We are delighted to announce the return of our Celebrity Golf Classic 2026, taking place at the historic Royal Liverpool Golf Club in Hoylake.
This world-famous links has hosted The Open Championship on thirteen occasions, most recently in 2023 when Brian Harman lifted the Claret Jug with a commanding six-shot victory. Known for its strategic bunkering, sweeping coastal scenery and demanding closing stretch, Royal Liverpool remains one of the ultimate tests in world golf.
Our very special guests for the day will be former England striker Les Ferdinand, one of the Premier League’s all-time greatest goalscorers, and record-breaking England spin bowler Graeme Swann, a key figure in three Ashes-winning sides. Guests at our Celebrity Golf event will enjoy the thrill of playing this legendary course, with the added luxury of single-occupancy accommodation at the four-star Thornton Hall Hotel, followed by a distinguished gala dinner in the evening. This is your chance to walk in the footsteps of golfing greats, experiencing first-hand one of the most storied venues in the game.
Les Ferdinand
One of the Premier League’s most prolific strikers, Les Ferdinand ranks 11th on the all-time scoring list with 149 goals and over 200 in all competitions. He enjoyed memorable spells with QPR, Spurs and Newcastle United, where he became a fan favourite after hitting 50 goals in just 84 games. Capped 17 times by England and part of both the Euro ’96 and World Cup ’98 squads, Les was among the finest forwards of his generation. After retiring, he returned to QPR as Director of Football, a role he held with distinction until 2023. Known for his sharp footballing mind and infectious personality, Les continues to inspire fans and players alike, and we are delighted to welcome him back as one of our guest speakers.
Graeme Swann
England’s record-breaking spin bowler, Graeme Swann took 255 Test wickets at an average just under 30 in 50 matches, while also contributing 1,370 runs with the bat, including five fifties. A crucial part of England’s most successful era in recent years, he was equally effective in ODIs, claiming over 100 wickets and chipping in with valuable runs. One of the game’s biggest characters, Swann entertained fans both on and off the field — from his 2010/11 Ashes video diaries and famous ‘sprinkler dance’ to being named one of Wisden’s Cricketers of the Year in 2009 and helping England win the 2010 T20 World Cup. Since retiring, he has become a popular TV and radio summariser and even showed his lighter side on Strictly Come Dancing in 2018, reaching Week 10.
Royal Liverpool Golf Club
Founded in 1869, Royal Liverpool Golf Club at Hoylake is one of England’s most prestigious and historic links courses. With its fast-running fairways shaped by the coastal winds and spectacular views across the Dee Estuary, the course is famed for holes such as the short yet testing 13th and the strategic par-5 18th. Over more than a century, Hoylake has staged unforgettable Open Championship triumphs – from Tiger Woods’ masterclass in 2006 and Rory McIlroy’s 2014 victory, to Walter Hagen’s win in 1924.
Pete Graves: Sky Sports
Pete Graves is an award-winning TV Presenter, Events Host, Podcaster and Author. Best known for his appearances on Sky Sports News where he hosts Good Morning Sports Fans every morning. Before moving to Sky in 2009 Pete was a reporter for ITV and Radio Commentator covering Newcastle United’s matches. Pete’s podcast Transfer Talk was voted ‘Best Sports Podcast’ in 2023 and his book titled “Here To Compete”, about the rise of his beloved Newcastle United, has sold more than 20,000 copies. Pete’s energy, enthusiasm and sports knowledge makes him the perfect host for this event.
Thornton Hall Hotel & Spa
The day concludes with a Celebrity Golf gala dinner at the acclaimed Thornton Hall Hotel & Spa. Set in tranquil countryside, the hotel offers refined surroundings, award-winning dining and outstanding facilities. Guests will enjoy an exquisite dinner in the company of our celebrity guest, before retiring to luxurious single-occupancy bedrooms for a relaxing overnight stay.
