Fairhaven Golf Club

Fairhaven Golf Club (Lytham, Lancashire, England)

Tucked away in the heart of Lancashire’s famed “Golf Coast,” Fairhaven Golf Club is a hidden gem that blends over 125 years of golfing heritage with a captivating mix of links and parkland golf. Set within the tranquil Lytham Hall Park, this championship course offers a golfing sanctuary where rolling dunes, fescue-topped grasslands, and cunningly placed bunkers challenge players of all levels.

Stepping onto the first tee, you’re not just starting a round—you’re embarking on a journey through a storied landscape that has tested golfing greats and nurtured future stars. Fairhaven’s timeless appeal and serene beauty make it a must-visit destination for any golfer.

Key Details

• Location: Lytham, Lancashire, England
• Length: 6,961 yards (Blue tees)
• Par: 72
• Designers: J.A. Steer and James Braid (original), Dave Thomas and Donald Steel (redesigns)
• Established: 1895 (club founded), 1924 (current course opened)
• Notable Events: Open Championship Final Qualifying, Fairhaven Trophies junior golf competition

History and Significance

Founding and Early Years

Fairhaven Golf Club traces its origins to 1895, when it was established on a 12-hole course near Fairhaven Lake. As the Fairhaven Estate developed, the course faced multiple alterations, and by 1920, the estate company required the club to relocate. Clifton Estates came to the rescue, leasing land in Lytham Hall Park, where the current course was laid out. Designed by local professional J.A. Steer with guidance from the legendary James Braid, the course opened in 1924.

The initially flat terrain was sculpted with hills, hollows, and bunkers, creating a challenging layout that remains iconic today. The clubhouse, formally opened in 1925, continues to serve as a welcoming hub for golfers.

Evolution and Redesigns

To maintain its championship caliber, Fairhaven has evolved through thoughtful redesigns. In 1931, J.A. Steer returned to enhance the course’s standards, elevating its reputation. In 1977, Ryder Cup veteran Dave Thomas introduced significant updates, including raised bunker profiles, reshaped greens, and tightened fairways, while adding pines and rhododendrons for aesthetic and strategic depth. Since 2003, renowned architect Donald Steel has overseen subtle improvements, incorporating new bunkering to counter advancements in golf equipment, ensuring Fairhaven remains a formidable test for modern players.

Major Tournaments and Events

Fairhaven has a proud history of hosting significant golfing events. Since 1952, it has served as a venue for Open Championship Final Qualifying when The Open is held at nearby Royal Lytham & St Annes. In 1996, Justin Leonard set the professional course record of 64 during these qualifiers, earning honorary membership. The club also hosts the Fairhaven Trophies, an annual 72-hole stroke play competition for junior golfers under 18, recognized by the World Amateur Golf Ranking. This prestigious event has launched the careers of many who later excelled in amateur and professional golf.

Cultural Impact

Fairhaven’s cultural significance extends beyond its challenging layout. Recognized by Golf World as one of “The Best 10 Championship Qualifying Courses” and for having one of “Great Britain & Ireland’s Best 10 Opening Holes,” it holds a revered place in golfing circles. The club’s commitment to junior golf through the Fairhaven Trophies underscores its role in nurturing talent. Its unique pheasant logo, inspired by the birds that roamed Lytham Hall Park and fostered by club professional Bill Miller in 1968, adds a charming touch to its identity. Fairhaven’s blend of history, challenge, and community spirit makes it a cherished destination.

Course Features

Layout and Terrain

Fairhaven’s 18-hole layout, spanning 6,961 yards from the Blue tees, is a masterful blend of links and parkland styles. Designed with two loops of nine holes that return to the clubhouse, it mirrors the classic structure of courses like Muirfield. Though set half a mile inland, the course boasts links characteristics—firm fairways, rolling dunes, and fescue grasses—complemented by parkland elements like mature trees and rhododendrons. The absence of visible roads or houses creates a peaceful, immersive golfing experience within Lytham Hall Park.

