You won’t be surprised to hear that an area which describes itself as England’s Golf Coast is fairly well stocked with quality courses. Royal Birkdale, Formby, Hillside, Southport & Ainsdale... these illustrious names are known the world over.

Yes, a feast of links awaits on England’s Golf Coast. But in the last decade, it has also been able to offer a terrific parkland alternative – at the Formby Hall Resort.

Set in 200 acres of former marshland, Formby Hall’s main attraction is the 18-hole Old Course, which matured so rapidly it was quickly a host of the European Challenge Tour. It has also been a venue for the European Seniors Tour.

Water can be found on 16 of the 18 holes and this tree-lined, American-style course is a pleasant antidote to the plethora of seaside courses which lie a couple of miles away.

There is also a new 9-hole par-3 course – complete with links-style rivetted bunkers – one of the finest driving ranges in the North West of England (21 individual carpeted bays, three teaching bays and two private swing-analysis rooms), as well as something the Birkdales of this world cannot offer – a stunning hotel.  

The complex underwent a £15 million refurbishment in 2008, which has resulted in the completion of the new four-star 62-bedroom hotel and luxury Spa, which is renowned in the local area.

Formby Hall is therefore ideal for corporate days, weekend breaks and society days. 

With a lake to catch any errant shots – although it is more aesthetically pleasing than a real hazard (unless you’re taking a long time to warm up) – and six bunkers, this is a tricky early test of your ball striking.

A tough drive over water – anything less than around 170 yards will be sunk – down a tree-lined fairway and then a long iron, or possibly a hybrid, into a two-tiered green which is also well bunkered. Good luck! 

A fitting finale, this three-shotter can wreck anyone’s card. There’s water all the way down the left and right which can only be ignored when you’re safely on the putting surface. 

Even with a wedge in your hand for your third, it still catches your eye. The green boasts many undulations – very much three-putt country here. 

You might glance at the card on the 1st tee and hope for a closing birdie but in the end you’ll be glad of a par.