St Annes Old Links Golf Club

St Annes Old Links Golf Club (Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, England)

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Lytham St Annes in Lancashire, England, St Annes Old Links Golf Club stands as a testament to the timeless allure of links golf. Established in 1901, this championship course offers golfers a unique blend of history, challenge, and natural beauty. As you tee off, the distant silhouette of the Blackpool Tower and the occasional roar of aircraft from Blackpool Airport add to the distinctive character of this links layout.

St Annes Old Links has earned its place among the top golf courses in England, regularly hosting final qualifying rounds for The Open Championship and co-hosting prestigious events like The Amateur Championship. With its undulating fairways, strategic bunkering, and the iconic 9th hole praised by golfing legend Bobby Jones, St Annes Old Links invites players to experience golf in its purest form, where tradition and nature converge.

Key Details

• Location: Lytham St Annes, Fylde, England
• Length: 6907 yards
• Par: 72
• Designers: George Lowe and Alex Herd
• Established: 1901
• Notable Events: Final Qualifying for The Open Championship (2018-2022), co-hosted The Amateur Championship (2022)

History and Significance

St Annes Old Links has a rich history that predates the completion of the Blackpool Tower in 1894. The course was first played on land that was part of the original Lytham and St Annes Golf Club, which relocated due to urban development in the late Victorian era. In 1901, keen golfers re-established the course on the vacant site, with George Lowe, the first professional, laying out the original nine holes. The course was extended to eighteen holes in 1910 by Sandy Herd, a renowned golf course architect, solidifying its status as a championship-caliber links.

Over the decades, St Annes Old Links has been a venue for numerous prestigious events. It has served as a final qualifying course for The Open Championship multiple times, most recently from 2018 to 2022, showcasing its ability to test the world’s best golfers. In 2022, it co-hosted The Amateur Championship with its esteemed neighbor, Royal Lytham & St Annes, further cementing its place in golfing history. The course’s signature 9th hole, known as “Cannon,” holds particular fame. In 1926, Bobby Jones, one of golf’s all-time greats, took detailed measurements of this hole, which may have influenced the design of Augusta National, home of The Masters.

The course is regularly ranked among the top 100 courses in England by leading golf publications such as Golf World, Today’s Golfer, and National Club Golfer. Its classic links design, with holes like the 9th and 18th, offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers of all levels. The historical significance, combined with its natural beauty and strategic layout, makes St Annes Old Links a must-play for any golfer visiting the Fylde coast.

Founding and Early Years

The origins of St Annes Old Links trace back to the late 19th century, when golf was gaining popularity across England. The land on which the course now sits was once part of the original Lytham and St Annes Golf Club, established in 1886. However, as Lytham St Annes grew, urban development encroached on the original site, forcing the club to relocate. In 1901, a group of local golf enthusiasts seized the opportunity to create a new course on the vacated land. George Lowe, the club’s first professional, designed the initial nine holes, laying the foundation for what would become one of England’s finest links courses.

Evolution and Redesigns

The course underwent significant changes in its early years. In 1910, Sandy Herd, a celebrated golfer and course architect, extended the layout to eighteen holes, introducing new challenges and refining the existing ones. Herd’s work ensured that St Annes Old Links could host major tournaments, a role it has fulfilled with distinction over the decades. While the course has seen minor updates over time, its classic character has been preserved, allowing golfers today to experience the same challenges that faced players more than a century ago.

Major Tournaments and Events

St Annes Old Links has a storied tournament history. It has served as a final qualifying venue for The Open Championship on multiple occasions, most recently from 2018 to 2022, showcasing its ability to test the world’s best golfers. In 2022, the course co-hosted The Amateur Championship alongside Royal Lytham & St Annes, further elevating its profile. These events have not only brought international attention to the course but have also reinforced its reputation as a championship links of the highest order.

Cultural Significance and Modern Recognition

Today, St Annes Old Links is celebrated as one of England’s premier golf courses. It consistently ranks among the top 100 courses in the country, praised for its historical significance, challenging layout, and stunning coastal setting. Golfers like Rory McIlroy have lauded its quality, and the course’s connection to Bobby Jones adds a layer of mystique. Its inclusion in prestigious rankings and its role in hosting major tournaments ensure that it remains a bucket-list destination for golfers worldwide.

Course Features

St Annes Old Links is a quintessential links course, characterized by its undulating fairways, natural dunes, and strategic bunkering. The course layout presents a variety of challenges, from blind shots to greens hidden in the dunes, testing players’ accuracy and strategy at every turn.

Layout and Terrain

The course stretches over 6907 yards from the championship tees, offering a par-72 layout that balances length with precision. Its links-style design means that players must contend with firm, fast-running fairways and greens that are often exposed to the elements. The terrain is classic links—rolling dunes, natural hummocks, and sparse vegetation—creating a raw, unmanicured feel that harks back to the early days of golf. Wind plays a significant role here, often whipping in from the Irish Sea, adding an extra layer of difficulty to every shot.

