Formby Ladies Golf Club

Tucked inside the main course like a gem within a jewel box, Formby Ladies is surely one of the most enchanting short courses in the country. Don’t be fooled by the modest yardage, this is serious golf with rippling fairways, clever bunkering, and greens that reward touch and nerve in equal measure. The firm, running turf gives every shot purpose, and the course’s sandy, pine-framed setting adds to the charm. Our group of 40 quickly discovered that Formby Ladies may look friendly, but it has teeth as only one of us managed to beat their handicap. Compact, beautiful, and quietly demanding, it’s the sort of course that surprises you, flatters you briefly, then politely reminds you who’s in charge. It’s a course full of charm but I’m sure many visitors come expecting a warm-up & most leave what happened to their plan of overpowering a short course but also wondering if they’ve just found one of golf’s great hidden delights

Formby Ladies is on the same land as Formby golf club. The clubhouses adjoin each other, and the ladies course runs amongst it's big brother. They are, however, separate clubs, in the same way Troon Ladies, Royal Aberdeen ladies and a number of other early c20th UK courses operate - some may see this as anachronistic. A charming throwback it may be, but it works perfectly well for both sets of members and, if it ain't broke....... The course is only 5,400 yards long, and has a single (Ladies) scorecard - par is 71, with 3 par 5s that in reality should be par 4s for men. That, and the nature of the rest of the holes make the course huge fun, and flattering if you're hitting it straight and holing a few putts. Miss the narrow fairways however, and you'll be in real trouble. Heather abounds - and is extremely penal. There are some stunning holes, set in high dunes and with stands of trees adding extra definition. The clubhouse is run by the members, and resembles (in a good way) a cricket pavilion. Friendly, cosy and with an abundance of teas, coffees and cakes! The course is a brilliant foil to it's big brother, and makes a 36 hole Formby day something special. That said, it stands on it's own merits, and if you want a good value game on one of the UKs most fun courses, it's well worth seeking out.

Great golf course in wonderful condition and very well maintained.

Exactly hospitality and very friendly stuff.

The course might be a bit short (just ladies tee) but not easy at all.

It’s a tricky and challenging course that was a real pleasure.

Let's start with the positives - the golf course conditioning, even in difficult weather, is outstanding and the quality of the turf rivals the best links courses on this stretch of coast. There are some truly memorable holes, particularly the par 3s, and although the course is short it is punishing if you stray offline. If you keep it in play, however, you can score very well. I also like the driving range which is shared with FGC (and free). The downside is that there are no changing facilities and don't dare ask to use the main clubhouse because you'll be turned down peremptorily. Overall a very positive experience.

A nice complement to the main Formby. Only 1 set of tees, but it still has some challenges. Goes close by the Formby, but it doesnt match maintenance quality. Even so, was a pleasure to play it.