Vicars Cross Golf Club

Eighteen holes of proper parkland golf just outside Chester's city centre make this course a solid choice for those wanting to squeeze in a round during their Cheshire break. The layout isn't anything spectacular, but it's well-maintained and fairly forgiving for higher handicappers. Mid-handicap golfers will find enough challenge without feeling out of their depth.

Walking the course takes about four hours, though you can hire a buggy if the legs aren't up to it. The greens are generally in good nick, and the fairways wide enough that you won't lose too many balls in the rough. It's the sort of course where you'll have a pleasant round without necessarily remembering every hole afterwards.

For families staying at nearby sites like Birch Bank Farm Caravan & Campsite or Chester Fairoaks, it's handy having a decent course so close to your pitch. Non-golfers can easily pop into Chester's historic centre while the keen players get their fix. The club welcomes visitors, though it's worth calling ahead to check tee times and green fees. Best avoided on weekend mornings when the members' competitions are on - you'll be waiting around for ages.