Challenging nine holes underneath the arches

Small is beautiful at Lightcliffe, a member of the Halifax Union.

The nine-hole course, which has just celebrated its centenary, describes itself as “a challenging course with well-placed tight greens”.

A feature of the course is the old railway viaduct which dominates the landscape.

A traditional open, parkland course, Lightcliffe draws many members from the local village, so has a strong community feel.

It recently bought seven acres adjacent to the course for use as a practice field.

It is proud of its strong junior membership, with more than 50 juniors giving the club a youthful feel.

Ilkley Gazette: Lightcliffe Golf Club

The club recently achieved accreditation from the English Golf Union with ‘Golf Mark’ status for structured coaching sessions for juniors, spearheaded by club pro Ron Tickle. Great strides have also been made in the ladies’ section, with growing numbers.

You could be lulled into a false sense of security after a gentle par three first hole. After that, accurate driving is essential and you need to take care on approach shots.

There is considerable tree trouble and the third is perhaps the hardest hole in the course. A long drive is needed and the shot to the green is over a small stream to a very tricky green.

Like many nine-hole courses, there is a strong emphasis on the social side, with a pleasant wooden clubhouse, pictured, which has a conservatory overlooking the course.

FACT FILE

Name: Lightcliffe Golf Club

Address: Knowle Top Road, Lightcliffe, HX3 8SW

Website: lightcliffe.diefra.net

Telephone: (01422) 204081

President: Geoff Crowther

Club pro: Ron Tickle

Annual fee: £575

Visitor fee: £20 Mon-Fri, £25 weekend

Course length: 5,660 yards

Par: 68

Signature hole: 3rd – dog-leg par 4 over a stream to a raised green

Shop: Yes

Ilkley Gazette: Lightcliffe Golf Club
Ilkley Gazette: Lightcliffe Golf Club