Unique Features and Challenges

The course is renowned for its 118 bunkers, often deep and revetted, which demand precision off the tee and on approach shots. Contrary to local legend, there were never 365 bunkers, but the current array is more than enough to test golfers. Humps and hollows flank many fairways, adding strategic complexity, while the fast, true greens reward accurate putting but punish miscalculations. Wind, a frequent factor due to the course’s exposure, requires careful club selection and shot shaping, making every round a dynamic challenge.

Scenic Elements and Overall Experience

Fairhaven’s setting is as beautiful as it is challenging. The course is enveloped by the lush greenery of Lytham Hall Park, with mature trees and vibrant rhododendrons enhancing its visual appeal. Wildlife, particularly pheasants, adds to the charm, their presence immortalized in the club’s logo. The serene environment, coupled with the course’s strategic demands, creates a golfing experience that is both exhilarating and tranquil, leaving players eager to return.

Signature Holes

Hole 1: Par 5, 523 Yards

The opening hole at Fairhaven is a par 5 that immediately sets the tone for the round. From an elevated tee, players face a generous fairway, but strategically placed bunkers demand a well-positioned drive. The second shot must navigate additional hazards, and the undulating green, guarded by more bunkers, requires precision to avoid a tricky start. Recognized as one of Britain’s best opening holes, it’s a fitting introduction to Fairhaven’s challenges.

Hole 9: Par 4, Approximately 400 Yards

The 9th hole is a picturesque par 4 that winds through bunkers and hillocks, with trees lining the left side. The fairway narrows toward the green, and the clubhouse provides a stunning backdrop, making it one of the course’s most photogenic holes. Accuracy is crucial off the tee, and the approach shot must be precise to set up a birdie chance, blending beauty with strategic depth.

Hole 15: Par 5, 507 Yards

Regarded as the course’s toughest, the 15th is a formidable par 5 that tests every aspect of a golfer’s game. The tight fairway is flanked by bunkers that punish errant drives, while the second shot requires careful navigation of further hazards. The well-protected green demands a skillful approach, making par a significant achievement on this challenging hole.

Why Visit

Golfing Challenge and Appeal

Fairhaven Golf Club offers a golfing experience that is both challenging and rewarding. Its unique blend of links and parkland features, with over 100 bunkers and fast greens, tests players’ skills and strategy. The course’s championship pedigree, having hosted Open qualifying and the Fairhaven Trophies, adds to its allure, making it a bucket-list destination for golfers seeking a true test.

Emotional and Historical Resonance

Playing at Fairhaven is like stepping into golfing history. Golfers walk fairways where Justin Leonard set a course record and where young talents have launched their careers. The serene setting of Lytham Hall Park, free from urban distractions, offers a peaceful escape, while the club’s warm hospitality creates lasting memories. As one reviewer noted, “Fairhaven is a real hidden gem”.

Practical Benefits

The club’s modern facilities, including a refurbished clubhouse with excellent dining and comprehensive practice areas, enhance the visitor experience. Its location on Lancashire’s “Golf Coast” allows golfers to pair a round at Fairhaven with visits to nearby courses like Royal Lytham & St Annes. Affordable green fees, starting at £65 for twilight rounds, make it accessible for a premium golfing experience.

Facilities

Clubhouse and Dining

Fairhaven’s clubhouse is a highlight, blending traditional architecture with modern interiors. Recently refurbished, it offers a welcoming space with dining options featuring local cuisine, ideal for post-round relaxation. The upstairs lounge, with its balcony overlooking the course, provides stunning views, as praised in reviews: “The view over the course from the balcony was stunning”. A well-stocked pro shop caters to golfers’ needs.

