Formby Ladies

Formby Ladies Golf Club is set amidst the pine trees and sand dunes that characterise this part of the Lancashire landscape, the course lies in the heart of the Formby Golf Club – and yes, men are welcome to play here.

Formby Golf Club was founded in 1884 and provided golf for both men and women. With membership flourishing in 1896 the men at Formby Golf Club decided that lady members should have their own 9-hole golf course which was established later the same year.

Unfortunately Formby Golf Club had a fire in 1899 and no record remains of the architect of the original 9-hole Ladies course. However, it’s thought William McEwan, who was the professional until his death in 1930, may have designed the course. He had been in Formby since 1895 following in the footsteps of his father Peter.

The Ladies course was carved from the dunes and situated inside the men’s links. As a result of the foresight of Formby Golf Club, the foundation of an independent ladies’ golf course was allowed to evolve. In 1907, after much discussion between the two clubs, Formby Ladies extended their course – making it an 18-hole links which was laid out by Douglas McEwan. We understand Peter McEwan and Douglas are related, but unfortunately we do not know the nature of their relationship – if you know please contact us.

Very little has changed on the Ladies course to this day. From the red markers the course measures 5,356 yards, with a par and standard scratch score of 71 for women and a cruel SSS 66 for men, although we suspect few men will play in club competitions.

Fast fairways and small greens demand skill and precision from all golfers. Heather protects much of the rough and the one-shot holes are among some of the most prettiest and trickiest you could wish to play, while elevated tees on several holes provide magnificent views over the course and towards the Irish Sea. Harry Colt was engaged to construct four new holes in the late 1920s andthese came into play in July 1930.