamere, Cheshire, CW8 2JE, England
• Length: 6,588 yards (championship tees)
• Par: 72
• Designers: Herbert Fowler (1910, 1920), Hawtree Ltd (1959), Tom MacKenzie (2014), Martin Ebert (2014)
• Established: 1910
• Notable Events: Hosted the first Cheshire County Championship (1921, plus eight subsequent events), Open Championship qualifying course (1967), professional course record of 63 by Maurice Bembridge (1967), 2025 AIG Women’s Open Pre-Qualifying
• Type: Heathland
• Unique Features: Heather and gorse-lined fairways, fast and subtle greens, 82 strategically placed bunkers

History and Significance

Founding and Early Years

Delamere Forest Golf Club was founded in 1910, born from a vision to create a premier golfing destination on a former hunting field. Herbert Fowler, a celebrated architect known for his work on courses like Walton Heath, designed the original 18 holes, leveraging the natural heathland terrain to craft a layout that was both challenging and visually striking. The club’s early members, many from the Cheshire Hunt register, embraced its rugged beauty, and by 1921, Delamere hosted the inaugural Cheshire County Championship, establishing its place in regional golfing history.

Evolution and Redesigns

The course has evolved thoughtfully over its century-long history. Fowler returned in 1920 to refine his original design, enhancing its strategic elements. In 1959, Hawtree Ltd made further adjustments, followed by a significant renovation in 2014 by Tom MacKenzie and Martin Ebert. This modern update included rebuilding all 82 bunkers, repositioning some, and adding or removing others to adapt to contemporary play while preserving Fowler’s classic style. These changes have kept Delamere competitive, maintaining its reputation as a top-tier heathland course.

Major Tournaments and Events

Delamere’s competitive legacy is notable. It has hosted the Cheshire County Championship nine times since 1921, cementing its status in regional golf. In 1967, the club served as a qualifying venue for The Open Championship at Royal Liverpool, where Maurice Bembridge set a professional course record of 63, a mark that remains unbroken. Looking ahead, Delamere is set to host the 2025 AIG Women’s Open Pre-Qualifying, reinforcing its relevance in modern golf. These events highlight the course’s enduring challenge and prestige.

Cultural Significance and Modern Recognition

Delamere Forest Golf Club is more than a golf course; it’s a cultural touchstone in Cheshire, blending natural splendor with golfing heritage. Ranked 58th in England and 125th in Britain & Ireland by Golf World, it’s celebrated as Cheshire’s finest inland course and a “hidden gem” by outlets like Golf Monthly. Its serene setting near Delamere Forest and accessibility from major cities like Manchester and Liverpool make it a beloved destination for golfers seeking both challenge and tranquility.

Course Features

General Layout and Terrain

Delamere Forest Golf Club is a quintessential heathland course, stretching 6,588 yards across undulating terrain. Herbert Fowler’s design capitalizes on the natural contours, with fairways framed by heather and gorse rather than trees, creating an open yet demanding layout. The par-72 course features a mix of long par-4s, strategic par-5s, and testing par-3s, with fast-draining sandstone soil ensuring year-round playability. The absence of tree-lined fairways emphasizes strategic shot-making, where wind and terrain play significant roles.

Unique Features and Challenges

The course’s defining features include its 82 bunkers, meticulously restored in 2014, which demand precision off the tee and on approach shots. The small, contoured greens are fast and subtle, requiring deft putting and careful club selection. Heather and gorse line the fairways, punishing errant shots, while the open layout invites wind as a constant challenge. The opening five holes are notoriously difficult, setting a tone of unrelenting challenge that rewards accuracy over power.

Scenic Elements and Overall Experience

Delamere’s scenic beauty is a highlight, with panoramic views of the Cheshire countryside and the ancient Delamere Forest providing a serene backdrop. From elevated tees, golfers can see across multiple holes, with the white oak clubhouse adding a picturesque focal point. The course’s tranquility, punctuated by the rustle of heather and distant forest sounds, creates an immersive experience. Playing Delamere is a journey through golfing history and natural splendor, leaving golfers with memories as vivid as the landscape.

Signature Holes

Hole 4: Par 3, ~180 yards

The 4th hole is a standout par-3, often hailed as one of Delamere’s finest short holes. From an elevated tee, players face a green that slopes left to right, guarded by bunkers and subtle contours. The wind can alter club selection dramatically, making this a test of precision and nerve. Its scenic backdrop, with views across the course, adds to its allure, rewarding well-executed shots with a chance at birdie but punishing miscalculations.

Hole 5: Par 4, ~400 yards

Renowned for its difficulty, the 5th hole is a par-4 that demands both power and finesse. An uphill tee shot sets the stage, requiring a carry over heather to a fairway that narrows toward the green. The approach is treacherous, with ponds guarding the left and front of the green, testing a golfer’s accuracy and composure. This hole’s reputation as one of England’s toughest underscores its strategic depth and memorable challenge.

Hole 17: Par 4, ~420 yards

The 17th is a dramatic par-4, featuring an elevated green that seems to hover above the fairway. A well-placed drive is essential to set up an approach to this perched pin, where bunkers and slopes await any errant shot. The hole’s design rewards bold, accurate play, offering a thrilling climax to the round. Its visual impact, with the Cheshire hills in the distance, makes it a fitting highlight of Delamere’s layout.

Why Visit

Delamere Forest Golf Club is a bucket-list destination for golfers seeking a blend of history, challenge, and beauty. Its heathland layout, designed by Herbert Fowler, tests every facet of the game, from driving accuracy to delicate putting, making it a rewarding challenge for players of all levels. The course’s historical significance, from hosting county championships to Open qualifying, connects visitors to golf’s storied past. Beyond the fairways, the serene setting and stunning views offer an emotional escape, while the welcoming clubhouse ensures a complete experience. As one golfer noted on, “This really is a great course, a super layout with roller coaster elevation changes.” With excellent dining and practice facilities, Delamere is a compelling reason to visit Cheshire.