Practice Areas and Services

The club boasts excellent practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and chipping green, perfect for warming up or refining skills. Additional services include golf lessons from qualified professionals, caddy services upon request, and buggy hire for those with medical needs. The friendly staff ensure a seamless and enjoyable visit for all guests.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Fairhaven Golf Club, Oakwood Avenue, Lytham, Lancashire, FY8 4JU, England
• Phone: +44 (0)1253 736741
• Email: info@fairhavengolfclub.co.uk
• Directions: From Manchester (60 miles, ~1 hour), take the M61 and M55 to Blackpool, then the A583 to Lytham. From Liverpool (50 miles, ~1 hour), take the M58 and M6 to Preston, then the M55 and A583 to Lytham.
• Public Transport: Trains to Lytham station, followed by a short taxi ride to the club.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking available.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at Fairhaven vary by season, day, and time, offering flexibility for visitors. From 1st April to 15th October 2025:

Visitors can book tee times online at Fairhaven’s booking page or by calling +44 (0)1253 736741. A smart golf attire dress code is expected, and handicap certificates may be required for certain events. Advance booking is recommended to secure preferred times.

Nearby Attractions

Lancashire’s Fylde Coast, home to Lytham St Anne’s, is rich with attractions that complement a golfing trip to Fairhaven. Whether you’re a golfer or traveling with companions, the area offers history, nature, and seaside charm.

• Lytham Hall: Adjacent to the golf course, this 18th-century manor house offers guided tours, stunning gardens, and parkland walks, perfect for history enthusiasts.
• Fairhaven Lake: Just a mile away, this serene lake provides boating, walking trails, and picnic spots, ideal for a relaxing family outing.
• Lytham Windmill: Located on Lytham Green, about 2 miles from the club, this restored windmill houses a museum and offers scenic views of the Ribble Estuary.
• St Annes Pier: Roughly 3 miles away, this Victorian pier features amusement arcades, cafes, and seaside charm, great for a nostalgic coastal experience.
• Ashton Gardens: Also about 3 miles from Fairhaven, these gardens in St Anne’s boast floral displays, a playground, and peaceful walking paths.
• Lowther Gardens: Approximately 2 miles away, this Lytham garden features ornamental plants, a pavilion, and open spaces for leisurely strolls.

These attractions enhance a visit to Fairhaven, offering diverse activities for all interests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I book a tee time at Fairhaven Golf Club?

Tee times can be booked online via Fairhaven’s website or by calling the pro shop at +44 (0)1253 736741. Advance booking is recommended.

What are the green fees for visitors?

From April to October 2025, fees range from £65 (late night) to £120 (weekends), with special rates like £80 for early bird or twilight rounds.

Is the course suitable for beginner golfers?

Yes, Fairhaven offers multiple tee options, making it accessible for beginners while still challenging for experienced players.

What is the best time of year to play at Fairhaven?

Spring and summer (April–October) offer the best weather and course conditions, though the course is playable year-round.

What is the dress code for the course and clubhouse?

Smart golf attire, such as collared shirts and tailored trousers, is required; confirm specifics with the club.

What facilities are available at the club?

The club features a modern clubhouse with dining, a pro shop, driving range, putting green, chipping green, and golf lessons.

How do I get to Fairhaven Golf Club?

Located at Oakwood Avenue, Lytham, FY8 4JU, it’s about an hour’s drive from Manchester or Liverpool. Trains to Lytham station are followed by a short taxi ride.

Are there other golf courses nearby?

Yes, Royal Lytham & St Annes, St Annes Old Links, and other “Golf Coast” courses are within a short drive.

What major tournaments has Fairhaven hosted?

Fairhaven has hosted Open Championship Final Qualifying since 1952 and the annual Fairhaven Trophies junior competition.

Why is Fairhaven Golf Club famous?

It’s renowned for its links-parkland blend, challenging bunkers, championship status, and hosting prestigious events.

Is there accommodation available at or near the club?

Numerous hotels and B&Bs in Lytham St Anne’s offer convenient stays, some with golf packages.

How can I become a member of Fairhaven Golf Club?

Contact the club at +44 (0)1253 736741 or via email for membership details and application processes.

What is the typical weather like in Lytham?

Lytham experiences mild summers and cool winters; check forecasts before playing, as wind can affect play.

Can you tell me about the history of the course?

Founded in 1895, the club moved to its current J.A. Steer and James Braid-designed course in Lytham Hall Park in 1924.

What makes Fairhaven unique compared to other courses?

Its blend of links and parkland features, 118 bunkers, serene parkland setting, and championship heritage set it apart.