Fairhaven Golf Club

Links golfers will find proper championship conditions at this classic Lancashire course, which has hosted Open Championship qualifying rounds. The 18-hole layout stretches along the coast near Lytham St Annes, offering genuine seaside golf with all the wind and weather challenges that come with it.

Fairhaven's fairways can be unforgiving - the rough is deep and the coastal breeze will test every club in your bag. It's serious golf rather than a holiday knockabout, so high handicappers might find it frustrating. Club golfers looking for a proper test will love the challenge, particularly the back nine which runs closer to the sea.

Being just outside Blackpool, it makes a cracking addition to a Lancashire coast holiday. Families staying at nearby parks like Ribby Hall Village or Haven Marton Mere can easily combine a round here with typical seaside fun. The course is well-maintained year-round, though booking ahead is essential during summer months when visiting golfers flock to this stretch of coast.

Expected green fees run to proper club prices - this isn't municipal golf. Allow four hours for a round, longer if the wind's up. Worth checking their website for visitor policies as some days are members-only.