Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club (Championship Course)

Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club stands as a formidable test of links golf on England's Golf Coast. Founded in 1886, the club moved to its current site in 1897, with the layout significantly shaped by the esteemed architect Harry Colt in 1919 and further refined over the years. While not perched directly on the coastline, its position near the Irish Sea ensures that wind is a constant factor, adding a strategic layer to every shot. The course is renowned for its intricate bunkering, with over 160 pot bunkers strategically placed to catch errant balls, demanding precision and thoughtful play. It is a championship venue of the highest order, having hosted The Open Championship eleven times, producing legendary champions like Bobby Jones, Seve Ballesteros, and Ernie Els. Beyond the Open, Royal Lytham has also been a venue for other significant events, including the Ryder Cup and Women's British Open. The club has also featured as an Open Qualifying location, providing a stern examination for those aspiring to compete in the championship. The challenging nature of the course, particularly its demanding opening par-3 and testing closing stretch, makes it a true 'beast,' as famously described, where a well-earned score is always hard-fought.