Founded in 1902, Heswall Golf Club has grown from a modest coastal layout into the championship course enjoyed today. Over more than a century, the club has continually evolved — shaped by renowned architects, dedicated members and a commitment to offering exceptional golf on the banks of the Dee Estuary.
The original 18‑hole course was designed by Jack Morris, nephew of Tom Morris of St Andrews, with input from Harry Vardon. Their early work established a layout that would continue to develop throughout the 20th century as the club acquired additional land and refined the design.
As the course matured, respected architects including Frank Pennick and Donald Steel contributed to significant remodelling projects, ensuring Heswall kept pace with the demands of modern championship golf.
Throughout its history, Heswall has embraced thoughtful development. The incorporation of new land in the mid‑20th century allowed for redesigned holes and a more ambitious routing. A major redevelopment in 2006–07, led once again by Donald Steel & Partners, reshaped the course into the 6,837‑yard layout played today.
Investment has remained a constant theme. In 2015, the club introduced a state‑of‑the‑art practice facility featuring a 12‑bay driving range, teaching bay, USGA‑specification short‑game areas and upgraded greens. Ongoing improvements to drainage, irrigation and playing surfaces ensure the course remains in excellent condition year‑round.
Heswall’s first clubhouse, built in 1904, was destroyed by fire in 1924. Its replacement — designed by celebrated local architect Herbert J. Rowse, later known for the India Buildings, Martins Bank and the Philharmonic Hall — opened in 1926 on the same elevated site overlooking the estuary. Expanded in the 1960s and modernised during the 2005 redevelopment, it remains the social heart of the club.
Heswall has been home to only six professionals in more than 115 years. Among them, Joe Collins and Alan Thompson served an extraordinary 73 years combined. Alan’s contribution to coaching was recognised by the Cheshire County, the English Golf Union and, in 2016, with a prestigious Lifetime Service Award.
Since 2012, Tom Atkinson has led the professional team, offering modern coaching supported by advanced technology. The club is also proud to coach the Cheshire Junior County Team, continuing a long tradition of developing young talent.
The club’s history is also marked by the dedication of members such as Stuart Cookson — Captain in 1972, President of the Cheshire Union of Golf Clubs in 1981 and President of the English Golf Union in 1994 — whose support and commitment have left a lasting legacy.
Heswall has hosted numerous prestigious championships and elite amateur events over the decades, reinforcing the club’s reputation as a leading venue for competitive golf.
In 2006, the club welcomed players from around the world for the R&A Junior Open, held alongside The Open at Royal Liverpool. In 2012, Heswall was again honoured to host the English Seniors Championship, attracting top senior golfers from across the country.
The club has also been a venue for the Faldo Elite Series Tour, showcasing some of the most talented under25 amateur golfers in the world as part of this international development circuit.
Heswall is a regular host of the North of England Under 16 Open Championship, which we stage in alternate years with Pannal Golf Club — including our upcoming hosting year in 2026.
In 2026, the club also hosted an England Senior Series event and an England Captain Series event on behalf of England Golf, further strengthening our role in supporting national amateur competition.
Heswall Golf Club has welcomed many outstanding young golfers over the years, including Tommy Fleetwood, who set a course record of 67 during the 2006 Junior Open before becoming a Ryder Cup star and 2025 FedExCup Champion.
Patrick Reed claimed victory in the same event at just 15 years old and later went on to win the 2018 Masters Tournament and represent the United States in multiple Ryder Cups.
Carly Booth competed in the 2006 Junior Open before enjoying a successful career on the Ladies European Tour, winning multiple professional titles and representing Great Britain & Ireland in the Curtis Cup.
Kristoffer Reitan set a championship record score of 68 during the 2013 North of England Under 16 Open Championship at Heswall and has since won on both the DP World Tour and PGA Tour.