How to Get a Tee Time
Visitor policies, booking processes and what to expect at each course — including Formby Golf Club's notoriously confusing process, explained clearly.
Formby Golf Club — The Complicated One
Formby Golf Club generates more visitor confusion than any other course on the Sefton Coast. Here's the full picture:
Men only. Formby Golf Club is a men-only private club. This is not unusual for traditional English golf clubs but is worth knowing before you arrive with a mixed group.
No online booking. There is no tee time booking system on the website. You need to write or call the club secretary directly.
Reciprocal arrangements. Access is primarily through clubs with formal reciprocal agreements. Ask your home club secretary if they have an arrangement with Formby.
Letter of introduction helps. A formal letter from your home club professional or secretary significantly increases chances of visitor access.
Formby Ladies Golf Club is separate. Adjacent but entirely independent — its own course, members, visitor policy. More open to visitors than the men's club.
Worth the effort. If you can get on, do. The course is exceptional — woodland pines and links dunes combined uniquely.
Visitor Policy — All Courses
Visitors welcome subject to availability. Handicap certificate required (men 24, ladies 36). No visitors on competition days.
Weekdays preferred. Limited weekend availability.
Book 3–6 months in advance for peak season. Open week accommodation books 12+ months ahead.
Handicap requirement: Men's certificate required (limit 24). Bring your club handicap card or EGA card.
Restricted visitor access. Reciprocal arrangements with approved clubs only. Contact the club secretary directly to enquire.
Weekdays only, subject to availability and prior approval.
Contact club secretary. No online booking. Letter of introduction from your home club required.
Handicap requirement: Men's certificate required (limit 20). Bring your club handicap card or EGA card.
Visitors welcome most weekdays and some weekends. Handicap certificate required.
Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays preferred. Phone ahead to confirm.
Book 4–8 weeks in advance. More flexible than Royal Birkdale.
Handicap requirement: Men's certificate required (limit 28). Bring your club handicap card or EGA card.
Visitors welcome most weekdays. Weekends limited — phone ahead.
Monday–Friday preferred. Check availability for Saturdays.
Book 2–4 weeks in advance. More flexible visitor access than courses further north.
Handicap requirement: Men's certificate required (limit 28). Bring your club handicap card or EGA card.
Visitors welcome most weekdays. Weekends by arrangement. Open to societies.
Tuesdays–Fridays recommended. Phone to check Sunday availability.
Book 2–4 weeks in advance. Societies book 3–6 months ahead.
Handicap requirement: Men's certificate required (limit 28). Bring your club handicap card or EGA card.
Very welcoming to visitors most days of the week. Most accessible club on the coast.
Most days — phone ahead to check.
A week in advance is typically sufficient. Walk-ins possible on quieter weekdays.
General Tips for Visiting Golfers
All courses on the Sefton Coast except Southport Old Links require a handicap certificate. Your national golf association card or EGA card is accepted.
The Sefton Coast is busy June–September. Royal Birkdale and Hillside fill 4–8 weeks ahead in peak season. Don't show up and hope.
Smart casual minimum at all clubs. No denim, no trainers, no t-shirts at most. Some clubs require collar and tailored trousers in the clubhouse.
Links courses often require a walk from car park to first tee. You want time to warm up and ask the pro shop about local rules and any temporary conditions.
Royal Birkdale has specific drop zones and areas of special interest under local rules. Get the local rules card from the pro shop.
Pack a waterproof even if the morning looks clear. Coastal weather is unpredictable. A SW wind that's fresh in the morning can be strong by the back nine.