Facilities

The clubhouse at Delamere Forest Golf Club is a hub of comfort and hospitality, featuring a bar and restaurant serving a range of dishes, from light snacks to full meals, with views of the course enhancing the ambiance. The pro shop, stocked with top-tier equipment and apparel, caters to all golfing needs, while PGA professional Martin Brown offers lessons and custom fittings (contact 01606 883800, option 2). Practice facilities include a driving range and putting green, ideal for warming up or refining skills. Buggies and club rentals are available, subject to availability, and changing facilities ensure convenience. These amenities make Delamere a welcoming destination for golfers and visitors alike.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Station Road, Delamere, Cheshire, CW8 2JE, England
• Phone: 01606 883800
• Email: Available via Delamere Golf Club
• Directions: Located in Delamere village, the club is accessible by car via the M56 and A49, with ample on-site parking. Use postcode CW8 2JE for navigation. From Manchester or Liverpool, it’s approximately a 50-minute drive.
• Public Transport: Delamere railway station, on the Mid-Cheshire Line, is a short walk (~0.5 miles) from the club, with services from Manchester and Chester.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking available.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at Delamere Forest Golf Club are competitive, reflecting its status as a premier heathland course. The following table outlines guide prices for 2025, subject to confirmation with the club:

Season	Non-Resident (Midweek)	Non-Resident (Weekend)	Day Rate (Midweek)
High (May–Sep)	£50	£60	£70
Shoulder (Apr, Oct)	£45	£55	£65
Low (Nov–Mar)	£40	£50	£60

Booking Process: Tee times can be booked by calling 01606 883800 or online via Delamere Golf Club. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season. A smart golf attire dress code is enforced, and no handicap certificate is required, though players should be prepared for the course’s challenges.

Nearby Attractions

Delamere Forest and its surroundings offer a wealth of attractions, making it an ideal base for a golfing getaway. The region’s blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture ensures there’s something for everyone.

Attraction	Appeal	Distance
Delamere Forest	Walking and cycling trails	Adjacent
Go Ape Delamere	Treetop adventure course	Adjacent
Abbots Moss Nature Reserve	Wildlife and birdwatching	~2 miles
The Fishpool Inn	Traditional pub dining	~1 mile
Cheshire Alpacas	Alpaca walks and farm visits	~5 miles
Oulton Park Circuit	Motor racing and events	~7 miles

Descriptions:

• Delamere Forest: Cheshire’s largest woodland offers extensive trails for walking and cycling, with wildlife spotting and picnic areas for a relaxing day out (Visit Cheshire).
• Go Ape Delamere: An exhilarating treetop adventure with zip lines and obstacles, perfect for families and thrill-seekers, set within the forest (Visit Cheshire).
• Abbots Moss Nature Reserve: A serene wetland habitat ideal for birdwatching and nature walks, showcasing Cheshire’s biodiversity (Visit Cheshire).
• The Fishpool Inn: A charming pub on the forest’s edge, offering hearty meals and local ales, ideal for post-golf relaxation (Visit Cheshire).
• Oulton Park Circuit: A motor racing venue hosting events and driving experiences, perfect for adrenaline enthusiasts (Tripadvisor).
• Cheshire Alpacas: A delightful farm experience where visitors can walk with alpacas, offering a unique activity for all ages (Tripadvisor).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Booking Process

How can I book a tee time at Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Book by calling 01606 883800 or online at Delamere Golf Club.

Green Fees

What are the green fees for Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Approximately £50 midweek, £60 weekends, with a £70 midweek day rate. Confirm with the club for exact pricing.

Suitability for Beginners

Is Delamere Forest Golf Club suitable for beginners?

Yes, but the heathland terrain and fast greens may challenge novices. Guidance from a pro or caddy is recommended.

Best Times to Play

What is the best time to play at Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Spring and summer offer optimal weather, with early mornings or late afternoons providing ideal conditions.

Dress Code

Is there a dress code at Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Standard golf attire is required on the course, with smart casual wear expected in the clubhouse.

Facilities

What facilities are available at Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Includes a driving range, clubhouse with bar and restaurant, pro shop, changing facilities, and buggy/club hire.

Directions and Access

How do I get to Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Located at Station Road, Delamere, CW8 2JE, accessible by car with parking. Delamere railway station is ~0.5 miles away.

Nearby Courses

Are there other golf courses near Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Nearby options include Tarporley Golf Club, Sandiway Golf Club, and Mere Golf Resort and Spa.

Tournaments Hosted

Has Delamere Forest Golf Club hosted any major tournaments?

Hosted the Cheshire County Championship (1921, plus eight times), Open Championship qualifying (1967), and 2025 AIG Women’s Open Pre-Qualifying.

Reasons for Fame

Why is Delamere Forest Golf Club famous?

Known for its Herbert Fowler design, heathland challenge, and ranking as Cheshire’s top inland course.

Accommodation

Is accommodation available near Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Hotels and B&Bs are available in Northwich and Frodsham, though the club itself offers no accommodation.

Membership

Does Delamere Forest Golf Club offer membership?

Yes, membership options are available. Contact the club for details.

Weather

What is the weather like at Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Cheshire’s weather is changeable, with mild summers and cooler winters. Check forecasts, as wind affects play.

Course History

Can you tell me about the history of Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Founded in 1910 by Herbert Fowler, it has hosted county championships and Open qualifying, with updates in 2014.

Unique Features

What are some unique features of Delamere Forest Golf Club?

Heather and gorse fairways, fast greens, no tree-lined fairways, and 82 strategic bunkers.