Delamere Forest Golf Club

Fowler's Course on Ancient Sand

The golf course at Delamere Forest Golf Club began in 1910, when eleven local businessmen formed a club on Crown land beside the ancient hunting forest. Founder Willie Clegg proposed an unusual front eight and back ten, and Herbert Fowler was engaged to advise on the routing. The layout used the site's natural rise and fall rather than imposing a regular pattern.

The course occupies ground covered by water in prehistoric times, leaving a sandy base that drains quickly. Trees enter the strategy on several holes, but broad views from higher points keep the character open and heathland in feel. Heather and gorse frame the playing lines, while firm turf brings bounce and release into approach shots.

Between 2012 and 2018, Mackenzie & Ebert guided a restoration of Fowler's design intent. The work reshaped every bunker and enlarged the greens. New tees were introduced, including changes that lengthened the closing hole. The project preserved the original strategic character while providing more varied angles and pin positions.