Stockport Golf Club

Stockport Golf Club (Stockport, Greater Manchester, England)

Nestled in the heart of Greater Manchester, Stockport Golf Club is a beacon of golfing heritage and natural splendor. Founded in 1905, this championship-standard course invites golfers to step onto fairways where history and challenge intertwine. Picture yourself teeing off amidst tree-lined parkland, the distant hills framing each shot, as you follow in the footsteps of players who competed in The Open Regional Qualifier.

Stockport Golf Club is more than a course—it’s an emotional journey through golf’s storied past, offering a blend of strategic depth and scenic beauty that captivates players from the first tee to the final putt.

Key Details

• Location: Stockport, Greater Manchester, England
• Length: 6,373 yards (from championship tees)
• Par: 70
• Designers: Sandy Herd (original design), Harry Colt (modifications)
• Established: 1905
• Notable Events: Hosted The Open Regional Qualifier, Stockport Salver (Cheshire Cat Tournament)

History and Significance

Stockport Golf Club’s legacy began in 1905 as Davenport Golf Club, with a modest 9-hole course at Woodsmoor. By 1909, the club relocated to Torkington, where Sandy Herd, the 1902 Open Champion, designed an 18-hole layout that laid the foundation for its enduring reputation. Herd’s vision created a course that balanced accessibility with challenge, appealing to both casual players and serious competitors.

The course faced challenges during World War I, when parts were used for cadet training and agriculture. Post-war, the legendary Harry Colt was called upon to restore and enhance the layout. Colt’s modifications, including strategic bunkering and refined green complexes, transformed Stockport into a championship-caliber course. His influence remains evident in the course’s thoughtful design, which continues to test golfers today.

Stockport has hosted significant events, most notably The Open Regional Qualifier, a prestigious stepping stone to the Open Championship. The Stockport Salver, part of the Cheshire Cat Tournament and a World Amateur Golf Ranking event, further cements its status. These tournaments have produced memorable moments, with players often recounting the pressure of navigating the course’s demanding holes under competitive scrutiny.

Culturally, Stockport Golf Club is a cornerstone of the region’s golfing identity. Ranked among the top courses in Northern England, it has earned praise from professionals like Rory McIlroy for its strategic depth. Stories of past champions and qualifiers add to its mystique, with one local legend recalling a dramatic chip-in during a qualifier that secured a player’s spot in The Open. Today, the club remains a symbol of tradition and excellence, drawing golfers eager to experience its historic fairways.

Course Features

Stockport Golf Club is a classic parkland course, defined by its tree-lined fairways, rolling terrain, and meticulously maintained surfaces. Spanning 6,373 yards with a par of 70, it offers a balanced challenge for golfers of all abilities. The layout, crafted by Sandy Herd and refined by Harry Colt, features a variety of holes that demand precision and strategic thinking.

The course’s standout features include its 100+ bunkers, many lined with marram grass, which add both aesthetic appeal and tactical complexity. The fairways, while generous, are framed by mature trees that influence shot selection, rewarding accuracy and punishing errant drives. The greens are fast and true, with subtle undulations that test putting prowess. Excellent drainage ensures year-round playability, a rarity in England’s often wet climate.

Challenges abound, from the prevailing winds that affect club choice to elevation changes that require careful shot planning. Some holes feature blind approaches, adding an element of intrigue, while the green complexes demand finesse to avoid three-putts. The scenic beauty is equally compelling, with the course winding through a picturesque valley. Views of rolling hills and distant countryside create a tranquil backdrop, making each round a visual and strategic delight.

Signature Holes

Stockport Golf Club’s character shines through its iconic holes, three of which stand out:

• Hole 1 – Par 4, 390 yards
  The opening hole is a bold introduction, requiring a drive over a valley to a fairway that slopes left to right. Bunkers guard the elevated green, demanding a precise approach. This hole sets the tone, blending challenge with the course’s scenic charm.

• Hole 9 – Par 3, 180 yards
  A visually stunning par 3, this hole requires a tee shot over a deep bunker to a narrow, elevated green flanked by additional bunkers. Wind can make club selection tricky, and the green’s subtle slopes test short-game skills. It’s a hole that lingers in players’ memories.

• Hole 18 – Par 5, 550 yards
  The closing hole is a dramatic par 5, offering a risk-reward opportunity. A fairway bunker and water hazard challenge aggressive players aiming for the green in two, while a conservative approach leaves a long iron to a large, undulating green. It’s a fitting finale to a memorable round.

These holes encapsulate Stockport’s blend of strategy, beauty, and historical resonance.

Why Visit

Stockport Golf Club is a compelling destination for golfers seeking a blend of history, challenge, and beauty. Its historical significance, as a venue for The Open Regional Qualifier and a course shaped by golfing greats, adds prestige to every round. The layout tests every facet of a golfer’s game, from driving accuracy to putting finesse, making it rewarding for both low and high handicappers.

