Why Delamere Forest is one of Britain's best-value heathland courses

Judges on Top 100 golf course panels have long cast admiring glances towards Delamere Forest, but recent improvements could well catapult the Cheshire course into the bracket of one of the best heathland experiences in Great Britain.

A six-year programme involved architect Tom Mackenzie making the most of the fine turf and unusual elevated location to improve an already outstanding course.

The result is a spectacular rolling heathland layout that better reflects Herbert Fowler’s original 1910 design.

History

The course opened for play in 1911 with an exhibition match between James Braid, Sandy Herd, Ted Ray and James Arundel. Braid took the match with a score of 77.

The course has continued to host some of the best golfers in the world. In 1967, it staged qualifying for the Open that was being held at nearby Royal Liverpool.

Why it’s special

Despite having ‘Forest’ in its title, trees play a mere support role at this natural heathland course.

Fowler’s design regularly calls on players to undertake blind drives and carry long distances, especially on the challenging opening five holes.

If you are seeking that perfect picture for Instagram then make sure you have your phone to hand on the higher parts of the course.

Where does it rank?

44th in England, 48th in Value and 119th in GB&I.

Where is it?

You will find Delamere Forest near the market town of Northwich in Cheshire. Chester is a 20-minute drive away, while both Liverpool and Manchester can be reached in about an hour.