A MacKenzie delight located a couple of miles from the famous Cheltenham Racecourse
Lilley Brook Golf Club was established in 1922 and is located on the outskirts of Cheltenham. It is a testament to classic golf course architecture having been designed by the legendary Dr. Alister MacKenzie. The 18-hole, par-72 parkland course spans over 6,212 yards and offers a fair test for golfers of any standard.
The front nine holes meander through gently rolling terrain, characterised by tree-lined fairways and strategically placed bunkers. It’s a run of holes that can see you miss by a few yards and find yourself blocked out, but miss by a few more and you can find yourself on an adjacent fairway. This section of the course demands accuracy off the tee and thoughtful approach shots to well-guarded greens of reasonable size.
As players transition to the back nine, the landscape becomes more undulating, particularly as the course ascends Leckhampton Hill. This elevation change not only introduces a physical challenge but also rewards golfers with panoramic views of Cheltenham and the picturesque Cotswolds.
Many would say the standout hole is the 12th, “The Italian Cypress”. This par-4 is probably the toughest on the course (S.I. 2) and requires a precise tee shot to the sharp dogleg right, before a steep uphill approach to an undulating green. Par for a scratch golfer would be a welcome return.
The 17th hole, a par-3, is another highlight. Some would describe “Copper Beech” as the signature hole on the course. It features an elevated tee position that offers stunning vistas, demanding a well-judged shot to a green surrounded a lake to the right and bunkers to the left of the green.
Complementing the course are excellent practice facilities, including a new driving range, short game area, and a putting green that mirrors the on-course conditions.
The clubhouse serves as a welcoming retreat, featuring a bar and restaurant that offer a variety of meals and refreshments whilst overlooking the 18th green and first tee. The air-conditioned dining area provides a comfortable setting to relax after a round, with a menu that caters to diverse tastes.
Lilley Brook Golf Club is renowned for its friendly atmosphere, often referred to as Cheltenham’s friendliest golf club. It is located next door to the beautiful Doubletree by Hilton Cheltenham Hotel which effectively gives visitors the chance to play Lilley Brook as part of a stay and play package.
Visitor information
- Visitor play is possible 7 days a week subject to club availability and the members diary