We'd Rather Be Playing: Formby Hall

The history

Formerly known as Formby Hall Golf Club PLC, the renovated Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa is a luxurious and picturesque retreat on England’s Golf Coast.

Once an unused area of marshland, the championship course was host to the European Challenge Tour from 1999 to 2001.

Set within 200 acres of Parkland, the 76 bedrooms at the hotel were completely refurbished in 2017. Individually designed, the fresh and modern furnishings and spacious bathrooms offer the highest possible level of luxury.

The courses

This dramatic stretch of north-west coastline is home to no less than 15 golf courses. Whether you are taking a tour of the area or just visiting Formby Hall for the weekend, a round on the championship Old Course is a must. With links-style pot bunkers, wooded areas and water hazards, this is a characterful and interesting round.

Meanwhile, the 9-hole Woodhey Dunes course is a more manageable for beginners, but it still contains all the challenges and fun of a proper links course.

The facilities

The spa here is home to many extraordinary features. The refurbished swimming pool area includes a Himalayan salt sauna, essence-infused laconium cabin and various steam rooms, ice fountains and showers.

There’s also a 20m pool, heated relaxation beds and a spa bistro; everything you could need for a blissful afternoon of pampering. The fitness studio is equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, while the programme of fitness classes is also available to non-members.