Unique Features and Challenges

St Annes Old Links is dotted with deep, revetted bunkers that are as visually striking as they are punishing. With over 100 bunkers scattered across the course, avoiding them requires careful shot selection and precision. The rough, while not overly penal, is thick enough to make recovery shots tricky, emphasizing the importance of staying in the short grass. Water hazards are minimal, but the natural contours of the land create optical illusions and blind shots that demand strategic thinking. For example, the second shot on the 18th hole is completely blind over a mound, requiring faith in your yardage and trajectory.

Scenic Elements and Overall Experience

Beyond its challenges, St Annes Old Links offers breathtaking scenery that enhances the golfing experience. The distant Blackpool Tower, a miniature of the Eiffel Tower, and the giant rollercoaster along the pier serve as unique aiming points on several holes. Golfers may also spot aircraft taking off and landing from Blackpool Airport, adding a dynamic element to the round. The course’s proximity to the sea means that on clear days, you can hear the waves crashing against the shore, creating a serene yet invigorating atmosphere. This blend of natural beauty and historical charm makes every round at St Annes Old Links memorable.

Signature Holes

St Annes Old Links boasts several iconic holes that showcase its character and challenge. Here are three of the most notable:

9th Hole – Cannon (Par 3, 180 yards)

The 9th hole, affectionately known as “Cannon,” is perhaps the most famous on the course. This par-3 requires a precise shot to a green that is long and hardly visible from the tee, surrounded by steep, deep-faced bunkers. Bobby Jones was so impressed by this hole that he took detailed measurements in 1926, which may have influenced the design of Augusta National’s famous par-3s. Playing this hole, golfers can feel a connection to golfing history, standing where legends have stood before them. The challenge lies not just in hitting the green but in managing the wind and avoiding the punishing bunkers that guard it.

10th Hole (Par 4, 400 yards)

The 10th hole is steeped in history, as it is one of the remaining holes from the original Lytham and St Annes Golf Club layout. Running parallel to the 18th, this par-4 offers a classic links challenge with its undulating fairway and strategic bunkering. From the tee, players must navigate a narrow landing area flanked by bunkers, setting up a demanding approach shot to a green that slopes subtly from back to front. The hole’s historical significance and its demand for accuracy make it a favorite among traditionalists.

18th Hole (Par 5, 500 yards)

The closing hole at St Annes Old Links is a fitting finale to a memorable round. This short par-5 requires a strategic approach, with the second shot completely blind over a mound. Players must trust their yardage and trajectory, as there’s no way to see the green from the fairway. Adding to the drama, an old railway line hugs the right side of the fairway, and bunkers guard the green, making for a nerve-wracking finish. A well-executed second shot can set up an eagle opportunity, but anything short or left risks trouble.

Why Visit

St Annes Old Links offers a unique golfing experience that combines historical significance with natural beauty and challenging play. As a championship links course, it provides a test of skill and strategy that appeals to golfers of all levels. The opportunity to play a course that has hosted Open Qualifying and been praised by golfing legends like Bobby Jones is a draw in itself. Bobby Jones reportedly said of the course, “It’s difficult to see how you could improve on this,” a testament to its enduring quality.

Visiting St Annes Old Links allows golfers to connect with the rich history of the game, walking in the footsteps of greats who have played these same fairways. The course’s setting, with its coastal views and unique landmarks like the Blackpool Tower, adds to the memorable experience. A TripAdvisor reviewer noted, “Lots of good things to say about SAOL—the course is great fun to play, classic old links, not ‘tear your hair out’ long, greens absolutely immaculate”.

Practical benefits include excellent facilities, such as the clubhouse with its warm welcome and extensive practice areas for refining skills. The course’s proximity to other attractions in Lytham St Annes makes it an ideal destination for a golfing holiday, whether you’re traveling solo or with family.

Facilities

St Annes Old Links boasts a range of facilities to enhance the golfer’s experience. The clubhouse is a stunning building steeped in history, offering a welcoming atmosphere with professional and friendly staff. Diners can enjoy a selection of sandwiches and proper chips, perfect for refueling after a round. One visitor praised the clubhouse, saying, “The club house is stunning, steeped in history”.

For practice, the course provides a putting green, chipping area, driving nets close to the clubhouse, and a substantial practice area a short walk away. These facilities allow golfers to warm up, work on their short game, or fine-tune their drives before tackling the course. Additional services include caddy services and golf lessons, ensuring a complete golfing experience.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Highbury Road, St Annes on Sea, Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, FY8 2LD
• Phone: 01253 723597
• Email: Contact via phone or website (St Annes Old Links).
• Directions: Located 25 miles north of Liverpool and 30 miles south of Blackpool. From M6 junction 32, take A583 to Kirkham, then A585 to Lytham St Annes. Public transport: Train to Preston or Blackpool, then bus or taxi. On-site parking available.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at St Annes Old Links vary by day:

Season	Non-Resident (Before 1pm)	Non-Resident (After 1pm)	Hotel Guest
Apr–Oct	£65.00–£80.00 (Mon-Thu)	£70.00 (Fri)	Not specified
Nov–Mar	Not specified	Not specified	Not specified

• Booking Process: Book via the website (St Annes Old Links) or call 01253 723597.
• Requirements: Smart casual attire; no denim, trainers, or collarless shirts.
• Membership: Available; contact the club for details.

