Hurlston Hall Golf Club

An 18-hole course tucked into the Lancashire landscape near Hurlston Green, this place is serious about golf without feeling pretentious about it. The layout winds through mature trees and open fairways - the kind of round that keeps you thinking without breaking your back. Eighteen holes here take a good four and a half hours, maybe five if you're not rushing.

Golfers of all abilities can get something from it. The handicap system means you're not out of your depth whether you shoot in the 70s or struggle to break 90. It's the sort of course where a decent amateur feels like they've had a proper game rather than been humbled into submission.

Membership options exist for serious players, though day rates are available if you're just passing through Lancashire and fancy a round. Worth ringing ahead on their website to book a time - walk-ups aren't guaranteed, especially at weekends. The club sits reasonably close to Southport Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite, which is only 5.8 miles away and gets solid reviews from visitors. That could work nicely if you're basing yourself for a few days and want to mix golf with exploring the wider park holiday scene in North West England.

Timing matters. Spring and autumn usually offer the best conditions, though the course is playable year-round. Summer greens can get a bit firm and bouncy.