Emotionally, playing Stockport connects golfers to the sport’s heritage. Walking fairways where qualifiers have battled for Open glory evokes a sense of awe, as does the serene parkland setting. As one reviewer noted on Tripadvisor, “The course is a treat, one of the region’s little gems!” The club’s facilities, including fine dining and practice areas, enhance the experience, ensuring visitors leave with lasting memories.

Practical benefits include the club’s accessibility, with ample parking and proximity to Manchester. Unique amenities, such as caddy services and occasional falconry displays, add a touch of luxury. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Stockport Golf Club offers a golfing experience that is both challenging and deeply satisfying.

Facilities

The clubhouse at Stockport Golf Club is a hub of hospitality, offering a restaurant with local cuisine that ranges from hearty post-round meals to elegant dining. The pro shop is well-stocked with equipment, apparel, and accessories, staffed by professionals ready to assist. Lounges provide a comfortable space to relax and reflect on the day’s play.

Practice facilities are comprehensive, featuring a driving range, putting green, and practice bunkers for skill refinement. The club offers caddy services, golf lessons, and additional amenities like a spa and unique activities such as falconry, ensuring a complete experience. These facilities, praised in reviews on The Golf Guide, make Stockport a destination for golfers and their companions.

Contact Details and Directions

• Address: Stockport Golf Club, Buxton Road, Marple, Stockport, SK6 7DE
• Phone: +44 (0)161 427 2018
• Email: office@stockportgolf.co.uk
• Directions: Located 8 miles from Stockport town center via the A627. From Manchester, take the M60 to junction 1, then follow signs for Marple.
• Public Transport: Marple train station, 1 mile away, offers taxi access to the club.
• Parking: Ample on-site parking available.
• Map: View on Google Maps

Green Fees and Booking

Green fees at Stockport Golf Club vary by season and time of day. The table below outlines typical rates:

Booking is available online via the club’s website or by calling the pro shop. A smart casual dress code is enforced, and handicap certificates may be required for competitive play. Membership options are available, though non-locals may face a waiting list.

Nearby Attractions

Greater Manchester blends history, culture, and nature, making it an ideal complement to a golfing trip to Stockport Golf Club. From historic sites to scenic trails, the region offers diverse activities for golfers and companions, ensuring a memorable visit.

• Stockport Air Raid Shelters: Discover WWII-era underground tunnels, offering an immersive look into civilian life during the Blitz. A unique historical experience awaits just 5 miles from the club.
• Stockport Museum: Located in the town center, this museum highlights Stockport’s industrial past and cultural heritage, perfect for a quick cultural stop 5 miles away.
• Marple Locks: Explore 16 picturesque locks on the Peak Forest Canal, ideal for scenic walks or photography, just 1 mile from the course.
• Lyme Park: This National Trust estate features a grand mansion, sprawling gardens, and deer-filled parkland, a must-visit 7 miles away.
• Manchester City Centre: A vibrant hub with premier shopping, dining, and attractions like the Manchester Art Gallery, located 10 miles from the club.
• Chadkirk Chapel: A serene 14th-century chapel with tranquil gardens, perfect for a peaceful visit, only 3 miles away.
• Etherow Country Park: Enjoy nature trails, lake views, and birdwatching at this scenic park, just 4 miles from Stockport Golf Club.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Book online via the club’s website or call +44 (0)161 427 2018 for tee times.

What are green fees for non-residents at Stockport Golf Club?

Peak fees: £100 before 1pm, £55 after. Off-peak starts at £35.

Is Stockport Golf Club suitable for beginner golfers?

Yes, forward tees make it accessible, though challenging for all skill levels.

When is the best time to play Stockport Golf Club?

Summer offers ideal weather; early mornings or late afternoons are quieter.

What is the dress code at Stockport Golf Club?

Smart casual required; no denim, trainers, or collarless shirts allowed.

What practice facilities does Stockport Golf Club offer?

Driving range, putting green, and practice bunkers available for skill work.

How do I reach Stockport Golf Club by public transport?

Marple station, 1 mile away, offers taxi access to the club.

Are there other golf courses near Stockport Golf Club?

Ashton-under-Lyne and Brookdale Golf Clubs are within 12 miles.

What major tournaments has Stockport Golf Club hosted?

Hosted The Open Regional Qualifier and Stockport Salver events.

Why is Stockport Golf Club famous?

Known for its championship layout, history, and top-tier facilities.

Does Stockport Golf Club offer on-site accommodation?

No, but nearby hotels provide packages with the club.

Is membership at Stockport Golf Club open to non-locals?

Yes, though waiting lists or criteria may apply for membership.

What’s the weather like at Stockport Golf Club?

Mild summers, cool wet winters; prepare for variable conditions.

What’s the history of Stockport Golf Club?

Founded 1905, designed by Sandy Herd, enhanced by Harry Colt.

What are unique features of Stockport Golf Club?

Tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkers, and year-round playability stand out.