Manchester is not a county famous for golf in the way that Surrey or Fife is, but within an hour of the city centre you will find some of the finest inland courses in England. The combination of Cheshire heathland, Lancashire moorland, and a handful of genuine championship venues makes the region a far better golfing destination than its reputation suggests.
The Championship Standard
Mottram Hall Golf Club (Cheshire) is the area's showpiece resort course, a parkland layout with elevation changes and water features that hosts professional events and corporate golf. The challenging back nine requires careful course management and rewards accurate iron play. Staying at the hotel makes for an excellent golf weekend.
Mere Golf and Country Club (Knutsford) is a private members' club with one of the finest reputations in the north-west. Founded in 1934 and designed by James Braid, Mere's parkland course has hosted the European Tour and remains a classic of English inland golf. Visitor green fees require advance booking and are priced accordingly.
Sandiway Golf Club (Cheshire) is Cheshire heathland at its finest and one of the area's best-kept secrets outside the county itself. Sandy soil, heather, and silver birch create conditions reminiscent of the great Surrey heathland courses. Excellent for visitors; green fees are reasonable for the quality offered.
Moorland Golf
Saddleworth Golf Club (Oldham) sits high on the Pennine moors east of Manchester with views that, on a clear day, stretch to the Peak District. The moorland layout demands local knowledge and a willingness to deal with wind. Challenging but thoroughly enjoyable for golfers who like character over comfort.
Castle Hawk Golf Club (Rochdale) is an accessible moorland course that welcomes societies and visitors with flexibility. The setting above the Roch Valley is dramatic and the course plays considerably harder in wind than a standard parkland layout.
The Cheshire Classics
Alderley Edge Golf Club is a tree-lined parkland course in the prosperous Cheshire village of the same name. The course is well-maintained, the members welcoming to visitors, and the combination of hole variety and condition makes it one of Cheshire's most enjoyable rounds.
Prestbury Golf Club is a tight, tree-lined parkland course that rewards accuracy over length. It sits in one of Cheshire's prettiest villages and has a warmth of welcome that makes it popular for society days and visiting groups.
Styal Golf Club offers good-value parkland golf in the Bollin Valley near the Styal National Trust estate. Less challenging than the county's flagship clubs, but well-maintained and with a pleasant setting that makes for an enjoyable round.
For Visitors Staying in the City
If you are staying in Manchester itself rather than venturing into Cheshire, three options are worth knowing:
Chorlton-cum-Hardy Golf Club is a historic parkland course in suburban south Manchester, a ten-minute drive from the city centre and accessible by public transport.
Didsbury Golf Club is compact but well-regarded, set in pleasant south Manchester parkland and welcoming to visitors.
Gatley Golf Club is a short drive from Manchester Airport if you are arriving or departing and want to fit in a round. Unpretentious and friendly.
Where to Stay for a Golf Break
For a golf-focused weekend, the Mere Golf Resort or Mottram Hall offer the most complete packages. Knutsford and Nantwich in Cheshire are good bases for exploring the county's best courses, with a range of country pubs and restaurants to fill the evenings.
The Midland Hotel in Manchester itself is well-placed for city access with countryside courses within a short drive. Golf packages in partnership with local clubs can usually be arranged through the hotel's concierge.
Founder & Tour Professional
Sandeep Grewal is a former tour professional and the founder of Swyng. He personally handles every booking and redemption, using his competitive background to match you with the right course, lesson, or experience. About Sandeep →