Nearby Attractions

Lytham St Annes weaves seaside charm with vibrant attractions, enhancing a golfing trip to St Annes Old Links. From historic landmarks to thrilling amusement parks, these nearby treasures offer golfers and their companions a delightful mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure for an unforgettable visit.

Attraction	Appeal	Distance
St Annes Heritage Mural	Historical	0.5 miles
St Annes Beach Huts	Scenic	0.7 miles
St Annes Pier	Family-friendly	0.8 miles
Lowther Pavilion	Cultural	1 mile
Fairhaven Lake	Outdoor Recreation	2 miles
Lytham Windmill	Historical	3 miles
Blackpool Pleasure Beach	Thrills	10 miles

St Annes Heritage Mural

Located in the heart of Lytham St Annes, just 0.5 miles from the course, the St Annes Heritage Mural vividly captures the town’s rich history, from its Victorian roots to modern times. This striking artwork is perfect for photographs and appeals to history enthusiasts. A short stroll from local cafes, it’s an ideal cultural stop for golfers and companions between rounds.

St Annes Beach Huts

The colorful St Annes Beach Huts, 0.7 miles away, line the seafront promenade, offering a charming retreat. Available for daily rental, they provide a cozy base to enjoy Irish Sea views. Ideal for families or couples seeking relaxation, these vibrant huts complement a beach day, with nearby cafes adding convenience for post-golf leisure.

St Annes Pier

St Annes Pier, a Victorian gem built in 1885, lies 0.8 miles from the course. Its arcades, amusement rides, and dining options entertain families, while stunning coastal views captivate all. Savor fish and chips at sunset or let kids explore games, making it a perfect family-friendly stop after a round of golf.

Lowther Pavilion

Just one mile away, the Lowther Pavilion is a cultural haven set in scenic gardens. Hosting theater, live music, and comedy, it offers a delightful evening for golfers seeking entertainment. Its historic charm and diverse performances make it an excellent choice for companions looking to experience local culture after a day on the links.

Fairhaven Lake

Two miles from St Annes Old Links, Fairhaven Lake is a serene spot for outdoor fun. Visitors can rent boats, walk scenic trails, or relax at the lakeside cafe. Its tranquil setting and family-friendly activities make it a great excursion for golfers and companions seeking a peaceful break from the course.

Lytham Windmill

Three miles away, Lytham Windmill, built in 1805, stands as a restored historical landmark with a museum. It offers insights into the area’s heritage, showcasing milling history and local artifacts. Perfect for history buffs, its picturesque setting makes it a charming stop for golfers exploring the Fylde coast.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Ten miles from the course, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a world-famous amusement park with thrilling rollercoasters like the Big Dipper, family rides, and live shows. Ideal for a day of excitement, it’s a short drive away, offering a fun contrast to golf for thrill-seekers and families visiting Lytham St Annes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I book a tee time at St Annes Old Links?

Tee times can be booked through the club’s website (St Annes Old Links) or by calling 01253 723597.

What are the green fees for St Annes Old Links?

Green fees are £65.00–£80.00 midweek (Mon-Thu) and from £70.00 on Fridays, based on GolfShake.

Is St Annes Old Links suitable for beginners?

While challenging, it’s open to all levels. Beginners may find some holes tricky but will enjoy the experience.

What is the best time to play St Annes Old Links?

Playable year-round, spring and autumn offer milder weather. Check forecasts due to coastal winds.

Is there a dress code at St Annes Old Links?

Yes, smart casual attire is required; no denim, trainers, or collarless shirts.

What facilities are available at St Annes Old Links?

Clubhouse with dining, practice areas (putting green, chipping area, driving range), and caddy services.

How do I get to St Annes Old Links?

By car: M6 junction 32, A583 to Kirkham, A585 to Lytham St Annes. By public transport: Train to Preston/Blackpool, then bus/taxi.

Are there other golf courses nearby?

Yes, Royal Lytham & St Annes is nearby, along with other Fylde courses (Royal Lytham).

Has St Annes Old Links hosted any major tournaments?

It has hosted Open Qualifying (2018-2022) and co-hosted The Amateur Championship (2022).

Why is St Annes Old Links famous?

Its classic links design, historical significance, and signature 9th hole, studied by Bobby Jones, make it renowned.

Is accommodation available at St Annes Old Links?

No on-site accommodation, but hotels and B&Bs are plentiful in Lytham St Annes.

Is membership available at St Annes Old Links?

Yes, membership is available; contact the club for details (St Annes Old Links).

What is the weather like at St Annes Old Links?

Coastal location means windy, changeable weather. Check forecasts and dress accordingly.

Can you tell me more about the history of St Annes Old Links?

Established in 1901, designed by George Lowe, extended by Sandy Herd in 1910, it’s a top links course.

What are some unique features of St Annes Old Links?

The 9th hole’s hidden green, 18th’s blind shot, and Blackpool Tower as a backdrop.